A hero to the last

As a mental health advocate myself, I find Bryony Gordon’s podcast, “The Life of Bryony,” incredibly refreshing and relatable. Her openness about her own struggles and her ability to create such honest and enlightening conversations with her guests is truly commendable. It’s not just therapy without the couch, it’s therapy without the judgement or stigma that often comes with seeking help.

CHAT

Rob Burrow Seven, Meets…

https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/38sxuBP2isOxyKtCCP59jV

Prior to his passing from Motor Neurone Disease (MND) on June 2nd, at the age of 41, renowned rugby league player Rob Burrow, alongside his loving wife Lindsey and innovative “eye gaze” technology, worked tirelessly to raise millions for MND charities. He even managed to record two series of a podcast where he posed seven questions to well-known friends, such as Wayne Rooney, Jonny Wilkinson, and Dame Kelly Holmes in the first series. Rob’s teammate and fellow fundraiser Kevin Sinfield appears in series two, along with former footballer Stephen Darby, who also battles MND. (In a special episode, their roles are swapped.) It’s incredibly emotional to listen to. “I’ve been touched by the immense outpouring of love and support,” he expresses. However, Rob, known for his playful nature, still manages to bring a touch of mischief to the forefront. DAVID McGILLIVRAY

DOCUMENTARY

World of Secrets: Al Fayed, Predator at Harrods

https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/58TzIx52y0bGL8QgqMXD6M

David Hepworth’s latest piece delves into the historic allegations of predatory conduct by Mohamed Al Fayed, supported by over 20 women who claim to be his victims. Since Al Fayed passed away in 2023, these accounts can now be shared extensively. Lawyers are examining whether legal action may be taken against the current proprietors of Harrods for failing to protect employees from such behavior, similar to the complexities faced in the Weinstein case. DAVID HEPWORTH

INTERVIEWS

The Louis Theroux Podcast

https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/1IoxnebQQ5xz8wLViFxU2x/video

One way to rephrase the given text in natural and easy-to-read language is:

DOCUMENTARY

Joanne McNally Investigates: Did Furbys Spy on Us?

https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/7sX2H5m6ENYyN2Mdi6Qpjr

In this new series, comedian Joanne McNally explores another outlandish theory – this time focused on the Furby craze from the 90s and claims they were secretly spying devices. As she investigates this bizarre conspiracy, she keeps a skeptical yet amused expression. EMMA SIMMONDS

HISTORY

Time Team

https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/2hQxquriO9VifwBR5mcIVO

A well-known archaeology show that aired on Channel 4 a decade back was brought back online last year, airing monthly on YouTube. Now, they’ve introduced a podcast featuring Dr Helen Geake and co-host Martyn Williams. Topics range from the recent unearthing of Shakespeare’s era stage in King’s Lynn to navigating ancestry research in today’s digital world. Such tenacious perseverance deserves admiration. FIONA HUGHES

MENTAL HEALTH

The Life of Bryony

https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/0uEYxZdQb9NfqucNIBgGQg

🌟Craving a dose of real-talk without the traditional setup and cost? Tune in to Bryony Gordon, an infectiously enthusiastic journalist, as she delves into the grittier aspects of everyday life with her guests. Topics range from body image with ex-Radio 1 DJ and cancer survivor Adele Roberts to finding the courage to conquer overwhelming guilt with writer Matt Haig (Reasons to Stay Alive, The Midnight Library)). This weekly dose is a refreshingly honest pick-me-up. JEREMY ASPINALL

CHAT

Pop Top 10

https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/4Tu6uGQVRYgVQKsh36Gf7q

This show is called “Another List Show,” where Scott Mills and Rylan compile lists about pop culture, such as British girl bands ranked from 1 to 10. They invite specialists in the chosen field to suggest or swap choices. In this episode, stand-up comedian Katherine Ryan, a girl band expert, dismisses a group that had ten number one hits. It’s important to note that the show should not be taken too seriously and is meant for casual enjoyment. By David McGillivray

HISTORY

Muses: an Ampersand Podcast

https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/7sycaqnFgbkyJsJPqLPfn3

In an unexpected collaboration, Dan Smith, the lead singer of Bastille, teamed up with Emma Nagouse, a co-producer of the podcast “You’re Dead to Me.” Although Dan has recently released an album titled “&,” this mention is more about sharing interesting content rather than promotion. The conversations in the podcast are both amusing and thought-provoking as they explore historical or mythological figures and their influence on modern thoughts and popular culture. In the premiere episode, Eve’s biblical legacy, literacy, and the lingering effects of her “sin” on misogynistic views towards women are explored. By Anna Jones

INVESTIGATION

Who Owns the Clyde?

https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/0J2d6nq1Q3qFrfjhpdrvt7

In the post-industrial era, major city rivers pose challenges for urban planners, and this piece suggests that none may be as difficult to navigate as the river that once pulsed with life in Glasgow. Regeneration efforts have hit roadblocks, partly due to confusion over ownership. This is where the trouble starts, and before you know it, things become unclear. SIMON O’HAGAN

2024-10-01 20:34