Denise Lewis, Chris Chibnall, Shân Veillard-Thomas, Rachel Burden
Mar 22, 2025
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Join Chris Chibnall, a skilled screenwriter known for Broadchurch and Doctor Who, alongside Olympian Denise Lewis and former army lieutenant Shân Veillard-Thomas. They discuss the power of adaptability in their diverse journeys. From overcoming personal fears to embracing change, the trio shares inspiring anecdotes that resonate with resilience. Denise reveals how music has shaped her identity, while Shân highlights her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. Together, they celebrate the transformative impact of community and creativity in their lives.
Denise Lewis highlights the transformative power of embracing change, particularly in stepping out from being an athlete to a broadcaster.
Chris Chibnall's story of reconnecting with his birth mother illustrates how confronting personal histories can redefine one's identity and family dynamics.
Sian Bayard-Thomas's experience of abseiling symbolizes the courage required to face fears, essential for growth in both personal and professional realms.
Deep dives
The Power of Embracing Change
Change is a crucial element in personal growth, as highlighted by the experiences shared by the guests. Denise Lewis spoke about her transition from Olympic athlete to broadcaster, emphasizing the challenges she faced in stepping out of her comfort zone, particularly regarding public speaking. She recounted accepting an invitation to join the presentation team for the London 2012 Olympics, describing the mix of fear and excitement that came with this new role. This move exemplified her willingness to embrace change and her journey toward self-discovery and empowerment.
Taking Emotional Risks
Chris Chibnall recounts a significant emotional risk he took upon discovering that his birth mother wanted to make contact. This revelation came during a time when he and his wife were expecting their first child, creating a profound opportunity for self-reflection. Although it brought uncertainty regarding his identity and family dynamics, he ultimately decided to pursue this connection, leading to meaningful outcomes. His story illustrates the profound impact that addressing personal histories can have on one's sense of identity and family.
Facing Fears and Overcoming Challenges
Sian Bayard-Thomas shared her experience of abseiling despite her fear of heights while attending an event for veterans. This challenge served as a metaphor for the larger risks she has faced throughout her life, particularly in leaving the military and finding her new purpose in coaching and mediation. The act of abseiling symbolized the courage required to confront one's fears and embrace transformation in personal and professional spheres. Successfully overcoming such a daunting task left her with a renewed sense of achievement and confidence, underscoring the importance of facing fears head-on.
Resilience Through Reinvention
Denise Lewis emphasized the ongoing journey of self-reinvention and resilience throughout her life. Reflecting on her 52 years, she described how her understanding of personal power has evolved through experiences of love, loss, and personal challenges. With a strong focus on self-care and wellness, she strives to continuously improve herself while balancing her responsibilities as a mother and public figure. Her story serves as inspiration for others to invest in their health and embrace life's transitions, reinforcing that the journey of growth is both challenging and essential.
Writing as a Form of Expression
Chris Chibnall discussed his journey from being a fan of Doctor Who to becoming a key writer for the series, and eventually, releasing his debut novel. This transition reflects his lifelong passion for storytelling and the significance of nurturing one's creative impulses. His writing not only serves as a form of self-expression but also as a medium to explore complex themes within tight-knit communities, similar to the settings he has previously portrayed in television. This shift into novel writing represents both a new chapter in his career and a continued engagement with the elements of suspense and mystery that define his storytelling style.
