Podcast appearances and mentions of Elizabeth Day

Warning: this episode may contain MIND-BLOWING moments. Stephen Gross is a practising psychoanalyst and a personal hero of mine. He has worked with patients for more than 45 years and his first book, The Examined Life, drew on these experiences. When it was published in 2013, it caused a sensation and went straight to number one in the Sunday Times bestseller list. Since then, hundreds of thousands of readers, including me, have taken it to our hearts. Now 12 years on from his debut, Grosz is back with Love's Labor, which asks fundamental questions around how to love and be loved in return, drawing on his almost half a century of clinical expertise. In this episode we discuss why real love causes suffering, why failed marriages are often the best kind, the difference between surrender and submission in relationships, why loss has to be part of being human and how we can be happy. Plus: a fascinating peek into what it's like to be a psychoanalyst when I get to ask ‘are you ever annoyed by your clients?' ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 02:28 Understanding Attachment to Suffering 04:25 The Role of Denial in Our Lives 06:32 Failures and Self-Perception 07:23 Stephen's Childhood 21:46 The Power of Unconscious Signals 25:24 Navigating Change and Loss 26:25 The Anxiety of Letting Go 28:22 The Price of Love 29:23 Writing from the Heart 30:16 Support Systems 32:27 Family Dynamics and Psychoanalysis 36:51 Surrender vs. Submission 45:25 Understanding Pain and Grief 48:25 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Do you notice a difference in today's podcast? Is there a whiff of professionalism about it? No? Never mind then... Jane and Fi are undeterred by management and chat Taylor Swift's graphic lyricism, life drawing with your daughter, and Stone Age orgies.Plus, writer and broadcaster Elizabeth Day discusses her latest novel ‘One of Us'.We've announced our next book club pick! 'Just Kids' is by Patti Smith.You can listen to the playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3qIjhtS9sprg864IXC96he?si=uOzz4UYZRc2nFOP8FV_1jg&pi=BGoacntaS_uki.If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioFollow us on Instagram! @janeandfiPodcast Producer: Eve SalusburyExecutive Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we remember and celebrate the extraordinary life of Jilly Cooper, who has sadly passed away at the age of 88. A literary icon, Jilly captured hearts and imaginations with her wit, warmth, and unmistakable voice. Her novels, especially beloved titles like Riders and Rivals, sold over 11 million copies in the UK alone and most recently inspired the hit Disney+ adaptation that introduced her work to a whole new generation. I had the immense privilege of speaking with Jilly just last October. She was everything I'd hoped she would be - funny, sharp, generous and inspiring. Today, in tribute to her legacy and the joy she brought to so many, I'm honoured to share the conversation with you again. ___________________________________________________________________ Dame Jilly Cooper. What a legend. For the uninitiated (where have you been?) she's a journalist and author most famous for her bestselling Rutshire Chronicle series which includes Riders, Polo and Rivals - the latter of which has now made into a hugely popular TV series starring David Tennant, Danny Dyer and Katherine Parkinson. In the past, Dame Jilly's books have been unfairly dismissed as mere ‘bonkbusters', charting the sex lives of the upper classes. But, as I discover, there's much more to both her writing - and to her. We talk about her failures with technology, why she wishes she could throw more things away, as well as the terrifying time she lost an entire manuscript on the number 28 bus and had to rewrite it. Plus her experiences of interviewing Margaret Thatcher, her friendship with the Queen, her obsession with beautiful people and ‘macho men' - and why she'd wholeheartedly recommend adoption to others. Thank you Dame Jilly. A total sport (but we knew that). ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Remembering Dame Gili Cooper 03:43 Personal Reflections and Literary Success 07:37 Exploring Themes of Masculinity and Beauty 10:15 Family, Loss, and Resilience 11:28 Failures and Fertility Challenges 21:18 Dieting and Body Image 25:12 Interviewing Margaret Thatcher 26:46 Technical Challenges and Writing Process 30:27 Friendship and Social Media

Welcome back to this How to Fail special where we journey through the archive to uncover insight and revisit powerful conversations. Each week, I hand-pick moments that speak to our shared challenges - hopefully offering comfort, clarity, and a renewed sense of perspective for whatever life might be throwing your way. Your 20s are notoriously a time of instability, during which you attempt to find yourself and figure out who you are. Which is why I wanted to bring you this episode! We hear from Phoebe Waller-Bridge who speaks about her rollercoaster 20s and the wisdom that hindsight has afforded her. Then the singer and actor Lily Allen shares her experiences of that decade which she lived out in the unforgiving glare of the public eye. Whether you're navigating this chapter yourself or walking alongside someone who is, I hope this episode offers a sense of solidarity, understanding and light in the darker moments. Listen to Phoebe Waller Bridge's full episode of How to Fail here: https://link.chtbl.com/Vmnz_IXz Listen to Lily Allen full episode of How to Fail here: https://link.chtbl.com/7f_TpEQ6

We said goodbye to Jane Goodall, who passed away yesterday at 91 after a life that inspired millions. I feel so grateful to have had the chance to speak with her back in July 2022, a conversation I'll never forget. Today, in honour of her incredible legacy, I want to re-share it with you. ___________________________________________________________________ The legendary Jane Goodall is a scientist, conservationist and humanitarian, whose 60-year study of wild chimpanzees in Tanzania challenged and overturned much of the conventional scientific thinking at the time. Her tireless work over the years - she is now 88 - has won her a legion of admirers, including David Attenborough, Leonardo di Caprio, Prince Harry and Greta Thunberg who calls Goodall ‘a true hero'. She joins me to talk about the resilience of hope, whether chimpanzees have a sense of failure, her own failures in language, correspondence and motherhood, and her belief in the next generation. This was one of the most enlightening podcast interviews I've ever had the privilege of doing. Please listen! ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Introduction and Tribute to Jane Goodall 01:47 Early Life and Career 04:14 The Concept of Hope and Optimism 08:55 Groundbreaking Work with Chimpanzees 15:16 Challenges and Triumphs  20:22 Reflections on Failure and Success 29:18 The Power of Imagination and Early Influences 30:22 Exploring Animal Friendships 32:43 Roots and Shoots: A Movement for Change 37:37 Spiritual Experiences and Beliefs 44:58 Challenges and Failures 49:48 Reflections on Parenting and Influential Figures 54:26 Messages of Hope and Resilience  

