Katie Piper's Extraordinary People

After losing the sight in her right eye at age 11 and losing her eyesight entirely at age 17, Lucy Edwards lives in a world not constructed for her. Lucy has the very rare genetic condition incontinentia pigmenti, one that only about 1,200 people have in the world, and 97% of those people, are women. At the time, and as a teenager, whilst having the utmost support from her nearest and dearest, Lucy struggled, and her mental health took a hit. Now, at 26 years old, and as a presenter, producer and content creator, Lucy has dedicated her social media and TikTok channel to educating her followers on her day to day, and in 2021, Lucy was announced as Pantene’s newest Ambassador, for a product line featuring trailblazing technology making packaging accessible for the blind and visually impaired. Lucy and Katie discuss the strength of the mind, societal pressures and obviously, their current haircare routine! This is a Somethin’ Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Grace Victory is a fighter. After starting her YouTube channel at 21 years old, writing a book, being a body positive activist, a digital creator, a TedX speaker and falling pregnant with her first child, Grace had already fought for who she wanted to be, and life was going in the right direction. But in December 2020, Grace was struck down by a severe case of Covid-19, forcing her to give birth to her baby boy 2 months early, and being put into a coma 2 days later. A year on from “waking up”, and now a loving mother to her son Cyprus, Grace and Katie discuss trauma, the debilitating effect of coma dreams, and feeling empowered through her ongoing recovery. This is a Somethin’ Else production.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Holly Ramsay is making waves in the podcast and social media world, speaking out about her own struggles with mental health, which in turn is helping others not to feel so alone. After the courageous decision to open up about her sexual assault at university, on Instagram, Holly decided she would tell her story exactly the way she wanted. So last year she started her very own podcast 21 & Over, describing her journey, and chatting to her guests about the struggles they’d overcome too. Today, in her first guest spot on another podcast, Holly passes on her host hat to Katie, as the pair discuss the importance of self-care, having the right people around you, and cancel culture in 2022. This is a Somethin’ Else production.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tilly Lockey is a 16 year old with a superhero style difference. As a model, presenter and ambassador for Open Bionics, a company which develops medical devices that enhance the human body, Tilly is on a journey to help give as many other children like her, a chance at having hands again too. Tilly lost both of her hands when she was just 15 months old, after battling a devastating strain of meningitis. The support from her family and her incredible inner strength has got her where she is today, and world, watch this space! Tilly isn’t stopping yet! Katie and Tilly talk about dark days, showing up for yourself and others and how, at 16, she continues to help Open Bionics develop the Hero Arms of the future!  This is a Somethin’ Else production.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 2019 Dr Julie Smith decided to start making videos to post on social media about how to help keep our minds healthy. Little did she know, a pandemic was just beginning and her knowledge and expertise was about to help millions of people on the world wide web. Dr Julie is a Clinical Psychologist, blogger, online educator, Tik Tok genius, and as of 6th January, an accomplished author too! Inspired by her own quick and easy watching videos, Dr Julie has written ‘Why Did Nobody Tell Me This Before?’, a book with practical, easy reading guidance on how to help our minds thrive! Listen to Dr Julie tell Katie about negative bias, healthy habits, and how to look after the minds of the next generation.  This is a Somethin’ Else production.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fatima Timbo is a comedian, model and content creator, making waves in the industry about the treatment of people with disabilities. Fatima has achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism that has restricted her growth, and she has had her fair share of negativity from others over her 24 years and which she still gets today.  In Fatima’s words, she now has an “invisible shield” and has found comedy and modelling to be some of her favourite things to do. She has been part of BBC Three’s “Laugh Lessons”, where some of the best new comedians on the scene tell their story through sketches about their modern life, and more recently you may have seen her on Celebrity Gogglebox as part of Channel 4’s Black to Front Project, part of the channel’s commitment to improve black representation.  Fatima is passionate, funny and here to make a change and the pair talk about Fatima’s life growing up, changing how you feel inside and how we all have something to offer the world. An extraordinary person indeed! This is a Somethin’ Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lucy Dawson is the epitome of the word extraordinary, and what this podcast is all about! At 20 years old, whilst in her final year of university, Lucy experienced head pain which quickly evolved into manic episodes, leading to her being sectioned by medical professionals for 3 months.  This however was the opposite of the treatment Lucy really needed. As we now know, she had encephalitis, a deadly and acute inflammation of the brain and due to the malpractice at the hospital, she is also now paralysed on her left leg.  Listen to Lucy tell Katie about her pretty unbelievable story, and as a model and activist, what Lucy is doing now, so others don’t go through what she did. This is a Somethin’ Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Candice Brathwaite started blogging about being a black British mother in 2016. An online space that was Candice’s for the taking, and boy did she claim it! After sharing her story and helping other mothers whilst she was at it, Candice grew a dramatic online following, and in May 2020 released her first book ‘I Am Not Your Baby Mother’, to critical acclaim!  Now a presenter, author and campaigner for making motherhood inclusive for all, Candice released her second book ‘Sista Sister’ in the summer this year, a collection of essays of advice she wished she’d heard when she was a young black girl.  Katie and Candice catch-up on this chapter of Candice’s story, and the many that have got her to where she is today.  