Changes with Annie Macmanus

Annie announces a change for Changes

<p>This week, Annie has some news. Changes is changing! Annie talks through how she has come to the decision to pause this podcast and shift the Changes conversation onto Substack.</p><br><p>You can now find Changes with Annie Macmanus here:</p><p>https://anniemacmanus.substack.com/p/welcome-to-changes-with-annie-macmanus</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

DJ Fat Tony on why music is better than any drug and the moment of empathy that changed his life

<p>DJ Fat Tony is one of the most iconic figures of London’s nightlife scene. Tony’s extraordinary four-decade career at the heart of music and clubbing has seen him spinning tracks for everyone from Madonna to Prince, but his rise to stardom was paired with a drug addiction that almost killed him. Tony’s 2022 Sunday Times bestselling memoir ‘I Don’t Take Requests’, is a shocking, honest yet also at times hilarious account of his life. It’s filled with wild stories about his past and heartbreaking reflections on his journey through addiction, recovery, and transformation.</p><br><p>In this live episode of Changes, recorded at Before Midnight in Gunnersbury Park, Annie and Tony dive deep into Tony’s life from his upbringing in Battersea, to his teenage years spent on the legendary Kings Road, to the dark depths of addiction and his return to clubbing as a sober DJ. They talk about Tony’s love for music, how UK nightlife has evolved over the years and offer a raw insight into the highs and lows of DJ culture.&nbsp;</p><br><p><strong>Content warning:</strong> this episode discusses addiction and abuse and has very strong language from the start.</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Irvine Welsh on toxic masculinity, addiction and softening with age

<p>There are few writers more renowned for pushing the boundaries of modern fiction than Scottish literary icon and author of the 90s cult classic Trainspotting, Irvine Welsh.</p><br><p>Irvine grew up as a working class boy in Edinburgh surrounded by drugs, crime, poverty and unemployment. It was this harsh environment and the people he grew up around that became the influence for the literary worlds he went on to create. After a tough start to life, including being arrested aged 8 and later dealing with a heroin addiction, Irvine became a published author in 1993 aged 30 after he wrote Trainspotting a book that would go on to change his life forever. The book became a cultural phenomenon, catapulting Irvine into the public eye. Through all this, Irvine continued to stay grounded through his writing, becoming a prolific bestselling author whose novels reveal the uglier sides of society, exploring life on the fringes. His latest book, Resolution, came out in July this year, and is the final instalment in his CRIME trilogy which has now been adapted into a hit ITV series.</p><br><p>In this unfiltered conversation Irvine reflects on his early experiences growing up in Edinburgh and the tough lessons he learnt early on. He discusses how these have informed his work and shaped him as both a man and a writer. Annie and Irvine also discuss masculinity - how it has changed, the different iterations and perceptions of it, as well as the softening that comes with ageing, especially when it comes to his male friends and affection. Irvine is a true legend and we hope you enjoy hearing his changes.&nbsp;</p><br><p>You can buy a copy of Irvine’s latest book Resolution here: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/458494/resolution-by-welsh-irvine/9781787334755</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Clara Amfo on speaking her truth, overcoming shame and her favourite B word after Beyonce

<p>Sometimes to move forward, you have to look back and in today’s episode Annie is joined by her dear friend Clara Amfo who opens up for the first time publicly about the life-altering event in her childhood that changed her forever. Broadcaster, pop culture aficionado and British ‘it girl’ Clara Amfo is an unstoppable force when it comes to British tv and radio. She has hosted many of the UK's biggest music and cultural moments, from Glastonbury to the BRIT Awards. But for Clara, living authentically is at the heart of everything she does and earlier this year, after a decade of success on BBC Radio, including on 1xtra and presenting the Live Lounge and Future Sounds on Radio 1, Clara felt it was time to explore different parts of her professional and personal journey, marking a time of significant change and reflection.</p><br><p>In this radically honest episode, Clara opens up to Annie about something she has never discussed publicly before. She reveals how unpacking her past has helped her to judge herself less, de-root feelings of shame and fight for deeper self love and acceptance. Clara shares the realities of being a black woman in the spotlight. They also discuss the search for contentment in a world that often demands more. This deeply personal conversation between friends is a lesson in understanding your own power and showing up as your true self despite all the odds.</p><br><p>Warning: this episode discusses acts of racism and child sexual abuse.</p><br><p>If you need additional support after listening to this episode you can use the links below to find more information on some places to go:</p><p>Call the Samaritans on 116 123 https://www.samaritans.org/</p><p>https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/</p><p>https://247sexualabusesupport.org.uk/</p><p>https://www.survivorsuk.org/</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Amy Liptrot on The Outrun, her journey to sobriety and the healing power of nature

