Begin Again with Davina McCall

In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with world-renowned happiness expert, bestselling author, and leadership coach Robin Sharma for a powerful and heartfelt conversation about how we can all live more meaningful, joyful lives.

Robin shares the transformative lessons that reshaped his own path — from breaking free of fear and self-doubt, to embracing silence, journaling, spiritual practice, and daily routines as tools for happiness and self-mastery. With his signature mix of depth and clarity, he explains how small shifts in mindset and behaviour can lead to radical change — no matter your age or stage in life.

Together, Davina and Robin explore the truth about reinvention, the neuroscience of fulfilment, and the emotional power of letting go of what no longer serves you. They unpack how to parent with purpose, create space for stillness, and age with intention and grace — while staying connected to your deepest values.

This is a conversation about starting over, showing up, and choosing joy on purpose. Grounded, inspiring, and rich with wisdom — Robin’s message is a timely reminder that it’s never too late to begin again.

📢 We’d love to hear from you: What’s one habit you’ll adopt to boost your happiness after listening?

Robin’s mentoring programme The Deep Magic of Daily Consistency, is available now with 10% off for Begin Again Listeners at: https://bolindaoriginals.supercast.com/?coupon=DAVINA

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(00:00) Intro

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In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with the brilliant Deborah Frances-White — comedian, author, and host of The Guilty Feminist — for a raw and courageous conversation about truth, identity, and the power of difficult conversations.

Deborah opens up about her early life in a high-control religious group and the journey of breaking free from the Jehovah’s Witnesses to forge a new life on her own terms. She shares the challenges of navigating identity, belonging, and voice — and how comedy became both a lifeline and a catalyst for change.

Drawing on her new book Six Conversations We’re Scared to Have, Deborah reveals why the hardest conversations — about religion, race, gender, money, and grief — are the ones that have the power to transform us. She shares practical insights for tackling the conversations we often avoid, and how facing discomfort with honesty can lead to deeper connection, freedom, and growth.

This is a conversation about reclaiming your story, challenging silence, and daring to speak the unspeakable. It’s honest, funny, fearless — and an invitation to live with more courage and compassion.

📢 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway? 

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In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with the brilliant Kimberley Wilson — Chartered Psychologist, brain health expert, and author — for a powerful conversation about the science of the mind, and how we can all take better care of our brains.

Kimberly unpacks the latest research around dementia, and challenges the idea that brain decline is just an inevitable part of aging. Instead, she offers practical, science-backed strategies that put the power back in our hands. 

In this honest and enlightening discussion, Kimberley explains why what we eat, how we sleep, how we move — and how we feel — all play a vital role in protecting our minds. She talks candidly about the myths we’ve been told about memory, menopause, and mental wellbeing, and why it’s never too early — or too late — to start caring for our brains.

This is a conversation about ownership, understanding, and the radical potential of prevention. Bringing clarity, calm, and compassion to a topic that affects us all — and her message is as inspiring as it is empowering.

📢 Drop a comment: How much focus do you put on Brain health & what’s your biggest takeaway? 

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(00:00) Intro

(01:28) Davina Introduction

(03:36) Why Our Brains Are Always Hungry

(10:12) Connecting Nutrition and Mental Health

(11:23) The Rise of Dementia and Its Impact on Women

(18:43) How Stress Affects the Body

(22:29) Aging, Fear, and Self-Perception

(26:03) Why Brain Health Depends on Nutrition

(32:53) The Wonders of the Brain

(37:11) Life 360 Ad

(38:17) What Supplements Should You Be Taking?

