Happy Place

Fearne Cotton
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Fearne Cotton talks to incredible people about life, love, loss, and everything in-between as she reveals what happiness means to them.

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351 episodes

Feel the fear and make the change: Live from Tatton Festival

Has fear ever stopped you from making the changes you want to make in life? Even if you know what you want, how do you turn your big goals into manageable daily habits? And what role does mindset play in enacting real change?   The Happy Place Festival Talk Stage hosted loads of speakers across the weekend at Tatton Park last summer, who all explored these questions, and Fearne wants to bring you in on the Festival magic!   In this episode you’ll hear from:   -Dr Rangan Chatterjee on making transformative change that lasts, and learning to listen to your own gut instinct to create the life that works best for you   -Founder of mental health and wellbeing app Shoorah, Lorri Haines, on how to build routines and habits that over time lead to positive lifestyle changes   -Life coach Michelle Elman on the beautiful confidence that comes from feeling fearful but doing the scary thing anyway   -Musician Beverley Knight and her husband James O’Keefe, founder of men’s mental health retreats Unguarded Warrior, on trusting that you have the answers and power to make changes inside you already   -Broadcaster Adele Roberts and her partner Kate Holderness on what a cancer diagnosis has taught them both about coping with change you didn’t ask for     Tickets for the 2025 Happy Place Festivals in Gunnersbury Park and Tatton Park are available now at happyplacefestival.com.   Listen to Rangan Chatterjee’s Happy Place episode https://pod.fo/e/13ef03   Listen to Beverley Knight’s Happy Place episode https://pod.fo/e/18355c   Listen to Adele Roberts’ Happy Place episode https://pod.fo/e/22e78e * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

34m
Mar 28
Will Poulter on OCD and intrusive thoughts: “It’s never easy but it gets easier!”

Coping with mental health conditions is never easy, but it does get easier; that’s what actor Will Poulter has learnt through his own experiences with OCD, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts.   In this chat with Fearne, Will explains how OCD has manifested for him ever since he was a young kid. He also talks through why finding reasons to be grateful for the lessons mental health conditions have taught you can be helpful.   If you’re honest with yourself... would you give yourself or others more grace if they had to take time off work because they’d broken their leg, as opposed to because their mental health was poor? Fearne and Will unpack that one, as well as discussing the importance of personalisation in looking after our brains. The same medication, meditation practice, or diet, is going to affect us all differently.   Plus, do you constantly worry that you’ve said the wrong thing and pissed someone off? Fearne and Will have been there and offer their advice for overcoming that spiral...   You can see Will in UK cinemas in Death of a Unicorn from April 4th, and Warfare from April 18th.   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Joanna Lumley https://pod.fo/e/1612d1   Mel Robbins https://pod.fo/e/eedb2   Tuppence Middleton https://pod.fo/e/11128e   Jordan Stephens https://pod.fo/e/136bdc   Chiwetel Ejiofor https://pod.fo/e/2add68   * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

1h 2m
Mar 24
Louise Redknapp: “I don’t feel good enough” Coping with loneliness and low self-esteem

Is it a compliment to be called ‘nice’? Singer Louise Redknapp isn’t so sure. She’s always been the good girl, but she’s ready to embrace – and express – different facets of her character now.   In this chat with Fearne, Louise explains that being in a 90s girlband, and being married to a sports star, forced her to be shiny and polished at all times. That led to a crippling fear about saying or doing the wrong thing, but she’s learning to trust her own gut instinct.   Fearne and Louise chat about how never knowing her dad, and becoming a mother herself, have impacted her confidence and identity. Plus, can gratitude combat overwhelm? Louise's fifth studio album, Confessions, will be released on May 23rd. If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Anastacia https://pod.fo/e/221008   Shania Twain https://pod.fo/e/163397   Naomi Watts https://pod.fo/e/2a7df4 * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

51m
Mar 17
Julian Clary on easing anxiety: “I just forgot to have a panic attack!”