<p>Bestselling author of ‘The Outrun,’&nbsp;Amy Liptrot is proof that change is not only possible but life-saving. When Amy found herself in rehab for alcoholism aged 30, she left London behind and returned to her family’s farm on Orkney, a remote Island off the coast of Scotland. Overcoming addiction on an isolated island, Amy found solace in the wild landscapes that she’d grown up in. Her outstanding memoir ‘The Outrun’ is an account of these experiences and in 2016 the book was awarded the Wainwright Prize and the PEN/Ackerley prize. The film adaptation of The Outrun starring Saoirse Ronan is in cinemas later this week,&nbsp;it is incredibly beautiful&nbsp;and an absolute must see.</p><br><p>In this profound and illuminating conversation, Amy and Annie talk about The Outrun, Amy’s involvement in the film version and what it’s like to see your life played out on screen. They talk about Amy’s childhood on Orkney and the effect that her mother’s strict religion and father’s mental health had on her upbringing. They also talk about the path of addiction, getting sober, different kinds of loneliness, the healing power of nature and the definition of home. This was a truly intimate and deep conversation looking at life's biggest questions.</p><br><p>The Outrun is in Cinemas this Friday.</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

AJ Tracey on London’s streets and how music saved him from a culture of fear

<p>AJ Tracey is one of the most influential artists in the UK music scene today but his life could have taken a very different direction had he not made some serious changes. AJ is known for his groundbreaking contributions to grime, drill and UK garage. Last year he celebrated 1 billion streams in the UK and was honoured with the Brits Billion Award. His triple platinum-selling hit Ladbroke Grove is an homage to his West London neighbourhood where he was raised by his single mum. For AJ, the reality of growing up as a black, working class boy in London meant being surrounded by gangs, violence, and a culture of fear. These early experiences led him to carry weapons and sell drugs, but through all this, music became AJ’s lifeline, offering him a way out and ultimately led to his rise as an independent artist.&nbsp;</p><br><p>In this frank and eye opening episode AJ and Annie dive deep into his journey from early days on council estates to headlining stages as a multi-platinum artist. They talk about the pressures of becoming the man of the house at a young age, protecting his family, and navigating the harsh realities of The London postcode clash. They also discuss the issues facing young people today, how his rise to fame and making money have changed him and how he manages to stay grounded while breaking boundaries in the music industry.&nbsp;</p><br><p><strong>Warning: </strong>This episode discusses knife crime and violence</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Michelle De Swarte on the currency of beauty, money and the void from ageing

<p>Model turned comedian Michelle de Swarte’s life story has more twists and turns than most novels. A born and bred South Londoner, Michelle was scouted aged 19 and moved to New York to begin her modelling career working for the likes of Dolce and Gabbana and Versace. After two decades on the runway Michelle started doing stand up comedy and eventually moved back to London. Now making it as a successful writer and actor, Michelle is constantly evolving and redefining what it means to live life on your own terms. Her critically acclaimed BBC sitcom ‘Spent’, came out in July. Both written by and starring Michelle, it’s a hilarious, loosely autobiographical story of a bankrupt, ex model navigating the realities of her new life.</p><br><p>In this funny yet reflective episode, Michelle brings her deadpan humour to dive into the extreme amount of change that she has gone through, discussing her upbringing being raised by her single mother, her queer grandmother, her time as a model and what working in the industry was actually like. Annie and Michelle also talk about Michelle’s transition into comedy, money, the currency of beauty and how modelling young taught her the dangers of everyone curating their life on social media today.</p><br><p>Watch Spent now on BBC Iplayer.</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><br><p><br></p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Bella Mackie on anxiety and OCD, marriage and hating wellness

<p>Our first guest of the series is the phenomenally popular author Bella Mackie. Bella’s debut novel ‘How To Kill Your Family’ was a #1 Sunday Times Bestseller and lined the top 10 book charts for a staggering 47 weeks. It has just been announced that Netflix will adapt the book with Anya Taylor-Joy starring as Grace Bernard.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Bella is back with a brand new novel ‘What a Way To Go’ which comes out on 12th September. It’s a story that indulges Bella’s fascination with slapstick murder and the mega rich, something Annie and Bella discuss.</p><br><p>Bella is, like her books, funny and raw, in a way that feels so relatable. In this refreshingly honest conversation, Annie and Bella talk about Bella’s life living with anxiety disorder and OCD since her childhood and how running and writing about it in her memoir ‘Jog On’ have helped her through some of the most challenging times. Bella speaks openly about her short-lived first marriage, her relationship with Greg James (Radio 1’s Breakfast host) and the personal growth that is often born out of romantic relationships. They also discuss privilege, not having children and Bella’s passionate hatred for wellness. Hope you enjoy!&nbsp;</p><br><p>Order Bella's new book 'What A Way To Go' here: https://smarturl.it/WAWTG</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Changes Focus: Bodies - CMAT, Marian Keyes, Afua Hirsch, Dr Jen Gunter