You'll know Letitia Wright from her standout roles in Black Panther, Wakanda Forever, Black Mirror and Top Boy. She won the BAFTA Rising Star award in 2019 and is currently starring in Not Your Superwoman at The Bush Theatre, London. But Letitia's journey hasn't always been lined with red carpets. Born in Guyana and raised in Tottenham, North London, she's faced her share of challenges including depression, anxiety and experiencing the pressure to fit in from a young age. In this episode, Letitia opens up about dealing with online bullying, rejection and the lessons she's learned along the way. She speaks powerfully about the importance of faith, friendship and resilience, sharing how those pillars helped shape the person she is today. ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 02:36 Childhood Memories 11:44 Audition Failures 22:20 Online Bullying and Its Impact 24:40 Struggles with Acting Roles 25:53 Dealing with Negative Thoughts 26:51 Overcoming College Torment 28:59 Finding Purpose in Acting 30:12 Battling Depression 35:41 Directing Debut Challenges 43:36 Processing Grief and Moving Forward

Kicking off the first episode of Season 10, Michelle sits down with acclaimed journalist, novelist, and How to Fail podcast host Elizabeth Day to explore what we can learn from failure - and why our leaders need to fail better. Elizabeth opens up about how personal struggles, including fertility loss and heartbreak, shaped her outlook on vulnerability and strength. She also dives into the themes of her new novel One of Us, a psychological drama about power, privilege and the damage done by emotional dishonesty.This conversation covers not just how to embrace failure, but why vulnerability and emotional accountability are essential qualities for anyone in leadership - especially in today's political climate. With her trademark warmth and clarity, Elizabeth explains why we need to stop idolising perfection and start expecting humanity from the people in charge.Key Insights:

Welcome back to this How to Fail special where we revisit conversations from the archive to highlight particular themes and tap into the wisdom they contain. Each week, I select moments that can offer perspective, comfort and encouragement for whatever you might be going through. Since September is National Recovery Month, we're exploring the theme of addiction. First, we hear from comedian, writer and actor Mae Martin, who joined me in April this year. They spoke candidly about their experiences with addiction and recovery. Their honesty and humour shine through, reminding us that vulnerability can be a powerful force for change. Then we hear from bestselling author Marian Keyes, who came on HTF just before lockdown, in February 2020. She shares her own journey with addiction and sobriety - her warmth and insight offer reassurance that recovery is possible and that life after addiction can be full of meaning and joy. I hope this episode provides understanding, solidarity and light to anyone who may be struggling or supporting someone they love. Listen to Mae Martin's full episode of How to Fail here: https://link.chtbl.com/F50L9kqQ Listen to Marian Keyes' full episode of How to Fail here: https://link.chtbl.com/qHVhGxfP

Michelle Ford is back with a brand-new season of Two Women Chatting – the podcast for midlife women - and this time, the universe has spoken: the theme is JOY.In this trailer, Michelle shares what's coming up in Season 10, including conversations with some incredible guests:✨ Elizabeth Day on her moving new book One of Us✨ Donna Ashworth on her uplifting anthology Joy Chose You✨ Jane Moore with her wise, witty take on midlife✨ Gaby Roslin on spreading joy in everyday life✨ Nicky Hambleton-Jones on being bolder not olderMore guests to come throughout the season chatting about midlife inspiration, finding purpose, joy and living well in our second spring.Expect laughter, honesty, and plenty of “me too” moments – all wrapped in the kind of midlife chat you'd have with your best friend over coffee (or wine

Joe Locke shot to global fame as Charlie Spring in Netflix's Heartstopper, a role that catapulted him overnight from a schoolboy on the Isle of Man to an Emmy-nominated actor with millions of followers. In this candid conversation, the Heartstopper star reflects on the whirlwind of early success, the pressure of being seen as a role model and why he once felt like he was ‘already 35' at just 20 years old. Joe opens up about the challenges of guarding his privacy while navigating fame, learning to embrace his youth and discovering the value of failure in both life and career. From Broadway and Marvel to his West End debut in Clarkston, the Netflix actor shares what it means to grow up in the spotlight, how being raised by strong women shaped him - and why believing in yourself can be the hardest lesson of all. ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 01:43 Guarding Privacy in the Spotlight 04:21 Theater and Personal Passions 10:08 Heartstopper and Cast Dynamics 14:38 Navigating Fame and Personal Growth 16:04 Balancing Youth and Career 24:31 Reverse Misogyny and Comfort in Female Spaces 26:37 Future Aspirations 27:48 Imposter Syndrome in Acting 28:52 Heartstopper Casting Call Experience 32:00 The Struggle with Self-Belief 34:55 Embracing Failure and Personal Growth 40:59 Eyebrows and Acting

In this episode of Therapy Works, I'm delighted to welcome back my friend Elizabeth Day. Elizabeth has done so much to change the way we talk about vulnerability, self-acceptance, and failure - through her writing, her speaking, and of course her brilliant podcast How to Fail. In our conversation, Elizabeth opens up about her personal journey through childlessness and fertility struggles, and how she has found both peace and purpose through her creative life. We talk about her new book, One of Us, and the powerful themes it explores: what it means to belong, how failure shapes us, and why honest connection is essential for our wellbeing. Elizabeth shares with great warmth and insight how writing and her conversations on How to Fail have helped her understand herself and others more deeply. This is a conversation about resilience, creativity, and finding meaning in the places we least expect. I so loved this conversation, and I hope you do too. Find Elizabeth: Instagram: @elizabday Website: https://www.elizabethday.org/ Substack: theelizabethday.substack.com Buy her new book One of Us: https://amzn.eu/d/5IZTy96 More from Therapy Works: Subscribe to the Therapy Works Substack for guidance on everyday struggles and access to Julia's monthly live webinar: https://juliasamuel.substack.com/ Follow Julia on Instagram: @juliasamuelmbe for tips, tools, and conversations about navigating life's challenges. If you enjoy this episode, please consider rating, reviewing, and subscribing - it makes a big difference and helps others discover these conversations. If you need help finding a therapist, visit: The Samuel Therapy Practice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to another special edition of How to Fail, where I revisit conversations from the How to Fail archives. Each week, we shine a light on a particular theme, hopefully offering inspiration, perspective and comfort through the words of past guests. This week's theme is on writing - appropriately, because my new book ‘One of Us' is out this week (25th September)! So it felt only fair that I re-shared a couple of my favourite authors who have guested on How to Fail in the past. First up, you'll hear from Nobel Prize winning author Kazuo Ishiguro, whose episode originally aired in March 2021. He shares thoughtful reflections on creativity, memory and the way stories help us explore both truth and imagination. Then, we turn to Salman Rushdie, in an excerpt from our original conversation back in June 2024, where he discusses his extraordinary book ‘Knife' and reflects on the role of stories in making sense of life's most difficult moments. I hope these highlights remind you of the power of storytelling, not only as a means of escape but also as a way to process, connect and endure Listen to Salman Rushdie's full episode of How to Fail here: https://link.chtbl.com/OE63hsrn Listen to Kazuo Ishiguro's full episode of How to Fail here: https://link.chtbl.com/zu0kLq-0