Can laughter ease anxiety? Comedian Julian Clary certainly thinks so. After living through some incredibly dark events and anxious times, he’s decided to choose to laugh and think positive thoughts.   In this chat with Fearne, Julian talks about feeling naturally happier and more comfortable in his skin as he got older. Most things, he says, just aren’t as important as you think they are, and that’s a freeing realisation. Julian also explains why he’s embraced causing outrage and even offence.   Fearne and Julian share how they’ve each combatted poor sleep, and the sleeping aids, medications, and techniques that have worked for them. Plus, Julian’s not a massive fan of therapy, so he turns the tables on Fearne and quizzes her about her experience of it...   A Fistful of Clary, Julian’s western-themed stand-up tour, will be heading out round the UK from 30th April. Get your tickets now: julianclary.co.uk http://julianclary.co.uk/   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Olly Alexander https://pod.fo/e/28dfd0   David Tennant https://pod.fo/e/271446   Scott Mills https://pod.fo/e/28c18d * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

53m
Mar 10
Book Club Meets: The mess of motherhood, with Holly Bourne

Nicki, Lauren, Charlotte and Steffi have been friends since university. Now in their thirties, life is pulling them in different directions - but the girls are reunited when Charlotte organises the baby shower from hell for pregnant Nicki. Tensions are high as these women are forced to confront their own and eachother’s views about motherhood... while also dealing with a fire at the baby shower. February’s Happy Place Book Club novel was So Thrilled for You, by Holly Bourne. In this chat, Fearne and Holly talk about how wildly the pretty Pinterest version of motherhood is from the raw, battlefield of a reality. Holly reckons if we want the world to be a better, happier place we need to be supporting mums emotionally and practically.   How have you navigated some friends having babies, some struggling to conceive, and some not wanting them at all? Fearne and Holly explore the judgements, assumptions, and irritations that can arise between old friends when everyone’s lives look so different.   Plus, how to cut out the noise and trust your gut when you’re working on a creative project... Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton for the use of So Thrilled For You audiobook, narrated by Emily Spowage, Evie Ward-Drummond, Kelly Hotten, Paul Hezberg and Rosalind Lailey.   Listen to Book Club Meets: David Larbi https://pod.fo/e/2a9766   Listen to Book Club Meets: Dame Harriet Walter https://pod.fo/e/298eb6   Listen to Book Club Meets: Liane Moriarty https://pod.fo/e/28c79c   Listen to Book Club Meets: Miranda July  https://pod.fo/e/27b9a0   * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

35m
Mar 07
The Dynamo mask protected me: Steven Frayne copes with Crohn’s and feeling unworthy

Dynamo brought epic magic into a lot of people’s lives, but now Steven Frayne is taking off the mask and choosing to notice the moments of magic he’s experienced around him. In particular, that’s the people – friends, family, doctors, strangers – who’ve helped him find joy again after hitting rock bottom.   In this chat with Fearne, Steven talks about the devastating reality of trialling different medication for Crohn’s and the effect this has on mental health, as well as what he’s learnt from experiencing so much physical pain. Can we choose to connect over pain rather than isolating ourselves from others?   Steven also explains how being an easy target for bullies at school meant he learnt how to problem solve and hustle, but what do you do when success comes and you don’t know how to cope with it?   Steven’s show, Up Close and Magical https://underbellyboulevard.com/tickets/steven-frayne/, is at The Underbelly in Soho, and is opening on the 28th March.   CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains frank chat about suicidal ideation so do take care while listening.   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Kesha https://pod.fo/e/17dee1   Ben West https://pod.fo/e/29cbdf   Adam Pearson https://pod.fo/e/286eca * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

55m
Mar 03
Afua Hirsch: “Nobody gets to police our bodies!” How to reject beauty trends

Do you get rid of your body hair? Do you hate your periods? Are you debating a nose job? Why? Writer and broadcaster Afua Hirsch has been tracing how we’ve become so loathing of our bodies.   In this chat with Fearne, Afua explains where our modern, Western notions of beauty come from, and why she’s advocating for us to celebrate how powerful our bodies are.   She’s rediscovering and reclaiming rituals her ancestors will have done before Western ideals became the norm, and points out that wanting to change your facial features to conform to beauty trends will erase your ancestry.   Fearne and Afua chat about a desire for more fluidity around sexuality and identity, as well as why we should respect the wisdom that comes with age rather than fearing it.   Plus, how to dig deep and ask yourself: “Do I think this, or have I been taught this?”   Afua’s book, Decolonising My Body, is out now.   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Emma Dabiri https://pod.fo/e/2154cb   Adele Roberts https://pod.fo/e/22e78e   Rebel Wilson https://pod.fo/e/238d13   * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

