Michelle was joined by David Clark from Ghost Hunt Events – just in time for Halloween!
He shared spine-tingling stories, real-life paranormal encounters, and the most haunted spots you won’t want to visit alone…

Ghost Hunt Events – Kent’s popular Ghost Hunting Company

IN CONVERSATION

The post Do You Believe? Paranormal Insights with David Clark from Ghost Hunt Events appeared first on Phoenix FM.

In this powerful local interview, Michelle spoke to Peter Graham from Brentwood Food Bank alongside regular guest Tracey Johnson from Vita Health Group (NHS Talking Therapies) to talk openly about mental health, crisis support, and community care.

Peter shares how the Food Bank supports those in urgent need – from how to access help to donating and getting involved. Brentwood Foodbank | Helping Local People in Crisis

Each month the Food Bank website will show items that they are running low on. You can donate at the following locations.

CURRENT DONATIONS NEEDED (Please check the website each week as this will change)

•Tinned Corned Beef/Ham

Tracey breaks down the free, confidential therapy services available in our area – covering everything from depression, anxiety, stress, menopause, illness, and more. Best of all, no GP visit needed – you can refer yourself. Basildon & Brentwood – Vita Health Group

Whether you’re struggling or want to help others – this conversation is for you.
Real talk. Real support. Right here in Brentwood.

IN CONVERSATION

Peter Graham (Brentwood Food Bank)

Tracey Johnson (Vita Health Group/NHS Talking Therapies)

The post Brentwood Cares: Food Bank Access & Mental Health for All appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Joining me, Michelle Ward, on today’s Eat My Brunch Show was the brilliant Sylvia Kent — award-winning author, freelance columnist, and a passionate voice for writers and readers across Essex and beyond.

Sylvia has published work in the UK, USA, and internationally. Her latest title, Brentwood in 50 Buildings (Amberley Publishing), is available now on Amazon and in bookshops. She’s also contributed to Channel 5’s County Secrets, drawing from her book Folklore of Essex, and her writing has featured in over 80 publications worldwide.

A former Freelance Writer of the Year (Writing Magazine), Sylvia joined us to talk about her role as archivist and Fellow of the Society of Women Writers and Journalists (SWWJ), for whom she wrote The Woman Writer (The History Press) — a fascinating history of the organisation and the pioneering women behind it.

We also chatted about her work as President of Brentwood Writers’ Circle, her support for the Billericay Readers Group, and how she continues to inspire and promote local writing talent.

Sylvia’s books are available on Amazon and Kindle, and you can follow her on Facebook, Twitter @sylviaakent, and via her many radio appearances including Phoenix FM and BBC Essex.

IN CONVERSATION

The post Sylvia Kent on Brentwood, Books and the Power of Words appeared first on Phoenix FM.

At nearly 90, Brian Hughes is nothing short of a whirlwind. With a photographic memory and razor-sharp wit, he’s a man who seems to defy time. A long-standing solicitor — still practising part-time — Brian has turned his talents to writing in his semi-retirement, bringing history vividly to life through his personal lens.

In this interview, Brian joins us to talk about his second book, Here Comes Trouble: The Life and Times of a Very English Schoolboy 1936–1954 — a fascinating, funny, and deeply human memoir capturing not just one boy’s journey, but the spirit of a generation shaped by war and change.

Awarded an MBE in 1995 for his outstanding service to the community, Brian is described by those who know him best as “upside down, inside out and everything in between.” Fittingly, he made his entrance into the world feet first — and hasn’t slowed down since.

A first cousin of the late comedian and actor Dudley Moore, Brian’s life has been as colourful and compelling as any film script. His second memoir paints a vivid picture of wartime childhood, post-war austerity, and the kind of resilience and humour that only those born in the 1930s truly understand.

Listen as Brian shares memories, mischief, and the moments that shaped a very English life.

Here Comes Trouble: The Life and Times of a Very English Schoolboy 1936–1954 available on Amazon and all good bookshops.

Picture Brian Hughes and Sylvia Kent

IN CONVERSATION

The post Here Comes Trouble: A Life Less Ordinary – Brian Hughes in Conversation appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Joining me, Michelle Ward, on the Eat my Brunch Show today was Sylvia Kent. Sylvia is an award-winning author and freelance columnist, with published work in the UK, USA, and internationally. Her latest book, Brentwood in 50 Buildings (Amberley Publishing), is available on Amazon and in bookshops. Sylvia has written for 81 publications and contributed to Channel 5’s County Secrets through her book Folklore of Essex.

A former Freelance Writer of the Year (Writing Magazine), Sylvia is also the author of The Woman Writer (The History Press), exploring the history of the SWWJ and its pioneering women in journalism and literature. She is the Society’s archivist, a Fellow and scholarship recipient, and twice winner of the John Walter Salver.

Currently President of Brentwood Writers’ Circle, Sylvia regularly broadcasts on Phoenix FM, BBC Essex, and other stations. Find her work on Amazon, Kindle, Facebook, Twitter @sylviaakent, with film and audio clips also available online.

SYLVIA KENT’S READING & WRITING FORUM

ABOUT 60 SECOND HISTORY

Sylvia knows her history and it was with this in mind that I asked her to do a feature 60 SECOND HISTORY every month on the show. Its to give a quick look, 60 seconds, into mostly Brentwood or nearby history. Its a very popular feature on the Station. Michelle x

The post 60 Second History: Brentwood Council Offices appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Lady McAdden Breast Cancer Trust is an Essex-based charity offering one-to-one breast health nurse appointments , no GP referral needed. Support is available both online and in person, before, during, and after breast cancer.

As an independent charity, Lady McAdden relies on donations, fundraising, and occasional grants. While not part of the NHS, they work closely with GPs to ensure everyone gets the care they need.

This is a FREE Service.

I chatted with CEO, Esther Taylor, about their amazing work at the Trust.

INTERVIEW

SOCIALS

Lady McAdden – Breast Cancer – Breast advice, awareness and education

The post Breast Health Matters: The Work Behind Lady McAdden Trust appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Michelle was joined by 13 year old blues rock indie artist,  Amelie. Her current release MADE IT THROUGH is out now and its outstanding!

INTERVIEW

(8) Instagram

The post Blues rock indie artist,  Amelie has arrived appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Amy Baker Talks New Release WISE MAN, Life in Gran Canaria, and Upcoming UK Gigs

Local singer-songwriter Amy Baker has just dropped her stunning new track WISE MAN — a soulful, heartfelt release that showcases her incredible voice and stunning harmonies.

The song opens with raw, stripped-back vocals and gradually builds into something truly powerful. It stands apart from today’s pop landscape, pulling you into something special and timeless.

In this interview, Amy shares the story behind WISE MAN, and gives us a glimpse into her current life in Gran Canaria with partner Tommy. Together, they perform as a duo known for their powerhouse vocals, guitar, and live looping, earning a strong reputation on the island’s music scene. The Perfect Numbers are not to be missed!

Not only did I find out that Amy had gone to the same school as me, so did Jessie J! Obviously they were both at the school many years after me!

Amy and Tommy will be back in the UK later this September for a run of live gigs — not to be missed!

INTERVIEW

bakeramysinger | Facebook | Linktree

The post Amy Baker Returns with Soul & Power – New Single WISE MAN appeared first on Phoenix FM.

You’ve probably heard GLOW all over your FYP. It’s got that perfect blend of R&B, Hip Hop, jazz, Neo-soul, and Reggae vibes, and it’s also made its way onto our Phoenix FM Chart! I caught up with Caesar to chat about the track, his musical inspirations, creative process, and what’s next for him.

Tune in to hear the story behind the song and get to know the artist behind the sound that’s lighting up your feed.

INTERVIEW

Caesar | Instagram, TikTok | Linktree

The post Caesar Talks ‘GLOW’: The Track That’s Taking Over Your FYP appeared first on Phoenix FM.

I was joined by Louise Barrett BEM, Director of REACH – the Rehabilitation, Education & Assessment Centre for Hippotherapy.

INTERVIEW

Founded in 2014 by Louise, a Chartered Physiotherapist and trained Hippotherapist, REACH provides vital Equine Assisted Therapy in Essex, including:

This incredible charity supports individuals through the healing power of horses and outdoor therapy.

Don’t miss their Fun Day on Sunday 7th September, 11am–3pm – a brilliant opportunity to support, learn, and get involved!

Find out more about their work at  REACH

(1) Facebook

The post REACH – Saddle Up for REACH’s Family Fun Day appeared first on Phoenix FM.