Joining us this episode to discuss the highs and lows of parenting (and life) is the brilliant novelist, journalist and broadcaster - Elizabeth Day. **Trigger Warning** We discuss topics of fertility, IVF and miscarriage in this episode. 'One of Us'  by Elizabeth Day is published by 4th Estate on 25th September. You can pre-order your copy here. How To Fail with Elizabeth Day is available every Wednesday on podcast platforms and YouTube: https://link.chtbl.com/hHntV5ys   Parenting Hell is a Spotify Podcast, available everywhere every Tuesday and Friday. Please subscribe and leave a rating and review you filthy street dogs... xx If you want to get in touch with the show with any correspondence, kids intro audio clips, small business shout outs, and more.... here's how: EMAIL: Hello@lockdownparenting.co.uk Follow us on instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentinghell⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ A 'Keep It Light Media' Production  Sales, advertising, and general enquiries: hello@keepitlightmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains mentions of drug use. Mark Ronson is the hitmaker behind some of the most iconic music of the past two decades. A nine-time Grammy-winning producer, DJ, and Oscar-winning songwriter (yes - he wrote “I'm Just Ken”), Ronson has collaborated with legends like Lady Gaga, Paul McCartney, Miley Cyrus and Duran Duran. He also produced Amy Winehouse's era-defining album Back to Black, and his 2014 smash “Uptown Funk” is one of the best-selling singles in history. In this revealing conversation, Mark shares the creative process behind “Uptown Funk,” his unforgettable first meeting with Amy Winehouse, the 90s New York club scene and how a song from Barbie became a global phenomenon. ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Intro 02:45 The DJ Booth 04:00 Navigating Family Chaos and Emotional Sensitivity 06:56 The Night People: A Unique Subculture 09:06 Encounters with Celebrities and Substance Experimentation 12:11 The Jay-Z Approach Disaster 21:33 Creating Uptown Funk with Bruno Mars 24:04 The Journey of a Hit Song 25:50 The Concept of Cool 27:42 Guitar Dreams and DJ Realities 29:59 The Importance of Friendship 33:24 Therapy and Personal Growth 35:19 Meeting his wife During COVID 37:26 Industry Exile and a New Beginning 44:14 Creating the Barbie Soundtrack

Welcome to the newest evolution of How to Fail! Each week, I'll be diving into the archives to spotlight key themes that have come up throughout my conversations with How to Fail guests. I'll be sharing bite-sized takeaways every Monday to support, inspire and help with whatever you might be going through. This week's theme is a big one: we're talking all about grief. First, you'll hear a moving excerpt from my 2019 conversation with Mo Gawdat, who offered deeply validating and helpful advice for anyone navigating the loss of a loved one. Then, we revisit a 2024 episode with Bonnie Tyler, who talks about losing her beloved mother.. I hope this episode brings comfort, clarity and a little light to those who need it most. Listen to Mo Gawdat's full episode of How to Fail here: https://link.chtbl.com/fnA5IzTi Listen to Bonnie Tyler's full episode of How to Fail here:

‘I didn't think I had that confidence, so I turned those roles down.' Robin Wright is the legendary star of The Princess Bride, Forrest Gump, House of Cards, and Amazon's gripping new thriller The Girlfriend. An Emmy-nominated actress, Golden Globe winner and now an acclaimed director, Wright joins How To Fail to talk about fear, self-worth, womanhood, motherhood - and what it means to start over later in life. She reflects on missed chances in her 20s, turning down roles due to self-doubt, and how playing Claire Underwood helped her channel her inner strength. We discuss ageing, perfectionism, directing while acting and the inequality still embedded in Hollywood. A masterclass in how to fail, get back up, and do it your own way. Plus: her honest thoughts on working with Tom Hanks and the *worst* experience she's had with a director. ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 11.20    Overcoming fear and self-doubt 11.30 Reuniting with former co-stars - Tom Hanks! 21.31 Why she turned down roles in her 20s due to fear of failing 25.30 Self-love and personal growth 26.15 The journey to directing 35.20 Embracing new challenges later in life 39.45 Difficult experiences in the industry with a bullying director 43.00 Dealing with power imbalances 43.30 Her biggest wish for the youth of today (and how not to be controlled by social media)

Welcome to this brand-new concept for How to Fail – where I dive into the back catalogue of the How to Fail archives, highlighting specific themes each week to bring you bitesize takeaways! Hopefully these episodes can bring some clarity on similar issues you're facing or great stories that you might find comfort from. This week we're looking at heartbreak. You'll hear a highlight from my conversation with philosopher Alain de Botton, originally released in October 2019, who shares wise and insightful advice on how to process and understand heartbreak. Secondly, we hear from Jay Shetty, whose episode originally broadcast in May 2023, and gives incredibly validating advice and support for anyone who might have experienced heartbreak of any kind. I hope that this episode will be a beacon of light to anyone who has been or is currently going through this! Listen to Alain de Botton's full episode of How to Fail here: https://link.chtbl.com/RBaS4VUy Listen to Jay Shetty's full episode of How to Fail here: https://link.chtbl.com/-nR18lfT

You may know Tom Ellis as the devilishly charming lead in Netflix's Lucifer, or as the lovable Gary in the BBC sitcom Miranda. He's also made waves in the U.S., starring alongside Gina Rodriguez in Players, and appearing in Hulu's Tell Me Lies, created by his wife, Meghan Oppenheimer. In 2023, Tom and Meghan welcomed a daughter via surrogate, adding to his role as a proud dad of four. Now, his next big project is the star-studded film adaptation of Richard Osman's bestselling novel The Thursday Murder Club, alongside Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, and Richard E. Grant. In this episode, Tom opens up about modern fatherhood, navigating surrogacy, his fear of needles and what it's really like working on a series about sexual toxicity - with his real-life partner at the helm. ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Intro 01:25 From Cardiff to Hollywood 02:11 The Spiritual Journey 04:17 The Thursday Murder Club Experience 06:37 Personal Life and Surrogacy 10:20 Failures and Lessons in Sports 20:09 Discovering Acting 23:50 Being Recognised on the Street 24:04 Medical Green Card Failure 26:35 Discovering Vasovagal Condition 27:45 Becoming a US Citizen 27:54 Political Climate in the US 31:15 Working with his Wife 37:09 Financial Struggles as a Student 43:43 Cats and Family Life