1h 6m
Feb 24
Chiwetel Ejiofor: Trauma and success can coexist! Re-learning what being strong means

Are you able to balance being resilient with being vulnerable? Actor Chiwetel Ejiofor has spent time figuring out when to keep moving forward, and when to let painful emotions wash over him.   In this chat with Fearne, Chiwetel reflects on how a childhood trauma has shaped his character – everything from his fierce ambition to his optimistic outlook. He also reveals the moments self-doubt has almost proved insurmountable (including when he first got the script for 12 Years A Slave...!)   Plus, is ‘acceptance’ of your past ever truly possible, or is the simple realisation that life WILL go on regardless good enough? And, do you worry you’ve let your own life pass in a blur? Chiwetel explains how he’s learnt to live in the present. Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy is out in UK cinemas now. If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like: Lenny Henry https://pod.fo/e/1fa64d David Tennant https://pod.fo/e/271446 Norah Jones https://pod.fo/e/2336dd * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

43m
Feb 17
Is your routine a strait-jacket? How to enact change, with Donna Ashworth

Do you dream of pivoting your career or lifestyle later in life? Poet Donna Ashworth did just that. She began to question the busy, fast-paced, perfectionist lifestyle she assumed was the norm, and decided to start posting and performing her beautiful poetry in her 40s...   In this chat with Fearne, Donna explains how she copes with the nerves that come with doing something so new, including hypnotherapy and simply admitting out loud that she’s anxious. She also reflects on how she realised she’d been living with depression and eating disorders for a long time.   If you’re not happy it’s up to you to apply change or you can’t expect different outcomes. Donna talks through how to work out if your routine is deliciously comforting for you, or if it’s become a strait-jacket that’s holding you back. Plus, she shares why it’s helpful for others if you’re able to disclose your own ugly truths and flaws.   Donna’s latest book of poetry, To The Women, is out on the 13th of February.   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Naomi Watts https://pod.fo/e/2a7df4   Poppy Delbridge https://pod.fo/e/20f942   Kate Silverton https://pod.fo/e/2281ae * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

53m
Feb 10
Book Club Meets: Choose to be happy, with David Larbi

What is happiness to you? And do you think you deserve to be happy? Our Happy Place Book Club pick for January was Frequently Happy, by author and poet David Larbi. In his book, he combines poetry and journal prompts to help you find the glimmers in your lovely, ordinary life.     We’ll have objectively terrible days, and days that are clearly the best ever, but most days fall somewhere in between... In this chat with Fearne, David explains that while not every day is good, there’s something good in every day if you choose to look for it.   They also chat about how to stop falling back into negative thought patterns, and why the journal prompts in Frequently Happy could be helpful if you’re not sure where to start with acknowledging and getting clarity on how you feel.   Plus, there’s advice on how to move past your fear of criticism so you can share your creativity with the world, because ultimately you’ll never be able to please everyone anyway!   Listen to Book Club Meets: Dame Harriet Walter https://pod.fo/e/298eb6   Listen to Book Club Meets: Liane Moriarty https://pod.fo/e/28c79c   Listen to Book Club Meets: Miranda July  https://pod.fo/e/27b9a0   Listen to Book Club Meets: Gillian Anderson https://pod.fo/e/26738b    * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

21m
Feb 07
Naomi Watts talks menopause: “Women grin and bear it”

Actor Naomi Watts went through early menopause at 36. She was experiencing symptoms she couldn’t explain, like itchy skin, night sweats, and anxiety, but struggled to find any real information or stories about this midlife transition.   In this chat with Fearne, Naomi explains why she’s become passionate about shining a spotlight on previously taboo topics like fertility, menopause, and sex. She talks about how it felt to be told she was peri-menopausal while she was in the middle of her fertility journey, and how she’s changed her lifestyle to help manage her symptoms.   Fearne and Naomi chat about the way women are told that simply being a woman means you have to suffer and your body will be a place of pain. How can we re-write the narrative to celebrate the beauty of our bodies and cycles?   Plus, how to fight back against the ingrained idea that older women aren’t of great use or value to society...   Naomi’s book, Dare I Say It, is published by Happy Place Books and it’s out now.   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Gillian Anderson https://pod.fo/e/26738b   Anastacia https://pod.fo/e/221008   Caroline Hirons https://pod.fo/e/291dee   * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

43m
Feb 03
What REALLY happens at therapy?

