Woman's Hour

In this engaging discussion, Michael Buchanan, BBC Social Affairs correspondent, and Theo Clarke, former Conservative MP, delve into the sobering findings of Baroness Amos' report on unacceptable maternity care in England, stressing the urgent need for accountability and policy change. Dr. Sarah Jarvis highlights the serious risks of muscle loss associated with weight loss drugs, emphasizing the importance of strength training. Meanwhile, David Henderson examines the implications of a recent tribunal ruling on single-sex spaces, sparking a broader conversation about gender and rights in health care.

Lina Sinjab, a BBC Middle East correspondent, assesses the situation for women in Syria a year after the fall of the Assad regime, highlighting challenges and aspirations. Sirin Kale details findings from The Guardian's investigation into the Free Birth Society, exposing risky practices. Dr. Claire Feeley discusses the complexities of free birthing in the UK, linking it to mental health and societal pressures. Debut novelist Sarah Mughal Rana shares insights into her book, exploring themes of identity and empowerment through a fantasy lens.

Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, discusses her journey in leadership, including the unique challenges of being a mother while in office. Sarah Vine opens up about her battle with female pattern hair loss and her brave decision to reveal her natural hair after years of wearing wigs. Emma Shepherd highlights alarming data on teachers leaving the profession post-maternity, addressing the impact of pay, workload, and inflexible hours. Conversations also delve into the complexities of friendships with ex-partners in both straight and queer communities.

In this engaging conversation, Sarah Vine, a columnist, discusses her journey with female pattern hair loss and the stigma surrounding it, emphasizing the importance of openness. Actress and director Maria Friedman shares insights into her West End roles, particularly her directing of Sondheim's 'Merrily We Roll Along,' while reflecting on the charm of pantomime. Author Sophie Crawford reads from her sapphic rom-com 'My Ex-Girlfriend's Wedding,' exploring themes of love, queer identity, and the role of weddings in storytelling.

Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, discusses her journey of empathetic leadership and the challenges of leading while pregnant. She reflects on her tenure, including the Christchurch tragedy and the impact of online abuse on political figures. Emma Shepherd reveals alarming statistics about teachers leaving the profession after becoming parents, emphasizing the need for better parental policies and support. The conversation touches on mental health services, AI tools for athletes facing online abuse, and the importance of nurturing empathy in leadership.

Melissa Green, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Women's Institutes, shares insights on the organization's decision to exclude transgender women from membership. She discusses the legal constraints and member sentiments that influenced this choice. The conversation also touches on the emotional aspects of sisterhood groups and the need for practical implementation as they await guidance from the EHRC. Additionally, Green emphasizes the diversity of opinions within the WI and the importance of leading discussions on this sensitive topic.

Chef Pam, a celebrated Thai chef and owner of Potong, shares her journey from a family home to earning a Michelin star. She discusses blending her Thai-Chinese heritage with modern cuisine while empowering rural women in the food industry. Comedian Rosie Wilby dives into post-breakup friendships, emphasizing how LGBTQ+ norms differ from mainstream culture. Both guests explore the evolving dynamics of relationships with exes, offering practical tips for moving from partners to friends, along with insights into generational shifts and social media's impact.

Sanna Marin, the former Prime Minister of Finland, discusses her journey leading a women-led coalition and the challenges she faced during the Covid-19 pandemic and Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Ashley Dalton, the UK Public Health Minister, shares insights on the new HIV Action Plan aimed at reducing stigma and enhancing care, especially for women. Filmmaker Shih Ching Tsou reveals her debut film, Left-Handed Girl, exploring Taiwanese night-market life and the cultural stigma against left-handedness, while highlighting the resilience of working-class women.

Katy Watson, BBC Sydney correspondent, delves into Australia’s under-16 social media ban, discussing teen perspectives and the government's rationale. Cassa Pancho, founder of Ballet Black, shares her journey in diversifying ballet and adapts 'My Sister, The Serial Killer' for the stage. Psychotherapist Jennifer Cox explores the rising popularity of rage rooms among women, revealing insights into anger's societal conditioning and sharing therapeutic techniques for safe expression.

Judith Moritz, a BBC special correspondent known for her investigative work on adoption, discusses the alarming findings of over a thousand adopted children returning to care over five years. She shares personal stories highlighting the systemic issues parents face, including false allegations and the lack of support. Film critic Leila Lateef analyzes the cultural impact of 'Wicked', exploring its themes of female friendship and generational resonance, confirming how such narratives are increasingly captivating audiences.