Begin Again with Davina McCall

How do you take control of your future when you can't change your past? In this uplifting episode of Begin Again, Strictly Come Dancing star and judge Anton Du Beke joins Davina McCall to share his extraordinary life story, and why he's always been determined to create a future on his own terms. Anton opens up about his difficult relationship with his father and growing up around violence. But he's clear that he doesn't want sympathy, and has never wanted those experiences to define him. He explains why never hitting back and avoiding confrontation was his way forward, and how he refused to let his childhood dictate the rest of his life. He reflects on leaving school at 15 to pursue ballroom dancing, working his way to Strictly Come Dancing and his wonderful friendship with Bruce Forsyth. Alongside a conversation about his wife Hannah's experience with endometriosis, their IVF journey, and the incredible joy of becoming a father to twins at 50. Full of warmth, humour and wisdom, this is a conversation about…

In this episode of Begin Again Moments, Davina is joined by award-winning writer Caitlin Moran and acclaimed journalist and author, Eleanor Mills, for two uplifting conversations about finding happiness, rediscovering yourself and learning to live a more hopeful life. Caitlin shares the small but powerful changes that can transform how we feel about our lives. From finding joy in everyday moments and reconnecting with the people around us, to embracing community and doing things for others, she explores how we can feel less anxious, more connected and fall back in love with the world around us. Then, Eleanor opens up about navigating the challenges of midlife and discovering who you really want to be. She shares why it's never too late to make a change, how to rediscover the things you once loved and why even our darkest chapters can lead to extraordinary new beginnings. Together, these conversations are a reminder that happiness isn't always found in the big things. Sometimes, it's about changing our…

What if the secret to a happier life isn’t controlling what happens to you, but changing how you respond? In this inspiring episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with bestselling author and Daily Stoic creator Ryan Holiday to explore how the ancient philosophy of Stoicism can help us find calm, courage and purpose when life feels overwhelming. Ryan explains why so much of our anxiety, anger and unhappiness comes from focusing on things we can’t control, and how the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius and Seneca can help us face life’s challenges differently. Together, Davina and Ryan explore how to let go of regret, overcome procrastination, build emotional resilience, and use journaling to make more intentional choices. They also discuss why accepting our mortality can help us feel more alive, and why Stoicism isn’t about shutting down our emotions, but learning how to respond with greater wisdom. 🌟Like, comment and subscribe for more honest conversations about purpose, resilience, love, loss and beginning…

In this episode of Begin Again Moments, Davina brings together two heartfelt conversations with the late Married at First Sight relationship expert Mel Schilling and Great British Bake Off star Prue Leith, exploring why it's never too late to find love, rebuild trust and open your heart to new beginnings. Mel Schilling shares her expert dating advice for finding love after heartbreak, overcoming the fear of rejection and rediscovering your self-worth. From navigating dating apps to understanding what you truly deserve in a relationship, Mel reveals why learning to love yourself is the first step towards finding someone new. Prue Leith shares the beautiful, unexpected story of falling in love with her husband John at 70, reminding us that romance, connection and happiness have no age limit. A hopeful reminder that no matter your age or what you've been through, it's never too late to love and be loved. To hear the full conversations, watch the complete episodes on YouTube or listen wherever you get your…

What if life's biggest setbacks are actually blessings in disguise? In this hilarious episode of Begin Again, comedian, actress and writer Daisy May Cooper joins Davina McCall to share the extraordinary journey behind her success, and the personal struggles that have shaped her life. Best known for creating the hit BBC comedy This Country with her brother Charlie Cooper, Daisy opens up about growing up with very little money, her difficult experience at drama school, and the years of rejection and self-doubt that nearly ended her career before it began. She also reflects on her parents’ unexpected separation, her changing relationship with her mum, and how family heartbreak has brought surprising opportunities for healing, growth and new beginnings. Davina and Daisy also explore their belief in the supernatural, experiences with psychics and spirituality, and why learning to trust your intuition can change your life. This is a beautiful conversation about resilience, family, trusting yourself, finding hope…

Could you be at risk of a heart attack without even knowing it - and are the risk factors different for women? In this special episode of Begin Again, created in partnership with British Heart Foundation, Davina McCall meets heart attack survivor Louise McGill and cardiologist and British Heart Foundation-funded researcher Dr Rouchelle Sriranjan-Rothwell to explore what every woman should know about heart health. Louise was just 45 when she had a heart attack, despite being considered low risk after a recent health check. She shares the symptoms she initially mistook for indigestion, the moment she kissed her young daughters goodbye, and how surviving changed her relationship with life itself. Davina also speaks to Dr Sriranjan-Rothwell who explains why cardiovascular disease in women is too often misunderstood, the connection between menopause and cardiovascular health, and why factors including cholesterol, blood pressure and pregnancy history could matter when understanding a woman’s risk. She also…