Do you want to make 2025 the year you start therapy? Maybe you’re still a bit hesitant because you’re not completely sure how it works or what it might feel like... Fearne has pulled together a load of Happy Place chats that will help you get a clearer idea of the benefits of therapy, and in turn make you feel bold enough to send that first booking email. Plus, she talks through the ways therapy has really helped her be more at peace with the past, and stop being so horrible to herself too. You’ll hear from Dr Julie and Owen O’Kane on what the point of therapy is (and isn’t!). Leigh-Anne Pinnock has learnt the importance of finding the right therapist for you, and her Little Mix band mate Perrie Edwards explains why she now brings her therapist to work. Then, MMA fighter Molly McCann has used therapy to unlock more sporting and career success after a difficult childhood, and DJ Fat Tony shares how he’s changed as a result of trauma therapy... Listen to Dr Julie’s episode https://pod.fo/e/15d94a Listen to Owen O’Kane’s episode https://pod.fo/e/12cfe4 Listen to Leigh-Anne Pinnock’s episode https://pod.fo/e/205bb3 Listen to Perrie Edwards’ episode https://pod.fo/e/279633 Listen to Molly McCann’s episode https://pod.fo/e/240297 Listen to DJ Fat Tony’s episode https://pod.fo/e/13d831 * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

35m
Jan 31
Millie Mackintosh: “I would drink to forget” Self-esteem, shame, and sobriety

When does a coping mechanism become a problem? Millie Mackintosh talks through the big moments she realised her drinking was affecting both her own health and the people she loves.   In this chat Fearne and Millie cover panic attacks and intrusive thoughts, which can both get particularly bad when secrecy and shame are driving risky behaviours. Then, how do you start to forgive yourself for the things you’re not proud of? And how can you talk to yourself kindly when you fall back into old patterns of behaviour?   Plus, Millie explains how ADHD can interact with addiction, and what small lifestyle changes have made a huge difference to her physical and mental health.   Do you want to drink less? Fearne and Millie chat about how they learnt to enjoy social events without alcohol. Millie's book, Bad Drunk, is out now.   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Lucinda Miller https://pod.fo/e/264d40   Brene Brown https://pod.fo/e/fb13f   Vicky Pattison https://pod.fo/e/1f1986   CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains conversations about sexual assault * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

1h 3m
Jan 27
Sophie Ellis-Bextor: “I’m a healthy amount of delusional!” How to sustain career success

How loud are the voices in your head that tell you you’re definitely going to screw up that big opportunity? Sophie Ellis-Bextor is trying to make a point of talking to herself more kindly.   In this chat, Fearne and Sophie talk about reminding yourself that your thoughts aren’t facts; sometimes you have to override the voice that says you’re not good enough and just get on with it to prove yourself wrong.   Sophie explains why being dropped by her label at 20 encouraged her to take responsibility for her own career, and offers advice on how not to get distracted by what other people are doing with their lives. What should you tell yourself when you think you’re going to give up on a passion?   They also chat about not worrying where an opportunity will lead you, instead enjoying it as an adventure in its own right. Plus, why was Sophie petrified her BAFTA performance would be awful?   Sophie has announced her biggest ever UK headline tour in May and June 2025! If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Natasha Bedingfield https://pod.fo/e/21ebf2   Perrie Edwards https://pod.fo/e/279633   Paloma Faith https://pod.fo/e/245bab   * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

54m
Jan 20
“The shame was intense!” How Ben West coped with his brother’s suicide

Ben West was 17 when his younger brother died by suicide. He’s since gone on to become a mental health campaigner, and has found humour can help communicate deeply traumatic messages.   In this chat with Fearne, Ben talks through what signs to look for if you’re concerned about someone’s mental health. Then, how do you break the awkward silence when you both know you need to talk about a big topic like poor mental health? You’ll be able to approach the conversation in a compassionate, rather than confronting, way.   Or, maybe you’re the one keeping big thoughts and feelings inside but have become a master of masking your truth. Fearne shares her experience of feeling defensive and telling people she’s ‘fine’ when they asked concerned questions.   Ben also takes a thorough look at the mental health system and explains the reality of what care looks like in the UK (and what he’s doing to change it for the better!)   Plus, how have people like Andrew Tate affected boys’ mental health? And why is finding the right therapist is a bit like dating...?   CONTENT WARNING: This episode is all about the reality of suicide.   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Richard E. Grant https://pod.fo/e/147a1a   Ashley Cain https://pod.fo/e/e3096 Roman Kemp https://pod.fo/e/14b6fa   * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