(44:24) The Importance of Exercise for Mental Health

(49:44) The Vagus Nerve Explained

(54:30) Emotions and Their Connection to the Body

(1:00:15) How to Talk to Children About Their Bodies

(1:04:34) The Truth About Fasting

(1:11:06) How to Eat More Nutritiously

(1:16:33) Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

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In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with old friend and renowned chef and TV personality, Andi Oliver, to discuss the challenges that shaped her life and career. Andi opens up about her difficult childhood, her early experiences with racism, and the impact these had on her journey. She reflects on her time in the pioneering band Rip Rig + Panic and the profound loss of her older brother, Sean, whose passing led Andi to struggle with an eating disorder. Through it all, Andi has repeatedly reinvented herself, embracing the ethos that “you just have to do it, even if it scares you.” In this candid conversation, Andi shares how she has navigated grief, growth, and the constant reinvention of her life, emerging as a powerful and inspiring figure who continues to face each challenge with resilience and determination.

📢 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway?

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(00:00) Intro  

(02:33) Davina and Andi Reunite  

(03:31) Childhood Memories  

(04:10) Growing Up in Cyprus  

(09:21) Returning to 70s Britain: Racism and Escapism  

(14:41) Moving to London at 16: A New Beginning  

(24:59) Motherhood, Career Risks, and Personal Growth  

(28:32) London’s Music Scene and Meeting Neneh Cherry  

(31:08) Ancient & Brave Ad  

(45:15) Impact of Sickle Cell and the Death of Andi's Brother Sean  

(46:37) Coping With Loss: Remembering Sean Oliver  

(54:00) Overcoming an Eating Disorder and Rediscovering a Love for Food  

(01:06:21) Finding Broadcasting  

(01:20:56) Cooking as Art and Creative Expression  

(01:24:22) Andi and Miquita’s Journey Through the Caribbean  

(01:26:06) Overcoming Fear and Hosting Primetime TV  

(01:30:34) The Journey To Self Love

(01:44:52) Key Takeaway's  

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In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with Trisha Goddard, the renowned TV host and mental health advocate, to discuss her experience after being diagnosed with cancer for the second time. Trisha opens up about her decision to join Big Brother despite living with a life-limiting illness, sharing the strength and perspective that led her to make this choice. Alongside her, Trisha’s daughter, Billie, offers an honest look at what it’s like to be the family member of someone living with cancer. Together, they explore the complexities of illness, the importance of living authentically, and finding purpose in uncertain times. This episode is a candid conversation about the realities of living with cancer and the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter.

📢 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway?

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Maggie’s: https://www.maggies.org/cancer-support/ 

(00:00:44) Intro

(00:02:44) Joining Celebrity Big Brother

(00:08:52) Parents and Childhood

(00:13:00) Having Masculine Energy

(00:15:29) Trisha's Childhood in East Africa

(00:16:43) Close Maternal Bond

(00:17:24) Overcoming Racial Abuse & Childhood Trauma

(00:25:32) Death of Her Mother

(00:30:04) Adobe Ad

(00:31:08) Ancient & Brave Ad

(00:32:24) Trisha's Accident and Cancer Diagnosis

(00:37:33) Wedding to Her Current Husband

(00:41:30) Working During Cancer Treatment

(00:43:42) Language Around Cancer

(00:55:47) Losing Friendships in Turmoil

(01:00:28) Challenges in Asking for Help

(01:04:05) The ‘Gifts’ of Cancer

(01:07:28) Finding Her Soulmate

(01:13:18) Why I Don’t Have a Bucket List!

(01:15:03) Why I’m Doing Big Brother!

(01:17:35) How Has the Diagnosis Changed You?

(01:19:23) Trisha's Daughter Billie Joins

(01:35:33) Davina’s Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall is joined by iconic shoe designer turned psychedelic healer Patrick Cox. From the heights of fashion fame to the depths of identity loss and grief, Patrick opens up about losing everything—including his father to suicide—and how his journey with psychedelics helped him find joy, purpose, and a new beginning. Raw, uplifting, and deeply human, this is a story about healing, transformation, and the power of change at any stage of life.

📢 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway? Would you consider trying psychedelics for mental wellness? Yes, no, or maybe?

