How To Fail With Elizabeth Day

Simon Cowell, the entertainment mogul known for his role in shaping modern talent shows like Pop Idol and Britain’s Got Talent, reflects on his journey. He candidly discusses his biggest failures, including a near-death experience and the emotional toll of bankruptcy. Cowell shares valuable insights on resilience, fame, and the sometimes harsh public perception. He humorously examines the complexities of success in a social media-driven world and why he believes in the need for another Brexit referendum.

My guest today has been an integral part of my feminist awakening. Celeste Barber’s instagram posts - which parody the unattainable standards of the fashion and beauty industry - are both hilarious and revolutionary. Her work has helped a generation of women to feel better about their bodies - and made her a star in the process. (Plus she’s been blocked by a few celebrities. Lol.) Barber began her account in 2015 as a jobbing actor. She now has almost 10 million followers, including Reese Witherspoon, Chelsea Handler and designer Tom Ford who ended up hiring her for a fashion campaign. We talk about imposter syndrome, ADHD, standing up to bullies and her Janet Jackson obsession. Toxic relationships, dealing with a narcissist and how to come back from ‘rock bottom’ - Elizabeth and Celeste answer YOUR questions in our subscriber series, Failing with Friends. Join our community of subscribers here: https://howtofail.supportingcast.fm/#content Have something to share of your own? I'd love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch: howtofailpod.com 🌎 Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code [howtofail] at checkout. Download Saily app or go to to https://saily.com/howtofail ⛵ Production & Post Production Coordinator: Eric Ryan Mix Engineer: Richie Lee Producer: Hannah Talbot Executive Producer: Carly Maile Head of Marketing: Kieran Lancini How to Fail is an Elizabeth Day and Sony Music Entertainment Production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma Dabiri, a broadcaster and historian, dives into society's obsession with appearance and beauty standards. She critiques the influence of social media on self-image and embraces a more holistic understanding of beauty. Emma shares personal stories about feeling like an outsider due to race and discusses the complexities of identity, especially in relation to parenting. The conversation also highlights the importance of embracing failure as a path to authenticity, encouraging listeners to redefine success and beauty in their lives.

Sally Phillips, a beloved actress and comedian renowned for her roles in classics like Bridget Jones and Veep, chats about her career and advocacy for the neurodivergent community. She humorously reflects on her obsession with Clown School and her perception of success. Sally shares candid stories about motherhood and the joyful journey of raising her son, Olly, who has Down syndrome. The conversation also touches on red flags in relationships and her playful musings about Hugh Grant and Colin Firth, making for an engaging and heartfelt discussion.

Mae Martin, a Canadian comedian and star of Netflix's Feel Good, shares candid insights into their journey through comedy, addiction, and self-acceptance. They chat about the importance of vulnerability in creativity and how personal experiences shape their art. Expect laughs as Mae reflects on high school bullies, their obsession with escape rooms, and navigating gender identity. The conversation blends humor with depth, focusing on the intricacies of mental health and the joy of being true to oneself.

Join Jonathan Van Ness, a hairstylist, author, and star of 'Queer Eye', as he opens up about navigating personal failures and the quest for self-acceptance. He candidly discusses the pressure of show cancellations and the importance of internal validation. Dive into his experiences with childhood bullying, the challenges of launching a hair product line, and the complexities of LGBTQ+ identity in America. Plus, find out what JVN would do to Donald Trump's hair and hear his thoughts on the Queer Eye makeover he still regrets!

Hosts tackle your hot dating questions with humor and insight! They explore how life's stages impact compatibility, introducing the 'Four Fs' for dating readiness. Same-sex relationship dynamics are discussed, highlighting the need for self-awareness and support. A generational perspective on modern dating shines light on the importance of openness. Plus, they offer tips on supporting single friends and emphasize the value of community and love in dating. Tune in for practical advice and uplifting conversation!

Sam Ryder, the British singer-songwriter recognized for his Eurovision success, opens up about the complexities of fame and its challenges. He candidly discusses panic attacks and the journey of maintaining authenticity while in the spotlight. Ryder shares insights on gratitude's transformative power and his deep appreciation for genuine relationships. He humorously reveals his quirky habit of cutting toenails outdoors, while teasing tracks from his upcoming album like ‘White Lies’. Tune in for an engaging mix of personal growth and musical passion!

The hosts dive deep into the fundamental relationship we have with ourselves. They explore self-awareness, self-love, and the importance of recognizing personal worth in nurturing connections with others. A hilarious dinner with their husbands adds a light-hearted touch, revealing insights about partnerships. They tackle challenges like heartbreak and societal pressures, emphasizing emotional interdependence. Ultimately, the conversation celebrates personal growth and offers practical tools for cultivating healthy romantic relationships.

Reality TV star Olivia Attwood brings her sharp wit and relatability to the table. She shares her journey from 'the ick' to empowerment, highlighting her battles with ADHD and the importance of supportive friendships. Olivia opens up about transitioning from party culture to wellness, discussing her evolving views on self-care and body image. With humor, she navigates emotional expression, touching on vulnerability and the complexities of grief, all while managing the fame that comes with being in the spotlight.