How do you begin again after losing someone who was a huge part of your life? In this heartfelt episode of Begin Again, Hairy Bikers star Si King joins Davina McCall for a conversation about grief, friendship, love and finding purpose after the heartbreaking loss of his best friend and TV partner, Dave Myers. Si opens up about the extraordinary bond he shared with Dave, from their first meeting to building the beloved Hairy Bikers together, and the devastating reality of watching his closest friend battle cancer. He reflects on navigating life without Dave and how he's slowly learning to embrace a new chapter while keeping Dave's memory alive. He also shares his own remarkable journey of resilience, from losing his father at just eight years old to surviving a life-threatening brain aneurysm, experiencing a mental health breakdown and learning to rebuild his life. Alongside these personal moments, Si discusses the healing power of food, family and community, his passion for bringing people together, and the…

In this episode of Begin Again Moments, two powerful conversations explore the importance of discomfort, why we’ve become so afraid of difficult things and how embracing life’s challenges can help us grow stronger, happier and more resilient. Buddhist monk and meditation teacher Gelong Thubten joins Davina to explore why modern life has left us in a crisis of comfort, how our constant pursuit of happiness can leave us feeling unfulfilled and why learning to accept uncomfortable emotions could be the key to finding inner peace. Bestselling author and personal development expert Robin Sharma shares why meaningful change is never easy, how stepping outside your comfort zone can unlock your true potential and why the most rewarding things in life often require us to do the hardest work. Together, they explore the relationship between stress and personal growth, the importance of rest and recovery, and why facing discomfort rather than avoiding it can transform the way we approach life. A hopeful reminder that…

How do you find love again after losing the person you wanted to spend the rest of your life with? In this deeply moving episode of Begin Again, legendary British television writer Russell T Davies joins Davina McCall to reflect on his extraordinary life creating some of Britain’s most groundbreaking television, from Doctor Who and Queer as Folk to It’s a Sin and Years and Years. Russell opens up about growing up gay in Swansea, how he found belonging through youth theatre, and how friendship, identity and the AIDS crisis shaped his writing. We also hear the story of his 20-year relationship with his late husband Andrew and his eight-year battle with brain cancer. This is a beautiful conversation about grief, continuing bonds with those we’ve lost, and unexpectedly finding love again without leaving the love that came before behind. 🌟Like, comment and subscribe for more honest conversations about purpose, resilience, love, loss and beginning again. Follow us here: 📸www.instagram.com/beginagain…

October is Menopause Awareness Month, so for this week’s episode of Begin Again Moments, Penny Lancaster and Natalie Imbruglia join Davina McCall to explore the reality of perimenopause and menopause, and why no woman should ever feel ashamed of what she’s going through. Penny opens up about experiencing anxiety, rage, hot flushes and the unsettling feeling of no longer recognising herself. She shares how her menopause symptoms were initially mistaken for depression, the impact they had on her family life and how conversations with other women finally helped her understand what was happening. Natalie reflects on her own experience of perimenopause, from anxiety and changes in her emotions to the shame women can feel when they suddenly don’t feel like themselves. She explains why speaking openly about menopause became so important to her, helping to remove the stigma for the women coming next. Together, they explore HRT, menopause symptoms, female identity and the power of women supporting women through this…

What happens when both of your parents receive life-changing diagnoses within weeks of each other? In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with Dame Meera Syal. Meera shares the gruelling reality of caring for her mother after her cancer diagnosis while her father was living with Alzheimer’s, describing dementia as a “slow, long goodbye” and reflecting on how her family found strength, support and moments of connection through an incredibly difficult 12 years. She also opens up about growing up British Asian, feeling like a misfit, and nearly giving up on acting when she couldn’t see anyone like herself on screen. From ‘Goodness Gracious Me’ and ‘The Kumars at No. 42’ to becoming a writer, actor and comedian, Meera explains why telling your truth can help others feel less alone. The conversation also explores divorce, co-parenting, the unexpected possibilities of an empty nest, surviving assault, and staying resilient throughout life’s ups and downs. 🌟Like, comment and subscribe for more…