This is a Somethin’ Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anton Ferdinand is a former professional football player, husband and father and is now using his own experiences to mentor the next generation of young players.  Anton was involved in probably the biggest racism case within English football in 2011 when John Terry was accused of using racist language towards him during a huge West London Derby.  The repercussions of the incident had a huge impact on Anton’s mental health, which he talks about candidly in his BBC documentary “Anton Ferdinand: Football, Racism & Me” which aired in November 2020.  Anton speaks generously to Katie about the loss of his mother, changing perceptions and being a family man.  This is a Somethin’ Else production.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack Ivens-Gardiner is living his best life as a married, gay man with autism, but finding his place in the world hasn’t always been so easy.  Katie met Jack at ITV studios many moons ago, doing his job in production on ITV daytime. Katie loved Jack’s vibrant clothes and kind nature, and the two found common ground more recently as they made their voices heard about their invisible disabilities in a new ITV campaign.  Jack and his husband Wes have also recently adopted a little boy and made an informative podcast about the process called “2 Dad’s Can Do It”, and along with their Instagram page are hoping they can help others on their own adoption journey too. Jack tells Katie about living confidently with autism, how some companies could do better for their neurodiverse employees and how he kept his gay balloon to himself until he was ready to let it fly!  This is a Somethin’ Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lauren Mahon is a campaigner and podcast host who has gone, and continues to go, above and beyond to share the truth of what being diagnosed with breast cancer as a young woman really means.  After receiving her own diagnosis in 2016, at just 31 years old, Lauren took her natural strength and gumption and started raising money for charity the very next day, all whilst spreading the word to women to check their breasts.  Lauren went on to write about her experiences candidly on her “girl vs cancer” blog and after gaining a huge following, began co-hosting award-winning BBC podcast “You, Me and the Big C”.  5 years on, Katie catches up with Lauren to find out the impact cancer has had on her world, why she simply had to use her diagnosis for good, and her exciting “girl vs cancer” news!  This is a Somethin’ Else production.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jamie Campbell joins Katie on the day “Everybody’s Talking About Jamie”, the star-studded film, drops on Amazon Prime.  This is a huge day for Jamie, who’s story of wanting to go to his small town high school prom in drag, started out on the small screen in the BBC Three documentary “Jamie: Drag Queen at 16” in 2011.  This poignant time of Jamie’s life went on to be told on stage in the popular musical version in 2017 in Sheffield, moving quickly into London’s West End.  Katie chats to Jamie about his inspiring story of courage, support and inclusion, exactly what you need if you’re an aspiring drag queen and how to support others who are finding their place in the world. The ultimate uplifting listen!  This is a Somethin’ Else production.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ollie Locke and Gareth Locke became the Locke-Locke’s less than a year ago, as they got married with only 13 guests in attendance, 1 minute before another lockdown hit the UK. Not ones for going low-key though, cast members Ollie & Gareth filmed their wedding for the popular reality tv show Made In Chelsea, and it became the most watched wedding, worldwide, of 2020!  A few months ago the happy couple started their surrogacy journey and are taking their huge following of fans with them through the highs and lows, and are using their platform to try to break the stigma of IVF.  Katie chats to them about their coming out stories, embarking upon IVF, and they bond over memories of nights out at iconic London club, China Whites!  This is a Somethin’ Else production.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dawn O’Porter is an author and presenter, wife and mother, who thrives on been open and honest, especially with her dedicated Patreon fan base. Dawn is well- known for her critically acclaimed books and presenting deep-diving documentaries but, like the rest of us, the lockdowns during the coronavirus pandemic hit hard. To add to the struggle of not being allowed to leave the house, Dawn experienced the tragic and sudden loss of her close friend Caroline Flack, and so, dealing with this grief and sadness along with day-to-day family life, Dawn started writing a diary. In October 2020, Dawn released Life In Pieces, her first non-fiction book, and all about her life in lockdown. As the paperback of the book released yesterday, Dawn and Katie chat parenting, charity, grief in lockdown and of course…. weed gummies! This is a Somethin’ Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ed Jackson is a successful TV presenter, mountaineer, and as of yesterday, an author, however this hasn’t always been Ed’s way of life. A former professional rugby player, Ed was involved in a freak accident, diving head-first into the shallow end of a swimming pool back in 2017. Ed broke his neck and crushed his spinal cord, leaving him paralysed in a hospital bed, and was told he would never walk again. That, however, was not going to get in the way of Ed living his life to the fullest. In the last four years, Ed has not only focussed on his own recovery, defying the odds and learning to walking again, but felt immediately inspired to help others. Ed has unbelievably been climbing mountains since 2018, raising thousands of pounds for charity, and has more recently started his very own charity “Millimetres to Mountains”. Ed’s first book “Lucky” was released yesterday, to unite and inspire the reader, whatever their story. Lucky by Ed Jackson (Published by HQ) is out now. This is a Somethin’ Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Seema Jaswal is a successful sports presenter who most recently landed her dream job as lead co-host of ITV’s coverage of Euro 2020. Having worked across sport for many years, including for Channel 4 and on the Premiere League’s worldwide coverage, Seema is an absolute pro, but her success has not been handed to her on a plate. After being hit by bacterial meningitis at just 16 years old, sport was an important part of Seema's recovery and accelerated her passion for life and her work! Seema's energy is completely infectious as she talks to Katie about how the industry is slowly changing for females, why she wants to inspire young people and the lessons she’s learnt along the way! This is a Somethin’ Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gareth