Can laughter ease anxiety? Comedian Julian Clary certainly thinks so. After living through some incredibly dark events and anxious times, he’s decided to choose to laugh and think positive thoughts. In this chat with Fearne, Julian talks about feeling naturally happier and more comfortable in his skin as he got older. Most things, he says, just aren’t as important as you think they are, and that’s a freeing realisation. Julian also explains why he’s embraced causing outrage and even offence. Fearne and Julian share how they’ve each combatted poor sleep, and the sleeping aids, medications, and techniques that have worked for them. Plus, Julian’s not a massive fan of therapy, so he turns the tables on Fearne and quizzes her about her experience of it... A Fistful of Clary, Julian’s western-themed stand-up tour, will be heading out round the UK from 30th April. Get your tickets now: julianclary.co.uk If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like: Olly Alexander David Tennant Scott Mills Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicki, Lauren, Charlotte and Steffi have been friends since university. Now in their thirties, life is pulling them in different directions - but the girls are reunited when Charlotte organises the baby shower from hell for pregnant Nicki.Tensions are high as these women are forced to confront their own and eachother’s views about motherhood... while also dealing with a fire at the baby shower. February’s Happy Place Book Club novel was So Thrilled for You, by Holly Bourne.In this chat, Fearne and Holly talk about how wildly the pretty Pinterest version of motherhood is from the raw, battlefield of a reality. Holly reckons if we want the world to be a better, happier place we need to be supporting mums emotionally and practically. How have you navigated some friends having babies, some struggling to conceive, and some not wanting them at all? Fearne and Holly explore the judgements, assumptions, and irritations that can arise between old friends when everyone’s lives look so different. Plus, how to cut out the noise and trust your gut when you’re working on a creative project...Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton for the use of So Thrilled For You audiobook, narrated by Emily Spowage, Evie Ward-Drummond, Kelly Hotten, Paul Hezberg and Rosalind Lailey. Listen to Book Club Meets: David Larbi Listen to Book Club Meets: Dame Harriet Walter Listen to Book Club Meets: Liane Moriarty Listen to Book Club Meets: Miranda July   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dynamo brought epic magic into a lot of people’s lives, but now Steven Frayne is taking off the mask and choosing to notice the moments of magic he’s experienced around him. In particular, that’s the people – friends, family, doctors, strangers – who’ve helped him find joy again after hitting rock bottom. In this chat with Fearne, Steven talks about the devastating reality of trialling different medication for Crohn’s and the effect this has on mental health, as well as what he’s learnt from experiencing so much physical pain. Can we choose to connect over pain rather than isolating ourselves from others? Steven also explains how being an easy target for bullies at school meant he learnt how to problem solve and hustle, but what do you do when success comes and you don’t know how to cope with it? Steven’s show, Up Close and Magical, is at The Underbelly in Soho, and is opening on the 28th March. CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains frank chat about suicidal ideation so do take care while listening. If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like: Kesha Ben West Adam Pearson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you get rid of your body hair? Do you hate your periods? Are you debating a nose job? Why? Writer and broadcaster Afua Hirsch has been tracing how we’ve become so loathing of our bodies. In this chat with Fearne, Afua explains where our modern, Western notions of beauty come from, and why she’s advocating for us to celebrate how powerful our bodies are. She’s rediscovering and reclaiming rituals her ancestors will have done before Western ideals became the norm, and points out that wanting to change your facial features to conform to beauty trends will erase your ancestry. Fearne and Afua chat about a desire for more fluidity around sexuality and identity, as well as why we should respect the wisdom that comes with age rather than fearing it. Plus, how to dig deep and ask yourself: “Do I think this, or have I been taught this?” Afua’s book, Decolonising My Body, is out now. If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like: Emma Dabiri Adele Roberts Rebel Wilson  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chiwetel Ejiofor, an acclaimed actor known for his powerful performances in films like 12 Years a Slave, shares his journey of intertwining resilience with vulnerability. He reflects on how childhood trauma has influenced his ambition and outlook on life. Chiwetel opens up about tackling self-doubt, especially upon receiving the script for 12 Years a Slave. He ponders the possibility of accepting one's past and reveals his newfound ability to live in the present, proving that success and emotional healing can coexist.

In this insightful conversation, Donna Ashworth, a Sunday Times best-selling poet, opens up about her journey of change in midlife. She shares how she transitioned from a hectic lifestyle to embracing poetry, highlighting the transformative power of self-expression. Donna discusses the importance of vulnerability, coping with anxiety through hypnotherapy, and the need to challenge routines that may hold us back. Additionally, she emphasizes self-acceptance and the healing benefits of sharing one's flaws, urging listeners to step into their creativity.

David Larbi, an author and poet celebrated for his book "Frequently Happy," joins the discussion to explore the essence of happiness. He reveals that while not every day may shine bright, there's always something good to be found. The conversation touches on breaking negative thought patterns, the power of journaling for clarity, and overcoming the fear of criticism when sharing creativity. Larbi's insights encourage embracing both joyful and challenging moments as essential to a happy life.

Naomi Watts, celebrated actor from films like The Ring and Birdman, opens up about her early menopause experience at 36. She shares her struggle with unexplained symptoms like night sweats and anxiety, advocating for transparency around women's health. Naomi discusses the stigma surrounding menopause and highlights the need to celebrate women's bodies rather than endure suffering in silence. Through her book, Dare I Say It, she encourages a shift in narrative, emphasizing the value and strength of women at any age.

Delve into the transformative world of therapy and its profound effects on personal growth. Discover how Fearne explores self-perception, trauma, and the importance of finding the right therapist. Hear insights from guests like MMA fighter Molly McCann, who shares how therapy shaped her success, and Leigh-Anne Pinnock on navigating self-acceptance. The conversations shed light on breaking emotional cycles, confronting anxiety, and embracing imperfections to foster genuine self-discovery.

Millie Mackintosh, an entrepreneur and author of "Bad Drunk," shares her inspiring journey through sobriety and mental health challenges. She discusses the moment she realized her drinking was harming her and loved ones. The conversation dives into self-forgiveness, coping with anxiety, and managing ADHD while dealing with addiction. Millie emphasizes the need for kindness toward oneself during setbacks and offers insights on enjoying social events without alcohol. Her experience serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and personal growth.