In this episode, Kate is joined by Elizabeth Day, an award-winning author, acclaimed podcaster and broadcaster, for a candid conversation about relationships, heartbreaks and friendships. About the episode: Elizabeth starts by opening up about her personal experience of relationships and separations, and what she learnt about herself through them. Kate and Elizabeth go on to explore why divorce isn't a failure, the role your friendships play in your romantic relationships and tips on what to look out for in future partners. We finish off with Elizabeth sharing some incredible tips for those going through divorce or separation. Tune in so you don't miss them! If you're navigating separation, divorce, or even just the idea of starting again, this is the perfect episode for you. It's thought-provoking, honest, and packed with takeaways you can use right now. You might even leave feeling a little bit lighter and more positive about your previous relationships (and the potential for future love).About our guests:Elizabeth Day is an award-winning author, acclaimed podcaster, and broadcaster known for her honest and compassionate explorations of modern life, relationships, and failure. Her latest book, One Of Us is her tenth, following the success of her previous nonfiction title, Friendaholic: Confessions of a Friendship Addict, which became an instant Sunday Times Number One bestseller. Her novels—including the bestsellers Magpie and The Party—have been praised for their psychological insight and social commentary.Elizabeth is the recipient of a Betty Trask Award and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature. She is also the creator and host of the chart-topping podcast How To Fail, where she interviews public figures about the lessons they've learned from setbacks. Through her production company, Daylight Productions, she works to amplify female and underrepresented voices in podcasting.Elizabeth has written and spoken candidly about her personal journey, including the emotional challenges of infertility, experiences she has shared in an effort to break the silence and stigma around the subject. She has also explored the evolution of her romantic life, including the end of her first marriage and the self-redefinition that followed. After years of growth and reflection, she found lasting love with entrepreneur Justin Basini, whom she married in 2021. The couple live in South West London with their much-loved ginger cat.Her openness about vulnerability, resilience, and human connection continues to resonate with readers and listeners around the world.More resources:Loved this episode? You can listen to Elizabeth Day's podcast How to fail on your favourite platform, pre-order her latest book One of Us, and follow her on Instagram! You can get in touch with amicable for more information on the legal, fi

Mid-life crises have a bad rap.

Jameela Jamil is an actor, activist, and founder of the I Weigh movement. From teaching English to starring in The Good Place, Jameela shares the highs, lows, and radical honesty that define her journey. This episode first went out in February 2021. We talk about: Her struggle to be a "good" celebrity Body image battles and self-kindness Financial missteps and learning to thrive Calling out media hypocrisy and sparking global change Packed with truth bombs and bold insight, this episode is for anyone navigating life, self-worth, and the pressure to fit in. ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 02:35 Challenges and Criticisms 03:35 Embracing Failure and Progress 08:47 Navigating Public Criticism 15:14 The Pressure of Being a Female Celebrity 26:57 Mental Health 30:09 Empathy and Self-Reflection 30:25 Struggles with Body Image 31:21 The Impact of Diet Culture 32:26 Realisations and Recovery 36:55 Navigating Compliments and Criticisms 42:25 Financial Failures and Lessons 47:59 Life in Los Angeles 52:02 Future Plans and Activism

Author of Untamed and fierce truth-teller Glennon Doyle joins me for a raw and revelatory episode, first recorded in July 2020. We dive into: Why we chase approval instead of trusting our inner voice Her struggles with body image, love, and emotional resilience The failures that shaped her—from family breakdowns to learning self-protection Every moment is unscripted and packed with wisdom. No edits. No filters. Just Glennon, exactly as she is. Listen when you're ready for honesty that hits like a lightning bolt. ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Intro 01:59 Glennon Doyle's Early Life and Struggles 02:11 The Journey to Sobriety 02:35 Meeting Abby Wambach and Life Transformation 03:01 The Impact of 'Untamed' and Pandemic Challenges 07:47 Writing 'Untamed' and Embracing Wildness 12:54 Personal Transformation 17:11 Redefining Success and Family Dynamics 35:52 Generational Differences and Parenting 36:38 A Mother's Transformation 38:04 Struggles with Thick Skin 38:58 Navigating Feedback as an Artist 51:10 The Scarcity Mindset Among Women 55:52 Body Image and Control

We all like to think we're self aware people, and arguably we are all more self aware than we used to be as a society. However, just because we're aware of our shortcomings it doesn't mean we're any good at addressing them. In fact, sometimes we're left realising that we've done nothing to address them. Yes, acknowledging a problem is the first step to solving it, but if you never take the next step, what does that mean? The summer reading list (and so much more) can be found here https://growthinprogresspodcast.substack.com/ Recommendations How to fail with Elizabeth Day & Pamela Anderson The Ridiculously Interesting World of American Accents on The Culture Studies Podcast You Are Fatally Invited by Ande Pliego

This week we revisit one of my all-time favourite guests: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, recorded in July 2021. Best known for Americanah and her globally resonant TED Talks, Chimamanda opens up about the profound grief of losing both her parents within a year—and the raw journey of coping in its aftermath. We talk candidly about: Her essay Notes on Grief Being a daughter and the complexities of motherhood Fertility struggles and writing through pain Her cultural influence and, yes...Kim Kardashian It's heartfelt, honest, and deeply moving. Listen when you're ready to feel. ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Intro 03:18 Chimamanda's Background and Family 04:39 Exploring Feminism and Dissatisfaction 06:09 Navigating Sexism and Racism 08:29 Cultural Observations and Gender Roles 14:52 Academic Journey and Career Shift 18:12 Grief, Guilt, and Family Memories 35:04 Delight in Simple Pleasures 35:54 A Mother's Determination 38:11 Medical Malpractice and Loss 41:10 Coping with Grief 42:51 Seeking Comfort in Faith 51:20 Struggles with Writing 53:51 Motherhood and Creativity 01:01:44 Fashion, Individuality, and Social Media

Recorded with a live audience in Cambridge, this captivating conversation delves deep into the life and career of a cultural force of the last half-century. Known of course for his iconic role as Baldrick in Blackadder, Sir Tony's sharp intelligence and dry humour have had a formative influence on generations.  In this candid discussion, he opens up about the unexpected turns and profound challenges that have shaped his extraordinary journey as an actor, presenter, documentary maker and writer. You'll hear his deeply personal reflections on fatherhood, insights into the creative process behind his recently announced novel, and the powerful lessons learned from a lifetime of experiences, both public and private.  Prepare for an engaging, wise, and moving conversation that explores the transformative power of vulnerability and the importance of finding meaningful connection. This is a unique opportunity to hear a national treasure like never before. ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Intro 00:45 Tony Robinson's Early Life and Career 03:13 Fatherhood and Family 04:55 Writing and Publishing a Novel 10:50 The Impact of Blackadder 13:16 Challenges and Conflicts in Blackadder 16:33 Height and Personal Insecurities 20:42 Childhood and Adolescence Struggles 22:41 Growing Up in the Shadow of WWII 24:49 The Ups and Downs of Gambling 27:28 Early Career and Poker Lessons 29:29 Child Actor Earnings and Capitalism 34:23 Dealing with Alzheimer's in the Family 37:03 Reflecting on Personal Failures 44:56 Finding Meaningful Relationships

