Young Again

Kirsty Young asks comedian and actor Miranda Hart what advice she would give her younger self.A decade ago Hart was starring in her own hit BBC sitcom, Miranda, and selling out stadium tours. But then she suffered a collapse and was forced into a career break. She discusses how years of low level illness built up to a major health crisis, and how an overdue diagnosis and writing her new book helped on her journey back towards fitness. She also reveals the perils of fame, the joy of playing the same venue as Beyoncé, and why her book had an unexpected happy ending.A BBC Studios Audio production.

Kirsty Young asks physician Gabor Maté what advice he would give his younger self.Maté was born to Jewish parents in terrible circumstances in Hungary in 1943. His grandparents were killed in the Auschwitz concentration camp, his father was in forced labour and his mother was suffering from jaundice. He reveals how his own understanding of the long-term affects of childhood trauma connects to this personal history. He also discusses his work with drug addicts and his relationship with his wife and children.A BBC Studios Audio production.

Minnie Driver, a talented actor, writer, and musician, reflects on her remarkable 30-year career, including her Oscar-nominated role in *Good Will Hunting*. She shares fascinating insights into her unconventional childhood and the challenges of navigating fame, particularly the sexism she faced in Hollywood. Driver opens up about a poignant Oscars night marked by personal heartache, her journey as a single mother, and the transformative relationships that shaped her life. Her stories offer a blend of humor and vulnerability, illuminating the importance of self-discovery and support.

Discover the heartfelt advice some remarkable individuals would offer their younger selves. Hear personal stories that blend humor with sincerity, revealing valuable lessons learned over time. Dive into the significance of family connections and how they shape our journeys of growth. This engaging conversation inspires reflection on your own life narrative.

An interview with author Philip Pullman exploring his childhood, father's death, and literary success. Reflecting on advice for his younger self, he discusses love, regrets, and coping strategies like reading and medication. Delving into early influences, passion for poetry, and rejection of religion, Pullman shares insights on innocence, knowledge, and the journey to self-consciousness.

Mel B from the Spice Girls opens up about her journey from stardom to redemption, reflecting on her abusive marriage and finding peace back home. She discusses her diagnoses of ADHD and dyslexia, navigating complex relationships, and breaking free from the cycle of abuse. The chapter also touches on recognizing relationship red flags and promoting healthy relationships education in schools.

Alastair Campbell discusses his life, from bagpipes to New Labour and Burnley FC. He reflects on childhood shaping his worldview, regrets tough decisions, and advises his younger self. The podcast explores personal transformation, tribalism, alcohol challenges, journalism journey, mental health struggles, work-life balance, and political career choices.

Sir Grayson Perry reflects on his traumatic childhood, his journey as an artist, and the advice he would give his younger self. The podcast delves into rebellion, identity politics, creativity, and the significance of intuition in personal growth.

Philanthropist Melinda French Gates reflects on her journey from computer scientist to global influencer, sharing lessons on trust, wealth, and staying true to oneself. Topics include navigating power dynamics, embracing feminism in a male-dominated world, and finding identity within a high-profile marriage. She also explores the challenges of maintaining privacy amidst wealth and the importance of adapting to life's shifts.

Kirsty Young talks to the actor Peter Capaldi about what he’s learned from his life so far. Celebrated for iconic TV roles as Doctor Who and as Malcolm Tucker in The Thick Of It, Capaldi’s 40-year career also includes an Oscar in 1995 for work behind the camera. He reflects on his journey from a Glasgow tenement block, how he owes his career to a lot of luck and why early failures have made him a better actor. If you could have a conversation with your younger self, what would you tell them? In Young Again Kirsty takes her guests back to the pivotal moments in their lives. Reflecting on what they wish they’d known at the time, and what they’ve learned along the way, she discovers the honest – and surprising – advice they’d give their younger selves. Producer: Laura Northedge Content Editor: Richard Hooper Executive Editor: Alice Feinstein Senior Technical Producer: Duncan Hannant Presenter: Kirsty Young A BBC Audio Production