From War Zones to Wards: The Many Chapters of Dr. Rachel Clarke’s Life
This week on the podcast, I’m joined by someone whose career defies convention and whose work has touched lives across war zones, hospital wards and the written page. Dr Rachel Clarke began as a broadcast journalist, reporting from some of the world’s most dangerous places — covering Al Qaeda, the Gulf War and the civil war in the DRC. Then, at 29, she retrained as a doctor, specialising in palliative care, where she now helps patients live their final days with dignity and as much comfort as possible. Her bestselling books; ‘Your Life in My Hands’, ‘Dear Life’, ‘Breathtaking’ & ‘The Story of A Heart’ have become essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the human side of healthcare. ‘Breathtaking’, her searing account of the COVID-19 frontline, was adapted into a critically acclaimed ITV drama in 2024, co-written by Rachel herself alongside Jed Mercurio and Prasanna Puwanarajah. Rachel’s also a fierce NHS advocate and a public voice for compassion in medicine. I’m in awe of every guest I speak to, but Rachel’s story is one of extraordinary reinvention, resilience and radical empathy. In this podcast we explore how Rachel’s managed to excel in journalism, medicine, activism, storytelling and what drives her to keep speaking truth to power. Related links: Rachel’s Website Watch the trailer for ‘Breathtaking’ Follow Rachel on Instagram Follow Rachel on Twitter
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1:10:55
The Movie Music Maker: A Conversation with Paul Broucek, President of Warner Bros Pictures Music.
Paul Broucek, President of Warner Bros Pictures Music is the man behind the soundtracks of some of the most iconic films of our time: The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit Trilogy, Harry Potter, Inception, Dunkirk, Gravity, American History X, The Notebook and Austin Powers to name but a few. Paul has collaborated with legendary composers, visionary directors and groundbreaking producers creating award-winning music to some of the greatest movies of the last half century. From orchestras to Oscar winners, his journey is packed with stories that span genres, generations and global stages. This podcast is a masterclass in film music, the craft of scoring, the stories behind some of our all-time favourite movie scenes and the man who made it happen. I was so lucky to talk to Paul and you are going to love this podcast!
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Why Are We Here? Who Are We? Dr. Iain McGilchrist on Consciousness, the Divided Brain, and the Matter with Things
In this unmissable episode, I talk to renowned psychiatrist, philosopher and author Dr. Iain McGilchrist to explore the profound questions that shape our existence: Why are we here? Who are we? Drawing from his groundbreaking books — including The Master and His Emissary and The Matter with Things — Dr. McGilchrist shares insights from his life and career, weaving together neuroscience, philosophy and metaphysics. Dr. McGilchrist explains the mysteries of the divided brain, the nature of time, the power of creativity and intuition, the pursuit of happiness and the essence of consciousness and The Divine. This conversation is a journey into the heart of what it means to be human — rich with wisdom, wonder and the kind of clarity that only Dr. McGilchrist can offer. Related Links Iain’s Website The Master and His Emissary The Matter with Things Iain’s Podcast
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Horse with No Name and Sister Golden Hair: Gerry Beckley talks about his 53 years in the band AMERICA.
In this episode, Gerry Beckley; singer, songwriter, and co-founder of the iconic band America takes us on a remarkable journey through five decades of music, fame and friendship. Gerry talks about their timeless hits including “A Horse with No Name” and “Sister Golden Hair” and what it felt like to top the charts with both a No. 1 single and album at just 19 years old. He shares vivid stories of forming the band while still in high school, navigating sudden stardom, collaborating with legendary producer George Martin (The Beatles) and performing alongside everyone from Pink Floyd to Cat Stevens. From whirlwind early tours and surreal LA house parties with the likes of David Bowie, Ringo Starr and Harry Nilsson, to the emotional highs and challenges of a 53-year musical brotherhood with Dewey Bunnell — this is a rare and intimate look behind the curtain of one of the most enduring bands in rock history. Plus: The making of the acclaimed new documentary “I Need You: 53 Years of the Band America” and why their music still strikes a chord with fans across generations. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering the band, this episode is packed with heart, humour, history and harmony. Related links Follow Gerry: https://www.instagram.com/gerrybeckley/ Follow America: https://www.instagram.com/americaband/ Listen to his music: https://open.spotify.com/artist/35U9lQaRWSQISxQAB94Meo?si=ygKZ8OV6R9eom3r4kF-PBw&nd=1&dlsi=8914814ea28a42b2
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Clare Mackintosh – on Grief, Working in the Police and Writing Blockbuster Crime Novels.
I can’t quite believe the amount of ground that is covered in the very special conversation I had with multi-award-winning, best-selling author Clare Mackintosh. It really is a podcast of two halves; in the first Clare talks with unflinching candour about losing her son Alex when he was five weeks old. The second is a detailed account of how she creates the amazing books she writes, from the first glimmer of an idea to completion. A true rock star of life, this is an important conversation for those suffering from grief or those supporting someone suffering from grief, it is also an insight for all aspiring writers on how to write a roller-coaster, twist-filled novel and it is a lesson to us all on how to tackle life in the worst and best of circumstances, how to strive for what you want and how to triumph. I took away several lessons from our conversation and am already employing them in my life and they are working! I am sure they will for you too. I am so grateful to Clare for this wonderful conversation. Related Links Clare’s Website Follow Clare on Instagram Follow Clare on Twitter
Ireland