Thomas is a former Rugby Union captain, winning 100 caps for Wales, then moving to rugby league and leading his country to victory over France in the European cup. Going against the grain in the world of male dominated sports, Gareth came out publicly as gay in 2009 and more recently, 10 years on, revealed that he was HIV positive. Now leading a Tackle HIV campaign, Gareth uses his passion to end the stigma surrounding HIV to educate others. Gareth tells Katie a story about his experience being blackmailed, how he used this to take back control and the joys of living his life now truly as himself. This is a Somethin’ Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gary served in the military and the British Transport Police. He was a frontline worker in the aftermath of the 7/7 bombings and is haunted by some of the tragic things he has seen as part of his job. As mentioned in the podcast, here is the link for the charity that Gary runs. https://www.ptsd999.org.uk/ Claudia Winkleman and Professor Tanya Byron identify struggles faced by real-life parents and family members by inviting them in and hearing their story, in a one-time unscripted session with a real person. Claudia listens in to the conversation to discover how Tanya begins to unlock the story behind the issue and help find solutions. With topics ranging from parental estrangement, gender identity, domestic violence, trauma, inheriting mental health issues, family dynamics after cancer and raising a severely disabled daughter, How Did We Get Here? is a passionate, insightful and moving experience with clear outcomes to each episode. This podcast doesn’t tell people how to raise their children, or reconnect with family members, rather it helps people understand why, as perfectly competent adults, they can’t put into practice what they know they should do. Each episode passes on useful links and contacts which listeners can find in the programme notes. This is a Somethin' Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma Barnett is an award-winning journalist and broadcaster, having worked for several newspapers and across the BBC for a number of years. In January this year, Emma stepped down from her show on BBC Radio 5 Live to begin her new role as lead presenter on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour. In 2019, after opening up about her struggles with endometriosis, Emma published her first book “It’s About Bloody Time. Period.”, extending the conversation about the secrecy and stigma attached to one of women’s most natural bodily functions. Yesterday, Emma released the paperback version of the book and shares with Katie a plethora of hilarious “bloody” stories and just HOW that “blood drop” emoji finally made it to our keypads! This is a Somethin’ Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rose Ellen Dix and Rosie Spaughton are the most successful same-sex couple on YouTube in the UK, renowned for their very honest and open conversations about their relationship as a gay married couple, and at the same time tackling wider LGBTQ+ issues.  After struggles with not knowing exactly how to go about having a baby, and Rose going through a miscarriage in lockdown, the pair are now pregnant, with Rosie giving birth in a matter of weeks!  The couple discuss their difficult journey to pregnancy (giving the listeners their top tips too) and where their boundaries are with what they put on the internet. The three get on so well and Katie’s already a proud auntie! This is a Somethin’ Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nic Hamilton had a dream of becoming a racing car driver when he was just 4 years old. As a child however, he was told he’d always be reliant on a wheelchair and never have his independence because of his disability. Nic was born with Spastic Diplegia, a form of cerebral palsy which affects the use of both his legs. Not one to be told what to do, Nic was determined to prove everyone wrong. He became the British champion of an online driving game, developed the strength in his legs to drive a racing car for real and was the first disabled driver to take part in the British Touring Car Championship, the pinnacle of British motorsport. As well as a driver, Nic is also a motivational speaker and wow will you feel motivated after listening to this episode! Nic tells Katie about the struggles he has overcome, his excitement to become a father one day and gives some inspiring thoughts to take-away! A Somethin' Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel Howell is a name that 17 million people will know from being avid followers of his YouTube channel for the past 10 years. In the beginning, these followers were built tall from Dan’s comedian prowess… and no-one questioned it.  Several years into his success one person started to question where his humour came from and who he really was, and the person with those questions, was Dan. In the last few years Dan has bravely used his platform to air his struggles with his mental health and his sexuality, hoping to help others going through similar difficulties, and he hasn’t stopped there.  With his brand new book “You Will Get Through This Night” releasing next week, Dan is giving advice to his readers he wished he’d had all those years ago, providing the tools to understand your own mind.  Dan and Katie hit it off as they discuss the amazing clarity he found after coming out as gay, the effects comedy has had on his life and the difficult truth about going for a run! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Leomie Anderson is an International Model, Spokesperson and Entrepreneur and on her podcast, she asks major names the questions that others are afraid to ask. Unapologetically different, Leomie created her brand LAPP to amplify the voices of young women across the world. On Role Model, you will hear her real conversation with big stars that will inspire you to follow your dreams. Role Model is a Somethin' Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Livi Deane was diagnosed with retinoblastoma at 12 years old. A rare cancer of the eye, it is usually diagnosed in children under the age of 4 and after Livi went through 16 rounds of chemotherapy, the decision was taken to remove Livi’s eye at 14 years old.  At the time, Livi was only the second person in the UK to be diagnosed with this cancer over the age of five which means, at 23, the intricacies of her experience are even more memorable. Livi took to Instagram in 2019 to find her tribe and that she certainly did! By posting a photo baring her empty socket, she attracted the attention of many who have the same prosthetic as her and continues to be just as inspired by her followers as they are by her!  