In this searingly funny and deeply affecting live conversation, Elizabeth speaks to stand-up comedian, author and Taskmaster favourite Fern Brady about her autism diagnosis, her working-class roots, and the failures that shaped her award-winning memoir Strong Female Character. Fern opens up about late diagnosis, social masking, and stripping to fund her education - all delivered with the brutal honesty and whip-smart humour that's made her one of the most exciting voices in comedy today. A powerful exploration of identity, feminism, and finding your voice. What stood out for you in this episode? Leave us a comment.  ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Intro 01:58 Autism Diagnosis and Masking 04:40 Experiences on Taskmaster 11:40 University Struggles and Stripping 17:33 Challenges of Writing a Memoir 20:03 Reflections on Edinburgh 21:49 Struggles with Mental Health and Misdiagnosis 22:35 University Challenges and Autistic Shutdowns 23:25 Extreme Stress and Physical Symptoms 24:34 Breaking into Comedy and Facing Limitations 26:05 Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs 27:55 Navigating the Comedy Industry 34:02 Rejecting Mainstream Entertainment 37:21 Celebrity Bakeoff Experience

On this episode of the The SheerLuxe Podcast, Billie Bhatia is joined by Elizabeth Day and Hodge Templeman to chat what's new and noteworthy - from celebrity-favourite La Guérite and ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty' to Florence Knapp's ‘The Names' and a throwback to ‘Big Brother' season one. They also share their latest fashion finds - think Reformation dresses, statement jewellery from Dinosaur Designs, elevated basics from Zara and Yaitte, plus their denim picks from Aligne. Lastly, they discuss the viral Coldplay concert meme, Charli XCX's wedding look and the two books on everyone's nightstand: ‘One Of Us' by Elizabeth Day and ‘Please Yourself' by Emma Reed Turrell. Subscribe For More | http://bit.ly/2VmqduQ Get SheerLuxe Straight To Your Inbox, Daily | http://sheerluxe.com/signup PANEL GUESTSBillie Bhatia | @billie_bhatia | https://www.instagram.com/billie_bhatia/?hl=en Elizabeth Day | @elizabday | https://www.instagram.com/elizabday/?hl=en Hodge Templeman | @sarahjtempleman | https://www.instagram.com/sarahjtempleman/?hl=en WIN | https://sheerluxe.com/win/2025/06/win-the-ultimate-luxury-holiday-at-oku-bodrum COMPETITION | Beautifect | https://www.beautifect.com/ To enter, please leave a comment below stating what you'd love to see from us and we'll pick a winner. Terms & Conditions: The entrant must be 18 or over to enter, and it is only valid to UK entrants. Only one entry per person. No alternative cash or otherwise to the stated prizes are available. SheerLuxe is not responsible for and will not offer any compensation, financial or otherwise, for any loss, damage or disappointment arising if the prize is not fulfilled by the providing company for any reason whatsoever.Discount Code: SL2025ChatGPT Prompt: Using my birth date xx/xx/xx, uncover my hidden strengths, weaknesses, and the personal challenges I'm meant to overcome using numerology. Then you follow up with: My full birth name (as it appears on my birth certificate) is xxxx. Please calculate my Expression (Destiny) Number and Soul Urge Number. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when the life you thought you'd built - the one with love, money, recognition - seems to slip away? This week, Elizabeth speaks to Dorinda Medley, author, TV personality and iconic former Real Housewife of New York, about reinvention, resilience and learning to be okay with not being liked by everyone. Dorinda opens up about the loss of her husband, the loneliness that followed fame, and why her departure from Housewives was both painful and necessary. This is a raw, funny, emotional conversation with a woman who's lived many lives - and isn't afraid to talk about all the ways they've fallen apart. ✨ IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Intro 02:12 Life After Reality TV 03:30 Authenticity and Public Perception 06:37 Dealing with Grief and Loss 14:06 Finding Strength in Vulnerability 19:14 The Impact of Fame 21:56 Housewives' First Visit to Blue Stone Manor 23:03 Behind the Scenes Drama 23:32 Staying Connected with Castmates 25:36 Dealing with Trolls and Haters 29:00 Coping with On-Screen Conflicts 31:19 Reflecting on the Housewives Experience 32:48 Blue Stone Manor Tag Sale 35:57 Life Lessons and Moving Forward