In this episode of Begin Again Moments, we explore how better communication can help couples navigate conflict and find their way back to each other. Relationship therapist Karen Doherty and relationship expert Paul C. Brunson join Davina McCall to share practical advice for navigating arguments, understanding your partner’s triggers and communicating with more kindness, honesty and empathy. Karen explains why seemingly small frustrations can become emotional triggers in a relationship, how repeated arguments can slowly wear away at intimacy, and why choosing the right moment for difficult conversations can make all the difference. Paul explores how couples can rebuild struggling relationships through therapy, self-reflection and better communication. He shares a simple but powerful way to approach conflict: instead of seeing an argument as you versus your partner, learn to see yourselves as a team facing the problem together. Both conversations offer hopeful, practical relationship advice for anyone wanting…

Do the moments that feel like they’re breaking you actually shape who you’re meant to become? In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with broadcaster, author, and entrepreneur Jake Humphrey for an honest conversation about failure, bullying, masculinity, fatherhood and learning to define success differently. Jake opens up about the loneliness of being bullied at school, failing his A-levels and being told by the BBC, “we don’t employ people like you”, experiences that ultimately helped shape his extraordinary broadcasting career. He also reflects on the pressures facing men today, why he believes young men are being led towards dark corners of the internet, and how empathy, vulnerability and honest conversations can offer a different vision of masculinity. From the powerful influence of his father to becoming a dad himself, Jake shares what parenting has taught him about being present, letting children fail, prioritising what really matters and creating a safe space for them to talk. This is…

In this episode of Begin Again Moments, Simon Squibb and psychotherapist Kathleen Saxton examine how the behaviour of a parent can shape the person you become long after childhood is over. Simon shares the reality of growing up with a mother he describes as a narcissist, from being left to find his own way home at eight years old to being kicked out of home at 15, shortly after his father died. Now, as a parent himself, he reflects on the experiences he once accepted as normal. Kathleen helps unpack what happens psychologically when a child grows up around narcissism, addiction or unpredictable behaviour. As Davina reflects on her own relationship with her mother, they discuss why children learn to keep the peace, adapt themselves to their parents and sometimes lose touch with who they really are in the process. Both conversations examine the difficult work of revisiting childhood as an adult: recognising when something wasn’t okay, understanding why we instinctively defend our parents, and beginning to…

How can you really support someone you love when they’re going through unimaginable loss? In this moving episode of Begin Again, Mint Velvet co-founder Liz Houghton joins Davina McCall and shares the heartbreaking story of losing her 20-year-old son Will after a cycling accident, and the moment she learned his injuries were unsurvivable. She opens up about those final weeks together, Will’s decision to become an organ donor, and why knowing his organs helped save 12 other lives has become such an important part of his legacy. Liz also explains what grieving families really need from the people around them, why saying their loved one’s name matters, why silence can hurt more than an imperfect attempt to reach out, and how she and her family learned to grieve differently while staying connected. Alongside her extraordinary personal story, Liz reflects on building Mint Velvet from her kitchen table after suddenly losing her 20-year career, balancing business with motherhood, and creating a company rooted in…

In this episode of Begin Again Moments, two powerful conversations explore what happens when you hit rock bottom and how you begin to rebuild your life. Sarah Hiscox and Trinny Woodall open up about their experiences of addiction, the moments they realised their lives had become unmanageable and what it really took to choose recovery. Sarah reflects on losing her marriage and children as her heroin addiction took hold, while Trinny shares her experience of rehab, relapse, and finally reaching the point where she was ready to get sober. Together, they explore why hitting rock bottom can look different for everyone, why you have to be ready to change and the difficult journey of rebuilding your life after addiction. To hear the full conversations, watch the complete episodes on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do we find hope when the world feels increasingly overwhelming? In this episode of Begin Again, Caitlin Moran joins Davina McCall for a funny, moving and hopeful conversation about love, anxiety, feminism, loneliness and finding your way back to joy. Caitlin opens up about experiencing her first panic attack at 13, after revealing her family were living on benefits, and how anxiety became the fuel that drove her extraordinary career. Decades later, she reached breaking point and realised: “I can’t be this scared anymore.” She shares how she finally broke up with anxiety and why she wishes she had done it 30 years earlier. She and Davina also explore the growing crisis facing men, why loneliness and social media are leaving us disconnected, and the simple changes Caitlin believes can help us feel hopeful again, from putting down our phones to reconnecting with our communities. Caitlin also reflects on growing up poor, writing her first novel as a teenager, her 33-year relationship with husband Pete, and…