Livi joins Katie as they discuss her journey of acceptance, where she finds her strength and resilience, and the lengths she went to to keep her wig on for her favourite fairground ride! A Somethin’ Else Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 2006, Sue Hunter’s life changed forever when she was diagnosed with HIV at the age of 47. At the time, her daughter was only 8 years old as she was urged to get a test after being alerted by her ex-partner that she may now carry this virus.  The man died two weeks later, and Sue was not only grieving someone close to her, but thought her life might end too in the very near future. After processing her diagnosis, Sue decided she wanted to make a change to dispel the stigma and false truths about living with HIV, not only for herself, but for future generations to come.  Sue now leads the Positive Voices programme at the Terrence Higgins Trust, the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity, where herself and a team of volunteers are educating young adults about the truth of HIV from their own lived experience.  Sue and Katie delve into the misconceptions, and fake news around HIV for women, how Sue’s experience has left her feeling empowered and Katie nominates Sue for world leader! This is a Somethin’ Else Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Haig released the Sunday Times bestseller Reasons To Stay Alive, back in 2015. Though Matt had written several successful novels prior to this release, 16 years after suffering a breakdown at the age of 24, Matt started writing about his own experiences with his mental health and how he has learned to enjoy life again since. It has sold over two million copies in the UK and been translated to over 40 languages, saving lives all over the world. Matt has continued to release best selling novels since and his most recent is The Midnight Library, the story of Nora, who is given the chance to undo her regrets and try out each of the other lives she might have lived. Matt and Katie discuss the strength that comes from getting past a difficult chapter of life and how to use it to your advantage. The pair also chat Winnie the Pooh and hairdressing! A Somethin' Else Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Laura Whitmore sits down with Katie, the day after the release of her first book, ‘No One Can Change Your Life Except For You’. As one of the most loved faces on our screens, she’s become known for fronting shows like Love Island and I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here NOW, as well as her appearances on Celebrity Juice, Strictly Come Dancing, and countless red carpets. On top of all that, she’s carved out successful careers in acting and radio broadcasting too. In her new book, she looks back on the lessons she’s learned during her 12 years in the ruthless media industry, as well as in her personal life. In this special chat with Katie, she discusses imposter syndrome, dealing with the paparazzi, and, ahead of the birth of her first child, how she announced her pregnancy on her own terms. A Somethin' Else production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carole Baskin was one of the biggest break-out stars of 2020. Having devoted her life to the Big Cat Rescue animal sanctuary, she suddenly found herself at the centre of the cultural phenomenon of the year, as one of the stars of Netflix series Tiger King. On its release, it soon became clear to Carole that the series was not the ‘Blackfish for big cats’ that she signed up for, but rather a deep-dive into co-star Joe Exotic’s vendetta against her, and about her husband Don Lewis’ disappearance, thrusting Carole into the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. In this very rare interview, Carole opens up to Katie about how she’s processed the events since Tiger King was released, as well as giving her personal and emotional account of how she dealt with Don’s disappearance. She explains how she found closure in that time, how she’s managed to remain positive since she learned Joe was behind a murder-for-hire plot against her, and reflects on what she felt was a betrayal by Tiger King’s producers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Katie sits down with singer, songwriter, DJ and all-round national treasure, Craig David MBE. Craig has had an incredible career. Soon after getting noticed by teaming up with Garage duo Artful Dodger, Craig became a huge hit in his own right. His debut single and album both went to number one when he was still just 19 years old, and the hit albums kept coming. After taking a break in the mid-noughties for a change of scenery, and a life of partying in Miami, Craig made his musical comeback in 2016, which took him straight back to number one, and he hasn’t stopped making tunes since. Fresh from being named on the New Year Honours 2021, Craig shares the highs and lows of his time in the music industry, as well as his journey with body confidence, and explains how he stays positive and motivated in difficult times.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Just a few years ago, Dr Alex George would not have been a face that you’d have recognised, unless he’d treated you on the A&E wards. That all changed when he won the hearts of millions of fans in the 2018 series of Love Island. He may not have found love in the villa, but he became a much loved face on our screens, going on to use his fame to help spread awareness about mental health.  What makes Dr Alex particularly extraordinary is how he remained so positive during an extremely tough 2020. Whilst most of us were told to stay at home, Dr Alex was on the front line, working day and night treating Covid-19 patients at Lewisham and Greenwich Hospital. He also dealt with tremendous personal loss, as his younger brother, Llŷr, tragically passed away in the midst of the pandemic. In this episode, Dr Alex reflects on the events of last year, sharing what life has been like on the wards, how he found his purpose again after his appearance on Love Island, and how his family is coping with the loss of Llŷr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Writer and podcast chart-topping sensation, Elizabeth Day is Katie's guest this week. On her podcast ‘How To Fail’, Elizabeth meets guests ranging from Phoebe Waller Bridge to Alistair Campbell to Lily Allen, breaking down how they’ve learned from their personal failures. The podcast led to her Sunday Times bestseller book, also called How To Fail, and in October she released her latest book ‘Failosophy: a handbook for when things go wrong’. As we move into a year where things will continue to not go as planned, Elizabeth is the perfect guest to start 2021. In this episode, Elizabeth discusses how she took ownership of failures in her life, sharing how she learned to let go of her 5-year-plan, and explains how we can employ her ’seven key principles of failure’ in our own lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paloma Faith is one of life’s grafters. Having worked since she was just 14, in jobs ranging from retail to a magician’s assistant, Paloma has worked her way up to becoming the BRIT Award-winning Popstar that we know and love today. She now has five top-ten albums under her belt, including her brand new release ‘Infinite Things’, which she engineered and recorded herself from home during the pandemic. Paloma and Katie talk work ethics, learning to be confident, and about the lessons that Paloma is passing on to her young daughter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former doctor, and author of 'This Is Going To Hurt' Adam Kay is this week’s guest. After six years in the medical profession, Adam moved on to a career in writing, and in response to the 2015 junior doctors contract dispute, turned his medical journals into what became a Sunday Times bestseller. 