1h 6m
Jan 13
Eat for energy not weight loss! Em the Nutritionist: food impacts mood

Making better food choices isn’t about changing who you are, but about making you the most energetic, vibrant version of you. Emily English, aka Em the Nutritionist, talks through how food directly impacts mood.   In this chat Fearne and Em both share their experiences of having eating disorders. Was it more about weight and appearance or control and secrecy? They also offer advice for those trying to support a loved one who has a difficult relationship with food.   So, how has Em gone from weighing out spinach leaves to piling plates with delicious nutritious foods? Her mindset is all about adding energising foods and movement into your life rather than restricting or taking away joy!   Plus, Em explains that we’re all allowed to – and should – eat differently to each other (and to that person you follow online!), and they talk through how to build sustainable habits you’re actually going to be able to stick to.   Emily’s recipe book, So Good, is out now.   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Ella Mills https://pod.fo/e/2527fe   Lucinda Miller https://pod.fo/e/264d40   Radhi Devlukia-Shetty https://pod.fo/e/22a550     * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

46m
Jan 06
Book Club Meets: Women speaking their minds, with Dame Harriet Walter

Do you find yourself keeping quiet when you have plenty to say? Dame Harriet Walter – who has played 21 of Shakespeare’s female characters – has written She Speaks, which goes between the lines and imagines what Shakespeare’s women might really have wanted to say.   She Speaks was our Happy Place Book Club read for December. In this chat with Fearne, Harriet explains why she felt it was so important to finally let these female characters speak their minds. Harriet also expands on the characters in order to comment on modern day issues like the way ageing women are treated.   Fearne and Harriet chat about whether art mirrors the social hierarchy of its day, or perhaps offers an alternative worldview. Plus, Harriet reveals how female actors keep themselves in character when they’re waiting (often a long time) to speak on stage...   Thank you to Little Brown Audio for the use of She Speaks audiobook, narrated by Harriet Walter.   Listen to Book Club Meets: Liane Moriarty https://pod.fo/e/28c79c   Listen to Book Club Meets: Miranda July  https://pod.fo/e/27b9a0   Listen to Book Club Meets: Gillian Anderson https://pod.fo/e/26738b   Listen to Book Club Meets: Patric Gagne https://pod.fo/e/23da85 * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

28m
Jan 03
From panic attacks to psychopaths: Fearne takes you BTS at Happy Place

It’s been a big year on Happy Place! Who was Fearne “shitting her pants” to meet? Who does she want to go for a spicy marg with? And who is she surprised went viral?   In this episode, Fearne reflects on the 2024 episodes that you really resonated with, and that have changed the way she lives her own life too. Plus, she’s got a lot of behind the scenes gossip to share!   You’ll hear from Michelle Keegan about being a happy little hermit at home, Perrie Edwards about coping with panic attacks, and Patric Gagne about being a sociopath. Then, Kate Silverton chats about why kids aren’t ‘naughty’, Paloma Faith calls out the idea of women ‘having it all’, and Zayn explains why he’s not losing his Bradford accent any time soon...   Listen to Michelle Keegan’s episode https://pod.fo/e/211304   Listen to Perrie Edwards’ episode https://pod.fo/e/279633   Listen to Patric Gagne’s episode https://pod.fo/e/23da85   Listen to Kate Silverton’s episode https://pod.fo/e/2281ae   Listen to Paloma Faith’s episode https://pod.fo/e/245bab   Listen to Zayn’s episode https://pod.fo/e/23b207   * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

46m
Dec 30, 2024
Joanne McNally: “I’m problematically independent” Being an introverted extrovert