Gary Lineker and Patsy Kensit join Davina for a special Moments episode about marriage, love and life. Full episodes available now wherever you get your podcasts! Sponsored by: Garnier Nutrisse: UK's NO1 hair dye, chosen by 2 million women. Davina is shade 5 Mocha Brown. Find yours: www.garnier.co.uk/our-brands/hair-colour/nutrisse-creme Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when you stop seeing your hardest tests as failures and begin to see them as a life well lived? In this episode of Begin Again, Gary Lineker joins Davina McCall for a deeply personal conversation about fatherhood, relationships, football, leaving the BBC and learning to embrace change. Gary opens up about the terrifying moment his son George was diagnosed with leukaemia at just six weeks old, the fear his family lived with during seven months at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and why they “could never relax” even after returning home. He also reflects on his two marriages and challenges the idea that divorce means failure. Gary reveals why he considers both marriages a success, how he has remained close to his ex-wives, and why, after years of being single, he has become comfortable with his own company, while remaining open to finding love again. After 30 years at the BBC and 25 years presenting Match of the Day, Gary shares what it feels like to step into a new chapter, why life outside the BBC…

In this episode of Begin Again Moments, we bring together two powerful conversations about confidence, self-belief and finding the courage to become who you truly are. Confidence expert Susie Moore shares the secrets to building inner confidence and explains why self-belief is something we can create, rather than something we are simply born with. Eleanor Mills reflects on her own journey of rediscovering confidence in midlife, sharing how letting go of expectations and embracing who she really is helped her step into a new chapter of life. Together, these moments explore what it takes to trust yourself, find your voice and build the confidence to begin again. To hear the full conversations, watch the complete episodes on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Garnier - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1n8Fs9bGs2UGD7dNLM0WU0Pan7l4X7hhY/view?usp=drive_link Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when the life everyone sees as extraordinary has been shaped by trauma, loss and the constant need to survive? In this episode of Begin Again, Patsy Kensit joins Davina for an emotional and deeply personal conversation about childhood fame, love, grief, PTSD, motherhood, addiction, losing everything and finding the strength to start again. Patsy looks back on an extraordinary life in the spotlight: beginning her career at just four years old in The Great Gatsby, becoming one of Britain’s most recognisable young stars, working alongside Hollywood icons and finding herself at the centre of 80s and 90s pop culture. She shares unforgettable stories from Lethal Weapon 2, meeting David Bowie and the surreal experiences that came with growing up famous. But behind the success was a childhood filled with fear. Patsy opens up about being told at six years old that her mother could die, growing up with a father who was repeatedly in prison, and the secrets she carried to protect her family. She reveals…

In this special Begin Again Moments episode, inspired by this week’s solar eclipse, two of Britain’s most brilliant minds explore the extraordinary power of the Sun and Moon. Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock explores the mystery and influence of the Moon, while Professor Brian Cox turns our attention to the Sun, the star at the centre of our solar system and the source of the light and energy that makes life possible. As the solar eclipse captures attention around the world, these two fascinating conversations offer a chance to look beyond the spectacle and understand the remarkable relationship between the Sun, Moon and our place in the universe. To hear the full conversations, watch the complete episodes on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to keep going when life keeps testing how badly you want the dream? In this episode of Begin Again, Alexandra Burke joins Davina for an emotional and deeply personal conversation about X Factor, grief, motherhood, love, faith and the determination that has carried her through every chapter of her life. Alexandra looks back on the extraordinary road to becoming a star: singing alongside her mum as a child, Stevie Wonder wanting to sign her at just 12 years old, being sent home from X Factor at 16, and the mother who eventually pushed her to go back and try again. She opens up about what was really happening in her life during that first rejection, why she now knows she wasn’t ready, and the remarkable full-circle journey that followed. She also speaks movingly about losing her mum, the grief she still carries and how becoming a mother herself has changed the way she understands the sacrifices her own mum made. Alexandra shares why she has fiercely protected her two boys, how she met her…

What happens when the life you dreamed of turns out completely differently than you expected? In this episode of Begin Again, Natalie Imbruglia joins Davina for an honest and deeply personal conversation about fame, failure, motherhood, ADHD, perimenopause and finding fulfilment on your own terms. Natalie reflects on finding fame young, running out of money when that fame faded, and then experiencing extraordinary global success with Torn. She opens up about the pressure that followed, becoming scared to leave the house, being dropped by record labels, and eventually walking away from music because she thought she was no longer meant to sing. She also speaks candidly about spending years trying to create the relationship and family life she thought she was supposed to have, her journey to becoming a mother, and why she now feels nothing is missing. Natalie also shares how ADHD, neurodivergence and perimenopause have helped her understand herself in a completely new way. This is a conversation about success,…