As a recording artist, Vanessa Williams has earned 13 Grammy nominations and racked up over 212 million digital streams over the course of her eight albums. Her most popular hit, Save The Best For Last, was Number 1 for five weeks in 1992. She is also a highly successful stage and screen actor, appearing in Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty. She is currently starring on the West End stage as Miranda Priestly in the musical adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada. It's all a long way from her historic crowning as the first African-American Miss America in 1983 - she was later forced to resign after unauthorised photos taken when she was a student were leaked without her consent.  Vanessa joins us for an honest, hilarious and no-holds-barred conversation about her childhood, her romantic relationships, and - in a How To Fail first - why she regrets sending her daughter to boarding school. Elizabeth and Vanessa answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have a failure you're trying to work through for Elizabeth to discuss? Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com  I have an upcoming one-off show at Cadogan Hall on 21 Sep for my new novel One of Us. Full show details here: ⁠https://www.fane.co.uk/elizabeth-day Production & Post Production Coordinator: Eric Ryan   Studio & Sound Engineer: Matias Torres Assistant Producer: Suhaar Ali Senior Producer: Hannah Talbot Executive Producer: Carly Maile How to Fail is an Elizabeth Day and Sony Music Entertainment Production.   Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special live edition of How to Fail, Elizabeth is joined by comedian Suzi Ruffell. Suzi has performed five sellout runs at the Edinburgh Fringe, as well as appearing on live at the Apollo and filming an Amazon special of her show ‘Dance Like Everyone Is Watching'. She was nominated for Best standup show in the National Comedy Awards and has just written her first book ‘Am I Funny Now?'. Suzi opens up about her sexuality, her Kate Winslet obsession and talks about her totally relatable failures in this entertaining and hilarious, but moving episode.  Elizabeth and Suzi answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends from a live audience in Cardiff. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have a failure you're trying to work through for Elizabeth to discuss? Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com  Production & Post Production Coordinator: Eric Ryan   Live Sound Engineer: Will Kontargyris Studio & Sound Engineer: Matias Torres Assistant Producer: Suhaar Ali Senior Producer: Hannah Talbot Executive Producer: Carly Maile How to Fail is an Elizabeth Day and Sony Music Entertainment Production.   Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I can't believe I get to say this but…PAMELA ANDERSON! ON HOW TO FAIL! The one and only!  A woman I grew up watching on TV, Pamela was an icon of a generation…But the second act of her career has been the most powerful and Anderson joins me for a  vulnerable chat about her long journey of embracing beauty on her own terms, understand her self-worth, embracing self-acceptance and how it was never about being pretty for her - it was always about being brave.    Together, we unpack the beauty ideals of early 2000s that continue to shape how women view themselves today. Backed by Dove's Self Esteem Project body confidence science and exercises, this episode dives deep into Pamela reflecting on being the poster girl of an era and shares how she's reclaimed her image, her narrative and what beauty means to her.    Have a failure you're trying to work through for Elizabeth to discuss? Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com    If you want more support, Dove has created a journal designed to help you reflect, reset, and take control of how you engage with beauty and your body. You can find it at dove.com/why2k. Production & Post Production Coordinator: Eric Ryan   Mix Engineer: Matias Torres Studio Engineer: Gulliver Tickell Assistant Producer: Suhaar Ali Senior Producer: Hannah Talbot Executive Producer: Carly Maile How to Fail is an Elizabeth Day and Sony Music Entertainment Production.   Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Melinda French Gates studied computer science and economics and completed an MBA before joining a tech start-up called Microsoft, in 1987. She rose through the ranks to become Manager of Information Products and married the boss in 1994. His name was Bill Gates. Together, the couple founded and co-chaired the Gates Foundation, where, for more than two decades, she set the direction and priorities of the world's largest philanthropic organisation. Today, a divorced French Gates heads up Pivotal, which works to advance women's power and influence in the U.S. and around the world. Along the way, she has raised three children and written two bestselling books - The Moment of Lift and her latest, The Next Day: Transitions, Change, and Moving Forward. It is an astonishing journey: from the normality of a middle-class childhood to becoming one of the wealthiest women in the world and one of our most influential philanthropists. French Gates joins me for an open conversation about her divorce, ensuring her children never became spoiled, being strict about smartphones and surviving the death of a friend. Plus: the importance of empathy in the workplace and whether we should be scared of AI. Elizabeth and Melinda answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have a failure you're trying to work through for Elizabeth to discuss? Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com  Production & Post Production Coordinator: Eric Ryan   Studio & Sound Engineer: Matias Torres Assistant Producer: Suhaar Ali Senior Producer: Hannah Talbot Executive Producer: Carly Maile How to Fail is an Elizabeth Day and Sony Music Entertainment Production.   Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 1x pre-roll 2x Mid-roll 2x Mid-roll 1x Mid-roll 1x post-roll Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

TW: miscarriage, abortion and fertility strugglesWelcome back to Dial Emma! Each week, I'll be answering your dilemmas with honesty, empathy, and a few therapeutic truth bombs to help you make sense of life's stickiest moments. If you've ever wished you had a therapist in your back pocket, Dial Emma is here to help.This week's dilemma comes from a listener who is navigating a complex and painful fertility journey - but not one that necessarily fits into our pre-conceived ideas of what fertility struggles *should* look and feel like. To help me answer it, I'm joined by my first special guest: author and podcaster Elizabeth Day.Our listener, 43, writes with extraordinary vulnerability about her unexpected pregnancy in 2023, the decision to terminate, and the heartbreak of multiple miscarriages that followed. While her partner's desire for parenthood has since waned, her own longing has grown, and she now finds herself grieving something she never expected to want so deeply.This is a conversation about grief, identity, truth, and the emotional complexities of fertility, especially when the path isn't linear. Elizabeth also shares her personal experiences of miscarriage and fertility treatment, and how she found peace on the other side of her decision to stop pursuing biological motherhood.If you have a dilemma for Emma, please fill out this form. ---Dial Emma is hosted by Emma Reed Turrell, produced by Lauren Brook.---Social media:Emma Reed Turrell @emmareedturrellDial Emma @dialemmapodcastEmail: contact@dial-emma.uk

Monica Lewinsky is an activist, podcaster and producer.  At the age of 24, Lewinsky, a White House intern, found herself in the eye of a global scandal. She was subjected to a mass public shaming -  losing her livelihood, her anonymity and the future she had once imagined for herself. Now, 51 Lewinsky has garnered a new generation of admirers, who with the advent of social media and shifting cultural tides, have rightly reinterpreted the shocking way she was treated. Her podcast, which launched earlier this year, is called ‘Reclaiming' and features interviews with guests who are in the process of reclaiming their own narratives, just as she was forced to do. She joins us to talk about her experiences with shame, her perfectionism and why the pain she went through has given her purpose. Elizabeth and Monica answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have a failure you're trying to work through for Elizabeth to discuss? Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com  All episodes in June are brought to you by @arlalactoFREE - all the taste, easier to digest. Listen to our bonus episode brought to by ArlaLactoFREE with Vicky Pattison here: https://link.chtbl.com/VickyPattison 

Rapping phenomenon and Tottenham Hotspur superfan AJ Tracey joins us this week to talk about supporting his mum through her cancer journey, the pressures of staying an independent artist and what football has taught him about failure. AJ Tracey has been rapping since the age of four. He dropped out of his Criminology degree at London Metropolitan University and started uploading tracks to SoundCloud in 2011, achieving five Platinum singles and over two billion Spotify plays as an independent artist. His first studio album debuted at number three in the UK Albums chart and his breakthrough hit, Ladbroke Grove, became the unofficial summer anthem of 2019. Now, after a three-year hiatus, marked by leaked songs and pandemic delays, Tracey has just released his third album, Don't Die Before You're Dead. It's his most vulnerable and personal work yet and as well as being a love letter to the UK, the album fuses grime, garage, and R&B with themes of trauma, mental health, faith and love. Elizabeth and AJ answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have a failure you're trying to work through for Elizabeth to discuss? Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com All episodes in June are brought to you by @arlalactoFREE - all the taste, easier to digest. Listen to our bonus episode brought to by ArlaLactoFREE with Vicky Pattison here: https://link.chtbl.com/VickyPattison