  Sometimes you have to just power through the self-loathing. Doing stand up comedy has helped Joanne McNally build resilience, take responsibility, and not take things so personally.   In this chat, Fearne and Joanne share experiences of being hyper-independent; but can trusting and relying on yourself go too far? They chat about learning to delegate and ask for help too.   Joanne was adopted as a baby, and she opens up about the process of piecing her identity together when she met her birth parents. Are you able to find the funny in distressing periods of your life? Joanne points out that in taking the piss out of yourself you ultimately have to take accountability for your own part in a difficult situation.   Plus, Fearne and Joanne make some big admissions about their own pelvic floor health...   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Spencer Matthews https://pod.fo/e/16dcf3   Dawn French https://pod.fo/e/23125c   Matt Lucas https://pod.fo/e/207f30 * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

48m
Dec 23, 2024
Get fillers or age as you are! Caroline Hirons shares the skincare you NEED at every age

Do you feel pressured to look a certain way as you age? CEO and beauty expert Caroline Hirons reckons it’s no one else’s business if you want to get tweakments or simply wash your face at night.   In this chat, Fearne and Caroline pivot looking after your face from something you do to look good... to something you do to feel good. Concerned about the texture or structure of your skin? Caroline clarifies when you might want to get tweakments, and when you just need a solid skincare routine.   Caroline also talks through the effect hormones, diet, alcohol, and stress are having on the way you look, and explains why you should avoid washing your face in a hot shower!   Plus, do you secretly love being busy and rushed off your feet? Fearne and Caroline bond over being ambitious women, but get real about how impossible it is to get any kind of work / life balance if you run a business...   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Olivia Atwood https://pod.fo/e/273edd   Emma Dabiri https://pod.fo/e/2154cb   Matt Haig https://pod.fo/e/261ec9   * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

52m
Dec 16, 2024
Olly Alexander: “I couldn’t accept my identity” Queer joy and mental distress co-exist

There should be no shame in being who you are. Musician and actor Olly Alexander has felt first hand how grappling with your identity can lead to poor mental health.   In this chat with Fearne, Olly explains why he feels there’s such a high level of mental distress in the queer community, and how acting in It’s A Sin helped him unpack his own lived experience.   Both Fearne and Olly share their experiences of poor body image, wondering if bulimia felt like a helpful tool to regain control in an intimidating world. How can you go from disliking your body to recognising the brilliant things it can do for you?   Plus, how to let yourself off the hook when you’ve messed up at work or in a social situation, and what to do when you don’t feel you’ve ‘achieved’ enough to be of value...   Olly’s solo album, Polari, is out in February.   CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains frank chat about suicide, self-harm, and bulimia, so take care while listening.   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Perrie Edwards https://pod.fo/e/279633   Rebel Wilson https://pod.fo/e/238d13   YungBlud https://pod.fo/e/25cf34 * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

46m
Dec 09, 2024
Book Club Meets: Fate, mortality, and psychics, with Liane Moriarty

Is your fate already pre-determined? Or do you feel you have true free will to dictate your own destiny? ...and if you could, would you want to find out when you’re going to die? These are the questions Liane Moriarty’s Here One Moment grapples with.   Here One Moment was our Happy Place Book Club read for November, and Liane joins Fearne to chat about why she wanted to explore chaos, chance, mortality, and psychic abilities in this novel.   Fearne and Liane talk about the importance of having ‘main character energy’ in your own life, while also acknowledging that others are living their own fully formed lives too.   Plus, how good are you at expressing yourself creatively without worrying how your efforts will be received? They talk through how to find intrinsic motivation for creative pursuits rather than relying on external praise... Thank you to Penguin Audio for the use of Here One Moment audiobook, narrated by Caroline Lee. Listen to Book Club Meets: Miranda July  https://pod.fo/e/27b9a0 Listen to Book Club Meets: Gillian Anderson https://pod.fo/e/26738b   Listen to Book Club Meets: Patric Gagne https://pod.fo/e/23da85   Listen to Book Club Meets: Holly Gramazio https://pod.fo/e/266632 * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

34m
Dec 06, 2024
Scott Mills: “Doing nothing is ok!” Stop feeling guilty for resting