In this joyful episode of Begin Again Moments, Trinny Woodall and Prue Leith challenge everything we're told about getting older. In two inspiring conversations, they share why ageing shouldn't mean becoming quieter, safer or less ambitious and why they both intend to grow old disgracefully. From embracing confidence and taking risks to continuing to work, create and have fun, they prove that getting older can be about gaining freedom rather than losing it. A celebration of ageing boldly, living fully and refusing to let a number define what comes next. To hear the full conversations, watch the complete episodes on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Ancient + Brave - https://ancientandbrave.earth/pages/planet and use code BEGINAGAIN for 20% off your order Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your worst moment is actually your biggest gift? In this episode of Begin Again, broadcaster and television producer Richard Bacon joins Davina for a funny and deeply moving conversation about public failure, addiction, ADHD, love and building a new life after everything changes. Richard reflects on landing his dream job at Blue Peter, the betrayal by a close friend that turned his private life into a national headline, and what it felt like to lose everything so publicly at just 22 years old. He shares how unexpected people rallied around him, why the chaos that once got him into trouble later became one of his greatest strengths, and how he learned to keep moving forward when others believed his career was over. Together, Richard and Davina explore his relationship with addiction, his ADHD diagnosis in his forties, and the relief of finally understanding the way his mind works. Richard explains how that diagnosis helped him make sense of both his scattered attention and extraordinary ability to…

Episode Description: In this episode of Begin Again Moments, two powerful conversations explore the hidden cost of life in the public eye. Jason Donovan and Amanda de Cadenet reflect on the intense scrutiny that comes with fame, sharing the personal impact of media attention, public judgement and press intrusion. Together, they reveal what it takes to protect your identity, your relationships and your peace when your life is constantly under the spotlight. To hear the full conversations, watch the complete episodes on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if understanding the universe could change the way you live? In this episode of Begin Again, Professor Brian Cox joins Davina for a conversation about existence, consciousness, mortality and the extraordinary improbability of being alive at all. Brian explains why the atoms that make us have travelled across billions of years of cosmic history, why the universe gave rise to conscious life, and how understanding our place within it can completely transform the way we see ourselves. Together, they explore what happens when we die, whether science leaves room for spirituality, why curiosity matters more than certainty, and why accepting that life is temporary can make it infinitely more precious. But this conversation is about much more than science. Brian reflects on the book that changed his life, the teachers who shaped his thinking, his unexpected journey from rock musician to world-renowned physicist, and why saying "I don't know" may be one of the most important things we can learn. Davina and Brian…

She was given just 18 months to live. They got 12 more years together. In this episode of Begin Again, motivational speaker and bestselling author Pete Cohen joins Davina to share the extraordinary love story that changed his life forever. Pete opens up about meeting his wife Hannah by chance, falling in love as she was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour, and why leaving was never an option. Together, they faced impossible decisions, raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for life-saving treatment, and defied every expectation to build another twelve years together. But this conversation is about much more. Pete reflects on the regrets that still stay with him, why he wishes he'd been more present with Hannah, and how grief transformed the way he thinks about love, fear and what really matters. He shares how watching Hannah embrace life in the face of death changed him forever, and why her legacy continues to shape the way he lives today. Davina and Pete also explore the fear of losing the people we…

In this uplifting episode of Begin Again Moments, Melanie C shares the love story she never expected to find. After ending a long-term relationship, the Spice Girl turned solo artist found herself navigating dating apps for the very first time. She opens up about meeting her partner, Chris, the calm and safety he brought into her life, and how finding love in her 50s has transformed the way she lives. From being a self-confessed workaholic to discovering joy beyond her career, Melanie reflects on why she's happier, more confident and more creative than ever before. She also shares why it's never too late to start something new, embracing new challenges, finding love later in life, and redefining what happiness looks like. To hear the full conversation, watch the complete episode on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The people who benefit most from your lack of boundaries are often the ones who react worst when you finally set them, boundary expert Nedra Glover Tawwab explains why. In this episode of Begin Again, licensed therapist, relationship expert and bestselling author Nedra Glover Tawwab joins Davina to explore how to create healthy connections without losing yourself. Together, they unpack what a boundary actually is, why different relationships require different boundaries, and how speaking up for your needs can transform the way you love, work and live. Nedra explains why setting a boundary can feel so frightening, particularly when you fear rejection, conflict or abandonment. She shares how to respond when someone becomes angry, withdraws or gives you the silent treatment—and why another person’s reaction does not necessarily mean your boundary was wrong. Davina and Nedra also explore codependency, hyper-independence and healthy dependency. They discuss why constantly rescuing, fixing or supporting other…

