Daddy Issues Podcast

England Seven's star, Alex Davis, lost his father after a shock diagnosis of ALL (acute lymphoblastic leukaemia) having thought his Dad's trip to the doctor was about to result in an 'all clear' after his 5 year battle with prostate cancer. This happened just at the point when Alex's career as a Rugby player - a dream of both his and his dads - was really starting to take off. What happened instead was an emotional breakdown and bought of depression. Sadly, we didn't get to brush on this side of things too much as (as ever) we didn't have enough time. However, what Alex brings to the surface is an invaluable insight into the father/son relationship, stigma's and taboo's around ideas of masculinity, openness and vulnerability, and the adoration and devotion between a father and a son.

Poppy Chancellor is a London based illustrator specialising in papercutting. Poppy grew up with a father who she adored, but was an addict and complete free-spirit. Just over 3 years ago, her father lost his two year battle to cancer. Poppy coped by staying in denial about his death until early this year when her grief finally overwhelmed her, and she had to confront his loss. She realised she needed to speak out about how she was feeling, and so decided to start Griefcase, a monthly meet up in London where anyone can come and talk, write or express all things grief. Poppy's story is hilarious, heart-warming and, as always, deeply inspiring.

Dylan Jones is the renowned, award-winning editor of GQ magazine. Dylan was physically beaten by his father growing up, and so when he left home aged 16, he carved out a new life for himself in London, throwing himself into art school. He speaks for those who haven't linked any part of their drive, motivation and success to their relationship with their father.

Simran Randhawa is a model, journalist and leading voice in the contemporary British Asian dialogue. Simran comes with a story often overlooked: *What are the effects for girls with dads in prison?* An example to follow, and a voice for this generation, her story of fatherlessness will speak for so many who have yet to be listened to or heard.

Julia Samuel MBE is the renowned British psychotherapist whose extensive work with bereavement and children has not only earned her an MBE, but also a best-selling book, Grief Works: Stories of Life, Death and Surviving. This episode is a little different to Daddy Issues' other episodes, as Julia is giving her expert and professional insight on some of the subjects and issues raised throughout Daddy Issues. If you'd like to find out more about Julia, as well as have access to some incredibly helpful guides for dealing with grief and loss, visit her website www.griefworks.co.uk.

Nelli Davis is an author, an internationally renowned lifestyle and fitness guru. When he was 10 years old, Nelli’s father murdered his mother. Nelli would give the key testimony in the murder trial that would send his father to prison for the rest of his life. Little did he know that in nine years time, he would come face-to-face with him again in the most unexpected circumstances.

Sir Tim Waterstone is Britains biggest book tycoon, having built the Waterstone's empire that started with one small bookshop in 1982. He first opened up about his traumatic relationship with his father 4 years ago, at the age of 76, in his moving and inspiring memoir, 'The Face Pressed Against a Window'. There was so much more to hear about his story...luckily, there is a memoir! An incredible man, who after enduring relentless emotional abuse and rejection from his father growing up, went on to become one of Britain's most successful and admired businessmen.

Joss Meek is a partner at Wired PR, an exciting music publicity company, and she personally represents incredible artists, such as AJ Tracey, Jorja Smith and Jimothy Lacoste. Joss is the child of an addict. Her father - although loving, dedicated and completely adoring of her - suffered from alcoholism, which eventually, tragically, led to his premature death.

Leah, current Head of Internal Communications at Close Brothers and Director of Humanize Communications, comes with a story that is unique to Daddy Issues. This episode not only addresses fatherlessness, but also motherlessness. Leah was orphaned by the tender age of 3 from a car accident in which both she and her brother survived. Leah's story is one which will not only move you, make you laugh and inspire you, but also one that is full of surprises, touching on grief in a way Daddy Issues has yet to explore.

Emily Warburton-Adams is an entrepreneur specialising in wellness, sustainability and social impact. She is the co-founder of POW Food and ambassador for MQ mental health charity. When this episode was recorded, Emily's father had only passed away 4 months previous to a cancerous tumour that had silently plagued his body. Emily's episode reveals a fascinating parallel between girls who grow up fatherless, and losing your father in your later years.