How quickly does your social battery drain? Do you know what you need to do to recharge it? Broadcaster Scott Mills admits he’s worked too hard and not relaxed enough in the past, but that’s all changing now...   This episode is brought to you by British Airways Holidays, so Scott tells Fearne what he now does to take his holidays more seriously, including locking his phone away because – spoiler – nothing bad happens when you properly switch off from the world!   Scott has advice if you feel like it’s too late to meet the love of your life... He reflects on his recent wedding, as well as revealing how the grand gesture of a helicopter ride in the early days of dating nearly ruined the whole relationship! How would you cope if you felt a relationship was moving a little too fast, or too slow, for you...?   Plus, is it Fearne or Scott who reckons they were ‘The White Wine Queen’ during their chaotic Radio 1 days? They both think about when habitual drinking becomes problematic.   If you’re ready to take your holidays more seriously, head to BA.com/holidays   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Rylan https://pod.fo/e/13fd36   Jason Donovan https://pod.fo/e/25f871   Will Young https://pod.fo/e/119646 * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

54m
Dec 05, 2024
You can’t be happy 24/7: Riley Keough on surrendering to grief and anger

How good are you at letting yourself feel your feelings? Actor Riley Keough thinks it’s important to embrace the sad and angry moments as much as the joyful, hopeful ones.   In this chat with Fearne, Riley explains how her own grief at losing her brother and mum has taught her that fighting or repressing emotions only makes you more anxious in the long term.   Riley’s mum was Lisa Marie Presley, the only child of Elvis Presley. Riley talks about Lisa’s ability to live in a place of truth – she’d never do anything that didn’t feel authentic to her. What can we all learn about how to lean into our own pleasure? It’s liberating to not care if others like you!   Fearne and Riley also discuss how impactful it can be when divorced parents are able to co-parent with grace. Plus, Riley reveals why she thinks her mum and Michael Jackson had such a deep connection.   Lisa Marie Presley’s memoir, which Riley finished, is called From Here To The Great Unknown, and it’s out now.   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Taylor Jenkins Reid https://pod.fo/e/1686f3   Gabor Mate https://pod.fo/e/166b8a   Ashely Cain https://pod.fo/e/e3096   * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

50m
Dec 02, 2024
Saying no: more boundaries, less people pleasing!

How good are you at saying no to people, plans, and dynamics that don’t serve you...? Just in time for the festive season (A huge work load! Time with family! Social events!) Fearne is reflecting on Happy Place chats that’ll help you stop people pleasing and start setting boundaries...   In this episode: Melissa Urban is the queen of boundaries – what are they, and how do we set them? Life coach Michelle Elman talks about why we’re often reluctant to set boundaries, and Kirsty Gallagher explains how to take ‘radical responsibility’ for our own lives.   Plus, there’s LeAnn Rimes on navigating difficult family dynamics, Grace Beverly on setting boundaries for work life balance, and Michelle Keegan on saying no to social events because sometimes we just want to be happy little hermits at home!   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Melissa Urban https://pod.fo/e/172e47   Michelle Elman https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGEERBBQ9Js   Kirsty Gallagher https://pod.fo/e/226c97   LeAnn Rimes https://pod.fo/e/20397f   Grace Beverley https://pod.fo/e/24b043   Michelle Keegan https://pod.fo/e/211304   Tell self-limiting beliefs to bugger off https://pod.fo/e/263ecb   * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

40m
Nov 29, 2024
“I have no interest in mediocrity!” Adam Pearson on having confidence to be extraordinary

Did you have dreams of being extraordinary when you were a kid? For many of us, adult life starts chipping away at those big hopes and goals, but actor and disability campaigner Adam Pearson has no interest in being ‘normal’ or ‘mediocre’.   In this chat with Fearne, Adam explains how never having the luxury of being invisible – he was born with neurofibromatosis – has given him confidence to really stand out. So how did he go from being bullied at school to boldly starring on the big screen?   They talk about systemic ableism within the film and TV industries, and Adam explains why it shouldn’t be the job of the disability community to fix a problem they didn’t create... but often is. Plus, why is it that it’s always the movie villains who are facially disfigured, never the heroes? Plus, the three types of people you need in your life: a truth teller, a confidant, and a ride or die...   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Jono Lancaster https://pod.fo/e/189485   Samantha Renke https://pod.fo/e/132092   Sophie Morgan https://pod.fo/e/112ccd * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

46m
Nov 25, 2024
Helen Glover on progress over perfection: shift your perspective on success

