Mark Billingham spent three decades in the armed forces, including time in the elite SAS squadron. But what led him there? 'Billy' talks about his rough upbringing in the Midlands, and how it could have all been very different if it wasn't for a chance meeting and the sport of boxing. Plus he reveals how a bad accident almost prevented everything from happening at all! Another great listen. Sponsored by Bose. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bitesize: Mark Billingham - Early life and joining the forces

In The Pink is the podcast in which Natalie Pinkham talks to a cross section of interesting people, finding out about their childhoods, careers, regrets and aspirations; hear exactly what makes them tick. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Something a bit different on In The Pink now, not one but three very special guests. Natalie is joined by Richard Branson, his son Sam and his daughter Holly. Hear a unique insight into life in the Branson Family. What is Richard really like as a father and grandfather? Who wears the trousers in his marriage? And what makes the family tick? Hear what really matters to them all in politics, business and life. This is the most intimate profile yet of the family behind the global business empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Full episode: Behind Richard Branson!

Now we catch up with the incredibly impressive Helen Skelton. Is there anything the former Blue Peter presenter can't do? As well as learning golf alongside Natalie, the 37-year-old also impressed on the gruelling 'SAS Who Dares Wins' programme where she went through some of the military's toughest tests. And if you thought that was hard, the mother of two also managed to complete the Namibia Ultra Marathon, which is a series of three marathons across the dessert in boiling temperatures...impressive is an understatement. She discusses how she manages to do these things whilst balancing motherhood and her other jobs! Another one not to miss, so have a listen! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Full episode: Overcoming challenges with Helen Skelton

Next up for this series is Sky Sports News presenter Bela Shah. We discuss her unusual journey from law, to presenting one of the biggest sports news programmes in the world. But it's not been straight forward, changing a career path late on and fighting stereotypes in a male-orientated workplace. We also talk about her golf progression and why it's never too late to start the sport. Bela and Natalie prepare to compete in a brand new golf competition with two other women, who feature in the series. Bela is truly inspiring, so don't miss out and have a listen! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Full episode: Catching up with Sky Sports News presenter Bela Shah

Now for a serious gear change! We leave the racing world and speak to the wonderfully talented Fleur East. Most of you will know her from knockout performances on the X-Factor, where she sprung to fame singing Mark Ronson's massive hit 'Up Town Funk.' But there is so much more to her than that! She's also part of the fab four that have been tasked with learning golf in just six months, our host Natalie Pinkham joins her! Fleur also talks about her route and inspirations behind the music and even gives a private rendition of her favourite Alicia Keys song! A great listen and one not to miss! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Full Episode: Fleur East - Behind the music

It's another one for all you racing fans! Next up is former Force India star Paul di Resta. The Scot discusses his route into professional racing through carting and what it was like finally catching his big break at the top of the sport. Although he's not been a lead driver since 2013, di Resta has still made some appearances, most notably standing in at short notice for Felipe Massa in 2017. Di Resta's career hasn't just been on the track, he's now turned into a leading pundit and commentator with Sky Sports. He talks about the transition to that and has his say on the Lewis Hamilton v Max Verstappen debate. Keep listening, they'll be plenty more great guests on the way! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bitesize: Mark Billingham - Early life and joining the forces

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