<p>In this final Changes Focus of the series we are focusing on Bodies, one of the topics from our popular mini series earlier this year which seemed to resonate with <em>so</em> many of you. With that in mind we’ve pulled out some of the highlights.&nbsp;</p><br><p>You’ll hear from the brilliant musician (and fellow Dubliner) CMAT, who gives her refreshing perspective on body image and being a female pop star. We’ve also got the fantastic writer Marian Keyes who talks about her journey with self acceptance and brings some home truths around being honest about ageing and botox. Journalist and author Afua Hirsch shares some shocking revelations on the origins of when and why we started to remove our body hair, and the internets go to gynaecologist and author Dr Jen Gunter answers one of our listener questions on sex after giving birth and cultivating desire in a relationship.&nbsp;</p><br><p>You can find all the featured episodes in full wherever you get your podcasts.</p><br><p><strong>Vote for Changes at the British Podcast Awards!&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Voting is open until 29th August. Just click this link and search for Changes.&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Changes Focus: Trans Lives - Chelsea Manning, Kae Tempest, Travis Alabanza, Shon Faye

<p>This weeks episode of Changes Focus is a celebration of Trans lives.&nbsp;</p><br><p>On this podcast we try to build empathy and connectedness through sharing people’s personal stories and the only way we can understand what it’s like to be a Trans person is by actually listening to those people who are living it every day.&nbsp;</p><br><p>In this episode we’ve got Chelsea Manning, the former U.S. Army intelligence analyst and whistleblower, who discusses her journey of transitioning while in military prison, the incredible poet and musician Kae Tempest shares their thoughts on going through puberty as a Trans teenager and the importance of being your authentic self. Performance artist and author of ‘None of The Above’ Travis Alabanza shares their definition of transness and talks about how they got to the point of feeling able to come out as gender non conforming. And finally, activist and author of ‘The Transgender Issue’ Shon Faye shares her experiences of transphobia and her thoughts on why people are so scared of change when it comes to gender.&nbsp;</p><br><p>You can find all the featured episodes in full wherever you get your podcasts.</p><br><p><strong>Vote for Changes at the British Podcast Awards!&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Voting is open until 29th August. Just click this link and search for Changes.&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Changes Focus: Dealing with Grief - Cariad Lloyd, Grace Dent, Yebba, Jack Rooke

<p>In this episode of Changes Focus we’re zooming in on a big change that we will probably all experience at some point - grief.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Grief shapes us in different ways and hearing other people’s experiences of how they have coped with their loss can help in moving through our own. In this tender and insightful episode, Annie revisits conversations with Cariad Lloyd, comedian and creator of the podcast 'Griefcast', who shares her reflections on how therapy helped her with the grieving process after losing her dad aged 15. Food critic and podcaster Grace Dent talks about her experience of losing her parents, returning home to care for her mum in the final period before she died and how this shaped her feelings of grief. Grammy award winning singer-songwriter Yebba (real name Abigail Smith) opens up about the heartbreaking death of her mother and how it influenced her music. And comedian and writer of the BAFTA winning ‘Big Boys, Jack Rooke, discusses his experience of losing his dad as a teenager and how he has channelled his grief into creativity and comedy.</p><br><p>Trigger Warning: This episode contains mention of suicide.</p><br><p>You can find all the featured episodes in full wherever you get your podcasts. </p><br><p><strong>Vote for Changes at the British Podcast Awards!&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Voting is open until 29th August. Just click this link and search for Changes.&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Changes Focus: Changemakers - Rose Ayling-Ellis, Baroness Kidron, Nigel Bromage, Lady Unchained

<p>Welcome to a new series of Changes Focus where we focus on a specific area of change and hear multiple perspectives from some of our incredible guests. In this episode the focus is on Changemakers - people who are working hard to drive meaningful, positive change in the world.</p><br><p>In this powerful episode, Annie revisits her conversation with poet and advocate for prison reform Lady Unchained. She talks about her own experience within the criminal justice system and how this led her to work with other ex offenders. We hear from Baroness Beeban Kidron - documentary filmmaker turned member of the House of Lords - who talks about her tireless efforts to change and update the laws around child safety online. Ex right wing group leader Nigel Bromage shares his story of life after leaving the far right and how this inspired him to help others to do the same. And finally we’ve got actor Rose Ayling Ellis, who’s memorable appearance on Strictly Come Dancing in 2021 paid tribute to the deaf community and was responsible for a huge rise of interest in British Sign Language. Rose talks to us about how important being a part of this community is for her.&nbsp;</p><br><p>You can find all the featured episodes in full wherever you get your podcasts. </p><br><p><strong>Vote for Changes at the British Podcast Awards!&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Voting is open until 29th August. Just click this link and search for Changes.&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Matt Haig on finally returning to Ibiza, hope and new perspectives