Cynthia Nixon joins Elizabeth to answer YOUR questions and failures including: whose failures would you most like to hear (dead or alive) how to cope with a friendship break up and how to know when to have kids. Elizabeth then takes a moment to reflect on meeting Cynthia, and everything they covered. To hear Cynthia tackling your failures join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Do you have something to share of your own? Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com Production & Post Production Coordinator: Eric Ryan Mix Engineer: Matias Torres Studio Engineer: Sam Bair Senior Producer: Hannah Talbot Executive Producer: Carly Maile How to Fail is an Elizabeth Day and Sony Music Entertainment Production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whilst Cynthia Nixon's versatility is beyond question, it's fair to say that she has become permanently associated with one character, Miranda Hobbs, in Sex and the City and its companion piece, And Just Like That. She won an Emmy for her performance and a generation of fans who identified with the ambitious type-A lawyer whose cynicism disguised as vulnerability has grown markedly through the decades. Nixon is also a political activist and vocal advocate for progressive causes. She even met her wife at an education rally in 2002. In 2018, she ran unsuccessfully for the governorship of New York. More recently, she has repeatedly spoken out in support of a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Nixon's political conscience recalls perhaps the legacy of her journalist Father Walter, who won awards for his coverage of the Civil Rights Movement. An uplifting, smart and enlightening woman - what a joy it was to meet her. Elizabeth and Cynthia answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have something to share of your own? Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com All episodes in June are brought to you by @arlalactoFREE - all the taste, easier to digest. Listen to our bonus episode brought to by ArlaLactoFREE with Vicky Pattison here: https://link.chtbl.com/VickyPattison

TW: discussions around anorexia and sexual abuse. In an incredibly powerful episode (and a How To Fail first), Christine McGuinness speaks publicly about her sexuality for the first time. She reveals she had a long-term relationship with a woman before her marriage to comedian Paddy McGuinness and that she's now dating women again. She refuses to label her sexuality - as she puts it: ‘I want love for me'. What an honour to be part of Christine's journey to live her truth! You will already know Christine as a TV personality, author, businesswoman and prominent autism advocate. The mother of three autistic children, she has made critically acclaimed documentaries including Our Family and Autism, with her then-husband, as well as penning a series of autism-inclusive children's books and launching a range of sensory-positive clothing. Despite serious adversity (her father was a heroin addict, she endured bullying at school and suffered sexual abuse at the hands of a family member), Christine is a total inspiration and has achieved so much. She's about to launch her first podcast, Situationships, in which she and her co-host Sophie Gravia delve into listeners' dating and relationship dilemmas. Elizabeth and Christine answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have something to share of your own? Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com All episodes in June are brought to you by @arlalactoFREE - all the taste, easier to digest. Listen to our bonus episode brought to by ArlaLactoFREE with Vicky Pattison here: https://link.chtbl.com/VickyPattison

Vicky Pattison was 22 when her life changed and she was cast in reality TV show Geordie Shore. She was on the show for nine seasons between 2011 and 2014, during which time the cameras followed her falling in love, becoming engaged, then breaking up. Now 37, Pattison has rarely been off our screens - whether it's as a finalist on Celebrity Masterchef or winning I'm A Celebrity in 2015. She's a radio presenter on the Heart network, is fronting a new Channel 4 dating show called The Honesty Box and has a new podcast, Get A Grip, which she co-hosts with Angela Scanlon. In this candid episode, Vicky talks openly about her lifetime struggle with PMDD and how it affects her every day, fighting the fear of becoming an alcoholic and how so much has changed since the days of Geordie Shore. This bonus episode is brought to you by @arlalactoFREE - all the taste, easier to digest. Have something to share of your own? I'd love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com Production & Post Production Coordinator: Eric Ryan Studio and Mix Engineer: Matias Torres Sole & Gulliver Lawrence-Tickell Senior Producer: Hannah Talbot Executive Producer: Carly Maile How to Fail is an Elizabeth Day and Sony Music Entertainment Production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In her most revealing interview to date, Dannii Minogue talks openly about the pressures of fame, the relentless comparisons with her sister, Kylie, and navigating a divorce that left her broke. It's an extraordinary conversation with a woman who found fame as a 10-year-old in her native Australia. As a  teenager Dannii, signed a record deal and acted in Home and Away. In her early 20s her debut album went Gold in the UK, and she went on to have 9 top 10 singles. Over the course of her music career she has spent over 200 weeks in the official UK chart, sold in excess of seven million records worldwide, and scored a record-breaking 19 Number One dance singles. After a four year stint on The X Factor UK, she now hosts her own queer dating shows ‘I Kissed a Girl' and ‘I Kissed a Boy', on BBC3 and iPlayer. How to recover a broken heart - Elizabeth and Dannii answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have something to share of your own? I'd love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com

For many of us who grew up in the the 90s, Julia Stiles was an integral part of our coming of age. Her portrayal of the clever, acerbic Kat in 10 Things I Hate About You was a radical reinvention of the blonde teenage female rom-com lead. Her roles in Save The Last Dance and Mona Lisa Smile spoke to our adolescent feminist awakenings and catapulted Stiles to stardom. And, just like the heroines she played, Stiles chose to do things a bit differently. At the height of her teenage fame, she went to study English at Columbia University, continuing to act throughout her degree, most notably in the first of four Jason Bourne films. Her latest project is her directorial debut - the feature film, Wish You Were Here, which Stiles also produced and co-wrote. As a mother of three, Stiles said that her parenting informed her ability to direct. Grief, how to stop caring what everyone thinks and discussing the most difficult times in their lives - Elizabeth and Julia answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have something to share of your own? I'd love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com

John Bishop has been a hugely successful stand-up comedian for 25 years. Yet that wasn't his first dream, which was to play football. We discuss his failure to do so professionally, his challenges at school, the working-class upbringing that shaped him and how comedy saved his marriage when he and his wife were at the ‘decree nisi stage' of divorce. Plus: skincare tips and why making people laugh is like stripping. Yes, really. Tickets for John Bishop's 25 Years of Stand Up tour: https://www.johnbishoponline.com/ ‘Those four letters - love - are loaded with so much' - Elizabeth and John answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have something to share of your own? I'd love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com

