From pop legends discussing recovery to former Prime Ministers sharing childhood memories, this week's podcast conversations explored themes of redemption, resilience, and personal transformation. British stars led compelling discussions about addiction, trauma, and finding purpose beyond fame.
Lulu delivered one of the week's most powerful conversations on Happy Place with Fearne Cotton, discussing her six-decade struggle with identity and addiction. The pop legend, who shot to fame at 15, revealed how she spent decades masking her true self - Marie McDonald McLaughlin Lawrie - behind a public persona. She spoke candidly about realising she was an alcoholic and how recovery helped her truly like herself for the first time, whilst sharing previously undisclosed details about her relationship with David Bowie.
Joanna Page also appeared on Fearne's podcast, discussing the challenges of balancing career and motherhood. The "Gavin and Stacey" star explained how she brought her baby on set to continue working as a new mum and her decision to prioritise family over career advancement. She reflected on accepting imperfection in work and shared amusing behind-the-scenes stories from "Love Actually."
Sir John Major provided a deeply personal interview on Rosebud with Gyles Brandreth, discussing his unconventional childhood in South London. The former Prime Minister spoke movingly about his father's music hall career and his mother's ballet background, addressing their family's poverty and his anger at press intrusion during his political years. He reflected on his entry into politics and what he believes is missing from today's Westminster scene.
Political leadership was a recurring theme this week, with Leo Varadkar, Ireland's former Taoiseach, giving a revealing interview to Full Disclosure with James O'Brien about his journey from Dublin GP to leading Ireland through Brexit and the pandemic. Like Major, Varadkar discussed his mixed-heritage childhood and the emotional costs of leadership, though his decision to step away from power came much earlier at just 45 years old whilst promoting his memoir "Speaking My Mind."
Joe Locke, the "Heartstopper" star, appeared on How to Fail with Elizabeth Day discussing the whirlwind of overnight fame and feeling like he was "already 35" at just 20 years old. The Emmy-nominated actor reflected on navigating global success from his schoolboy days on the Isle of Man to becoming a role model for millions whilst promoting his West End debut in "Clarkston."
Rhys James appeared on Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster to discuss his new book "You'll Like It When You Get There: A Life Lived Reluctantly." The stand-up comedian and Mock the Week regular shared his dream meal whilst promoting his YouTube special "Spilt Milk."
Perrie Edwards shared travel stories on Alan Carr's Life's a Beach, discussing her holiday experiences and adventures. The singer joined Alan's collection of celebrity travel tales in his ongoing series of escapist conversations.
Sports dominated The High Performance Podcast with Boris Becker reflecting on his extraordinary career and personal setbacks. The tennis legend discussed winning Wimbledon at 17, living under global spotlight pressure, and rebuilding his life after prison. He spoke candidly about the sacrifices behind sporting greatness and what he's learned about balancing ambition with perspective.
Golf featured prominently with Ryder Cup captains Luke Donald, Paul McGinley, and Sam Torrance sharing leadership insights from their Europe versus USA battles. The conversation explored building winning team culture under pressure and creating unity in just days.
Philosophy and relationships took centre stage on Begin Again with Davina McCall with Alain de Botton offering guidance on repairing love lives and building lasting relationships. The bestselling author discussed childhood trauma, emotional resilience, and redefining success beyond traditional metrics.
Emma Watson gave a rare interview to On Purpose with Jay Shetty, discussing her decision to step away from Hollywood. The British actress and UN Women Goodwill Ambassador reflected on growing up in the public eye, carrying enormous responsibility from a young age, and prioritising health over career success.
Science and technology featured on Radical with Amol Rajan with physicist Carlo Rovelli discussing AI concerns and global scientific collaboration. The "Seven Brief Lessons on Physics" author warned about the weaponisation of science and argued for natural intelligence over artificial intelligence.
The Joe Rogan Experience featured Ian Edwards, Mark Kerr, and Dr Rick Strassman. Edwards discussed his comedy special "Untitled," whilst Kerr spoke about the upcoming A24 film "The Smashing Machine" starring Dwayne Johnson. Strassman, author of "My Altered States," explored psychedelics and spiritual growth.
Cardi B made headlines with her appearance on Call Her Daddy, discussing her divorce, body image, and industry jealousy whilst unpacking some of her most iconic lyrics. Comedian Heather McMahan also appeared on the show for what was described as an "unhinged and hilarious" conversation about relationships and millennial culture.
Evy Poumpouras, former Secret Service agent, appeared on The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett, arguing that workplace authenticity can sabotage careers. She shared elite strategies for emotional control and communication developed through protecting US Presidents and interrogating criminals.