You’ve got to give new things a go and not give up when you’re a bit crap at first. Team GB Olympic rower Helen Glover is clear that a huge part of her success is thanks to her mindset that it’s better to try and fail than not try at all.   In this chat with Fearne, Helen explains how to have the discipline to stick at stuff that feels important to you, even if it doesn’t always feel easy. By her own admission, Helen “couldn’t have been further from an Olympian” when she started training...   At Tokyo 2020, Helen was the first mum to represent Great Britain in rowing at an Olympic Games. She’s passionate about pushing back on the perception that age or parenthood should be a barrier in anything you’re trying to achieve. She and Fearne unpick the narrative that says women probably won’t be all that ambitious once they’ve had kids!   Plus, what’s the weirdest place you’ve found yourself breastfeeding in? Fearne and Helen share theirs...   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Molly McCann https://pod.fo/e/240297   Leah Williamson https://pod.fo/e/26e9fe   Adele Roberts https://pod.fo/e/22e78e * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

55m
Nov 18, 2024
Coleen Rooney: Marriage takes work! Coping with the press and raising four kids

How good are you at being honest with other people? Go on, be honest with yourself about that one! Coleen Rooney would always rather tell the truth before a situation escalates.   In this chat with Fearne, Coleen explains how she’s instilling that honesty is the best policy in her four sons, as well as why she’s so grateful to have a village around her to help raise her boys. With four children, Coleen is in a lot of school gate WhatsApp groups, so she and Fearne spill what really goes down in those wild group chats...   They also chat about how she and husband Wayne prioritise time as a couple, especially after so many years together, and what it was really like being thrust into the public eye as a teenager just because her boyfriend was a footballer.   Plus, Coleen has dealt with some incredibly stressful situations in her life, so what does she do to make sure it doesn’t overwhelm her?   Coleen is an ambassador for the protein, vitamins and collagen brand Applied Nutrition.  If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Lemn Sissay https://pod.fo/e/22c47d   Ashley John Baptiste https://pod.fo/e/242b68   Gary and Emma Neville https://pod.fo/e/26c21b * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

55m
Nov 11, 2024
"Get comfortable with people not liking you!" Florence Given on embracing the cringe

Do you cringe at other people’s joy? Author and illustrator Florence Given reckons cringing at others is telling you something about how you feel about yourself...   In this chat Fearne and Florence get into how to really start living unapologetically as your full delicious self. Cringing at others might be showing you’re a bit pissed off that someone else is able to do something you want permission to.   Florence explains how anxiety from being bullied at school kick-started her questioning everything the world was telling her. Why do I have to be ‘pretty’? Why am I ‘too much’? Why do I care about being liked?   You can’t let other people shrink your self-expression; Florence talks Fearne through how to not take comments and opinions personally. Plus, why resting feels like such a radical thing to do...   Florence’s book, Women Living Deliciously, is out now.   If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:   Paloma Faith https://pod.fo/e/245bab   Beverley Knight https://pod.fo/e/18355c   Caitlin Moran https://pod.fo/e/da9e1 * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

1h 0m
Nov 04, 2024
Book Club Meets: Desire, hormones, and tampons, with Miranda July

Would you rip up your current life and reinvent yourself if you had the chance? Do you have desires you’d want to explore? Maybe there are hidden parts of yourself you’ve never had the chance to get to know? Which societal rules would you want to ignore?   Author Miranda July asks all these questions in October’s Happy Place Book Club novel: All Fours. She picks apart how we can fall into the monotony of every day routine instead of acknowledging the wild emotions and longings inside us.   In this chat, Fearne and Miranda talk about fluctuating hormones, pressures of motherhood, sexual fantasies (some of which may or may not involve tampons), and menopause as an incredibly exciting and sacred transitional period.   Fearne asks Miranda to help her be even more painfully unfiltered in her own writing, while Miranda exclusively reveals how she originally intended the novel to end. Plus, what about this book made Fearne say it was the ‘one of the hottest, sexiest things’ she’d ever read...? Thank you to Canongate Books for the use of All Fours audiobook, read by Miranda July.   Listen to Book Club Meets: Gillian Anderson https://pod.fo/e/26738b   Listen to Book Club Meets: Patric Gagne https://pod.fo/e/23da85   Listen to Book Club Meets: Holly Gramazio https://pod.fo/e/266632   Listen to Book Club Meets: Sofie Hagen https://pod.fo/e/25977a * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

46m
Nov 01, 2024