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Doors of Perception: http://www.doorsofperception-ibiza.com/ 

(00:00) Intro  

(03:25) Davina Introduces Patrick Cox  

(04:25) Catching Up: Davina and Patrick Reunite  

(05:56) Patrick’s Early Life in Africa, Canada, and Family  

(09:38) From Toronto to London: A Creative Journey  

(14:16) Fashion Beginnings and Working With Vivienne Westwood  

(19:04) The Birth of the Iconic Wannabe Loafer  

(24:40) The Rise and Success of Patrick Cox  

(28:10) Car Accident, Mental Health Struggles, and Leaving the Brand  

(40:52) Healing Through Animals: Getting a Dog  

(44:12) Rebuilding Identity After Crisis  

(46:41) Lathbridge Shoes, Moving to Ibiza, and Rehab  

(53:14) Microdosing and Self-Medication for Recovery  

(55:19) Life-Changing Experience With Psychedelic Toad  

(1:14:46) Meeting Caesar and Training as a Toad Shaman  

(1:31:34) The Future of Psychedelics in Wellness  

(1:34:33) Rediscovering Creativity and the Doors of Perception  

(1:40:14) Coping With the Death of Patrick’s Father  

(1:46:00) Facing Another Crisis and Finding Inner Peace  

(1:49:25) Final Thoughts From Davina 

This episode is sponsored by:

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In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall is joined by renowned psychotherapist and bestselling author Owen O’Kane to unravel one of the most pressing mental health issues of our time: anxiety. Drawing from decades of clinical experience—and his own personal journey—Owen breaks down why anxiety has become so deeply embedded in modern life. He explains how our fast-paced world, past traumas, and inner narratives keep us trapped in cycles of stress and fear. But this conversation isn’t just about understanding anxiety—it’s about learning how to break free from it. With warmth, clarity, and powerful insights from his new book Addicted to Anxiety, Owen shares practical tools that can help you feel calmer, more in control, and truly at peace. Eye-opening, compassionate, and packed with real-life solutions, this episode is a lifeline for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed.

📢 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway? Has your life been impacted by Anxiety? 

📖 Owen's Book 'Addicted To Anxiety': https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/462479/addicted-to-anxiety-by-okane-owen/9780241728321

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Owens Book Available here: 

(00:00) Intro

(01:21) Davina’s Introduction

(01:53) Why We Need to Understand Anxiety

(06:59) How My Anxiety Experience Inspired Me to Help Others

(11:50) Can You Be Addicted to Anxiety?

(23:07) Adobe Ad

(24:11) Ancient & Brave Ad

(25:46) Breaking the Stigma Around Anxiety and Depression

(31:30) How to Stay Authentic and Check In With Yourself

(41:07) Reclaiming Your Energy: Taking Control and Letting Go

(50:20) Finding Pride in Progress and Personal Growth

(57:07) A Heartfelt Thanks to Owen

(57:56) Davina's Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with Nicola Kilner, the powerhouse CEO behind beauty empire DECIEM and founder of The Ordinary, to explore the highs and heartbreaking lows of her journey. From co-founding a $2.2 billion beauty empire in her 20s to navigating the tragic downfall of her business partner, Brandon Truaxe, Nicola opens up about the immense challenges she’s faced. She reflects on her father’s struggle with alcoholism, the resilience it instilled in her from a young age, and the lessons she’s learned about leadership, loss, and finding purpose in chaos. Raw, inspiring, and deeply personal—this is a story of strength, survival, and redefining success on your own terms.

📢 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway? 