In this week's episode, we're taking a closer look at the sneaky side of nutrition—starting with hidden sugar. From yoghurt and oat milk to savoury sauces and baby food, we reveal just how much sugar is lurking in everyday items—and why it's so hard to spot on the label. Weight loss jabs like Ozempic and Mounjaro are still dominating headlines, but behind the hype lies a deeper conversation about self-worth, body image, and how 90s diet culture continues to shape our thinking. We share a powerful reflection from Elizabeth Day on the inner critic, societal pressure, and what true body neutrality looks like in 2025. We also break down the latest ultra-processed food research, including shocking new stats on early death risk. Are UPFs as dangerous as the data suggests—and what can we actually do about it? Plus, the baby food pouch scandal has reignited debate about infant nutrition. We unpack the findings, the marketing spin, and why transparency is urgently needed in this space. Elsewhere, Rhi reveals the surprising truth about plastics in activewear, Ella shares her take on the “bed rotting” trend, and we answer a listener question on the best ways to cook your veg without losing nutrients. Reccomendations: Crash Diets Don't Work - listen to Rhi's excellent reminder in the ep Weight loss jabs and the struggle for self-acceptance - a fascinating article from Elizabeth Day's Substack Email your MP via the Save The Children website to help protect foreign aid, urgently needed by mothers and newborn children across 12 countries. Live Show Tickets - https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Simon Cowell has built an entertainment empire on his ability to say exactly what he thinks and an uncanny ability to judge the public mood. From launching Pop Idol in 2001, The X Factor in 2004 and the cultural behemoth Britain's Got Talent in 2007, he has been at the helm of primetime around the world for over a quarter of a century. His TV shows and Syco record label have shaped the careers of everyone from One Direction to Little Mix, Susan Boyle and Leona Lewis. But his success hasn't come without its struggles. For the first time, Cowell opens up about his biggest failures and regrets - an extraordinary thing to hear from one of the most successful men on the planet. We chat about fame, bankruptcy, loss, being ‘obnoxious' and whether he has any regrets. Plus: what breaking his back and a near-death experience taught him and why he thinks we needs another referendum on Brexit. Britain's Got Talent is currently airing on ITV, and America's Got Talent celebrates its 20th year this summer on NBC. ‘The biggest risk is being safe' - Elizabeth and Simon answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have something to share of your own? I'd love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com

My guest today has been an integral part of my feminist awakening. Celeste Barber's instagram posts - which parody the unattainable standards of the fashion and beauty industry - are both hilarious and revolutionary. Her work has helped a generation of women to feel better about their bodies - and made her a star in the process. (Plus she's been blocked by a few celebrities. Lol.) Barber began her account in 2015 as a jobbing actor. She now has almost 10 million followers, including Reese Witherspoon, Chelsea Handler and designer Tom Ford who ended up hiring her for a fashion campaign. We talk about imposter syndrome, ADHD, standing up to bullies and her Janet Jackson obsession. Toxic relationships, dealing with a narcissist and how to come back from ‘rock bottom' - Elizabeth and Celeste answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have something to share of your own? I'd love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com

This episode of How To Fail was recorded in front of a live audience at Dublin's Bord Gáis Energy theatre. Emma Dabiri is a broadcaster, historian, and bestselling author whose work delves into the complexities of identity, culture, and race through art history and current affairs. She's now written a number of books - culture shifting works which are a radical re-imagining of what we consider to be beauty. Her first book was an Irish Times bestseller and inspired a conversation around race that led to change regulations in schools and in the British Army. It was later adapted into an award-winning documentary. She's a fellow in African studies at London, SOAS and is the mother of two boys. Over on Failing with Friends, Emma talks about advice for someone in the audience who feels their singleness is a failure; what success looks like; when to know when to stop fertility treatment, and Elizabeth and Emma's thoughts on Botox among other things! To hear Emma tackling your failures join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have something to share of your own? I'd love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com

This episode of How To Fail was recorded in front of a live audience at London's Barbican Theatre. Sally Phillips has appeared in a string of the most influential and hilarious comedy series of all time - from Smack The Pony, Miranda, The Thick of It and Veep. Not forgetting, of course, her star turn as Bridget Jones's best friend, Shazza, in the hugely popular movie franchise.  Alongside her professional success, Phillips has also been an important voice in the neurodivergent community. Her eldest son, Olly, has Down syndrome and Sally is a tireless campaigner for disability rights. So why, then, does she never feel she's made it as a ‘serious' actress? And why is she so obsessed with Clown School? And - pressing question - why have she and Colin Firth never been a thing? Over on Failing with Friends, Sally answers questions from the live audience at the Barbican: they discuss red and green flags in partners, and what Hugh Grant is REALLY like and whether Sally and Renée Zellweger really are friends or whether she might just be making it up? To hear Sally tackling your failures join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have something to share of your own? I'd love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com

Want more David and Georgia Tennant? You're in luck! They've taken over the amazing podcast Where There's a Will, There's a Wake for a special episode. Where There's a Will, There's a Wake is a hilarious, irreverent, dark, and sometimes moving podcast where our guests see their death brought to life as they plan their final day from dawn to dusk and into the afterlife. With an amazing lineup of guests including Michelle Visage, James Acaster, and Elizabeth Day, it's not to be missed! Head over to listen.sonymusic-podcasts.link/COCO57300 to hear more! Defying Gravity, a Michael Sheen eulogy and putting it gently inside yourself... Were those mini eggs off? This week on The Purgatory Season are spectacular husband and wife combo Georgia and David Tennant. And they have been purged from 'David Tennant Does A Podcast With'... for your pleasure. Want the episodes ad free AND extra content from Sara Cox and Clare Hamilton, PLUS everything from the Kathy Burke archive? 6 Feet Under steps away from fantasy and rifles through your real funeral tales. Head to wheretheresawilltheresawake.com to subscribe. AND If you've got a story for us, send it over to email@deathpodcast.com. A Sony Music Entertainment production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Over on Failing with Friends this week, Mae Martin talks about self-care, how to stop pushing people away and we tackle a listener's failure to be messy in their twenties. To hear Mae Martin's brilliant advice, join our community of subscribers: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Canadian comedian, writer, producer and singer/songwriter Mae Martin joins Elizabeth to talk about making music, the importance of pronouns and being diagnosed with ADHD. We also discuss their hit Netflix show Feel Good, going to rehab as a teenager and their borderline addiction to escape rooms (they've done 50 in three years...absolutely zero judgement here). Mae Martin's new album ‘I'm a TV' is out now.

Over on Failing with Friends this week, JVN and I get into relationship therapy and the perfect length of shorts on a man. To hear JVN tackling your failures, join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Jonathan Van Ness, one fifth of Netflix's hit show Queer Eye,  three-times New York Times bestseller, podcaster, business magnate and all-round icon is on the pod this week. JVN joins us to talk about TV show cancellations, almost getting cancelled, business failures and learning that validation is an inside job. Plus: the Queer Eye makeover they still regret. And: what would JVN do to Donald Trump's hair? To check out JVN's hair products go to: https://www.spacenk.com/uk/brands/j/jvn-hair Have something to share of your own? I'd love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com Production & Post Production Coordinator: Eric Ryan Studio and Mix Engineer: Matias Torres Sole & Gulliver Lawrence-Tickell Senior Producer: Selina Ream Executive Producer: Carly Maile Head of Marketing: Kieran Lancini How to Fail is an Elizabeth Day and Sony Music Entertainment Production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices