White Wine Question Time

Our guest on this episode of White Wine Question Tim is Joanna Page, an actor and presenter from Swansea, who was told whilst she was training at RADA that she was not a bad actress, the problem was that she was Welsh…Luckily for all of us she didn't let these comments hold her back, and ended up leaving RADA early to join the Royal National Theatre and then the Royal Shakespeare Company, appearing in the star-studded 1999 BBC adaptation of David Copperfield, and then what proved to be one of the nation's all-time favourite Christmas films, Love Actually.She seems to have a knack of winning roles in some of our most beloved shows, playing the titular Stacey Shipman in the BAFTA-winning series Gavin & Stacey alongside Ruth Jones, James Corden, and Matthew Horne - the final episode was one of the most-watched TV shows of the last two decades, with an audience of over 20 million.She has four children with her actor husband James Thornton, who she starred with in David Copperfield, but in a truly Dickensian plot-twist she didn't meet him at the time – it took a later introduction to throw them together from drama school friend Maxine PeakeSo sit back and enjoy this chat with Joanna Page as she discusses that Gavin & Stacey finale, Hollywood's very own Margot Robbie being a fan, and how she feels about nude scenes.If you're looking for more information about the National Lottery Open Week that Joanna mentioned - it runs from 7-15 March, and it's your chance to unlock some of the UK's hidden gems. You can show any National Lottery ticket, Scratchcard or Instant Win Game and get free or discounted entry, plus special offers, at hundreds of funded venues across the UK - from BFI Escapes to creative spaces and iconic hidden gems like Dover's wartime tunnels and the Eden Project's living clay sculpture. To find a participating venue near you, visit www.nationallotteryopenweek.comCheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Time for our final look back at the best couples' conversations from our archive.This week we're heading back to one of our live episodes. After our interview Martin & Shirlie were good enough to stick around and record a special episode answering questions from our audience. You can find the interview in our archive but we wanted to play this bonus episode - Martin and Shirlie were on EXCELLENT form talking about Kemp's Crunchies (not at all what Kate was thinking!), Martin's gardening tribute to his dad, and the film you never knew Martin was involved in!Our 500th episode is coming soon - and we'd love to hear from you. Whether you're new to our podcast (welcome!) or an OG listener - we want to know which episodes you've enjoyed the most. Just drop us an email to hello@whitewinepod.com - we'd love to hear from you.We'll be back on Thursday with a brand new episode.Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dave Stewart is a true music icon. Born in Sunderland in 1952 his first love affair was with football – dreaming of a career playing for the Black Cats, but a knee injury and his parents' divorce changed his entire outlook. Music filled a hole - despite a music teacher who described his dreams as ‘idiotic' it became his passion, inspired by his Dad's high-tech (for the 70s!) stereo system, a Robert Johnson blues album and some eye-opening teenage experimentation with acid.He signed to Elton John's record label shortly after leaving school and after several false starts he met Annie Lennox in 1976 and formed a band together called The Tourists – a pre-curser to the significantly more successful 80s project The Eurythmics .In the 45 years since then Dave has done it all – as an artist he's a Grammy winner, as a producer he's won multiple Brit Awards, as a song-writer he's won the prestigious Silver Clef award, he's won a Golden Glove for composing a song with Mick Jagger for Alfie and in 2024 he teamed up with Joss Stone to write a musical version of The Time Traveller's Wife. It's hard to put his contribution to music into context because his impact on popular music is so vast.Let me list just SOME of the artists he's produced, written for or recorded with:Paul McCartney, Bono, Aretha Franklin, Alison Moyet, Bryan Ferry, Sinead O'Connor, No Doubt, Jon Bon Jovi, Bob Geldoff, Bryan Ferry, & Stevie Nicks. In fact in 2011 he briefly formed a supergroup comprised of himself, Mick Jagger, Joss Stone, Damian Marley and A.R. Rahman.He's one of the great innovators – in 1998 his album SlyFi became the first album to be released on the internet – it predates Google, and MySpace and Facebook wouldn't be launched for another SEVEN years.Now in his early 70s he continues to inspire – until Covid he owned and ran a creative members club in London, and through his production company Dave Stewart Entertainment he continues to push musical boundaries and work with some of the world's biggest names in music.Enjoy our chat with an icon. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Valentine's weekend may have been and gone, but throughout February we're looking back at some of our favourite couples' conversations from our archive. This week it's Strictly Come Dancing's power couple - Janette Manrara & Aljaž Škorjanec. Hear how their romance bloomed on the touring dance show 'Burn the Floor', why they only row once every three years and the best engagement story we've ever had on the podcast. Enjoy the conversation - we'll be back on Thursday with a brand new episode. Cheers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh Widdicombe is one of the most recognisable comedians on our TV screens right now. Along with Adam Hills and Alex Brooker (both in our back catalogue) he's presented more than THIRTY seasons into The Last Leg - a show which was only meant to run for a few weeks during the 2012 Paralympics!He's also, along with fellow comedian Rob Beckett, responsible for Parenting Hell - one of the most successful podcasts of all time. It's fast approaching a BILLION downloads, and having been sold to Spotify in a big money deal it's still a fan favourite.Now Josh is turning his attention to the 90s and his passion for the decade's pop culture. And why not - it was brilliant. From Nasty Nick to Mr Blobby, we chat about some of the moments that defined the decade, as well as his relation to Henry VIII and the moments that made him.It's a lovely chat as he joins us from his relatively new Devon home (which used to belong to Noel Edmonds!) so get comfortable and enjoy.Cheers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Well we had to didn't we?Throughout February we're celebrating the best of the couples' conversations we've shared over the past seven years, and with the Winter Olympics under way in Italy we're reliving one of Team GB's most iconic moments on ice with Jane Torvill & Christopher Dean. WE KNOW their relationship is a professional one, and a decades-long friendship - but here on White Wine Question Time we think Valentines can be for those partners in life who just make everything better - so this episode is dedicated to the best friends, mates, and pals who are always there for us no matter what! Enjoy the conversation and good luck to the newest generation of Olympians in Milan. Cheers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to White Wine Question Time - we're not far away from our 500th episode - and as ever we do want to say thank you for listening whether you're new to our show or whether you're one of the OG listeners. As we prepare for the NEXT 500 shows we'd love to know who your favourite guests have been - drop us an email (about that or anything else!) to hello@whitewinepod.com. Now this week we have a phenomenal woman on the podcast. Helen Skelton done it all - cycled to the South Pole, kayaked along the Amazon and run marathons through the desert. She continues to redefine her life and career - bending the traditions and so-called rules to fit her ambitions and her family. Those who have worked with her (including our producer Geoff who worked with Helen at BBC Radio 5 Live) are quick to say she's one of the nicest people in the industry and deserves every opportunity she's fought for. In the past few years we've watched her grow in confidence after some setbacks - and we're all ready for her triumphant era. As Helen would have said on Blue Peter... here's one we made earlier. Cheers xx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Throughout February we're celebrating the month of love by hearing some of our favourite couples conversations from the Cellar. This week it's a couple so iconic that no surnames are required; it's Richard and Judy.With their signature warmth, wit, and unmistakable chemistry, these broadcasting legends dominated the breakfast TV schedules in the nineties and early noughties. In this show they share stories of rising through the ranks of journalism, how they first met, the lessons they've learned from working together, and the highs and lows of a lifetime in the spotlight. It's the perfect tonic for Valentine's season! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

January is almost over, the days are getting (slightly!) longer and this week we've got something else to brighten your mood - an extremely funny, and emotional chat with one third of The Last Leg trio, Alex Brooker. As a child he underwent over 40 operations with no guarantee that he'd ever walk. Now with two daughters of his own he reflects on what that time must have been like for his own parents. He talks about how he actually looks back with fond memories on the many hospital trips, and with his typical dark humour wonders if his mum might have been a bit hasty with the decision to amputate! You get the impression listening to this interview that Alex understands, and appreciate the many people who've helped him on his journey from Great Ormond Street to winning awards for his TV work, especially as there have been a few moments where some simple decisions could have changed his story completely. Thanks so much to Alex for stopping by for a chat - I hope you all enjoy it too. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we're heading back down to the cellar to revisit a fascinating chat with renowned psychotherapist and bestselling author Owen O'Kane.Owen's journey is as compelling as his advice—growing up during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, training as a priest, working in palliative care, and finally finding his true calling as a therapist. In this episode, he shares powerful tools to recognise anxiety triggers, disrupt negative cycles, and bring more calm into your life. Plus, he answers your questions, tackling everything from therapy timelines to simple exercises for managing worry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jimmy Nesbitt is one of the guests we've always wanted to get on the podcast. He doesn't do many interviews, so we're thrilled he chose to sit down with us and look back at his extraordinary career. From his very first performance (aged 5) he recognised the buzz he got from performing, and having started as a comic actor his portrayals of The Throubles in Bloody Sunday showed the world what a versatile performer he is. Since then he's taken roles which (in his own words) mean he's lost about four children and as a cop about ten partners - and he's now starring in one of the world's most-watched shows; Harlen Coben's Run Away on Netflix. James spoke to us from his home in Belfast after an extremely busy start to the year and reminisced about his Dad and everything he taught him (literally - his Dad was his primary school teacher), the people in his life who've changed the narrative - like Director Paul Greengrass who cast James in Bloody Sunday. It's a fabulous chat, so we hope you can find somewhere to enjoy it. As ever - thanks for listening, and cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's our 7th birthday, congratulations if you've been listening since we started back in early 2019! One person who did feature on one of our early episodes is Scarlett Moffatt. She's always been one of our favourite guests and we're thrilled she's popped back in for a chat this week. She's always brilliant and in this episode we talk about the jobs she had before she became famous as Scarlett's about to release a documentary she's presented about side hustles.Scarlett is always honest, and as you'll hear we've now made a promise to have her on EVERY January. Thanks for listening (whether you're one of the OG 2019 listeners, or if this is you're first time listening) - we really do appreciate it. Cheers, Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ready to feel inspired? All this month we're digging into our archive of almost 500 episodes to bring you the MOST inspirational guests - and well, it doesn't come more inspirational than this. If you've ever looked up to the stars and wondered about the enormity of space... well today's White Wine Question Time guest has done more than just dream. He's been there. Sir Tim Peake had to undertake the equivalent of two degrees as part of his training to go to the International Space Station - including being fluent in Russian. His desire to travel into space served as his motivation, also drawing on his military training and reserves. His perspective on life has changed, and it serves as a timely reminder that we are all inhabitants of Earth - whatever our race, religion or politics - we all call this third rock from the sun 'home' Enjoy this episode from our archive and we'll be back on Thursday with something brand new. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 2026! We've lined up the perfect guest for our first episode of the new year. Paul McKenna has helped millions of people with his books, DVDs, CDs & downloads. He's one of the best-selling self-help authors on the planet, and in this chat he opens up about finding love through hypnotism, the darker side of hypnotism and the ethics of toying with someone's self-conscious. It's a fascinating conversation and we hope it helps add some positivity to what can feel like the longest month of the year! We are fast approaching our 500th episode, so we'd love to know what your favourite episodes have been, how long you've been listening and what you enjoy about the podcast - feel free to drop us an email to hello@whitewinepod.comFrom all of the team at White Wine Question Time we'd like to wish you a Happy New Year, and all the best for 2026. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy New Year! What do you have planned for 2026? This month we've dug deep in our archive to find the most inspirational guests we could find - it's our New Year's gift to you. To kick us off it's our chat with Sara Davies from 2023. A phenomenally successful business woman she was shot into the public consciousness through shows such as Dragon's Den and Strictly Come Dancing. She always knew she wanted to run a business, but in this conversation you'll hear how her 'won't take no for an answer' attitude opened the doors she needed to open to make a success of her product. On Thursday we'll be back with our first NEW episode of the year - and it's the PERFECT guest for January; Paul McKenna. Enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's CHRISSSSSTMAAAAAAAASSSSSSS! Who else could we offer you as a delight from our almost 500 shows of back catalogue... than Mr Christmas himself, Noddy Holder! Can we also take this opportunity to say thank you. We never take your loyalty or your downloads for granted. As we enter the SEVENTH year of White Wine Question Time we're forever grateful for your company whether you've been with us since 2019 or you're new to the pod. Merry Christmas from the whole WWQT team, we're excited about what 2026 will bring and we hope you are too. Cheers! xx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Merry Christmas! As promised here's the second of three festive treats. Whilst Kylie Minogue may have landed the Christmas Number One - the most surprising entry in the running for top of the pops this year was Denise Welch. It marks the end of an extraordinary year which started in a very dark place, saw her die at least three times (according to social media), get lost flying over the Alps in a hot air balloon (it's a long story!) and get reinvented as the undisputed Queen of the Huns. When flags are being flown at Glastonbury featuring your name and face - you know you've become an icon. In this extremely honest interview Denise talks about the highs and lows of 2025, her love of reality TV, her flirtation with a pop career and why she things everything has suddenly come good for her. We've saved Noddy Holder for pudding on Christmas Day, and we'll be back with a brand new episode on New Year's Day. Thanks as always for listening - have a fabulous festive season. Cheers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode marks the first of a festive trio of treats. On Christmas Day join us for a chat with Mr Chriiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiisssssssssssstmaaaaaaaaaaassssss! himself... Noddy Holder!In our next episode we'll catch up with Denise Welsh, whose reinvention as queen of the huns has been extraordinary - PLUS we'll talk about her brand new Christmas single. But today we're handing our a gift - when we sit down and look back on 2025 there is one woman who we think has had a quite extraordinary year. She's won awards, released her breakthrough work, and won us all over with her energy, personality and relentless work ethic. She is truly living her best life and doing it HER way. Our White Wine Question Time 'Woman of the Year' is RAYE. To celebrate - this is a chat I had with RAYE a few years ago as she was really starting to break through as her own artist. As you'll hear all of the hallmarks of her current success were there all along. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NOTHING says Christmas like the final of Strictly Come Dancing - and for our 'Cellar' episode this week we're serving up a treat - Head Judge Shirley Ballas. 2026 will be Shirley's 10th year on Strictly after replacing Len Goodman. It's recognition for a lifetime of excellence in dancing, having won multiple British, US, and World Latin American Dance titles. Her ambition in dance has on occasion been a hinderance to her personal relationships, but as you'll hear her positivity is endless and infectious. She gets a definite '10' from us. Enjoy this festive episode - and keeeeeeep listening! Cheers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What an episode we have for you this week - an incredible conversation with a formidable woman. Amanda Owen is known to many as The Yorkshire Shepherdess, and her family life has been shared with us through social media and numerous TV series. Since her separation from her ex-husband Clive she's adapted to a new way of living - sharing the farm as they still do, with children running between the two houses on their land. Her outlook on life has been shaped by the outstandingly beautiful surroundings of the Yorkshire Dales, and it's a refreshing take on modern living. Her new book Christmas Tales from the Farm is out now - and she talks about Christmas with all the children in this episode - it's fascinating. Enjoy this (literal) fireside chat. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is it December already? What happened to 2025? IT'S BEHIND YOU!!!!Welcome to panto season on White Wine Question Time. This month we're helping you get into the festive spirit with some episodes that ooze Christmas. Today we're in full panto mode to bring you a classic conversation with Julian Clary. Julian has bought his outrageous comedy to our stages and screens for the past four decades and on the eve of his new panto at the London Palladium we thought it would be a good idea to remind ourselves of why he's become an absolute national treasure. We hope you enjoy it. Cheers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of White Wine Question Time Radio 1's Matt Edmondson shares his journey from a young magic enthusiast to a successful broadcaster and board game creator. He discusses living with ADHD and cyclothymia, the challenges and gifts they bring, and how these conditions have shaped his career and personal life. Matt also opens up about his relationship with money, his creative ventures, and the importance of empathy and understanding in overcoming personal struggles.CONTENT WARNING: Please note this episode does contain some frank discussion of depression and suicide. It's a fascinating conversation with a truly great creative thinker. If you enjoy this episode don't forget to hit 'Follow' wherever you listen to ensure new episodes are delivered directly to you when they're released. It's completely free and means you'll get our 'Cellar' episodes on a Tuesday and a brand new episode every Thursday. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we ramp up our festive preparations we've dug around in the cellar to find some episodes that just feel right for this time of year - over the next few weeks you can expect some Panto shenanigans (oh yes you can!), some Strictly magic and THE king of Christmas music. First up - it's one of the signs that it's nearly Christmas... I'm A Celebrity on the TV! We're taking you back to last year - when Reverend Richard Coles won the nation's heart in the Australian jungle. If your tree's not up already - why not get yourself in the festive mood and listen to this sermon - from the pop star turned vicar - Reverend Richard Coles. Cheers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Best's journey from T4 to Big Brother hasn't been straightforward. It might surprise you to know that in between he's run a tech company, launched an alcohol brand, and ask a lot of questions to Simon Cowell. His start has never been brighter than it is right now - hosting Hits Radio breakfast with James Barr and Fleur East and standing alongside AJ outside the Big Brother house. It's a fascinating story which has seen Will pick himself up after several false-dawns. He's always adding to his knowledge, and learning from every challenge - something we can all learn from. Enjoy the episode! Cheers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to White Wine Question Time; the podcast that asks it's guests three thought-provoking questions over three glasses of wine. Today, we're heading back down to the cellar for another episode from the archives, and as part of our mini literature festival we're holding this month, it's from another bestselling author... My guest today has written more than a hundred books, and is also a broadcaster, a knitwear designer, a former politician, and a celebrated raconteur.Having become well-known on breakfast television in the 80s, in no small part thanks tohis choice of knitwear, he's been a mainstay on TV shows like The One Show,Countdown, Celebrity Gogglebox, This Morning, and Radio 4's Just a Minute.He was also the host of the award-winning Something Rhymes with Purple podcast with Susie Dent, and on his latest pod, Rosebud he talks to famous and fascinating people about their first experiences.This is the last of our November authors - I hope you've enjoyed this look back - and for December we've lined up some festive episodes designed to put you in the perfect mood for Christmas. Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our guest on this episode of White Wine Question time is the 'Queen of Burlesque' Dita Von TeeseShe's a performer at the very top of her game who's elevated striptease and burlesque into high art – from martini glasses to Swarovski carousels, she's transformed a vintage niche into sell out tours around the world, and has her own residency in Vegas. But her story began far from the spotlight. Born Heather Renée Sweet, she was a shy, self-conscious child who cleaned toilets at her ballet school in exchange for lessons, and dreamed of escaping into the Technicolour world of 1940s Hollywood. Alongside her stage career, she's written books, launched perfumes, created lingerie lines, and is even producing her own French gin. She's appeared in films and music videos for artists from Green Day to Taylor Swift, and continues her Las Vegas residency with over 100 performances a year. At 53, she shows no signs of slowing down. Next up is Noctornelle, her most ambitious production yet, inspired by 19th-century stage magicians, which will tour the UK in 2026.She's an incredible artist and this was a Dita at her very honest best. Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Each week, in addition to a brand new episode, we delve into our back catalogue to serve up a vintage episode from our cellar. All this month we're choosing from our excellent selection of authors - a mini literature festival if you will. Today it's Donna Ashworth - a Scottish poet who shot to stardom during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since been credited with revitalising a national interest in poetry. So as the weather takes a turn for the worse why not snuggle in and treat yourself to 45 minutes of something inspiring. I hope you enjoy this episode - and we'll see you back here for a brand new interview next time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lewis Goodall has fast become one of the biggest and most trusted voices in British journalism. As one third of the News Agents podcast (with Emily Maitlis and Jon Sopel) he brings his sharp political insight, compelling personal story, and adds a willingness to explore new media formats.Born in Birmingham, he rose from a working-class background his father a welder at the Rover factory to studying history and politics at St John's College, Oxford, as the first in his family to attend university.Starting his career behind the scenes at Granada Studios writing questions for University Challenge and later at the think-tank Institute for Public Policy Research Goodall soon moved into journalism. He became a producer and reporter for BBC Newsnight, before joining Sky News as a political correspondent. His reporting on Brexit, the Labour Party and domestic policy earned him recognition and helped establish his reputation.At a time of such division - the world needs communicators like Lewis - so it was a pleasure to sit down and find out what drives him.Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our mini literature festival continues with an author who helped shape the the early part of the millennium - her New York Observer column 'Sex & the City' would spark a TV show that endures to this day - 30 years on from the first published anthology of her work. Candace Bushnell has gone on to write many more books, many continuing the tales of Carrie Bradshaw. In 2023 Candace joined White Wine Question Time for a chat - and as we look back at some of the best authors to have appeared on the podcast it felt right to include this episode. If EVER there was a time to pour yourself a glass - it has to be to this. Enjoy xx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Were you one of the six million people who watched the Women's Rugby World Cup Final on TV? An absolutely phenomenal performance from the England Roses saw them victorious, and in that moment their lives changed forever. We're incredibly lucky to have the Captain of the England Roses, Zoe Aldcroft on the podcast reflecting on the huge team effort, the personal sacrifices and the whirlwind of the past few weeks. You do not have to love rugby to love what these women have achieved - this is a story as universal as any - even with a little bit of romance thrown in for good measure. Enjoy the episode - and don't forget to hit subscribe so you can get new episodes directly in your podcast app every Thursday morning. It's completely free but it really helps us. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EL James doesn't do podcasts - in fact appropriately enough we popped her podcast cherry (Absolutely no safe words required).As part of our look back at some of our favourite authors to have appeared on the podcast we couldn't look past this one. Erika (her real name) is one of the best selling authors on the planet - but her fame came later, after a successful career in British TV. It is an extraordinary conversation - which took place back in 2001 - at a time when she was trying to juggle homeschooling and launching a range of adult toys. Weren't we all. Hope you enjoy it - but just a word of warning, it probably is one for listening to on headphones - you can imagine but some of the chat is quite saucy. Cheers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you watching Blue Lights? If not, why not? On this episode is one of the stars of the Belfast-based cop drama. She's a star of stage and screen at the peak of her acting prowess. You may have seen her as Sherlock' Holmes' evil sister in Sherlock alongside Benedict Cumberbatch or starring opposite Suranne Jones in Doctor Foster. If you're really lucky you may have even seen her break-out theatre role as Ophelia in Hamlet at London's Barbican. Sian rarely does podcast interviews - so what an honour to share a couple of glasses of wine and a really lovely chat about the confidence gained from early drama classes, the women who've reached down to help her on her journey, and the illness that nearly ended her career before it really began. Sit back, grab whatever drink you fancy and enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the next five Tuesdays we're holding our own mini literature festival. We've delved deep in the archive to find some of the very best authors we've spoken to over the past seven years, and what an icon we have to kick it off! After a successful career as an actor Lynda La Plante became intrigued by the production process of television drama and began writing treatments, ideas for potential shows that were, well, very much her own. Although most were rejected, one was praised as utterly brilliant. By 1983, her six-part series Widows premiered and became the highest rating series of the early 1980s. Following the show's success, she established herself as a highly sought-after crime writer with women at the heart of her stories, and the release of her debut novel in 1987 quickly established her as a critically acclaimed best-selling author to boot, paving the way for a series of hit books that followed in rapid succession. By 1991, she hit new heights and broke new ground with the premiere of the world-renowned Prime Suspect. A detective drama starring Helen Mirren as DCI Jane Tennyson, which went on to win numerous BAFTAs, Emmys and Golden Globes over the course of its seven seasons and made Helen Mirren a bona fide global superstar. It's no surprise that in 2008 she was awarded a CBE for her services to literature, drama and charity. is a member of the Crime Thriller Award Hall of FameWe'll be back on Thursday with a brand new episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jon Richardson will not like this podcast description - as you'll hear! Whether you know Jon from 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, his stand-up specials, playing 'himself' in Meet The Richardsons or from his Saturday morning show on Absolute Radio - you'll know one thing... he's extremely funny. Behind the humour is a man as complicated as he is kind - someone who hoards everything (he still has a copy of the newspapers from the day of the 1999 Solar Eclipse), but who values friendships from every stage of his life. We were delighted when Jon agreed to talk about his new acting role as a drug-taking ex-Marine-turned-Creative Arts teacher in Waterloo Road. It was fascinating to see how uneasily Jon takes a compliment, for someone so used to the validation of a live audience he struggled to watch the Gogglebox clip we played him. Modest, sincere and painfully funny - it turned out to be a great conversation. We hope you enjoy it! Cheers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A National Treasure. That's what Stephen Fry is. Whether you know him as General Melchett, Jeeves, half of Fry & Laurie, the sound of Harry Potter, the genius of QI or the modern Homer retelling Greek mythology to a new generation - he has touched most of our lives in some way over the past half century. So seeing as Stephen is currently on our screens as himself in The Traitors we thought it was a timely opportunity to bring his episode of White Wine Question Time up from the cellar for another airing. We spoke in early 2025 - with Stephen in LA - about the UK import of Jeopardy, what attracted him to It's A Sin, his incredible documentaries on gay rights around the world and his advice for young creatives joining the entertainment industry. As you would expect, it was truly fascinating. Enjoy the episode and don't forget we'll be back on Thursday with a brand new episode. Cheers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to a brand new episode of White Wine Question Time. Penny Lancaster takes a break from her Special Constable policing duties to join us for three glasses of wine and answer three thought provoking questions.Some of the topics in this episode might be difficult for some listeners - Penny talks honestly about a childhood assault, and a sexual assault that took place during her modelling days. There is also discussion of miscarriage and difficulties conceiving. It is a really honest chat which also touches on menopause, blending families and Rod's (eventual) decision to father more children. If you would like more from Penny - we can highly recommend her new book Someone Like MeThanks for listening - if you enjoy this podcast here are some things you can do to help spread the word:1 Tell your friends - we love a personal recomendation2 Hit the 'Follow' button in your podcast app - you'll get new episodes sent to you for free every week3 Leave us a star rating and a review. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grace Dent joined us for White Wine Question Time back in 2021 - it was such a lovely episode, full of food, formative moments and fond memories. Grace talked about losing her mum only months before we spoke, finding her partner on social media and her three-week 'holiday' to a West London shopping centre! Every week we'll be pulling out a highlight from our back catalogue of almost 500 episodes - we hope you like them, and if you do there are LOADS more to choose from, plus every Thursday we'll be uncorking a new guest for you. Don't forget to follow the podcast, and if you'd like to get in touch you can email hello@whitewinepod.comCheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello! Welcome to White Wine Question Time. On the podcast this week it's a friend of the show - the brilliant Denise Van Outen. In the 90s she hosted The Big Breakfast which launched her into a career that's taken in the West End, Broadway, TV, DJ'ing some of the world's biggest clubs and best-selling author. Denise was one of our first ever guests on the podcast, and in this episode we break her career down into 'eras' Let us know what you think - send us an email to hello@whitewinepod.comThanks for listening - we'll be back with another new guest next Thursday - and something from the cellar (a gift from our back catalogue of almost 500 episodes) next Tuesday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Time for another trip to the cellar for something vintage. This episode of White Wine Question Time was originally recorded in 2021 - when the world was in lockdown. Dannii was in Melbourne having moved back from London several years earlier. The conversation takes in memories of living in the UK, motherhood, advice for the next generation and also Dannii's revelation when it comes to clothes sizing. It's a really lovely chat, which although recorded at a very strange time still seems extremely relevant today. This is an abridged version of the original conversation - you can find the original in our back catalogue. Don't forget we'll bring you a highlight from almost 500 episodes of White Wine Question Time every Tuesday and a brand new guest every Thursday. While you're here... please don't forget to 'follow' this podcast - it means you'll get new episodes sent directly to your podcast app when they're released - it's completely free, but it helps the podcast greatly. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back and joining us on this episode is the nation's favourite vet - Noel Fitzpatrick. Not content with being one of the world's most respected veterinary surgeons Noel is equally at home on a stage touring his one-man show, in front of the camera (he's played parts in The Bill, Casualty and is the star of the long-running Supervet series) or promoting his many books. His latest release is a children's book 'Over the Rainbow Bridge' which deals with the sadness a child feels when they lose their beloved family pet, and finding joy afterwards. Finding joy is a theme Noel brings up several times in our conversation, which also touches on how comic books inspired his love of medicine, how Brian May came to teach Noel how to play guitar and why Noel went years without knowing what happened at the end of Rocky! It's a fascinating story, told by an exceptional man. From his midnight gym routine to how an ice-cream scoop inspired a hip replacement technique this is a gripping conversation. So grab a drink and join us. Thank you for listening - we hope you enjoy the new episodes, and if you do please take the time to rate and review us. It means a great deal, and means even more people will be able to find and enjoy the podcast. We're fast approaching our 500th episode - so if you're new (hello!) please check-out the vast collection of famous voices who've joined us on White Wine Question time over the past seven years. We'll pull out Something From The Cellar on Tuesdays and be back with a brand new episode each Thursday. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we're joined by an esteemed actor whose extensive CV includes decades of celebrated films, award-winning TV shows and one of the most celebrated roles from the last few decades of British TV (no wonder people want him to be Prime Minister). It's the charming Adrian Dunbar!Adrian joined us for a chat just before the new season of 'Ridley', the incredible ITV drama for a chat about his near-five decade career that's seen him win plaudits across stage and screen. We also hear more about family life, how he likes to relax and enjoy himself - and a CRUCIAL update about the biggest show on British TV: Line of Duty. You don't want to miss it! We're taking a summer break and will be back in the Autumn with more amazing guests! In the meantime, scroll down wherever you're listening to this right now to check out some of our other episodes. There's over 450 to choose from and they're all as enjoyable and relevant to listen to now as when they were first recorded. We'll see you soon!***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two women are about to make broadcasting history when they become the first female full time hosts of Match of the Day, the storied football highlights program on the BBC. And we just happened to speak to them at the start of this year, so now feels like a perfect time to revisit one of those amazing conversations with two sports broadcasting trailblazers. It's Kelly Cates! We spoke recently to Kelly about her excitement — and nerves! — about taking on her biggest role yet and how she's preparing for the challenge. Beyond the pitch, she also dives into family life and opens up about juggling a high-profile career with single motherhood and the realities of raising teenage daughters. Honestly, it's amazing how she fits this all into her life - what a woman! ***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we're joined by an author and presenter who proves that passion, resilience and drive can get you over life's hardest hurdles - even when some look insurmountable: it's the fabulous Dawn O'Porter!After a really tough childhood brightened by the beauty surrounding her, Dawn's career has taken her to both sides of the Pond as an accomplished TV presenter, journalist and now hugely successful author. We chat about the highs and lows of that journey, how she found the love of her life on the dance floor of her 30th birthday and how moving back to the UK from Los Angeles has put her life back in technicolour. Plus, we even manage to stumble on some blog entries from her late 20s - to Dawn's horror/surprise!***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A few weeks ago, a true gem of UK pop music put her new album out - so we thought this was a perfect time to revisit our conversation with a woman who dominated the charts in the 90s as part of the pop group Eternal and has sold over 15m records herself as a solo artist: it's Louise Redknapp!Louise and I spoke a while back about the heady days of the 90s, leaving Eternal and taking the leap to return to work after a 17-year hiatus just as she was about to release her Greatest Hits album a few years ago.Fill out Stak's listener survey here to have a chance at winning a PS5! And for all the latest news, click here to follow us on Instagram!