Reggie Yates, a longtime friend of the host, talks about their friendship, working together, and traveling. They discuss their early experiences in the TV industry, filming a road trip TV show in America, Reggie's time on 'Smile', changing mindset of men on emotional awareness, and the importance of asking for help.
The importance of using platforms for positive change and focusing on important causes
The significance of setting emotional boundaries and seeking therapy to navigate intense experiences
Deep dives
Regie Aids and Fern Cotton reconnect on their friendship and growth
In this podcast episode, Fern Cotton welcomes her long-time friend, Regie Aids, to discuss their friendship and personal growth. They reflect on their early days in TV and the challenges they faced, including the pressure and mass opinion they encountered at a young age. Regie shares his journey into factual programming and how it changed his perspective on entertainment and the importance of using his platform for positive change. They also reminisce about their road trip series 'Only in America', highlighting the personal growth and deep conversations they experienced together during their travels. Through therapy, setting boundaries, and leaning on loved ones, Regie navigates the emotional toll of immersing himself in intense documentary subjects. They conclude by discussing the changing attitudes towards mental health and the importance of asking for help.
The impact of TV on Regie Aids and Fern Cotton's personal growth
Regie Aids and Fern Cotton explore the influence of their early TV careers on their personal growth. They discuss the challenges of being in the public eye from a young age, including the pressure of mass opinion and the scrutiny of their appearances. Regie shares how his experiences working in TV led him to shift his focus towards factual programming and using his platform for important causes. Fern reflects on the moments of growth they experienced together during their road trip series 'Only in America', emphasizing the deep conversations and personal connections they formed. They highlight the need for men to be more open about their feelings, encourage seeking therapy, and express gratitude for the support system they have in their friends and loved ones.
Regie Aids on learning boundaries and safeguarding his well-being
Regie Aids opens up about his journey of learning boundaries and protecting his well-being while immersing himself in intense documentary subjects. He discusses the need to set emotional boundaries to avoid becoming too emotionally invested in the stories he covers. Through therapy and the support of friends and loved ones, he creates a process for transitioning back to his normal life after emotionally challenging experiences. Regie acknowledges the generational shift happening among men, where emotional awareness and seeking help are becoming more accepted and encouraged. He emphasizes the importance of using his platform for positive change and appreciates the tools his mother provided him to navigate emotional challenges and maintain authenticity.
The growth and friendship of Regie Aids and Fern Cotton
Regie Aids and Fern Cotton reflect on their long-lasting friendship and personal growth throughout their careers. They discuss their early days in TV and the unique challenges they faced, such as dealing with mass opinion and maintaining authenticity. Sharing personal memories and experiences from their road trip series 'Only in America', they highlight the deep conversations and personal connections that contributed to their growth. Regie shares the impact of his experiences in documentary filmmaking, learning boundaries, and using his platform for positive change. They touch upon the evolving attitudes towards mental health, the importance of seeking help, and the role of emotional support from friends and loved ones.
They have been friends for over half of their lives: working together, travelling the world... so it was only a matter of time before Reggie joined Fearne on the podcast.
And just to make it extra special, this conversation was recorded in front of a live audience at the recent Happy Place Festival weekend in London. We'll be bringing you more live interviews over the coming weeks.
Thanks to the sponsors of the Happy Place Festival, Rituals. Who create bath, body and home products designed to help you slow down and feel good. Visit rituals.com, where there's a welcome gift waiting for you...