In this heartfelt episode of Begin Again Moments, we bring together two moving conversations about the powerful relationship between mothers and daughters, and how the way we are raised can shape the parents we become. Sophie Ellis-Bextor reflects on her close relationship with her mother, Janet Ellis, and the influence her childhood has had on the way she raises her own children. From growing up with a famous working mother to having a strong, grounded family around her, Sophie shares the lessons she has carried into motherhood and the importance of creating a safe place her children will always want to return to. Katie Piper then receives an emotional letter from her mother, Diane, reflecting on Katie's extraordinary journey through trauma and recovery, and the strength, resilience and compassion she now passes on to her own daughters. Katie shares how becoming a mother has allowed her to carry forward the greatest gifts her own mother gave her, while using the wisdom of everything she has lived through to…

For years, Lorna Luxe has let people into her life. Now, she opens up about the loss that changed everything. In this episode of Begin Again, Lorna Luxe, also known as Lorna Andrews, joins Davina for her first and only interview since losing her husband John. Together, they speak honestly about grief, love, loneliness, resilience, and what it means to begin again after losing the person who made you feel safe. Lorna opens up about John’s cancer diagnosis, the final year of their marriage, and the fear John carried at the end: not for himself, but for whether Lorna would be okay without him. She reflects on the deep love they shared, how John protected her, supported her, and filled the space in her life in ways she is only now beginning to understand. Davina and Lorna also explore the experiences that shaped her long before grief: her dad leaving when she was four, the rejection sensitivity that followed, her relationship with her fiercely protective mum, her eating disorder and how Instagram became the…

In this special Begin Again Moments episode for Alcohol Awareness Week, we bring together two honest conversations about changing your relationship with alcohol, and discovering what life can look like on the other side. Spencer Matthews reflects on his journey from destructive drinking to a healthier, more intentional life. He shares how becoming a husband, father and entrepreneur transformed his priorities, why understanding the science behind alcohol changed his perspective, and how protecting everything he's built now matters more than chasing another night out. Ruari Fairbairns, founder of One Year No Beer, challenges the way we think about alcohol. He explains why the conversation shouldn't just be about addiction, but about what alcohol may be quietly taking away from all of us, from our energy and health to our relationships, happiness and potential. He shares the surprising benefits he experienced after changing his own drinking habits, and why even small changes can have a profound impact.…

What if your ‘begin again’ moment comes after you lose everything your marriage, your children, your best friend, and almost yourself? Sarah Hiscox is Davina’s best friend of nearly 40 years, but this is a side of their story that has never been told like this before. In this episode of Begin Again, Sarah Hiscox joins Davina to talk about friendship, addiction, shame, motherhood, recovery, love, and the long road back to herself. Sarah opens up about growing up with low self-worth, an alcoholic mother, and a childhood where difficult feelings were pushed down rather than spoken about. She reflects on the early experiences that shaped her relationship with shame, food, pills, and eventually heroin. Davina and Sarah also revisit the moment their friendship changed both of their lives, from Sarah confronting Davina about her drug use, to Davina later having to draw a painful boundary when Sarah’s own addiction had taken hold. Together, they speak honestly about what it means to love someone through addiction,…

In this heartfelt episode of Begin Again Moments, we bring together two powerful conversations about navigating separation with compassion, and putting children first. Fatboy Slim reflects on his divorce from Zoe Ball and how, despite the challenges of ending their marriage, they found a way to become even better parents. He shares why letting go of resentment, protecting their children from conflict, and embracing a new kind of friendship became their greatest achievement. Novelist Jojo Moyes then opens up about what she calls her "good divorce." She shares the lessons she learned about separating with kindness, why your children should never carry the weight of adult conflict, and the advice she believes everyone should hear before they get married. Together, these moments offer a hopeful perspective on co-parenting, showing that while relationships may end, the commitment to raising happy, secure children never has to. To hear the full conversations, watch the complete episodes on YouTube or listen…

In Part 1 of Gisèle Pelicot’s story, she spoke to Davina about her life before the world knew her name, the marriage she believed she had, and the moment she began to discover the truth of what had happened to her. This is Part 2 of Gisèle Pelicot’s story on Begin Again. Gisèle opens up about the public and private aftermath of the case, the impact on her children, and the pain of having to tell her family that their lives had changed forever. Gisèle reflects on why she chose to waive her right to anonymity, what it meant to let the world know her name, and why speaking publicly became a way to help other women feel less alone. She talks about the trial, the women who wrote to her, the strength she found in their support, and the responsibility she felt to challenge the shame too often carried by victims. Davina and Gisèle also speak about rebuilding after trauma: staying connected to her family, finding love again, learning to trust, processing anger, and holding on to hope without denying the pain of what…