<p>Aged 24 in Ibiza, Matt Haig’s life changed forever when he had a breakdown. Now 49 he has returned to the island, facing his past head on, returning with a whole new perspective, more optimism, and now, a new book called ‘The Life Impossible’.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Matt has sold over 9 million copies of his books worldwide, and they have been translated into 58 languages. His bestselling book ‘Reasons to Stay Alive’ has touched millions of lives and was game changing for many people with depression and anxiety. Since then, his novel The Midnight Library has become a global phenomenon and spent over 50 weeks on the Sunday Times bestseller charts and over 100 weeks on the New York Times bestseller charts.&nbsp;</p><br><p>In this episode, as well as talking about the new book, Matt discusses returning to Ibiza, hope and sobriety. He also talks about surprising early forays in writing, how an adult diagnosis of ADHD helped him look at his younger self differently and how his experience of social media and mental health has impacted his children's relationship with it too. It feels like a whole new chapter in Matt’s life and we’re delighted to have him on to talk about it.&nbsp;</p><br><p><strong>Vote for Changes at the British Podcast Awards!&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Voting is open until 29th August. Just click this link and search for Changes.&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Annie’s personal revelations on her birthday week

<p>Hello folks, for this episode I took myself into the rave shed and reflected on the big changes that have taken place in my life over the last year.&nbsp;</p><br><p>It’s my birthday week, as I’m a Cancer I am trying to extend it into a whole month. I love any excuse for a party so there will be one of those happening for sure, but I also love, more and more, an opportunity to reflect and remember the events of my life, partly because my memory is so shite that if I don’t make the effort to remember, things disappear, but also because by understanding how I’ve evolved (or not) in the past, it gives me clarity on looking forwards. Reflection helps me to understand what I want and what I don’t want and this always feels settling, in a way.&nbsp;</p><br><p>The episode holds quite the gamut of changes. I cover taking up old hobbies with surprising results, making new friends, internalised ageism,&nbsp;resolving body issues, loneliness, perimenopause, hopefulness and loads more. I hope you enjoy it.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Also I’d love to hear about any changes YOU went through in the last year. Have a think and let me know&nbsp;by sending a short voice note to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:changespod@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><u>changespod@gmail.com</u></a>&nbsp;</p><br><p>Thanks, as always, for listening.</p><br><p><strong>Vote for Changes at the British Podcast Awards!&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Voting is open until 29th August. Just click this link and search for Changes.&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Decca Aitkenhead on the life changing power of love

<p>This conversation is astonishing. Prepare to be completely engrossed and moved beyond belief by the phenomenal Decca Aitkenhead. The Chief Interviewer at the Sunday Times, Decca talks so beautifully with a warmth and lightness that contrasts with what she has lived through. The love story between her and her late husband Tony is like nothing else you have ever heard before.</p><br><p>Tragically, in 2014, Decca Aitkenhead’s husband Tony died while they were on holiday in Jamaica with their two young sons. A life shattering change. Here, Decca talks about why Tony was the most interesting person she has ever met - himself transforming his life in very surprising ways and describes how, throwing all logic out of the window, he completely changed her life. She also reflects on that fateful day, suddenly being a single mum and magical thinking.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Decca Aitkenhead’s top tier journalism has seen her interviewing the likes of Oprah Winfrey, Hilary Clinton and Johnny Depp. Her long list of writing achievements include the Catherine Pakenham Award, Interviewer of the year and the BBC’s Russell literary prize. Her memoir ‘All At Sea’ was nominated for the 2017 PEN Ackerley prize and tells her story with a raw vulnerability and depth.</p><br><p><strong>Caution:</strong> this episode discusses sudden death, cancer and references drug addiction. </p><br><p>Buy Decca's book 'All At Sea' here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/All-at-Sea-Decca-Aitkenhead/dp/0008142149</p><br><p>Read Decca's articles for The Times here: https://www.thetimes.com/profile/decca-aitkenhead</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Ruby Wax on not passing on ‘the baton of madness’ and the constant of change

<p>From inside Ruby Wax’s bedroom, Annie gets up close and personal about Ruby’s life changes - from her troubled childhood and creating a comic persona as a result, feeling like a freak when she became a mother to&nbsp;<em>those&nbsp;</em>famous interviews on ‘When Ruby Wax Met,’ which changed how she was perceived.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Ruby’s latest book and touring one-woman play, ‘I’m Not as Well as I Thought I Was’ saw Ruby trying to find meaning by going on life changing journeys but it ended with her being in a mental clinic again. Here, Annie and Ruby discuss the ups and downs of mental illness, the juxtaposition of that with being funny and how she really is now.</p><br><p>Ruby Wax was a fearless pioneer of the celebrity interview with her groundbreaking BBC series including interviews with Sharon Stone, Bette Midler, Madonna, Donald Trump, Bill Cosby and many more (each of which she reacts to here). Beyond her TV fame, Ruby is a prolific author with seven Sunday Times bestselling books including ‘Sane New World’, ‘A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled', and ‘How to be Human’. With a degree in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy from Oxford University, Ruby has bravely shared her own struggles with mental illness and her tireless efforts in this field have earned her an OBE. But, has mindfulness and her studies changed her life?</p><br><p>You can buy Ruby's books and book tickets to her tour ‘I’m Not as Well as I Thought I Was’ here:</p><p>https://www.rubywax.net/books</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Jack Rooke on growing with grief, using real life for art and being braver

<p>Jack Rooke is the recent BAFTA winning comic genius behind the incredible multi award winning sitcom Big Boys.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Jack won his BAFTA for Best Comedy Writer after using his own life experience of losing his Dad, when Jack was 15, to write and narrate Big Boys. The show follows Jack leaving his mum to go to University where he navigates making new friends and exploring being gay, something he hasn’t told his mum yet.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Big Boys was adapted from Jack’s debut show Good Grief and his second show Happy Hour which was commissioned by Soho Theatre. Both received critical acclaim at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. He’s also had a documentary on BBC 3 called Happy Man exploring alternatives to the male mental health crisis and published a memoir called Cheer the F**k Up. His work is both hilarious and sad with smart, spit your drink out laughing moments. This conversation is no exception.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Now 30, Jack talks about success in your 20s, what losing a parent so young does to someone, how his grief has changed, why humour is so important to him and, in his opinion, in all life situations, Big Boys being seen as radical and new tattoos.&nbsp;</p><br><p>You can watch both series of Big Boys on Channel 4&nbsp;<a href="https://www.channel4.com/programmes/big-boys" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.channel4.com/programmes/big-boys</a>.</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Aderonke Apata on leaving Nigeria to be a free gay woman

<p>Imagine being forced to leave your country for being gay or face death. This Refugee Week, we welcome Aderonke Apata, a Nigerian refugee who had to leave Nigeria under threat of persecution for being in love with a woman. When she reached the UK, she embarked on a 13-year battle through the UK immigration system including periods of homelessness, detention and near deportation. She was also accused of lying about her sexuality. Her lover in Nigeria was sadly killed. Today, Aderonke has trained to be a barrister and is an expert on immigration law helping others who are going through a similar experience to hers. She founded the African Rainbow Family in Manchester, highlighting the importance of providing support and safe spaces for LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers.&nbsp;</p><br><p>In this deeply moving and enlightening conversation Aderonke discusses her experience, the complexities of sexuality and asylum claims, the astounding and brave changes she has made in her life to live as a proud lesbian and her desire to make change for others. Aderonke’s story is a testament to the power of hope and the resilience of the human spirit.</p><br><p>Refugee Week is a UK-wide festival celebrating the contributions, creativity, and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Taking place every year in the week around World Refugee Day on 20th June, Refugee Week encourages understanding and solidarity with refugees and asylum seekers through arts, culture, and educational events. This Refugee Week, let’s stand in solidarity with those who have faced unimaginable hardships in their pursuit of safety and acceptance.</p><br><p><strong>Warning</strong> this episode references homophobia, sexual abuse, violence and murder</p><br><p>For more information visit:</p><p>www.refugeeweek.org</p><p>www.africanrainbowfamily.org</p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Vernon Kay on navigating show business, late puberty and keeping family grounded

<p>Vernon Kay is one of the most recognised people on British TV and radio known for his infectious smile and warm Bolton accent. He first made his mark on Channel 4’s T4 in the early 2000s and has since hosted popular shows like All Star Family Fortunes and Comic Relief. In 2020 he appeared on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! He has been presenting shows on BBC radio since 2004, most recently taking over the coveted mid-morning radio show on BBC Radio 2, following in the footsteps of Ken Bruce. Last year, Vernon raised over £6,000,000 for Children In Need, by running an Ultra-Ultramarathon from Leicester to Bolton.</p><br><p>Vernon has been married to Strictly Come Dancing host Tess Daly for 20 years. Together, they have two daughters and are one of the UK's most beloved showbiz couples.</p><br><p>In this funny and candid conversation, Vernon discusses joining BBC Radio 2 and the connection he built with listeners during his Children In Need challenge, navigating his career and how showbusiness has changed since he started, his youth, his enduring marriage to Strictly Come Dancing host Tess Daly and the joys and challenges of balancing family life with a demanding career. He also talks about his work encouraging men to talk openly about their feelings and his evolving perceptions of happiness and success.</p><br><p>GET IN TOUCH</p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p>Please Note: The transcript is automatically generated in case you come across any typos or misquotes during your reading. Enjoy the episode.</p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Miranda July on rethinking everything - marriage, sex and hormones

<p>Miranda July’s staggering new novel ‘All Fours’ might just completely change the way you think about your life.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Miranda is not one for sticking to the rules. An LA based artist, writer and award-winning filmmaker, she has been creating unapologetic, boundary pushing work since her involvement in the Riot Grrrl feminist movement of the 1990s, where she gained recognition for her zines and performance art. She has gone on to create across many mediums, including her breakthrough 2005 feature film debut, "Me and You and Everyone We Know," which she wrote, directed, and starred in. The film garnered critical acclaim, winning the prestigious Camera d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.&nbsp;</p><br><p>You might have noticed Miranda July’s name popping up all over the place since the release of ‘All Fours’ last month, and there is a reason why. This book is astonishing. It takes everything you think you know about what it means to be a woman in mid life, a mother, a lover, a friend, and makes you rethink it all. The story follows a woman in her forties who embarks on a physical and metaphorical journey of rediscovering herself.&nbsp;</p><br><p>In this episode Annie and Miranda unpick some of the brilliant themes from the book including the institution of marriage, motherhood, perimenopause, hormones, sex, as well as real experiences from post menopausal women (positives and negatives). They also discuss Miranda’s upbringing, her personal changes and how her life bleeds into her work. Listen to this episode and then go and buy this book immediately.&nbsp;</p><br><p><strong>Warning: this episode discusses suicide, please be mindful if this could impact you.</strong></p><br><p>Buy a copy of 'All Fours' and find out more about Miranda and her work here:</p><p>https://mirandajuly.com/all-fours/</p><br><p>GET IN TOUCH</p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Ahmed Alnaouq on the war in Palestine, family and the power of stories

<p>On 22nd October 2023, Ahmed Alnaouq woke up to the unthinkable news that 21 members of his family had been killed by an Israeli airstrike in Gaza.</p><br><p>Ahmed Alnaouq is a Palestinian journalist from Gaza and the co-founder of We Are Not Numbers - a non profit organisation that specialises in sharing Palestinian stories.&nbsp;</p><br><p>In this episode, Ahmed shares <em>his </em>story. He explains how the war in Palestine didn’t begin last year, but has been ongoing throughout his entire life. Ahmed talks about family members who have been killed, how this horrific experience has changed him and his outlook, the importance of sharing stories to incite change, what the end of this war could look like and what he thinks people in the West can do.</p><br><p>Changes is fundamentally about the power of sharing stories. It is through stories that we find hope, connection and spread empathy and that is what we hope today’s episode will do.</p><br><p><em>Warning: This episode contains explicit and upsetting content about the war in Gaza that some listeners may find distressing.</em></p><br><p>Find out more about We Are Not Numbers and read the stories here:</p><p>https://wearenotnumbers.org/about/</p><br><p>GET IN TOUCH</p><br><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Sara Pascoe on self worth, detachment and reflecting on separated parents

<p>Sara Pascoe has a magic ability to take life’s absurdities and turn them into comedy gold, but how does she approach change?&nbsp;</p><br><p>Sara’s quick, intelligent wit has seen her competing on many of the UK’s most popular comedy panel shows such as QI and Taskmaster and she also hosts ‘The Great British Sewing Bee’. Not only is she one of the country’s foremost comedians, Sara is a bestselling author too, having written three books - ‘Animal’, ‘Sex Money Power’ and her debut novel ‘Weirdo’, which is out on paperback now. She’s also a book fan and co-hosts the podcast ‘Sara and Cariad’s Weirdos Book Club’ with her friend, and previous guest on Changes, Cariad Lloyd.</p><br><p>In this refreshing and light hearted conversation, Sara opens about her untraditional upbringing, her transition to vegetarianism at a young age and her changing relationship with her parents after her Dad left when she was seven. Reflecting on her latest novel, "Weirdo,", Sara also discusses her evolving relationship with her own confidence, detachment from show business as a new mum and her self-worth as a comedian.</p><br><p>Buy 'Weirdo' here:</p><p>https://www.whsmith.co.uk/products/weirdo-unlike-many-debut-novels-this-one-will-stick-with-you-for-a-long-time-guardian-main/sara-pascoe/paperback/9780571374540.html</p><br><p>Listen to Cariad Lloyd's Changes episode here:</p><p>https://podfollow.com/changeswithanniemacmanus/episode/59c1bc1991700462b988d47248a3ce8831095b5b/view</p><br><p>GET IN TOUCH</p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

George the Poet on being a Black radical, music and the war on Blackness

<p>George Mpanga, aka George the Poet, is a voice for change but, is it enough to just be a successful Black man in the war on Blackness? From his humble beginnings in North London with Ugandan parents, to graduating from Cambridge University as well as visiting Uganda, George knows a thing or two about the big changes that can shape your life’s direction.</p><br><p>George is best known for his work as a spoken word artist, rapper and podcaster with the multi award-winning podcast ‘Have You Heard George’s Podcast?’. He is also a PHD researcher, recently became a father and is now an author with his recent memoir "Track Record: Me, Music, and the War on Blackness." It is essential reading.&nbsp;</p><br><p>In this deeply personal and engrossing conversation, Annie and George unpack the complexities of his identity as a Black entertainer, his shift from Black liberal to Black radical and why, for him, radical thinking is essential to bring about systemic change, the power of honesty, their shared experience of imperialism (Annie of course from an Irish perspective), falling in love, and Black music and the restrictions he felt on his own creativity in the industry. From challenging the status quo of capitalism to advocating for equality and justice, George leaves us with a message of hope and empowerment, oh, and his favourite Nas lyric.</p><br><p>Find out more about George here: https://www.georgethepoet.com/</p><br><p>Order George's book 'Track Record: Me, Music, and the War on Blackness' here: https://lnk.to/TrackRecord</p><br><p>GET IN TOUCH</p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Afua Hirsch on different cultural views on bodies - body hair, puberty, fertility and aging

<p>Rounding off this miniseries on Bodies, the incredible journalist, broadcaster and bestselling author Afua Hirsch unpacks Eurocentric beauty standards and discusses unlearning some of the myths around women’s bodies. Why do western cultures think body hair is bad? How do non western cultures treat puberty and aging? Can we change how we view our bodies from our ancestors? Certainly, what we think we know about women's bodies is very narrow.</p><br><p>Afua Hirsch is at the forefront of discussions about race, history, and culture in Britain today. Her book ‘Brit(ish)’ was an award winning Sunday Times bestseller and delves into the uncomfortable truth about race and identity in Britain today. Her latest book is called ‘Decolonising My Body: A Radical Exploration Of Rituals And Beauty’.&nbsp; It was a 2023 political book of the year for Waterstones, described as 'ground-breaking' by Bernardine Evaristo and makes her perfect for discussing Bodies and change.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Originally training as a human rights barrister, since being a journalist, Afua has presented documentaries for the BBC, been a regular contributor to Sky News debate show The Pledge and current affairs programmes including Channel 4 News, Newsnight, Question Time, and CNN. She has also written for multiple prestigious publications including British Vogue where she interviewed Rihanna!&nbsp;</p><br><p>In this incredibly enlightening episode, as well as covering different cultural views on bodies, Afua and Annie discuss Afua’s view of her body as a young black girl and how that has changed, a life altering moment with Oprah and why she personally wanted to unlearn and then relearn everything when it came to understanding her body.</p><br><p>Find out more about Afua Hirsch and order her book ‘Decolonising My Body’ here:</p><p><a href="https://www.afuahirsch.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.afuahirsch.com</a></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Decolonising-My-Body-radical-exploration/dp/1529908663" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.amazon.co.uk/Decolonising-My-Body-radical-exploration/dp/1529908663</a></p><br><p>Other books and people mentioned in this episode:</p><p>Maisie Hill - Period Power</p><p><a href="https://www.maisiehill.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.maisiehill.com</a></p><br><p>Laurence Moniasse</p><p><a href="https://www.moniasse.com/about-me" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.moniasse.com/about-me</a></p><br><p>GET IN TOUCH</p><br><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Dr. Jen Gunter answers your questions on sex, periods and menopause

<p>As part of our Bodies Mini Series, renowned gynaecologist Dr. Jen Gunter tackles your burning questions about your bodies as she and Annie delve deep into the complex world of women's health and the changes involved. Dr. Jen Gunter is the author of bestsellers "The Vagina Bible" and "The Menopause Manifesto," and is the ultimate authority on all things bodies. Her new book “Blood” mixes her trademark blend of expertise and accessibility, empowering readers to understand their bodies better than ever before.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Listen to this special Q&amp;A style episode for a wealth of information on orgasms, libido, period symptoms, hormones, menopause, incontinence and plenty more. It will leave you feeling more informed, empowered, and ready to navigate changes in your body.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Find out more about Dr. Jen Gunter, order her books and read her blog here:</p><p><a href="https://drjengunter.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://drjengunter.com/</a></p><br><p>Other books mentioned in this episode:</p><br><p>Emily Ngowski - Come As You Are <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Come-You-Are-surprising-transform/dp/1925228010" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.co.uk/Come-You-Are-surprising-transform/dp/1925228010</a></p><br><p>Dr. Lori Brotto - Better Sex Through Mindfulness</p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Better-Sex-Through-Mindfulness-Cultivate/dp/1771642351" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.co.uk/Better-Sex-Through-Mindfulness-Cultivate/dp/1771642351</a></p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

CMAT on body image, fluctuating weight and Ozempic diets

<p>To open a new mini series on Bodies we welcome boundary pushing musician, CMAT whose low cut, bum crack exposing dress created one of the most viral moments at the BRIT Awards this year. Her unapologetic attitude towards body image caused a storm on the internet attracting a wave of opinions.</p><br><p>CMAT, real name Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson is a one in a million artist. She writes songs that are both hilarious and heartbreaking, and she is utterly captivating on stage. She’s a future superstar in the making. Both of CMAT’s albums have gone straight to number 1 in the Irish Charts, she is part of the BBC Sound of 2024 longlist, she has been described by NME as Dublin’s answer to Dolly Parton and she was at the Brits this year having been nominated for Best International Artist alongside Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift and SZA. </p><br><p>This is the first of three open and candid conversations in our Bodies mini series in which we explore body image and weight, unrealistic beauty standards and ageing covering everything from menopause to weight loss and much more. Here, Ciara talks to Annie about her changing relationship with her body from her teenage years experiencing acne and eating disorders to being a pop star in the spotlight. They discuss a wealth of issues including societal pressures and social media, the problem with capitalism and Ozempic diets. Ciara is completely unfiltered and very funny. We hope that you will leave the conversation feeling relieved that you are most definitely not alone when it comes to any thoughts you may have about your body and inspired to care less.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Content warning: eating disorders/anorexia, addiction to painkillers.</p><br><p>Buy CMAT's music and find her tour dates here: https://cmatbaby.com/</p><br><p>GET IN TOUCH</p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Marian Keyes

<p>Spring is here(!) and we begin our new season with global phenomenon Marian Keyes. Marian is one of Ireland’s most prolific and successful writers of all time with her books having sold over 35 million copies worldwide.</p><br><p>Marian has won multiple awards and is an expert in honest storytelling. She writes characters you’ll love with imperfections you’ll recognise and her wisdom is felt in every story she tells.&nbsp;</p><br><p>In this refreshing, funny and unfiltered conversation, Marian discusses her upbringing in Ireland and how this affected her aspirations in life, her experience of addiction in her 20s, the monumental change of becoming sober, especially when it comes to love and self acceptance, being 60, a woman’s right to enjoy sex and and ultimately why she refuses to hide or lie about anything (hello botox).&nbsp;</p><br><p>How lucky we are to have Marian Keyes in the world!&nbsp;</p><br><p>Marian’s new book ‘My Favourite Mistake’ is available to buy now.</p><p>https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/316031/my-favourite-mistake-by-keyes-marian/9780241441145</p><br><p>GET IN TOUCH</p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Changes Focus: Parenting - Zadie Smith, Toddla T, Josh Widdicombe and Jen Brister

<p>In this week’s Changes Focus we are zooming in on parenting. Whether you are a parent yourself or not, we have all been parented in some way and many of us spend time around people who are parents. We therefore all have experience of parenting and the huge effect it has on our lives. It is no surprise that many of our guests on Changes choose becoming a parent as the biggest change of their adult life.&nbsp;</p><br><p>In this hilarious and heartwarming episode, author Zadie Smith gives her profound thoughts about why having children has changed her outlook on freedom, Annie’s husband Toddla T talks about his ADHD and how this affects his parenting, comedian Jen Brister gets into the difficulties of talking about porn with kids and comedian and host of the ‘Parenting Hell’ podcast, Josh Widdicombe, remembers his misguided thoughts about labour and gets real about the reality of being a father.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Has parenting changed you? Let us know at changespod@gmail.com</p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Changes Focus: Education - Dolly Alderton, Louis Theroux, Idris Elba, Rosie Jones and Michael Sheen

<p>Introducing Changes Focus! where we zoom in on one popular Changes theme and bring you multiple takes from different guests.&nbsp;</p><br><p>In this episode the focus is Education. Our younger educational years can really define us, so much change and growth can happen. Many of our amazing guests have cited their school or university years as experiences that shaped their lives drastically. Their stories explore the highs and lows of education such as bullying, fitting in, integrating into new schools and young love.</p><br><p>In this reflective episode, you will hear from writer Dolly Alderton who looks back at the difficulties she faced as a teenager at an all girls school, comedian Rosie Jones on the life defining change of going to a mainstream school as a child with cerebral palsy, broadcaster Louis Theroux and actor Idris Elba who both discuss their experiences of changing schools at a young age and the impact that had and, finally, actor Michael Sheen recounts some of his early experiences of romance during his school years in Wales.</p><br><p>What Changes did you experience in education? Let us know at changespod@gmail.com</p><br><p><br></p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Gabby Logan

<p>Viva la season finale! Where we welcome a total trailblazer and change maker, the iconic sports broadcast Gabby Logan. In her almost 30 year career, Gabby has been at the centre of phenomenal change in a predominantly male dominated industry. She has presented many of the country's biggest sporting events including the Olympics, the Commonwealth games, the World Cup and the 2022 Euros which changed the face of women's football in Britain when the Lionesses won. Gabby has paved the way for other women and played a vital role in the promotion of women’s sport. On top of all this, Gabby has received an MBE, is the host of two hit podcasts; ‘The MidPoint’ and, the brand new, ‘The Sports Agents’ which she co-hosts with fellow broadcaster Mark Chapman, and has even found the time to write her memoir ‘The First Half’.</p><br><p>In this inspiring episode, Annie and Gabby discuss the slow but important changes in sports and broadcasting for women, the parallels in their careers - navigating being the token woman and bringing others through, how her upbringing in a sporty family with a footballer father helped shape her career, and how a tragic death of her brother in her teens taught her about dealing with grief and making the most of life.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Gabby’s podcast&nbsp;<em>The Sports Agents</em>&nbsp;is available now</p><p><a href="https://www.globalplayer.com/podcasts/42Kx2B/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.globalplayer.com/podcasts/42Kx2B/</a></p><br><p><strong>GET IN TOUCH</strong></p><p>Contact us at changespod@gmail.com with your emails and voice notes.</p><br><p>Changes is a deaf friendly podcast, transcripts can be accessed here:<a href="https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.anniemacmanus.com/changes</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>