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(00:00) Intro

(02:14) Nicola’s Childhood and Her Father’s Struggles with Alcohol

(13:55) Early Entrepreneurial Spirit and the Power of Kindness

(18:40) Meeting Brandon: A Life-Changing Connection

(20:17) The Beginnings of Deciem: A Vision Takes Shape

(23:37) How The Ordinary Was Born

(31:51) (Ancient & Brave Ad)

(33:10) (Adobe Ad)

(34:13) Brandon’s Experimentation with Drugs

(48:16) The Public Downfall

(1:08:17) The Tragic Loss of Brandon

(1:15:55) Recognizing the Signs and Offering Support

(1:20:18) Starting Over and Finding Joy in Life

(1:27:58) Championing Mothers in the Workplace

(1:38:06) Davina’s Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with leading medical scientist Dr. Federica Amati to explore the fascinating link between alcohol and brain health. With Alzheimer’s on the rise, Federica unpacks the latest research on how certain drinking habits could protect against cognitive decline—while others may do more harm than we realize. She breaks down the science, busts common myths, and shares practical ways to make smarter choices for long-term health.

Eye-opening, empowering, and packed with must-know insights—this is a conversation that could change the way you think about alcohol.

📢 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway? Have your views on alcohol changed?

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Everybody should know this: 

https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/458947/every-body-should-know-this-by-amati-dr-federica/9780241679616 

(00:00) Intro

(02:02) The Impact of Lifestyle on Chronic Illnesses

(03:09) How Where You Live Impacts Your Diet

(06:19) How Much of a Difference Can Lifestyle Change Make?

(07:16) Diet as a Part of Culture

(10:10) The Truth About Ultra-Processed Foods

(13:38) Fear Around Food: Why Are We So Anxious About Eating?

(16:04) Why Nutrition Advice Is So Confusing

(18:35) How Much Fiber Should We Eat & What’s the Best Source?

(23:58) Is Coffee Good for You?

(32:18) Myths About Alcohol: What Science Says

(37:30) Are Carbs Bad for Us?

(38:35) Zoe Ad

(39:57) Why Fruit Is Essential for a Healthy Diet

(41:45) Are Oats Actually Healthy?

(44:41) Do We Really Need Supplements?

(52:13) Allergies & the Microbiome: Can We Train Our Gut for Prevention?

(56:22) Does the Sequence of Food Matter?

(57:55) Have We Lost Our Love of Eating?

(1:02:06) Eating Mindfully: How to Build a Better Relationship With Food

(1:04:59) Teaching Children About Food & Nutrition

(1:08:01) Menopause & Food: What You Need to Know

(1:15:04) How Much Protein Should We Consume?

(1:20:01) How to Build Muscle as You Age

(1:23:09) How Diet Impacts Lifespan & Longevity

(1:25:41) Frederica's Book - "Every Body Should Know This"

(1:27:36) Davina's Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with former rugby player Ed Jackson to explore his extraordinary journey of resilience and reinvention. After a devastating spinal injury ended his career, Ed was forced to confront his own mortality—but instead of giving up, he found a new purpose. He shares the mindset shifts that helped him defy expectations, the road to recovery, and how his near-death experience inspired him to live life to the fullest. From scaling mountains against all odds to empowering others to overcome their own challenges, Ed’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, hope, and the strength of the human spirit. Inspiring, uplifting, and deeply moving—this is one you won’t want to miss.

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(00:00) Intro

(01:38) Childhood and Beginnings in Rugby

(06:51) The Power of Luck

(08:33) Parenting: Nature vs. Nurture

(14:26) Rugby Career

(16:30) Falling in Love

(19:01) The Accident That Changed Everything

(30:36) Confronting Death and Embracing Life

(36:38) Adobe Ad

(37:54) Life360 Ad

(39:03) Falling in Love With Being Alive

(44:59) Paralysis and His Time in the Hospital

(48:13) How My Support Network Saved My Life

(51:02) Finding Motivation and the Road to Rehabilitation

(54:06) The Recovery Journey

(1:03:06) The Role of Friends and Family in Recovery

(1:13:13) Millimeters to Mountains: A New Mission

(1:27:25) Almost Dying on a Mountain

(1:37:59) My Most Important Life Lessons

(1:42:09) Being a Role Model and Redefining Masculinity

(1:46:05) Final Thoughts with Davina

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