In this episode of Begin Again, British singer, disco icon, and mother of five Sophie Ellis-Bextor opens up about the unexpected resurgence sparked by Saltburn and how it reconnected her to the song that changed everything, Murder on the Dancefloor.

From topping charts in the early 2000s to performing in her kitchen during lockdown, Sophie shares the real story behind her many reinventions. She talks candidly about the highs of her solo career, the heartbreak of a band breakup at 21, and the challenges of early motherhood, pre-eclampsia, and building a creative life around family.

With signature humility and sharp insight, Sophie reflects on the strength she found through setbacks, and how saying “yes” to joy, and to herself, made her happier than ever at 46.

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(01:13) Introduction to Sophie  

(02:41) The ‘Saltburn’ Phenomenon & Recent Success  

(09:37) Sophie's First Record Deal  

(11:36) Losing Her Record Deal  

(13:27) Almost Turning Down "Groovejet"  

(18:12) The Joy of Aging & Falling in Love With Disco  

(20:46) Parenting and Sophie’s Famous Parents  

(31:02) Airbnb Ad  

(32:05) Adobe Ad  

(33:13) Motherhood, Lockdown & the Beginning of Kitchen Disco  

(38:30) Meeting Richard at 22 and Getting Pregnant at 24  

(42:29) Preeclampsia and the Miracle of Birth  

(49:04) Protecting Our Children From the Public Eye  

(53:44) Embarrassing Our Kids and Loving It  

(55:35) Sophie & Richard's 20-Year Marriage  

(01:01:01) Giving Advice & Guiding Our Children  

(01:03:50) The Joys of Kitchen Disco  

(01:06:02) Naming the New Album 'Perimenopop'  

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In this episode of Begin Again, Australian singer songwriter and global pop icon Delta Goodrem shares the deeply personal story behind her sudden and life altering cancer diagnosis at just 18, right as her career was exploding.

From topping charts and starring on Neighbours to waking up in a cold sweat with a terrifying premonition, Delta opens up about the whirlwind that followed. Public scrutiny, treatment in the spotlight, and the emotional toll of losing her voice, her identity, when the world was watching.

She speaks with raw honesty about isolation, resilience, and how it took years to truly come back to herself. Now, decades later, she reflects on the gifts hidden inside the chaos, the support she received, and how gratitude became her way through.

👉 Follow us on Instagram: @beginagain

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Delta: https://www.instagram.com/deltagoodrem/?hl=en

(00:00) Intro

(01:19) Delta’s Story & Starting Over

(03:55) The Power of Language

(04:30) Gratitude and Curiosity About Life

(05:44) First Steps into Acting and Family Support

(07:50) Her Mother’s Accident and Traumatic Birth

(09:44) Musical Beginnings and a Twist of Fate

(12:32) Recording a Demo at 13 and the Sydney Swans Connection

(18:02) Recording Her First Album at 15

(21:16) Trusting Her Inner Voice

(23:07) Landing Neighbours and Rising to Fame

(29:28) Airbnb Ad Break

(30:31) Realizing She Had a Hit

(31:43) A No. 1 Album and Growing Concerns

(36:08) Intuition Before the Storm

(41:09) Cancer Diagnosis at 18

(45:33) Outpouring of Support from Fans and Community

(49:22) Treatment Journey and Road to Recovery

(52:29) Life After Beating Cancer

(54:49) Losing Her Voice and Starting Over Again

(58:58) Letting Go of Control and Resetting

(01:01:42) Meeting Her Partner Matt

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In this episode of Begin Again, Tulisa Contostavlos, N-Dubz star, solo artist, and the youngest judge in X Factor history, shares the untold truth behind her rise, fall, and rebuilding.

From chart-topping success to a leaked tape, depression, and the 2012 drug sting that nearly destroyed her career, Tulisa opens up about betrayal, media pressure, and the darkest years of her life. She speaks candidly about how those experiences pushed her to the edge, and how she found strength, purpose, and spirituality to rebuild.

With her new book Judgement, Tulisa reflects on resilience, survival, and why no matter how far you fall, you can begin again.

💬 Comment below: What part of Tulisa’s story resonates with you most?

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Tulisa's Book: "Judgement": https://geni.us/judgementtulisa

(00:00) Intro  

(01:07) Tulisa: Early Life and Introduction  

(02:56) Tulisa’s New Book “Judgement” Explained  

(03:45) Musical Roots and the Rise of N-Dubz  

(04:59) Growing Up Fast: Life Lessons from a Young Age  

(08:06) Alternative Families: Uncle B and the Misfit Household  

(11:45) N-Dubz Blow Up: Storytelling and Staying Authentic  

(13:41) Becoming an X Factor Judge at Age 22  

(18:55) From Stardom to Homelessness: Tulisa’s Fall  

(22:17) Airbnb Ad  

(23:09) Leaked Tape Scandal and Public Backlash  

(25:50) Depression, Media Attacks, and Mental Health Struggles  

(31:11) Inside the Sting Operation That Targeted Tulisa  

(33:38) Writing “Judgement”: Tulisa’s Process and Purpose  

(35:41) The Drug Sting: What Really Happened  

(47:06) Isolation, Betrayal, and Loss of Trust  

(50:03) The Breaking Story, Suicide Attempt, and Meeting ‘Jacob’  

(56:46) Tulisa’s Spiritual Awakening and Purpose-Driven Life  

(1:07:18) Finding Gratitude and Healing  

– 

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In this episode of Begin Again, Simon Squibb shares his extraordinary story of overcoming adversity, personal transformation, and resilience. From being kicked out of his home at 15 to navigating the harsh realities of homelessness, Simon reveals how these challenges shaped his path to success.

Simon, best known for his social series What's Your Dream, opens up about the pivotal moments in his life, his struggles with loss, survival, and finding purpose, and how these experiences fueled his entrepreneurial journey. With a mission to help others and empower them to pursue their dreams, Simon talks about the power of pain in driving passion, the importance of supporting others, and how his desire to uplift those who are struggling keeps him going.

In this candid conversation, Simon reflects on his unconventional path, the lessons he’s learned about empathy, failure, and rebuilding, and how helping others is the key to finding true happiness.

This episode is a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, it’s never too late to begin again and build a life driven by purpose, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

💬 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway from Simon?

👉 Follow us on Instagram: @beginagain 🎥 Watch more on TikTok: @beginagainpod

Follow Simon here:

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@simonsquibb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonsquibb/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimonSquibb

(00:00) Intro

(01:17) The Power of Helping Others

(03:48) Simon’s Difficult Childhood Story

(06:31) Caring for Himself at Just 8 Years Old

(09:18) Homeless at 15 After Being Kicked Out by His Mother

(11:04) Reflections on Motherhood and Narcissistic Traits

(14:44) Losing His Father at 15 and Lessons Learned

(17:22) Turning Pain Into Motivation to Help Others

(18:37) How Lack of Parental Support Impacts Dreams

(19:30) Life Lessons From Experiencing Homelessness

(23:39) Choosing Money vs. Happiness

(24:26) Airbnb Sponsorship

(25:19) How to Find Your True Purpose in Life

(26:41) Starting His First Business ‘Fluid’ at Age 24

(27:49) The Life-Changing Gift of Giving

(28:53) Supporting and Encouraging Your Partner’s Dreams

(37:10) How Pain Can Drive Your Purpose

(38:55) Why the Education System Fails and How to Successfully Home-School Your Kids

(45:39) Why Failure Is the Key to Success

(49:22) Why You Only Need Your First Customer to Start

(53:41) Practicing Gratitude and Turning Pain Into Strength

(59:07) How to Manage People Who Dislike You

(1:02:46) Simon’s Biggest Dream for the Future

– 

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In this episode of Begin Again, Jo Malone CBE opens up about her incredible journey of resilience, transformation, and reinvention. Best known for creating iconic fragrance brands, Jo takes us behind the scenes of her personal battles—from childhood struggles to surviving breast cancer—and how these challenges fuelled her success and growth.

Jo candidly shares how surviving cancer not only reshaped her outlook on life but also sparked a new chapter of self-discovery and starting over at 50. With deep reflections on faith, family, and perseverance, she reveals how she rebuilt her life and brand after the hardest moments, and how a renewed sense of purpose drives her forward.

In this powerful conversation, Jo talks about the importance of resilience in both life and business, how embracing reinvention can lead to a new beginning, and what it takes to live life on your own terms.

This episode is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of transformation, and the belief that it’s never too late to restart.

💬 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway from Jo’s journey?

👉 Follow us on Instagram: @beginagain 🎥 Watch more on TikTok: @beginagainpod

(00:00) Intro

(00:01:14) Resilience and Career Shifts

(00:03:15) Like & Subscribe!

(00:03:34) Growing Up with a Gambling Father and Working-Class Roots

(00:07:15) Caring for Family: Jo's Early Childhood

(00:12:04) Overcoming School Struggles and Pursuing a Better Future

(00:13:16) Jo's Relationship with Her Mother and Moving Forward

(00:14:50) Moving to London at 16: Beginning a Career

(00:16:05) Faith and Doubt: Jo’s Spiritual Journey

(00:18:51) Ancient & Brave Ad

(00:20:18) Airbnb Ad

(00:21:29) Letting Go of Jo Malone Business and Facing Cancer

(00:29:15) Cancer Surgery and Reconstruction Journey

(00:32:49) Unexpected Participation in Cancer Treatment Trial

(00:35:01) Survival, Hope, and Reclaiming Her Life After Cancer

(00:36:26) Losing Her Sense of Smell During Cancer Treatment

(00:39:12) Leaving Jo Malone London: A Crisis of Identity

(00:42:08) Rediscovering Purpose with Jo Loves

(00:46:35) Overcoming Anxiety and Embracing Change

(00:53:16) Taking a Gap Year at 60

(00:58:11) Jo and Gary’s Relationship and Support

(01:01:26) Smelling Gary’s Illness: A Unique Gift

(01:05:33) Expanding Jo Loves and Exploring the Five Senses

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In this episode of Begin Again, actor, comedian, and writer Tom Davis opens up about the battles behind the laughter—and how sobriety and fatherhood helped him find himself again.

Best known for Murder in Successville, King Gary, and his raw, relatable humour, Tom shares the quieter struggles that shaped his journey: crippling anxiety, imposter syndrome, and the fear that nearly stopped him from ever stepping on a stand-up stage again.

In this intimate and revealing conversation, Tom explains how giving up alcohol brought him clarity, how becoming a father changed everything, and what it took to return to comedy after years of self-doubt. Alongside his partner Kathryn, he also speaks candidly about grief, IVF, and the strength it takes to support a loved one through illness.

This is a powerful story of growth, vulnerability, and learning to show up for the people you love—especially yourself. Whether you're battling self-belief or just need a reminder that it’s never too late to begin again, Tom’s journey is funny, moving, and packed with perspective.

💬 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway from Tom’s journey?

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(00:00) Intro

(00:24) Overcoming Dyslexia: Tom’s School Struggles

(00:59) Imposter Syndrome & Believing in Yourself

(03:50) How Early Jobs Shape Identity

(08:56) Finding Comedy

(14:27) Anxiety and the Pressure to Succeed

(19:16) Losing Yourself on the Path to Success

(25:24) Ancient & Brave Ad

(29:35) Airbnb Ad

(31:02) Supporting a Partner Through Illness

(32:47) Kathryn’s Fertility Journey

(35:17) Coping with Grief: Tom Opens Up

(41:02) Choosing a Surrogate & Quitting Alcohol

(44:02) Gaining Perspective & Returning to Stand-Up

(51:03) Fatherhood and Life with Daughter Grace

(55:11) Lifestyle Changes and Getting Fit

(57:28) Failing Forward: Being Kinder to Yourself

(01:03:25) Tom’s Hero & a Message from Kathryn

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In this episode of Begin Again, Davina sits down with Dr. Sabina Brennan, a leading neuroscientist and brain health expert, to explore how simple lifestyle changes can prevent dementia and enhance brain health. Drawing from her personal experience as a caregiver for her mother, alongside her deep scientific knowledge, Dr. Brennan reveals actionable strategies for boosting cognitive function, preventing dementia, and improving care for those living with it.

Discover how brain health goes beyond genetics and learn practical steps you can take right now to safeguard your mind. Whether you're caring for a loved one with dementia or concerned about your own cognitive future, this episode offers powerful insights, practical tips, and inspiring stories of hope and transformation.

–

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Dr Sabina Brennan:

Linktree to various purchase points of Still Me - https://linktr.ee/stillmesabinabrennan 

Sabina's website - www.sabinabrennan.ie 

–

 (00:01:08) Intro to Sabina and 'Still Me'

(00:02:33) Brain Fog vs. Dementia and Ageism

(00:09:16) The Science Behind Dementia

(00:13:35) How You Can Prevent Dementia

(00:15:03) How Knowledge Impacts Dementia Outcomes

(00:15:45) How to Manifest & What It Really Means

(00:18:14) 3 Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Symptoms of Dementia (00:28:29) Napping & the Importance of Sleep

(00:33:40) Hearing Loss & Dementia

(00:40:52) 12 Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia

(00:45:11) Supporting a Loved One with Dementia

(00:50:28) Live Well While Caring for Someone with Dementia

(00:50:28) Self-Care and Dementia Care

(00:54:55) UTIs, Delirium, and Misunderstood Symptoms

(01:00:15) Davina’s Final Message from Her Father

(01:04:45) Back to 'Still Me' and Poem

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In this episode of Begin Again, award-winning actress, author, and advocate Gillian Anderson opens up about the personal journey behind her public persona. Best known for her iconic roles in The X-Files, The Fall, and Sex Education, Gillian shares how embracing sexuality, owning her fantasies, and confronting shame transformed not only her relationships—but her entire sense of self.

Through honest and intimate conversation, Gillian explores how therapy helped her navigate anxiety from a young age, why women still feel ashamed of desire, and what it really means to speak up about what you want—in bed and in life.

This episode is a powerful exploration of female empowerment, sexual honesty, and emotional courage. Whether you're curious about how to talk about desire, or simply want to understand your own agency more deeply, Gillian's story is raw, relatable, and deeply inspiring.

Packed with wisdom, vulnerability, and breakthrough moments, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in sexual confidence, mental health, and reclaiming your power.

🎙️ Drop a comment: What’s Your Biggest takeaway?

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Buy 'Want' here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/want-9781526657893/

(00:00) Intro

(01:09) Davina Intro

(02:02) Intro & Being a Role Model to Women

(05:47) Gillian's Youth and Cultural Identification

(09:33) Therapy at 14 after Mental Health Struggles

(12:28) Gillian's Big Break at 24

(16:59) Taking Risks in Her Career

(19:50) Family Life and Career Balance

(21:46) Becoming Stella in 'The Fall' and Thatcher in 'The Crown'

(26:43) Air BNB Ad

(27:40) Ancient and Brave Ad

(29:19) New Audiences and Playing Jean in 'Sex Eduaction'

(36:10) Sexual Assault and Recent Discourse

(40:44) Want' and How it Came About

(47:35) Fantasies, Shame and Satisfaction

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In this episode of Begin Again, world-renowned psychiatrist and author of The Chimp Paradox, Professor Steve Peters, shares groundbreaking insights on managing our minds. With decades of experience working with elite athletes and professionals, Steve explains the Chimp Paradox theory, showing how understanding our "inner chimp" can transform mental and emotional well-being.