Gisèle Pelicot became known around the world when she waived her right to anonymity in the sexual assault trial that shocked France and beyond. But before the headlines, before the courtroom, and before the world knew her name, Gisèle had a life, a family, a marriage, and a story of her own. This is Part 1 of Gisèle Pelicot’s story on Begin Again. In this episode, Gisèle joins Davina to talk about her life before the case became public. She reflects on falling in love as a teenager, building a family, becoming a mother, and the life she believed she was living with the man she had trusted for decades. Gisèle speaks with extraordinary dignity about the moment her life began to change, the questions she had no answers for, and the painful process of discovering what had happened to her. She reflects on the moments she could not explain at the time, the questions that went unanswered, and the devastating betrayal of discovering what had happened to her. Davina and Gisèle also discuss why so many victims…

This week's Begin Again Moments, we're celebrating the fathers and the impact they've had on their kids. For the full episodes search wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amanda de Cadenet became famous as a teenager, but behind the headlines was a young girl trying to survive. This is the story of the woman behind the image. In this episode of Begin Again, Amanda de Cadenet joins Davina to talk about fame, shame, care, motherhood, sobriety, recovery, and what it means to finally tell your own story. Amanda opens up about growing up fast in the public eye, going out clubbing at 14, being surrounded by older men, and trying to act like an adult long before she was ready. She reflects on the pain of feeling unprotected, the shame she carried as a young woman, and how being put into care while already famous became one of the most frightening and defining experiences of her life. Davina and Amanda also explore the brutal reality of press intrusion, from paparazzi outside her school and care home to the tabloid body-shaming that eventually pushed her to leave the UK and start again in Los Angeles. Amanda speaks honestly about becoming a mother at 19, getting sober, breaking…

One of the most moving parts of Begin Again is the moment a guest receives a letter from someone who has loved them, inspired them, or helped shape their journey. These letters often reveal the impact we have on others in ways we never fully see ourselves. In this special Begin Again Moments episode, we bring together three unforgettable letters of gratitude. Andi Oliver receives a heartfelt letter from one of her greatest inspirations, Floella Benjamin, reflecting on the influence she has had and the path she has forged for others. Tom Davis is surprised with a deeply personal letter from his wife, Kathryn, who shares her gratitude for the strength, love and resilience he showed throughout their fertility journey, and the father he has become. And Seann Walsh receives an emotional letter from his partner, Grace, who reflects on watching him grow into the kind of parent he once needed himself. Together, these letters are a celebration of love, growth, resilience and the extraordinary power of hearing what we…

behind Fatboy Slim. In this episode of Begin Again, Fatboy Slim, aka Norman Cook, joins Davina to talk about fame, family, sobriety, music, and the chaos behind becoming one of Britain’s most iconic DJs. Norman opens up about the early years of discovering music, changing his name, finding freedom through punk, and realising that DJing was not just about playing records, but about bringing people together. From The Housemartins to Fatboy Slim, he reflects on the moments that shaped him, the identity he created, and why he always wanted to be remembered. Davina and Norman also explore his relationship with Zoe Ball, becoming a tabloid “power couple,” raising children in the middle of fame, and what happens when life becomes chaotic behind the scenes. He speaks honestly about partying, parenthood, divorce, friendship, and why their greatest triumph has been remaining a family even after the relationship ended. At its heart, this is a conversation about legacy, joy, and learning to begin again when the life you…

In this inspiring episode of Begin Again Moments, we bring together two powerful conversations about reinvention, resilience, and finding a new path when life doesn't go to plan. Ruby Wax reflects on what happened when she lost her BBC show and found herself searching for a new sense of purpose. From studying psychotherapy to becoming a life coach and even selling handbags, Ruby shares the unexpected twists and turns that helped her build a meaningful new chapter in midlife. Mel Robbins then reveals the simple tool that transformed her life during one of her darkest periods. Struggling to get out of bed as her career, finances, and confidence unravelled, she discovered what would become the world-famous 5 Second Rule, a practical technique that helped her take action when motivation had disappeared. Together, these moments offer a powerful reminder that it's never too late to start again, reinvent yourself, or take the first small step towards a different future. To hear the full conversations, watch the…