'This Is Going To Hurt' sold an incredible 2.5 million copies, making it the bestselling nonfiction title of the decade. His stories are now being adapted into a BBC drama, starring Ben Whishaw. In this episode, Adam shares his thoughts on the outpouring of love for the NHS since the pandemic, he tells Katie all about his new children’s book ‘Kay’s Anatomy’, and he shares what happened when he finally faced Jeremy Hunt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's the second and final part of celebrating two years of Katie Piper’s Extraordinary People! We've been taking a look back at some particularly special moments with some truly inspirational guests. In this episode, writer Bella Mackie explains how she deals with her anxiety, the late presenter EJ Osbourne opens up about coming out as transgender, Jameela Jamil shares her experiences of staying resilient in the face of media scrutiny, and recovering addict DJ Fat Tony discusses the 'rise, and fall, and rise again' of his career, and how he's managed to find simple pleasures in lockdown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s officially two years of Katie Piper’s Extraordinary People! In that time, over fifty incredible guests have opened up about their personal journey, with their stories involving anything from trauma, to recovery, to success. As this year has been so difficult for so many, we wanted to look back at the moments that left us feeling uplifted and inspired. In this episode, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill shares how her athletics background has helped her face other challenges in life, Manchester Arena bombing survivor Freya Lewis explains how she’s dealt with life after trauma, Busted’s Matt Willis talks about how he manages his demons after dealing with fame at a young age, and TV chef Nadiya Hussain explains how she deals with anxiety. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nikki Lilly is an award-winning presenter and vlogger, with an Emmy, a BAFTA and over one million YouTube subscribers to her name. She’s presented several of her own CBBC shows, and even has a book on the way 'Come on Life'. It’s a phenomenal set of achievements, made even more amazing by the fact that she’s only 16 years old. It’s what Nikki gives back that makes her truly inspiring. As a child, she displayed symptoms of what was later diagnosed as Arteriovenous Malformation. She’s endured more than 70 operations to treat it, and at just nine years old she set up the Butterfly AVM Charity to help others and raise awareness. In this conversation, Nikki explains what real beauty means to her, how she overcomes her darkest days, plus Nikki and Katie share their respective experiences of living with a visible difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

TV presenter, journalist and writer Andrea McLean is also a much-loved panellist on Loose Women, who we're used to hearing open up about her personal life and experiences. However, when Andrea experienced a breakdown, she kept it private from the public - until now. Ahead of the release of her book ’This Girl Is On Fire’, detailing the cause and aftermath of her struggles, Andrea shares her story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Actress, activist, TV presenter, writer and self-proclaimed ‘feminist-in-progress’, Jameela Jamil, opens up about how she overcame trauma at various stages of her life, now using her platform to amplify the voices of others via her I Weigh movement. In this incredibly frank conversation she shares how her ‘high hopes, low expectations’ mentality took her from being a television presenter in the UK, to becoming the star of the hit US sitcom The Good Place. She’s certainly lived an extraordinary life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Stephanie Yeboah is an author, public speaker, and role model for so many. Over the past 11 years, she's built up an online following as an advocate for self-love, whilst sharing her honest, and sometimes brutal experiences as a plus-size black woman. Katie and Stephanie catch up ahead of the release of Stephanie’s debut book ‘Fattily Ever After: A Black Fat Girls’ Guide to Living Life Unapologetically’, discussing the ‘acceptable fat’ shape, how brands could improve their diversity and inclusivity, and Stephanie’s viral article, titled ‘I Found Out The Guy I Was Dating Did It For A Dare’. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hey Katie Piper fans! Here's a show we think you'll like from our friends at 3Uncanny4..... The Passion Economy! In the clip for this episode: Damali tells Adam about her “aha moment” The moment she realizes she wasn’t using 100% of her skills and passions in her current 9-5 job in banking and details how exactly she was able to identify her unique set of passions and interests that fueled her to quit her job, and create her own business where she was able to truly do what she loves. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In partnership with Priority on O2, Katie is joined by Mr Good Vibes, Vex King. Author of Good Vibes, Good Life, Vex inspires people all around the world with his #GoodVibesOnly mantra, which started from a Twitter trend and became a global movement. But it hasn't always been easy. In this very personal chat, Vex shares how he overcame rough beginnings and a suicide attempt to become a lifestyle entrepreneur, mind coach and international bestselling writer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DJ Fat Tony is one of the most in-demand DJs on the planet. Over the course of his incredible career, he’s worked with the likes of Prince, Madonna, The Beckhams, Jay Z, Elton John to name just a few! However, he says his career only truly began when he overcame his demons – from enduring three years of sexual abuse as a child, to facing 28 years of drug addiction. Tony opens up about how he survived his struggles, and shares how an international DJ copes in lockdown, when all the clubs are shut! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

RuPaul’s Drag Race judge, broadcaster, performer, mother and wife, Michelle Visage, is chatting to Katie from across the pond. Michelle opens up about her truly extraordinary life; from her adoption, to finding her biological mother, growing up as a voguing legend in New York City (befriending RuPaul along the way)! Katie and Michelle also share stories from their turns on Strictly Come Dancing, and their highs and lows during lockdown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the 22nd May 2017, 14 year old Freya Lewis joined her best friend Nell to see their favourite popstar, Ariana Grande, perform live at the Manchester Arena. Then, as they made their way home, Freya was just ten meters away when a terrorist detonated the bomb which would take 22 lives, including Nell’s. After recovering from 29 separate injuries, Freya went on to raise over £60,000 for the hospital which took care of her, as well as writing a book, telling her story. Now 17 years old, Freya opens up about how she takes positives from what happened, how her life has changed, and what her aspirations are for the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Busted bass player, Matt Willis, started the band at 21 years-old. With two BRIT Awards and two studio albums to his name, Matt’s fast-paced life in Busted left him in a bad place after the band's difficult split. He went on to become a star of the stage and screen, including winning I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! Matt opens up about facing addiction, why he’s loves being in the band all over again, and how he’s now settled down (but struggles with homeschooling in lockdown!). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fresh from winning Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, Leon Rolle, aka Locksmith Rudimental shares all on how brutal the show truly is, and reveals the secret item he sneaked in with him. Katie caught up with Leon back in April before the series had come to an end on television. Leon also speaks openly about his self-discovery, self-belief, how music and Rudimental saved his life and his original ambition to become a professional footballer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Julia Samuel MBE is an author and leading psychologist, she's helped many, many bereaved parents through the tragedy of losing a child. Julia spent 23 years at St Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, with her experiences, leading her to launch the charity Child Bereavement UK. Julia was a close confidante of Diana, Princess of Wales, who was a big supporter of the charity, and she remains close to Prince William and his family today. Julia’s now the one answering the questions, sharing her experiences of helping others through trauma, and she talks about her latest passion; writing. Drawing inspiration from patients’ experiences, to write stories that can help others through difficult times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Recorded during lockdown in their homes, Katie speaks with chef, entrepreneur, novelist and TV star Prue Leith, who is video-calling from her home in the English countryside. Prue has been at the top of the British food scene for decades, opening her own restaurant Leith's in 1969 that led to a Michelin Star, then in 1975 she founded the Leith's School of Food and Wine, which has trained some of the UKs top chefs. Prue is no stranger to television having spent years critiquing food on The Great British Menu, and recently she won our hearts as judge on The Great British Bake Off, all whilst writing eight novels, and countless cookery books! She's had a truly extraordinary life, which she recently opened up about in her Channel 4 documentary 'Prue Leith: Journey with My Daughter', where Prue and her adopted daughter Li-Da travel to Cambodia to explore Li-Da's roots and heritage. Katie and Prue speak honestly about the highs and lows life brings, and her career ambitions she has yet to fulfil. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hi Katie Piper fans, we've made a show we think you'll like.... Fertility doctor Jan Karbaat was renowned for getting amazing results. Women who were desperate for children would visit him at his Rotterdam clinic and leave pregnant. But when the clinic closed, rumours began about the methods Karbaat used to achieve his success. The children conceived at the clinic - the Karbaat Kids - began asking difficult questions about what happened to their mothers. What happened in Dr Karbaat’s clinic? From Somethin’ Else, The Immaculate Deception is a story about a doctor who was determined to create life - by any means possible. Reported and hosted by Jenny Kleeman. This is a Somethin' Else Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ex-Eastenders actress, and reigning Queen of I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here, Jacqueline Jossa discusses life in the jungle, dealing with internet trolls, and the struggles she faced in her early days as Lauren Branning on Eastenders. The two also discuss motherhood and sharing their experiences with postpartum hair loss. This episode is recorded in partnership with the NEW Pantene Pro-V Miracles Grow Strong range. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Kevin Clifton speaks with Katie about the struggles he has faced in the past; how he lacks confidence, dealing with depression and how he became disillusioned with dance. Kevin speaks openly about life in the spotlight and how he manages to balance his life, not putting all his eggs in one basket. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill speak to Katie about how she deals with negative thoughts, balancing motherhood alongside being a professional athlete and how she became the best in the world at the seven disciplines that make up the heptathlon.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jason Fox served in the Special Forces for 20 years, dealing with many traumatic experiences – but also living for his work. After two decades he was told to leave the military services, due to suffering from PTSD and depression. He has since become a world-renowned TV presenter and author, having presented ‘SAS: Who Dares Wins’ amongst so much more. In this episode he talks about the rigours of working in the military, dealing with PTSD, and life after having his dream job (and all he knew) taken away from him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jono Lancaster has overcome a huge amount of adversity from the minute he was born. He has Treacher Collins Syndrome and experienced bullying for the way he looked, resulting in a life of self-loathing for 20 years. He has since founded his own foundation, ‘Love Me, Love My Face’ and Jono says the power of meeting other people and hearing about their journeys has helped to motivate him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michelle Elman had 15 surgeries before she was 20 years old, spending a lot of her childhood and teenage years in and out of intensive care. She’s battled with her mental health, body confidence and PTSD but has shown that such adversity can be overcome. She is now a life coach, specialising in body confidence and opens up to Katie about surviving and embracing life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

AKA Courtney Act - Shane Jenek’s drag persona. Shane is an Australian singer and TV presenter and speaks honestly about identity, finding inner confidence, and his reality TV experience, which peaked in the UK when he won Celebrity Big Brother 2018. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Katie is joined by former police officer Maggie Oliver who tells her incredible story. Disgusted with the handling of the Rochdale grooming scandal she became a whistleblower and is now a campaigner and author.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Recorded live from The Meatless Farm in Leeds, Katie talks to multi-award winning screenwriter, director and professional blogger, Vicki Psarias, aka Honest Mum. Vicki talks about her personal journey, sharing insight as to how to overcome self doubt. Katie then talks to Chris Shields from The Meatless Farm, about the product and how it can help to save the planet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bake Off winner and author Nadiya Hussain talks about motherhood, the importance of speaking openly about her anxiety, how The Great British Bake Off changed her life and ‘Finding My Voice’ her new memoir. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gail Porter is a TV presenter, writer, fitness enthusiast and is currently working on a BBC One documentary – Gail Porter Mental Health and Me. Following her involuntary section into hospital in 2011, Gail was motivated to write and speak about her mental health. She talks openly about unconditional love, how she was misled into having her naked bottom projected on the Houses of Parliament, losing her hair 15 years ago to alopecia and the importance of a support network around her. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A one off special, live in collaboration with Pantene, Katie talks to boxer and Vogue cover girl, Ramla Ali, and writer and transgender campaigner, Paris Lees. Ramla talks about boxing in secret for six years due to her family disagreeing with her being involved in the sport. Paris talks about what it was like growing up as a boy who knew she was female. They are later joined by MBE Errol Douglas and talk about how the power of hair connects them all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mother Pukka aka Anna Whitehouse is a writer, broadcaster, columnist, government advisor and the founder of Flex Appeal – a campaign to push flexible working for all. She talks to Katie about miscarrying in her daughter’s nursery and why she started campaigning for flexible working for everyone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jason Vale also known as The Juice Master is an author, motivational speaker and lifestyle coach. He was a junk food addict, heavy smoker and prolific drinker. Jason had a chronic skin disease and severe asthma but transforming his diet, juicing and changing his lifestyle over 20 years ago, has turned his life around. Jason has devoted his time to help others, he’s sold over 6 million books, produced a ground breaking documentary ‘Super Juice Me! The Big Juice Experiment’. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Giovanna Fletcher is a Sunday Times No.1 bestselling author, blogger and presenter. In this episode she opens up about motherhood, fitting into the world of social media, writing about her miscarriage for the first time and the importance of communication when dealing with her husband's depression (Tom Fletcher). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kris Hallenga was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer when she was just 23 years old. Within a few months following her diagnosis, she founded CoppaFeel! the breast cancer charity, to raise awareness, especially for young people, about the disease. Through her ingenuity and perseverance Kris has saved lives through CoppaFeel! She speaks openly about living with cancer over the last 10 years. Katie then talks with Carol Bremner, a dedicated nurse advisor in AXA PPP healthcare’s cancer care team, about how they can help and support people with breast cancer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Journalist, author and runner Bella Mackie joins Katie to discuss how running saved her life. She openly speaks about her anxiety, intrusive thoughts, agoraphobia and how she’s turned her life around. Katie then speaks with Dr Mark Winwood, Director of Psychological Services at AXA PPP healthcare, who shares the ways people struggling with anxiety can help themselves.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

TV presenter Tim Lovejoy speaks honestly about losing his brother to cancer, who was only 37 years old. Tim talks about the bereavement he experienced and indirectly, how he became fascinated with food and nutrition. Katie then speaks with Jason Webb, a registered nurse who helped to set up AXA PPP healthcare’s bereavement support service for members. Jason shares the ways he can help people going through a similar situation to Tim. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Louise Pentland is an author, vlogger, wife and mum of two. With over 2.4 million subscribers on her YouTube channel Louise redeveloped her brand to reflect her life as she matured. Louise vlogs about motherhood, providing advice, recommendations and her home birthing story. In this episode Louise talks about growing up with divorced parents, chopping and changing between multiple homes and schools from the age of seven. She speaks about her first marriage that broke down and how she’s found happiness and peace with her husband and daughters in her thirties. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bryony Gordon is an award winning journalist, author, podcaster and mental health campaigner. In this episode she speaks openly about working through her OCD and intrusive thoughts which became unbearable after a lengthy addiction to drugs and alcohol. Plus she chats about the importance of body acceptance and running marathons in her pants. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fearne Cotton is a TV and radio presenter, author, podcaster, mother and all around creative force – from releasing her own clothing line and homeware range to developing and curating the Happy Place Festival. Fearne speaks honestly about lazy journalism, her relationship with social media, and who she is compared to how people may perceive her. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Elliot Rentz is a high profile make-up artist, fashion designer and is also known as the drag artist Alexis Stone. He creates unbelievable celebrity transformations of big names such as Madonna, Adele and Kim Kardashian. Over the past 9 months Elliot collaborated with Oscar award winning special effects artist David Marti to fake his own plastic surgery. For over 2 months Elliot tricked his 800K followers to believe he had a new face. During this project Elliot was faced with the most vile online comments, but these judgements from others and tough situations are nothing new for Elliot. In this episode he speaks with transparency and openness about his difficult upbringing, dealing with Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder, past substance abuse, getting through rehab, staying sober and Alexis Stone.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Madeleine Shaw is an author, nutritional therapist and mother and whilst her website and Instagram look glossy and perfect Madeleine has not always had a healthy relationship with food. She faced difficulties in her life which lead to disordered eating. In this episode Madeleine speaks about her transition to become a better version of herself and shares some great advice from nutrition, a positive mindset towards food and creating healthy boundaries on social media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

During a summer volunteering in Zanzibar Katie Gee, who was only 18 years old at the time, was the victim of a vicious acid attack. She speaks openly about the evening that changed her life, how she’s processed the effects of the attack and her recent social media campaign celebrating body diversity #SettingTheStandard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

EJ Osborne is a talented woodworker and BBC presenter on Money for Nothing. In this episode he shares his trans journey and how he finally opened up to his wife and family at the age of thirty nine. EJ speaks with humour and honesty about his incredible story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

George Shelley is a presenter, actor and musician who quickly rose to fame with his band Union J. In this episode he speaks openly to Katie about struggling with his sexuality, mental health issues and dealing with grief after the tragic death of his sister in 2017. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Recorded live at the Twinings - Here for You event in London, in this episode Katie is speaking with John Spence. John grew up without knowing he was dyslexic, had ADHD and Mearse-Irlen Syndrome. He wasn’t diagnosed until he was thirty four years old and had not read a book up until that point. Having his confidence shattered in school as a child hasn’t held him back. John shares his extraordinary story of resilience, determination and positivity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Zoe Sugg is a trailblazing online entrepreneur who began vlogging on YouTube at nineteen-years-old. She built her hugely successful brand Zoella which has accumulated over 11 million subscribers on her YouTube channel alone. Zoe tells Katie about her anxiety journey she’s faced, the blurred boundaries for keeping parts of her life private and how the internet can allow people to operate without empathy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Katie returns with reality TV star Debbie Douglas who tells all about her incredible history as a foster parent. Over three decades she's fostered hundreds of children as well as raising a close family. The TOWIE star gives a little inspiration for anyone considering fostering. hear more from Debbie in podcast series The Brights. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kellie Maloney tells Katie how she went from being boxing promoter Frank Maloney, to Kellie - the true version of her self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Becky O'Brien stunned the country with her performance and personality on Britain's Got Talent - and she did this despite being the victim of horrific domestic abuse. She tells Katie her story and what makes her tick. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jonny Benjamin tells Katie how he was talked down from a suicide attempt on Waterloo Bridge, and how he and the stranger who helped him now dedicate their lives to helping others.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Katie talks to model and activist Kelly Knox who has built an amazing career despite being born without a forearm. Kelly speaks about using the platform she has gained to use her voice for good. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learning how cope with a near death experience in her teens, Hayley Doyle tells Katie her inspiring story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The murder of James Bulger in 1993 shook the UK, and 25 years on, his mother Denise Fergus talks to Katie about the impact of his death, the outstanding campaigning and charitable work she done since, and what she feels would have been a suitable punishment for killers Jon Venables and Robert Thompson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Katie chats with model, personal trainer and amputee Jack Eyres about his journey to Mr England, Japan 2020, and how he has dealt with demons, addictions and 'disability'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Katie chats with Tulsi Vagjiani, who survived a plane crash that killed most of her family. Despite multiple obstacles she has rebuilt her life. It's a story of stunning courage and a refusal to accept defeat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Katie is joined by Brooke Kinsella MBE who describes who she rebuilt her life following the murder of her brother. The author, knife crime campaigner and former actress gives a detailed and inspirational account of how she turned channelled the loss into widely acclaimed campaign work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Katie's first guest is the inspirational Alice Liveing. Rising to fame as Clean Eating Alice, she shares her experiences of escaping an abusive relationship and her journey through health and fitness. Recorded in between rehearsals for Strictly 2018. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Katie Piper for a series of powerful and inspirational conversations with people who have triumphed over adversity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices