Happy Place

Mary Berry: "I didn't want to leave the house!" How gardening helped me through grief

<p>Mary Berry has been married for 60 years and says she and her husband have never had a cross word. Her secret? Do a lap of the garden before saying the thing you might regret.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Mary shares the simple principles that have guided her life: be kind, contribute to community, and prioritise time in nature.</p><br><p>Mary’s 91, and her mum lived to 105. She believes a busy mind makes a happy person, so offers advice for getting into your gardening era (Fearne’s not quite there yet) regardless of how much outdoor space you have.</p><br><p>Mary also reflects on the wartime childhood in Bath that saw her school being bombed and her family needing to grow their own food. Plus, how do you move through the grief of losing a child?</p><br><p>Mary’s book, My Gardening Life, is out now.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/1428b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mary Berry’s first Happy Place chat</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/3b8e28" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ruth Langsford</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/4049a9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Liz Earle</a></p><p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Alan Cumming: “I allow people to be abusive!” How to build self-worth and say no

<p>Alan Cumming's dad told him he was worthless, and his mum told him he was precious. Figuring out how he feels about himself has been a life’s work.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Alan’s open about the ways he’s allowed people to treat him badly, and how he’s learnt to get comfortable with confrontation and setting boundaries. He also explains why the rage in the script of his new TV show triggered painful childhood memories.</p><br><p>Fearne and Alan share their experiences of oscillating between relentless, excited<em> </em>creativity (constantly manifesting bigger and better jobs) and a desire to rest (Alan’s fantasies about becoming a tradwife...!)</p><br><p>Plus, what really happens on the Traitors’ set and how on earth does Alan manage to keep that poker face all the time?</p><br><p>Alan will be creatively involved in four different productions at the Pitlochry Festival Theatre this year, and you can watch Alan in Channel 4’s new show Tip Toe from May 31st.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/40cd32" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nicole LePera</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/40f973" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shauna Tiffany</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/23b207" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zayn</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

"Why does criticism hurt so much?" Dr Julie on triggers and behaviour patterns

<p>Ever looked in the mirror and told yourself “I am enough” ...and not believed a word of it? Psychologist Dr Julie Smith reckons affirmations only work to boost confidence if – deep down – you already believe them.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Julie explains why your brain needs evidence, not mantras, to change your critical inner voice and build self-worth. She also talks through why criticism from others can hit so hard, and why the discomfort felt is often an echo of a much older wound. Julie breaks down how the patterns we developed in childhood keep replaying in adulthood.</p><br><p>Julie also talks about her breast cancer diagnosis, and how it tested everything she’d been teaching everyone else about fear, agency, and mental health.</p><br><p>Plus, what’s the simple therapy exercise that could change how you carry pain?</p><br><p>Dr Julie’s best-selling book, Open When, is available now in paperback.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/15d94a" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dr Julie’s first Happy Place episode</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/2c3bf2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Estelle Bingham</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/22e78e" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Adele Roberts</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Dr Louise Newson: Anxiety! Joint pain! The perimenopause symptoms you’re ignoring

<p>One in six women arriving at Dr Louise Newson's menopause clinic have suicidal thoughts. 92% see those thoughts reduce with natural hormones, so why are women still being prescribed antidepressants instead?</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Louise explains why women are being misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety when the root cause is hormonal. Fearne admits she's the woman with her head in the sand about perimenopause, so Louise walks her through what the many (many!) different symptoms could look like, and how to talk to a GP about how you’re feeling mentally and physically.</p><br><p>Plus, is there any truth to the myth that HRT causes breast cancer? Why is testosterone the most misunderstood hormone in women's health? And would the contraceptive pill be approved if it was created today...?</p><br><p>Louise’s new book, The Power of Hormones, is out now.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/4049a9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Liz Earle</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/329307" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cally Beaton</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/2a7df4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Naomi Watts</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Fear can be wonderful or destructive! How to negotiate with doubt, with Joseph Fiennes

<p>Without something creative to pour himself into, actor Joseph Fiennes says he'd eat himself alive.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Joseph thinks about why if he doesn't have a challenge to wear him out, restlessness and doubt will take over entirely. They also explore the strange duality of loving your craft... but dreading the judgment that comes with it.</p><br><p>Joseph has played England football manager Gareth Southgate on stage, and now on TV; he draws parallels between their principles around negotiating fear and encouraging vulnerability in men.</p><br><p>Plus, Joseph explains what struggling with reading and writing taught him about knowing who he is, and reveals the hilarious reality of forgetting your lines mid-Shakespeare...</p><br><p>You can watch Joseph in Dear England on the BBC from May 24th.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/a9ea8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gareth Southgate</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/108a8a" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pippa Grange</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/358875" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jack Whitehall</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

I still get triggered! Fearne on how to heal, cope with hangxiety, and having an empty nest

<p>Fearne isn’t a massive fan of the relentless pressure to reach a definitive state of happiness. It’s just not realistic, so she’s dropping into your feed every week for some chat about what’s making her – and you! – feel great, and what’s making us feel completely crap.</p><br><p>This is the cosy corner where there’s no judgement allowed! All of us can explore what’s been on our minds, what’s been getting us down, inspiring us, and making us laugh. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!</p><br><p><strong>In this chat, Fearne covers:</strong></p><br><p>-Why walks are the best for deep and meaningfuls</p><br><p>-Going clubbing and feeling 18 again</p><br><p>-Why you’re only ever as happy as your unhappiest child</p><br><p>-How to make the ‘sexiest salad’ ever (according to Fearne)</p><br><p>-Coping with The Fear that comes with a hangover</p><br><p>-A plea to stop chatting on speakerphone on the train</p><br><p>-How to say goodbye to your child when they leave home</p><br><p>-Dealing with triggers when you’re trying to heal</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Sex scenes are liberating! Nafessa Williams on Rivals, racism, and self-belief

<p>Sex scenes involve a lot more padding and tape than you might expect! Rivals actress Nafessa Williams has found being at the centre of one of TV’s sexiest shows both nerve-wracking and incredibly liberating.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Nafessa explores what it means to play the only black woman in a white man's world in 1980s Britain, and why she sees her acting as her contribution to activism and representation.</p><br><p>Do you consider yourself to be ambitious and driven? Nafessa wonders if you rest as hard as you work... because you should! Plus, how to manifest the life you want, without forgetting the key component: action!</p><br><p>Watch Rivals series 2 on Disney+ from May 15th.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/ba4b1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rhonda Byrne</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/205bb3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Leigh-Anne Pinnock</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/2b12ae" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Afua Hirsch</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Play therapy rewires the brain! Facing childhood traumas, with The King’s Trust

<p>Everyone deserves the chance at a fulfilling life. Shauna Tiffany grew up in foster care, feeling ashamed of and responsible for her parents’ choices. Creative play therapy helped her work through her childhood trauma, and now – with the support of The King’s Trust – she’s built her own business doing the same thing for other children and families.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Shauna explains how she’s learnt to believe in herself because of the way others have chosen to believe in her. Emotional support has made her feel worthy of great opportunities, and practical advice has empowered her to turn ideas into reality, so they chat about how to gently chip away at increasing self-confidence.</p><br><p>Plus, Fearne’s got a big surprise for Shauna...</p><br><p><a href="https://www.lighthousetherapyhub.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Check out Shauna’s work at Lighthouse Therapy Hub.</a></p><br><p><a href="https://www.kingstrust.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find out more about The King’s Trust.</a></p><p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Nicole LePera: "Your nervous system is screaming at you!" Healing anxiety and panic

<p>Were you praised as a child for being ‘good’, for keeping quiet, or not making a fuss? Psychologist Dr Nicole LePera reckons that praise may have taught you to disconnect from your emotions entirely.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Nicole explains how even well-intentioned parenting can leave us with patterns that run our adult lives on autopilot. She talks through the practical process of reparenting your inner child, starting with something as simple as finding a childhood photograph. We hold our emotions in our bodies, so she also shares ways to tune in with your body throughout the day to release stress.</p><br><p>Nicole also explains why your nervous system keeps you stuck in familiar patterns even when you logically know better, and why shame, people pleasing, and perfectionism are all protective strategies we developed to survive childhood.</p><br><p>Plus, why does healing require what Nicole calls a return to ‘radical honesty’?</p><br><p>Nicole’s book,<strong> </strong>Reparenting the Inner Child, is out now.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/2add68" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chiwetel Ejiofor</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/401e76" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Philippa Perry</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/3ab356" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Break Free From People Pleasing</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Book Club Meets: Rekindling intimacy in marriage, with Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees

<p>Adam and Jules have been married for 25 years and are stuck in a bit of a rut. Adam stumbles across some old mixtapes he and Jules made for each other when they were young and falling in love, and when they play them... they get to travel back in time to different moments in their relationship. Will remembering the passion they used to have get the future of their relationship back on track, or will it just spark absolute chaos?</p><br><p>You &amp; Me, You &amp; Me, You &amp; Me was our Happy Place Book Club pick for April. In this chat with Fearne, authors Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees – themselves a married couple – explain why they wanted to explore rekindling intimacy in the empty nest phase, and reveal how they write together on a practical level.</p><br><p>What do you reckon, if you could go back in time to tweak some of the decisions you’d made – would you? Maybe it would make you even more grateful for the happiness you have now...</p><br><p>Thank you to Vintage Digital for the use of the You &amp; Me and You &amp; Me and You &amp; Me audiobook, narrated by Rory Kinnear and Sally Phillips.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/39d084" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Book Club Meets: Emma Gannon</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/388539" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Book Club Meets: Maggie O’Farrell</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/37108f" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Book Club Meets: Nussaibah Younis</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

"You can't be a people pleaser and a leader!" Emma Grede on self-belief and female ambition

<p>When was the last time you told someone exactly how much you earn? Entrepreneur Emma Grede - who co-founded Good American with Khloe Kardashian - says that when women avoid talking about money, money avoids them.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Emma explains why ambition isn't a dirty word, and why she wants every determined woman to know her worth. Fearne and Emma also explore why you can't be a people pleaser and a leader, and why getting comfortable with failure and self-doubt is non-negotiable.</p><br><p>As a mum of four, Emma has some big thoughts about mum guilt, and talks about why it’s so important that kids see their mums chasing their goals and loving what they do.</p><br><p>Plus, why you’ll never catch Emma working from home, or cutting her kids’ sandwiches into heart shapes...</p><br><p>Emma’s book, Start With Yourself, is out now.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/38b6c2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ashley James</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/390271" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chris Appleton</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/3ca7d3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Carol Vorderman</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

“I was overweight and unhappy!” Liz Earle’s perimenopause and midlife reinvention

<p>What if your best decade is still ahead of you? At 62, broadcaster and healthy aging expert Liz Earle is fitter, stronger, and happier than ever.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Liz shares how she went from overwhelmed, overweight, and exhausted during perimenopause, to thriving in her 60s. She shares the small lifestyle shifts that transformed her health, and why women in midlife shouldn’t feel selfish moving themselves up the priority list.</p><br><p>Fearne and Liz dig into the science of aging well, including the power of sunlight (and whether we should be wearing SPF year-round!), and why we should be prioritising sleep and strength training.</p><br><p>Plus, what happened when Liz’s younger boyfriend took her clubbing for the first time at 60 years old...?</p><br><p>Liz’s book, How To Age, is out now.</p><br><p>Listen to Liz’s podcast, Age Better, <a href="https://podfollow.com/1230372957" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>!</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/2a7df4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Naomi Watts</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/329307" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Callie Beaton</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/394770" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Poorna Bell</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Philippa Perry: Why everyone has an inner critic, and how to stop believing yours

<p>Should you give your inner critic have a name? Psychotherapist and author Philippa Perry reckons giving that nagging voice in your head a silly name is the first step to stopping it running your life.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Philippa explains why not feeling ‘good enough’ is often less about truth and more about habit. She shares how to tell the difference between a helpful critical inner voice and a self-sabotaging one, and why negative thought patterns keep us stuck.</p><br><p>Fearne and Philippa also chat about the power of shame, and why talking about the things you feel most embarrassed about is the fastest way to shrink them.</p><br><p>Plus, how is your phone eating away at your ability to connect IRL? And what can you do if you can’t access therapy? Philippa talks through some of her favourite self-therapy exercises.</p><br><p>Philippa’s novel, Shrink Solves Murder, is out on May 7th.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/14288" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Philippa’s first Happy Place episode</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/151f3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Flo Perry</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/3fc78f" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bryony Gordon</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

I don’t identify as middle aged! Fearne's talking hormones and single parenting

<p>What’s been going on for you this week? What are you happy about, and what’s making you not so happy? Fearne’s here with more chat about what’s putting her, Team Happy Place team, and you lot in a good mood, and what’s feeling a bit heavier.</p><br><p>This is our space to explore what’s been on our minds. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!</p><br><p><strong>In this chat, Fearne explores:</strong></p><br><p>-Whether Instagram quotes are cringe or uplifting</p><br><p>-Why midlife is about coming back to who you were as a teen</p><br><p>-Prioritising her friendships&nbsp;</p><br><p>-The joy of a morning routine</p><br><p>-Examples of positive masculinity</p><br><p>-Teenagers’ attitudes unfortunately not being a myth</p><br><p>-The struggle of being a single parent working full time</p><br><p>-Picking which jacket to wear for the weather (spoiler: you won’t make the right decision)</p><br><p>-How good it can be to have a good cry</p><br><p>-Hormones being a bit of a nightmare</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Bryony Gordon: How people pleasing fuelled my OCD, alcoholism, and eating disorder

<p>You’ve heard of fight or flight, but what about <em>fawn</em> – the idea of appeasing others to stay safe? Author and mental health advocate Bryony Gordon thinks there’s a reason so many women feel under pressure to people please.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Bryony explores how she feels people pleasing has fuelled parts of her OCD, alcoholism, and eating disorders over the years.</p><br><p>Fearne and Bryony also chat about body image, and both reveal some of the insecurities that have consumed them... that likely no one else has noticed. Bryony reckons feeling ‘too much’ and ‘not enough’ are two sides of the same coin, and offers advice on how to confidently take up space. (Or, as she puts it: “step into your mother*cking majesty!”)</p><br><p>Bryony’s novel, People Pleaser, is out now.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/3ab356" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Break free from people pleasing</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/394770" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Poorna Bell</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/2bd0dd" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Will Poulter</a></p><p><strong><em>&nbsp;</em></strong></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Women spend HOW MUCH on period products? Mooncups, AI slop, and joining a choir

<p>There’s way too much pressure on reaching a definitive state of happiness, and it’s just not realistic, so Fearne’s dropping into your feed every week for some chat about what’s making her feel great, and what’s making her feel completely crap.</p><br><p>This is the cosy corner where there’s no judgement allowed! All of us can explore what’s been on our minds, what’s been getting us down, inspiring us, and making us laugh. </p><br><p>Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!</p><br><p><strong>In this chat, Fearne covers:</strong></p><br><p>-Why she’s decided to present some TV again</p><br><p>-How to get back into something you haven’t done in ages</p><br><p>-The importance of seeking out good news when the world gets too heavy</p><br><p>-What singing – karaoke or in a choir, whatever you like – does for your nervous system</p><br><p>-The difference between the hands of town men and countryside men and why this is relevant when you get a flat tyre</p><br><p>-AI slop and how to trust what you see online</p><br><p>-How much women will spend on period products in their lifetime</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Jimmy Carr: “Men half-arse things!” My thoughts on feminism, parenting, and success

<p>What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail? It’s a question comedian Jimmy Carr reckons will help direct your life path.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Jimmy explains how he strives for greatness for himself, without falling into the trap of comparing himself to others. He talks about how to define success for yourself, why talent without hard work means very little, and why he doesn’t fear cancel culture.</p><br><p>Jimmy also explains why feminism still doesn’t really serve mothers and matriarchs, and why you’ll never hear him say he’s “babysitting” his own kids.</p><br><p>Plus, do all comedians have a bit of a troubled childhood...? Jimmy chats about how his anxieties fuel his jokes.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.jimmycarr.com/tour-dates/london/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Get your tickets for Jimmy’s Laughs Funny tour at the London Palladium!</a></p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/10d79a" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bjorn Natthiko Lindeblad</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/2eb8d0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Joel Dommet</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/2d3d77" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mo Gilligan</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

“I had to say ‘c*ck’ at The Royal Albert Hall!” Fearne’s talking about sex and being more creative

<p>What’s going on for you? What are you happy about, and what’s making you not so happy? Fearne’s here with more chatter about what’s putting her and the Happy Place team in a good mood this week, and what can bugger off.</p><br><p>This is the space for all of us to explore what’s been on our minds. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!</p><p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>In this chat, Fearne covers:</strong></p><p>-Whether she looks more intelligent now she wears glasses</p><p>-Reading a sexual fantasy out at The Royal Albert Hall</p><p>-Why having a creative hobby can be game changing</p><p>-The transitional weather where your jacket is never right</p><p>-Books with great premises but rubbish execution</p><p>-Being aggy on social media just for the sake of it</p><p>-Whether it’s worth writing sh*tty texts and emails</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Listen to the Happy Place episodes mentioned in this chat:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/26738b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gillian Anderson</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/1027e9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tom Daly</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Carol Vorderman: My ‘facelift’ became folklore! Can women have beauty and brains?

<p>It’s an age-old question: can women have both brains and beauty? (Spoiler: obviously yes!) Broadcaster Carol Vorderman says the more people comment on her body... the more thigh high boots and tight skirts she’ll wear!</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Carol charts her early life, from her family running away with the circus, to living out of a car, to being one of the first girls to read engineering at Cambridge University. She also reveals who wrote her first application to Countdown back in the day... because it wasn’t her!</p><br><p>Carol is very politically active, and explains why everything about our lives is political. Care about the pressure put on kids and parents by schools? Where your taxes go? Women’s bodily autonomy? It’s more important than ever, she says, to both use your vote, and live with hope.</p><br><p>What can we learn from Carol about making the best of what we’ve been given? And why do we all have a responsibility to stand up for what we believe in?</p><br><p>You can watch Carol on Celebrity Quizzing on Channel 5.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/38b6c2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ashley James</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/394770" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Poorna Bell</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/361cc1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kate Winslet</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

“I wish I was chic-er!” Fearne on personal style and learning new skills

<p>What’s been going on for you this week? What are you happy about, and what’s making you not so happy? Fearne’s here with more chat about what’s putting her and the Happy Place team in a good mood, and what’s feeling a bit rubbish ...and Fearne has really <em>really </em>been feeling rubbish this week...</p><br><p>This is a comforting space for all of us to explore what’s been on our minds. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!</p><br><p><strong>In this chat, Fearne explores:</strong></p><br><p>-Wandering around art galleries because it’s <em>not</em> just an elitist thing</p><br><p>-Learning new skills, namely: sign language</p><br><p>-What goes down in the Wednesday Waffle WhatsApp chat</p><br><p>-Whether it’s important for your wardrobe to have a signature style</p><br><p>-Norovirus (hope you’re not eating right now)</p><br><p>-Being a stricter parent when you’re (incredibly) ill</p><br><p>-Loads of scenarios where people are unnecessarily rude in public</p><br><p>-The great tea vs coffee debate</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Ruth Langsford: “We all go through sh*t!” My life with divorce and dementia

<p>How do you cope when you’re going through a really rough time? Broadcaster Ruth Langsford has needed a balance of big cries, therapy, and just choosing to dust herself off and get to work.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Ruth talks through the ways counselling and female friendships are moving her through the grief of her divorce. She also shares what she’s learnt about caring for parents with dementia, without overwhelming yourself in the process.</p><br><p>Fearne and Ruth compare their experiences of mum guilt, and why it’s so important for young boys in particular to see the women in their life working.</p><br><p>Plus, Ruth reveals the sliding doors moment that led her to her TV presenting career...</p><br><p>Ruth’s book, Feeling Fabulous, is out now.</p><br><p>CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains conversations about grief after suicide.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/361cc1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kate Winslet</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/29cbdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ben West</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/351b04" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Elizabeth Gilbert</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

“Why are we always rushing?” Slowing down by writing by hand and lying in

<p>There’s probably a bit too much pressure on reaching a definitive state of happiness isn’t there? It’s not realistic gang! So Fearne’s dropping into your feed every week for some candid chat about what’s making her feel great, and what’s making her feel completely rubbish ...and this episode is brought to you by new original Paramount Plus show The Madison.</p><br><p>This is the cosy little corner where all of us can explore what’s been on our minds, what’s been getting us down, inspiring us, and making us laugh. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!</p><br><p><strong>In this chat, Fearne covers:</strong></p><p>-The joy of having a great TV series on the go</p><p>-Dreaming of escaping to a hazy golden farm in Montana</p><p>-The small but delicious joy of beautiful stationary</p><p>-The frustration of waking up too early at the weekend</p><p>-The debate about whether to feed foxes or not</p><p>-How to toilet train kittens</p><p>-The madness of how much we all rush through the day</p><p>-BTS of some of the roles on Team Happy Place</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Episodes 1-3 of The Madison are available to stream now on Paramount Plus. Episodes 4-6 will be available to stream on 21 March.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Break free from people pleasing, with Keisha Buchanan, Megan Barton-Hanson, and Jade Scott

<p>Have you ever changed yourself to fit in with other people? Or dulled your character so they don’t think you’re ‘too much’? Do you compare yourself a lot or sacrifice your own needs so not to cause a fuss?</p><br><p>Fearne has done all these things and more over the years in a bid to be more <em>likeable. </em>But it’s time to stop shapeshifting to make ourselves palatable to others!</p><br><p>Sugababes Keisha Buchanan, Love Island’s Megan Barton-Hanson, and The Traitor’s Jade Scott join Fearne to reflect on their own experiences of people pleasing and being disliked.</p><br><p>They share advice on being okay with people not ‘getting’ you, allowing yourself to be multifaceted, and speaking up for yourself. This is all about building the confidence to live life on your own terms, not the life others want you to live.</p><br><p>Fearne’s new book, Likeable, is out now.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/2e61b9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Natalie Lue</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/39d084" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Emma Gannon</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/394770" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Poorna Bell</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

“Give people pleasing the finger!” Fearne’s no longer trying to be liked

<p>Are you a bit of a people pleaser? Wish you could care a little less what people think about you? To celebrate her new book, Likeable: How I Broke Free From The Need To Please, Fearne’s looking at all the ways she sacrificed her needs and self-expression in order to be more palatable to others...</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>In this chat, Fearne covers:</strong></p><br><p>-The real personal impact of people pleasing</p><br><p>-How exhausting it is showing up as a performative version of yourself</p><br><p>-Catching yourself feeling like a saintly martyr when you’re putting others’ needs first</p><br><p>-Peer pressure making you change yourself to fit in</p><br><p>-Why differing opinions don’t have to mean conflict</p><br><p>-How to be both kind and boundaried</p><br><p>-Prioritising and voicing your own needs</p><br><p>-Being ok with some people not liking you</p><p>&nbsp;</p><br><p>Fearne’s new book, Likeable, is out now!</p><br><p>Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/36b071" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Listen to Fearne and Friends Christmas special</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Radio 1's Matt and Mollie: I’m finding my voice! Back yourself like you back your mate

<p>You wouldn’t talk to your best mate in the critical way you talk to yourself. For Radio One DJs Matt Edmondson and Mollie King, their friendship has made them both believe in themselves more.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Matt and Mollie talk about the insecurities they have, and how freeing it is to realise no one else thinks those things about you. For Mollie, having children has helped her be a lot kinder to herself too.</p><br><p>Fearne is less bothered about ruffling feathers in the workplace than she used to be, and shares advice on how to confidently speak your mind, and they all wonder why everyone’s trying to be ‘cool’. What does that even mean?!</p><br><p>Plus, was it Matt or Mollie who put Fearne and her Radio One show on their vision board back in the day...?</p><br><p>You can listen to Matt and Mollie’s new podcast, Novel Idea, now!</p><br><p>Get your tickets for <a href="https://www.fane.co.uk/fearne-cotton" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fearne’s book tour here</a>.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/101616" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Matt’s first Happy Place chat</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/1eceb4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nick Grimshaw</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/f5f5d" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Annie Mac</a></p><p><strong><em>&nbsp;</em></strong></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Book Club Meets: “I was burnt out!” Live a slower life, with Emma Gannon

<p>Sometimes the braver thing isn’t trying to keep going. Writer Emma Gannon hit real burnout, admitted she was overwhelmed, and embarked upon a year of doing... nothing.</p><br><p>A Year of Nothing was our Happy Place Book Club pick for February. In it, Emma charts stepping away from the noise and rediscovering joy in life’s simplest pleasures, from dog borrowing and dopamine dressing to relearning how to swim and embracing a child-free life.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, she explains how to stop being so mean to yourself, and how to rebuild your identity when you feel you’ve lost it. Often, she says, it’s not about ‘finding yourself’... it’s about unlearning all the stuff everyone else has heaped on top of you!</p><br><p>Emma wants to be strong and do big things with her life, but appreciates she had to stop in order to grow.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/11b2f1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Emma’s first Happy Place chat</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/388539" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Book Club Meets: Maggie O’Farrell</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/37108f" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Book Club Meets: Nussaibah Younis</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Boy George: “I love fame!” Star signs, sexuality, and writing songs with ChatGPT

<p>It’s time to stop being filled with jealousy and judgement of others! Boy George admits he used to love hating people, but now actively chooses compassion and kindness.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Boy George explains how this philosophy has helped him celebrate his own and other peoples’ successes more fully. He also talks about why he loves fame now, but would have done his early fame differently, and about the solace he gets from talking to his late mum.</p><br><p>Plus, he’s writing songs about everything from global war to scrubbing his floors with ChatGPT, so does Boy George see a future where art and AI co-exist?</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/132092" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Samantha Renke</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/254d35" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zandra Rhodes</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/331200" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lulu</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

“I skied and got trashed with James Blunt!” How to not care what people think

<p>There’s probably a bit too much pressure on reaching a definitive state of happiness isn’t there? It’s just not realistic. So Fearne’s dropping into your feed every week for some honest chat about what’s making her feel great, and what’s making her feel completely rubbish.</p><br><p>This is a cosy little corner for all of us to explore what’s been on our minds, what’s been getting us down, inspiring us, and making us laugh. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!</p><br><p>In this chat, Fearne covers:</p><br><p>-The delights (or not) of the sauna / ice plunge combo</p><br><p>-Rewatching old episodes of 90s TV shows</p><br><p>-Why she’ll not be going skiing any time soon&nbsp;</p><br><p>-(And what happened last time she went skiing with James Blunt)</p><br><p>-Being in your era of not caring what people think of you</p><br><p>-What happens when you’re solo parenting at Centre Parcs</p><br><p>- How to look for the silver linings but also admit when life’s crap</p><br><p><br></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3ThGVgVVsM" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Watch Fearne’s TV show with James Blunt here!</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Poorna Bell: "Women want more, not more to do!" How to put yourself first

<p>What more do you want from life? What more do you want for yourself? Award-winning journalist and author Poorna Bell reckons it’s time to start really asking ourselves these questions.</p><br><p>In this chat with Fearne, Poorna explains why it’s important to aim for goals you set for yourself, not the ones set by society. They talk about why challenging the narrative that women become invisible as they age is so important, and why we should be turning to elders for life wisdom.</p><br><p>Poorna also reflects on what she wishes she’d known about marriage before her wedding, and how we can all strengthen our relationships with our parents and children.</p><p>Poorna’s book, She Wanted More, is out now.</p><br><p>If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:</p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/14299" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Poorna’s first Happy Place episode</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/38b6c2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ashley James</a></p><br><p><a href="https://pod.fo/e/245bab" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Paloma Faith</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

“I hugged a very girthy tree!” Get off screens, write letters, and paint

<p>How are we feeling gang? What are you happy about, and what’s making you not so happy? Fearne’s back with more chatter about what’s putting her and the Happy Place team in a good mood this week, and what can absolutely get in the bin.</p><br><p>This is a lovely little space for all of us to explore what’s been on our minds. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!</p><br><p>In this chat, Fearne covers:</p><br><p>-Feeling stupid when you’re with really clever people</p><br><p>-Why we should properly get into tree hugging</p><br><p>-Painting by numbers to get away from screens</p><br><p>-Not RSVPing being rude... but also don’t say yes if you’re not going to go</p><br><p>-Bringing back letter writing</p><br><p>-One of Team Happy Place reckoning Harry Hill is fit*</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>*watch the Stewart Lee episode of Harry Hill’s podcast on Spotify to see the moment in question</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>