What if success is not the end of the story, but the beginning of becoming yourself? In this episode of Begin Again, bestselling author Jojo Moyes joins Davina to talk about rejection, reinvention, and the story behind becoming one of the world’s most loved writers in midlife. Jojo opens up about the years before Me Before You, when books were rejected, sales were low, and she wondered whether she would have to find a new career. Then everything changed. Her work went on to sell millions around the world, but success brought new challenges: emotional responsibility, pressure, and the painful realisation that she had no boundaries. Davina and Jojo also explore childhood loneliness, becoming fiercely independent, learning to ask for help, and the cost of always saying yes. They discuss why achieving the life you once dreamed of does not protect you from having to begin again. Jojo speaks honestly about divorce, and how even when it is messy and complicated, handling it with kindness can bring a clarity you…

In this Begin Again moment, Seann Walsh reflects on his childhood, his relationship with his dad, and the small family rituals he missed growing up, from sitting around a table to having clear boundaries at home. Alain de Botton then explains how childhood instability can shape the way we see ourselves, our relationships and our sense of worth, and why adulthood is about learning to stop giving other people power over who we are. This is a 'moments' episode, taking some of the best moments rom the show so far; for the full episode search ‘Begin Again’ followed by Seann or Alain wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when the world knows your story, but you’re still trying to understand it yourself? Malala Yousafzai has lived a life the world thinks it knows. But behind the headlines is a young woman who lost her childhood, was forced to grow up too fast, and then had to discover who she was beyond everyone else’s expectations. In this episode of Begin Again, Malala joins Davina for a deeply personal conversation about courage, identity, freedom and love. She reflects on growing up in Swat Valley, the father who taught her to use her voice, the Taliban’s ban on girls’ education, and the attack that changed the trajectory of her life at just 15. But this conversation also reveals a different side of Malala: feeling lonely at school in the UK, trying to make friends, searching for who she wanted to be at Oxford, and learning how to reclaim the childhood she never got to have. Davina and Malala also talk about love and marriage, including why Malala once believed she would never marry, and what changed when she…

In this deeply moving episode of Begin Again Moments, we bring together two powerful conversations exploring spirituality, grief, intuition, and the signs that can guide us through life’s hardest moments. Elizabeth Day shares the extraordinary psychic reading that helped her finally let go of her long journey through fertility struggles and miscarriage. She reflects on the emotional release that came from feeling truly seen, and how trusting something beyond logic gave her permission to find peace and move forward. In the second moment, Dr Tara Swart talks about grief, signs, and healing explores how nature, dreams, community, and intuition can help us stay connected to those we’ve lost. From white feathers and robins to long walks and lucid dreaming, this discussion looks at the comfort many people find in feeling that love continues beyond loss. Together, these moments invite us to consider the unseen forces that shape our lives, and the possibility that healing can come from places we don’t fully…

Narcissism doesn’t just damage relationships, it can make you lose trust in yourself. In this episode of Begin Again, psychotherapist and narcissism expert Kathleen Saxton joins Davina to explain what narcissism really is, how gaslighting works, and why the damage can be so hard to recognise when you are still inside it. Kathleen breaks down the hidden patterns of narcissistic relationships: the charm, confusion, silent treatment, public/private switch, and the slow erosion of your confidence. Davina and Kathleen also explore narcissistic parents, trauma bonds, why leaving can feel impossible, and how growing up around narcissism can make you lose sight of who you really are. At its heart, this is a conversation about gaslighting, self-doubt, identity, and the long journey back to trusting yourself again. Kathleen Saxton reminds us that beginning again after narcissistic abuse is not about becoming harder. It is about finally learning to believe yourself. 🌟 Follow for more honest conversations about…

Richard E. Grant and Prue Leith share their stories of life after losing the loves of their lives in this weeks Begin Again moments. For the full episodes just search 'Richard E. Grant Begin Again' or 'Prue Leith Begin Again' wherever you get your podcasts💚 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when everyone thinks they know you, but no one sees what you’re really carrying? In this episode of Begin Again, Trinny Woodall opens up about the moments that shaped her life, her identity, and the woman she has become. Known for her energy, style, honesty and reinvention, Trinny reflects on the public version of herself people thought they understood, and the private struggles that were happening underneath. Trinny shares the truth about addiction, recovery, and the moment she realised she had to want to change her life for herself. After years of trying to hold everything together, she speaks about taking responsibility, starting again, and learning who she really was when everything else had been stripped back. This conversation also explores one of the most painful chapters of Trinny’s life: grief after losing Johnny, the father of her daughter. Trinny speaks honestly about the emotional and practical fallout of loss, becoming the person who had to keep things moving, and how selling her…