***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our guest today is a fiercely talented presenter, singer and performer whose voice lights up the airwaves each morning and then brings the house down each night, performing as the legendary Tina Turner. It's the amazing Fleur East!Fleur and Kate reminsice about first meeting on the X Factor twenty years ago, where Fleur's journey ended after the first week. But, much like she's dealt with other challenges in her life, her and her amazingly supportive family dusted themselves down and tried again. She auditioned again years later and has seen her career soar ever since - from stints in the jungle and on Strictly, to national radio and embodying Tina on stage. It's deserved success to for one of the nicest, funniest and most hard-working women in the game!Fill out Stak's listener survey here to have a chance at winning a PS5! And for all the latest news, click here to follow us on Instagram!***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To celebrate the end of another special Wimbledon tennis tournament, we're revisiting a conversation with a true trailblazer in British tennis. She also perfectly encapsulates what it means to show resilience, humour, and heart – it's the one and only Judy Murray!From raising champions to championing women in sport, Judy's journey is nothing short of inspiring – and she's got plenty to say about parenting, perseverance, and what it really takes to survive on the sidelines.Fill out Stak's listener survey here to have a chance at winning a PS5! And for all the latest news, click here to follow us on Instagram!***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining us today is a singer and songwriter who's gone from living paycheck to paycheck while posting cover videos online to Eurovison success and playing Wembley alongside bona fide rock legends. It's the joyous Sam Ryder!Ahead of the release of his sophomore album and headline show at Wembley Arena, he talks about how he survived on “crumbs of comfort” from his early days in the music scene while struggling through difficult jobs. Consistently doing things for the right reasons was eventually rewarded as he graduated from doing weddings - something he still loves - to playing stadiums, his Glastonbury debut and celebrated performances around the world. Despite the success, Sam remains the same humble, joyous soul he was before the deserved accolades that have come his way in recent years.Fill out Stak's listener survey here to have a chance at winning a PS5! And for all the latest news, click here to follow us on Instagram!***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we're so happy to be revisiting a conversation with a woman who helped redefine how an entire generation of women saw themselves, their aspirations and their sexuality. It's only the bloody author of Sex and the City, Candace Bushnell!Candace was such amazing company - we spoke about the crossover between her life and the lives of Carrie, Samantha, Mr Big, et al - and also spoke more about how modern women view themselves in a better light, thanks to her! It's a lovely listen with maybe the best dinner party guest ever.Fill out Stak's listener survey here to have a chance at winning a PS5! And for all the latest news, click here to follow us on Instagram!***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we're joined by a writer, presenter, and author who has lived under the glare of public scrutiny since his mother began a relationship with our now-king – something he's handled with admirable humour and good grace. It's the charming Tom Parker-Bowles!Tom joins us fresh off the release of his new cookbook 'Let's Eat' to tell us hilarious and heartfelt tales from the kitchen and beyond. He reminisces about the realities of growing up around brutal press intrusion, even if some of the headlines he'll admit were his own doing! Plus: the best bits from a life writing about food, the joys of family life and dispelling a few well-touted rumours! Fill out Stak's listener survey here to have a chance at winning a PS5! And for all the latest news, click here to follow us on Instagram!***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the 4th of July this weekend for our friend across the Pond, so we wanted to celebrate two American guests who represent their country in the best possible way! First up, the phenomenal singer-songwriter with one of the most recognisable voices in pop music. It's noughties icon Anastacia!Anastacia spoke to us about some amazing highs and difficult lows from her near-30-year career, including health troubles that have threatened her career and the harsh realities of the music industry - but also some iconic moments, like performing at Elton John's wedding and sharing the stage with Celine Dion for an unexpected rendition of ACDC!Fill out Stak's listener survey here to have a chance at winning a PS5! And for all the latest news, click here to follow us on Instagram!***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining us today is a presenter, model and author who has become a certified podcasting queen after a string of successful shows, all delivered with her trademark mix of self-aware craic and personable warmth: it's the gorgeous Vogue Williams!We sat down for a chat about her wilder younger days back in Ireland - with days often spent modelling in a burger costume or sneaking off to festivals - and how her career has blossomed since arriving in the UK. Plus, some hilarious cultural differences between her and her husband Spencer, the joys of becoming an author and the journey to self-empowerment - it's a heartfelt and hilarious chat with a certified gem!Fill out Stak's listener survey here to have a chance at winning a PS5! And for all the latest news, click here to follow us on Instagram!***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.