Steve offers practical strategies to take control of our thoughts, behaviours, and decisions. Learn how to shift negative patterns, improve resilience, and make better choices for personal growth and performance. No matter your background, Steve’s advice helps you unlock your full potential and live a more fulfilling life.

Packed with expert insights and real-world applications, this episode is essential for anyone looking to improve mental strength and well-being.

🎙️ Drop a comment: What’s Your Biggest takeaway?

Follow me here:

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Professor Steve Peters:

(00:00) Intro

(01:16) Origin of the 'Chimp System' & Chimp Paradox Explained (04:39) How 'The Machine' Hijacks Our Lives (06:19) The Amygdala & The First Success of the Chimp Model (08:12) How Steve's Book Changed the Game (08:41) Solving the Puzzle: Helping Others Find Success (09:24) Sports Therapy with Steven Gerrard & Chris Hoy (13:46) Unlocking the Power to Change from Within (17:04) Emotional Scars: Building Resilience in Children (21:04) The Role of Critical Parenting in Child Development (25:03) Navigating Strained Relationships and Making Tough Decisions (28:43) Understanding Your Brain: Living in Your 'Chimp Brain' (32:50) How the Brain Functions Like a Computer (34:56) Gremlins, Beliefs, & Behaviors: Understanding Their Impact (36:52) Life Experiences, Beliefs, and the Power of Reflection (39:56) Relationships, Suffering, & Emotional Growth (42:31) Rewiring Your Brain: Steps to Making Lasting Changes (46:06) Finding a Path Through the Jungle of Life (50:10) Steve's Workshops, Outreach, & Social Media Impact (55:14) Speaking to Your Inner Chimp: Practical Insights (01:01:18) Final Advice from Professor Steve

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In this episode of Begin Again, celebrated relationship expert and Married At First Sight psychologist Mel Schilling shares the most powerful lessons she's learned from decades of guiding couples — and from her own late-in-life love story.

Mel opens up about what dating later in life really looks like, why modern romance requires a different mindset, and how anyone — at any age — can find meaningful connection. She reflects on her journey of becoming a mother in her forties, meeting her partner abroad, and the myths we need to unlearn about love, sex, and intimacy as we age.

With warmth, clarity, and a no-nonsense approach, Mel explains how to keep the spark alive in long-term relationships, why emotional intimacy is often misunderstood, and the practical shifts every couple can make to deepen their connection.

This episode is full of honest insights, surprising truths, and expert strategies for anyone navigating love — whether you're starting over or trying to reignite what you already have.

🎙️ Drop a comment: What’s Your Biggest takeaway?

www.instagram.com/beginagain

https://www.tiktok.com/@beginagainpod00:00 Intro  

01:00 Davina’s Introduction  

01:55 Mutual Appreciation and Warm-Up  

04:22 Mel’s Early Ambition and Power of Manifestation  

07:25 Where Psychology Meets Peak Performance  

09:02 Finding Love Later in Life: Mel’s Story  

11:01 Trust, Safety, and Dating After 40  

13:39 Building a Dating Brand: Self-Awareness and Authenticity  

16:30 Letting Go of Old Identities in Relationships  

19:13 Mindset Shifts That Transform Dating Perspectives  

25:20 Rejection, Resilience, and Emotional Strength in Dating  

29:11 Knowing Your Dealbreakers While Actively Dating  

33:15 Core Relationship Values

35:23 Mel’s Honest Miscarriage Journey  

38:37 The Reality of Sex While Trying to Conceive  

41:13 Mel’s IVF Experience and Emotional Impact  

44:40 Thoughts on Parenthood and Family Life  

47:35 Ancient + Brave Ad

49:04 Davina Reflects on Her Relationship with Michael  

51:45 Ranking Relationship Values with Michael and Davina  

1:13:13 Davina and Michael on Marriage and Commitment  

1:13:45 Which Values Matter Less in a Relationship?  

1:17:37 Understanding Consent in Modern Relationships  

– 

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