Dawn O'Porter, broadcaster and author, discusses stereotypes, grief over losing cats, and the importance of self-expression through writing and communication with Fearne Cotton. They also explore the impact of childhood on personality development and express their disappointment in the unequal treatment between men and women in the public eye.
Writing can be a therapeutic outlet for exploring and expressing grief, such as the loss of a friend like Caroline Flack.
Kindness and empathy are crucial for creating a positive online environment, but skepticism remains about whether the current landscape will change.
Sharing personal experiences of grief can help create meaningful connections and provide support for others going through similar experiences.
Deep dives
The Therapeutic Power of Writing and Expressing Grief
Dawn O'Porter discusses how writing can be a therapeutic outlet, particularly when exploring and expressing grief. She emphasizes the value of keeping a diary or writing in a blog as a way to process emotions and reflect on personal experiences. Dawn shares her own experience of writing about the loss of her friend Caroline Flack and the healing effects it had on her. She also highlights the importance of kindness on social media, while expressing skepticism about whether the current landscape will change. Dawn concludes by emphasizing the need for empathy, understanding, and a mindful approach to online interactions.
Finding Authenticity and Connection Through Writing
Dawn O'Porter and Fern Cotton discuss the joy of writing and connecting with readers through their work. They express their gratitude for the opportunity to be authentic and pursue their passions, as well as the privilege of expressing themselves through writing. Dawn shares her approach to writing, including her commitment to maintaining a loyal audience and providing them with meaningful content. They also reflect on the evolution of their ambitions, from seeking external validation to finding fulfillment in creating work that resonates with a dedicated community.
Navigating Grief and Loss
Dawn O'Porter opens up about navigating grief, particularly after the loss of her close friend Caroline Flack. She discusses how grief is difficult to describe and the unique challenges it presents. Dawn reflects on the ways in which grief changes over time but remains a significant presence in one's life. She emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding when supporting others through grief and highlights the importance of sharing personal experiences to create meaningful connections with others who have experienced loss.
The Impact of Social Media and the Importance of Kindness
Dawn O'Porter and Fern Cotton delve into the impact of social media on mental health and wellbeing. They discuss the negative aspects of online interactions, including trolls and cyberbullying. They express their concern about the lack of kindness and empathy demonstrated online, particularly towards public figures. Dawn shares her decision to leave Twitter and emphasizes the importance of self-care and protecting one's mental health by avoiding unnecessary conflict and negativity. They both emphasize the need for kindness and compassion in all areas of life, both offline and online.
The Joys of Writing and Self-Expression
Dawn O'Porter and Fern Cotton bond over their love for writing and the power of self-expression. They discuss the joy of finding one's voice through writing and the ability to connect with others through shared experiences. Dawn discusses the therapeutic nature of writing, particularly in exploring personal emotions and experiences. She highlights the value of journaling and writing as a means of self-discovery and reflection. Dawn also shares her approach to writing and the satisfaction of building a supportive community through her blog.
Stereotypes – the cat lady, the mother, the wife – can make us feel we need to play a part to fit the role others have cast us as. Broadcaster and author Dawn O’Porter wonders whether, far from being an entirely negative thing, sometimes that’s a necessary survival method.
In this chat, Fearne and Dawn share their experiences of grief after losing their cats, as well as their thoughts on making a point of crying when they’re alone. Dawn says she has a bit of a rebellious spirit, and explores how she’s very much a product of her early years.