Desert Island Discs

Mark Knopfler, co-founder of Dire Straits and renowned musician, shares insightful anecdotes from his journey. He discusses his unique songwriting approach, shaped by family influences and early struggles. Knopfler reflects on the demanding life of touring, emphasizing the intimate connection musicians have with their audience. He humorously examines fame's quirks, including a dinosaur named after him. The conversation concludes with his personal picks for island life, featuring a favorite book and a beloved guitar.

Sarah Raven, one of Britain’s renowned gardeners and an author, dives into her journey from medicine to cultivating a passion for plants. She shares nostalgic childhood memories tied to family and nature, revealing how grief influenced her path. Sarah discusses the art of container gardening, likening plant arrangements to weddings, and reflects on her evolution from a kitchen table start-up to a successful business. A delightful blend of music and memory highlights the emotional ties between gardening and well-being, showcasing the transformative power of nature.

In this captivating conversation, David Nicholls, acclaimed writer of the bestseller 'One Day,' shares his creative journey. He reflects on the emotional complexities of storytelling, blending joy and sadness in his narratives. Nicholls discusses the profound influence of music on his writing and the transformative power of personal experiences. From his transition from acting to authorship, he reveals how formative encounters shaped his career. With anecdotes about love, family, and the inspirations behind his works, this chat is a rich tapestry of creativity.

Errollyn Wallen, a groundbreaking composer from Belize, discusses her remarkable journey in classical music. She shares her emotional connections to key pieces like Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 and reflects on her childhood influences. Wallen opens up about the personal struggles she faced, including body image and mental health, and how these shaped her art. She passionately addresses the importance of cultural ownership in music and advocates for accessibility in the classical scene while also cherishing the solitude and creativity found in her lighthouse home.

Rob Delaney, the talented comedian and writer behind 'Catastrophe,' shares his journey of balancing humor and tragedy. He delves into the impact of his son Henry's brain tumor diagnosis on his creative process and how writing became a vital outlet for grief. Rob discusses the therapeutic power of comedy, his childhood in Marblehead, and the complexities of family relationships. He also reflects on the joy of surrendering to life's imperfections, highlighting music's role in shaping identity and healing.

Professor Patricia Wiltshire is a forensic ecologist specializing in palynology, having worked with every police force in Britain. She discusses her groundbreaking role in solving high-profile cases, such as the Soham murders, by analyzing pollen evidence. Patricia shares captivating stories from her early life that shaped her resilience and love for botany. With a touch of humor, she reflects on unique dating experiences involving lichens and explores her dream of surviving on a remote island, highlighting the essential music and items she would bring.

British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua shares his inspirational journey from a troubled youth in Watford to Olympic gold medalist. He reflects on transitioning from football to boxing, memorable fights, and balancing family with boxing. Joshua discusses his love for reggae music, survival tactics, and his philanthropic endeavors.

Award-winning journalist Clive Myrie discusses his diverse career, from reporting in conflict zones to hosting quiz shows. He shares his love for Beethoven's string quartets, reflects on his Caribbean roots, and explores the challenges of reporting on tragic events with empathy and resilience. Clive's thoughtful book and luxury item choices demonstrate his appreciation for storytelling and music.

Shirine Khoury-Haq, first female CEO of Co-op Group, shares her inspiring journey from a diverse background, facing racism and challenges. She discusses finding comfort in music, navigating adversity, industry pushback, and standing up against racism. Embracing family, faith, and leading with openness, she reflects on isolation, survival on a desert island, and the healing power of music.

Rebel Wilson, the Australian actor known for her roles in Bridesmaids and Pitch Perfect, shares her journey from Sydney to Hollywood, embracing comedy and breaking gender stereotypes. She discusses her childhood with Beagles, overcoming family challenges, and her rise to fame. Wilson reflects on life, love, music, and her choices for a desert island.