The Dr Hilary Show

What does it take to stay sharp at 85, sell over 300 million books, and keep going after criticism, controversy, and cancer? Lord Jeffrey Archer reflects on his life and work — from running for his country to facing near-bankruptcy, from building global bestsellers to dealing with prostate cancer. He explains how he keeps his energy, why discipline and resilience matter, why he reworks every book through as many as 17 drafts, and his support for Mary Archer’s drive to build the UK’s first children’s hospital that treats mental and physical health together. They also discuss Olympic security, fairness in sport, assisted dying, and the challenges of living longer. Ask Dr HilaryWhether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com  Sign up for the weekly newsletter with tips and advice on health and wellbeing: https://drhilaryjones.com  Follow Dr Hilary  X: @DrHilaryJones Instagram: @thedrhilaryshow/Support the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UK is seeing a surge in the illegal trade of prescription medicines, often sold online without any medical supervision. In this episode, Dr Hilary talks to Andy Morling, Head of Criminal Enforcement at the MHRA, about how criminals are moving from heroin and cocaine into the trade in prescription medicines. Andy explains how unlicensed and counterfeit weight-loss injections are entering the country, why they can contain the wrong dose or even insulin, and the risks of buying any medicine outside the regulated supply chain. He also describes how the MHRA works with Border Force, social media companies, and international partners to seize illegal products and raise public awareness. You can use https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/  to report any concerns — whether with a legitimate medicine or an unlicensed version — and the MHRA will investigate. Ask Dr HilaryWhether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com  Sign up for the weekly newsletter with tips and advice on health and wellbeing: https://drhilaryjones.com  Follow Dr Hilary  X: @DrHilaryJones  Instagram: @thedrhilaryshow/ More about the show and to sign up for weekly newsletter: https://drhilaryjones.com Support the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Anil Joshi is an ENT and facial plastic surgeon who repairs the damage from drug use, trauma, and cancer — and is helping to shape the future of reconstructive surgery. In this conversation with Dr Hilary, he explains how 3D printing is changing what’s possible, and the ethical challenges of saying no when surgery would do more harm than good. They discuss the progression of cocaine-related nasal injury, the dangers of unlicensed injectors and bargain medical tourism, and how AI is starting to support surgical planning. Dr Joshi also shares how musicianship informs his surgical judgment, why fitness and mindset matter for eight-hour operations, and what’s next for training and global standards. Ask Dr HilaryWhether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com Sign up for the weekly newsletter with tips and advice on health and wellbeing: https://drhilaryjones.com Follow Dr HilaryX: @DrHilaryJonesInstagram: @thedrhilaryshow/Support the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In her mid-forties, Claer Barrett, associate editor at the Financial Times, turned to weight loss medication, a decision that transformed her health, her habits, and her outlook on life. In this episode, Claer explains what it feels like when “food noise” finally stops. She tells Dr Hilary how portion control became possible for the first time, and why she invested in medical monitoring, body scans and therapy. She also speaks honestly about the side effects, the discipline required to keep the weight off, and the challenge of doing all this while being open with her readers. Beyond the personal story, the discussion explores the wider issues raised by these new drugs. From the black-market risks and rising costs to the question of whether the NHS should fund treatment; a frank look at obesity, health and longevity, and the difficult choices many people face when trying to live better for longer. Ask Dr HilaryWhether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.comSign up for the weekly newsletter with tips and advice on health and wellbeing: https://drhilaryjones.com Follow Dr Hilary X: @DrHilaryJones Instagram: @thedrhilaryshow/Support the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it mean to live a life through music? Dr Hilary speaks with world-renowned soprano Lesley Garrett about her extraordinary career on the global stage — and how singing has been her anchor through life’s biggest challenges. From her beginnings at the English National Opera to show-stopping nights at Wembley and beyond, Lesley reflects on the joys of music, memory and community. She also shares her health battles, including a rare thymus tumour and an early menopause, showing how her voice and spirit endured through resilience, medical innovation and the healing power of song. Lesley also talks about why choirs transform health, her time on Strictly Come Dancing, and why — at 70 — she has no plans to retire. Ask Dr HilaryWhether it’s advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now’s your chance to get answers. If it’s on your mind, Dr Hilary wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com For more information about the show and to sign up for the weekly newsletter: https://drhilaryjones.comSupport the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At 14, Tyler West shut himself away. His parents broke up, there was a murder outside his home, and he spent two years barely leaving his bedroom. In this conversation with Dr Hilary, Tyler talks about the turning points that followed: playing handball for Great Britain, a chance break on TV, and reaching the Strictly Come Dancing semi-finals. He explains why therapy mattered, what body image has meant to him, and why he chose to be open about his hair transplant.He also recalls running a marathon in the middle of Strictly rehearsals — a decision that took a heavy toll on his body. Ask Dr HilaryWhether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.comMore about the show and to sign up for the weekly newsletter: https://drhilaryjones.comSupport the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Olympic golds between 1984 and 2000, and a nine-time world champion — speaks with Dr Hilary about the health battles that shaped his career. He recalls colitis striking before Barcelona 1992, the treatment that required official clearance to let him compete, and the pain he endured to stay on the world stage. He also explains being diagnosed with diabetes at 35, learning to balance insulin with punishing training sessions, and still going on to claim his fifth gold medal at Sydney 2000. After retiring, Steve says he felt adrift when the Olympic flame finally went out. He speaks candidly about depression, why seeking help matters, and the role testosterone treatment played in restoring his confidence. Steve also remembers being one of the first people involved in London’s Olympic bid, later helping to deliver the Games, and reflects on how London 2012 and his own career raised the profile of rowing in Britain. Ask Dr HilaryWhether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com More about the show and to sign up for weekly newsletter: https://drhilaryjones.comSupport the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thinking about taking weight loss drugs? In this eye-opening episode, Dr Hilary speaks with leading nutrition therapist Ian Marber about the guilt we attach to food and the confusion surrounding nutrition. From diet trends and probiotic hype to ultra-processed food and emotional eating, the conversation tackles what we all get wrong — and what we need to hear before changing how we eat. Ian also opens up about his coeliac diagnosis, his time running The Food Doctor brand, and why he believes nuance is the missing ingredient in today’s health conversations. Ask Dr HilaryWhether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.comMore on Ian Marber: https://www.ianmarber.comMore about the show and to sign up for weekly newsletter: https://drhilaryjones.comSupport the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this moving episode, Pete Cohen talks about love, loss, and the mindset shifts that shape a meaningful life. Pete reflects on the death of his wife, Hannah, after a remarkable 12-year journey through brain cancer—and how that experience changed his relationship with himself. He speaks candidly about how grief challenged him to face his thoughts and emotions, let go of “busyness,” and live more intentionally. The conversation explores how phobias form and can be overcome, how visualising the future can shape behaviour, and why helping others begins with knowing yourself. Pete also shares powerful insights from working with elite athletes like Ronnie O’Sullivan and Sally Gunnell, and why pressure, trauma, and identity can define performance. With humour and heart, Pete and Dr. Hilary revisit their early TV collaborations—fire walks, costume talks, and health campaigns that used playfulness to spark change. The episode is a wide-ranging reflection on resilience, perspective, and the quiet power of showing up. Ask Dr Hilary Whether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help.Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.comFor more information about the show, visit drhilaryjones.com For more information on Pete Cohen visit: https://www.petecohen.com/Support the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ed Balls joins Dr. Hilary to talk candidly about the challenges that have defined his life—from battling altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro with Little Mix, to running three marathons while in cabinet, and managing the osteoarthritis that now impacts his knees and hands. He opens up about life with a stammer and why, even after reaching the highest levels of government, it took years of therapy—and going public—to find peace with it. The conversation spans his media career, Strictly Come Dancing, and the surreal moment he played the banjo for the Queen with Frank Skinner and Harry Hill. And while he doesn’t rule out a return to politics, Ed explains why he feels he’s doing more public good now—from the outside. Ask Dr Hilary Whether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help.Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com For more information about the show, visit drhilaryjones.comSupport the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Anand Patel joins Dr. Hilary to break the silence on male sexual health — from testosterone and tiredness to infertility and the myths behind men’s midlife crises. For 24 years, Dr. Patel has been a leading voice in men’s health, tackling taboo topics like erectile dysfunction, low libido, male infertility, and the hidden dangers of testosterone deficiency. In this candid conversation, he shares the hard truths about why sperm counts are dropping, how cycling could be harming fertility, and why tight trousers might be the least of men’s problems. They explore treatments ranging from shockwave therapy and penile implants to lifestyle changes that really make a difference — and uncover the new science around testosterone and mental health. There’s nothing off limits in this brutally honest episode that might help millions of men understand what’s going on with their bodies. Ask Dr Hilary Whether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com For more information about the show, visit drhilaryjones.comSupport the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Professor James Calder joins Dr. Hilary to share what it takes to repair and prepare elite athletes for action. They talk about the high-stakes world of sports surgery, the pressure of operating on stars like Neymar, and the importance of rehabilitation over the surgery itself. Professor Calder also opens up about leading the UK’s sports concussion committee, his humanitarian work in disaster zones, his role in reopening elite sports during the pandemic, and the brutal reality of trekking the Negev Desert by camel — all while staying physically and mentally fit. Ask Dr HilaryWhether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help.Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com For more information about the show, visit drhilaryjones.comSupport the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Francis Rossi joins Dr. Hilary to talk openly about the years he lost to cocaine and alcohol, the damage it caused, and the daily habits he now sticks to without fail. He explains why these days, he still does vocal warmups, crunches, and watches what he eats. They discuss his friendship and eventual distance from Rick Parfitt, the moment he showed his damaged nose on live TV, and why he chose to have a hair transplant. At 76, he’s still touring — but only by staying disciplined, physically active and prepared for every show. Ask Dr Hilary Whether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr Hilary answers your health and wellness questions. If it’s on your mind, he wants to help.Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com For more information about the show, visit drhilaryjones.com Support the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Huntington’s disease affects thousands of families across the UK — but many still haven’t heard of it. And when it comes to men’s health, taboo and time can be two of the biggest barriers to care. Dr. Hilary sits down with two very different guests sharing one goal: better health through awareness, support, and accessible solutions. First, Steve Lewis, filmmaker and devoted husband, opens up about caring for his wife Sarah and raising awareness about Huntington’s through their powerful story. Then, digital health pioneer Sokratis Papafloratos discusses his personal health scare and how it inspired the creation NUMAN, an online health platform revolutionizing how men (and now women) access care. Together, they explore: • What it’s really like living with Huntington’s disease• How genetic testing impacts family planning• The emotional toll on carers — and what support’s out there• Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis: giving children a future without Huntington’s• Why many GPs have never seen a case — and why that must change• Making health care more accessible and less embarrassing for men• Why AI and digital platforms may be the future of treatment• The testosterone crisis and how it affects energy, mood, and libido• Humour in health: why TV ads broke taboos to get men talking 💬 Ask Dr HilaryWhether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr. Hilary will answer your health and wellness questions. If it's on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com For more information about the show, visit drhilaryjones.comSupport the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HRT has become one of the most talked-about—and misunderstood—topics in women’s health. This week, Dr. Hilary is joined by GP, media doctor, and author Dr. Ellie Cannon to separate fact from fiction. With her new book, The Little Book of HRT, Dr. Cannon offers practical, no-nonsense advice rooted in everyday NHS care, cutting through commercial hype and confusion. Together, they discuss:• Why HRT isn’t simply good or bad—it’s personal• How the menopause conversation has evolved• The dangers of misinformation and overmedicalisation• What most women can expect from their NHS GP• Why straightforward, accessible advice is still so hard to find Ask Dr HilaryWhether it's advice on HRT, sleep, diet, or everyday medical concerns, Dr. Hilary will answer your health and wellness questions. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.comFor more information about the show, visit drhilaryjones.comSupport the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Skin and lung cancers are among the deadliest — and most common — cancers in the world. But there is real hope, better outcomes, and more effective treatments than ever before. Dr. Hilary sits down with renowned consultant oncologist Dr. James Wilson to unpack the realities behind cancer diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. From world-class research at Oxford to life-saving innovations in radiotherapy and immunotherapy, Dr. Wilson shares his knowledge, and why early detection could save your life. Together, they explore:• The latest in lung cancer treatments• Vaping, smoking, and the future of tobacco bans• How immunotherapy is transforming outcomes for melanoma• What SPF to use and why it matters—even in winter• How your genetic profile can unlock targeted cancer treatment 💬 Ask Dr HilaryWhether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns, now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr. Hilary will answer your health and wellness questions. If it's on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com For more information about the show, visit drhilaryjones.comSupport the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The king of the one-liner, comedian Tim Vine, joins Dr. Hilary for a brilliantly conversation—filled with reflections on life on the comedy circuit, writing jokes, and finding lightness in even the heaviest moments. From his world-record-breaking joke streak to his Elvis tribute act Plastic Elvis, and his love of the move, Jaws, Tim offers insights into health, happiness, and finding laughter in everyday moments. Together, they explore: Why Tim avoids stress and finds joy in simple things (like garden sprinklers) Childhood comedy inspirations and being raised on Bilko and Cooper The surprising connection between humour and health Why dessert makes Tim dangerously sleepy — and what Dr. Hilary has to say about that And the eternal truth: you can remove a spleen, but never take away a good pun Support the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Dr. Hilary Show is joined by Larry Lamb – a man who’s played everyone from lovable Mick Shipman in Gavin and Stacey to the infamous Archie Mitchell in EastEnders. But there’s much more to Larry than iconic characters. He’s a novelist, broadcaster, and passionate storyteller.  Larry opens up about his fascinating journey from the oil fields of Libya to global film sets, his deep respect for the crews who make the magic happen, and how a long-held film idea became the blueprint for his debut novel. They discuss Larry’s candid health battles, the power of reconciliation, and his moving connection to Marie Curie through his brother’s final days 💬 Ask Dr Hilary. Whether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr. Hilary will answer your health and wellness questions. If it's on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com. For more about the show, visit https://www.drhilaryjones.com/   Support the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

👉 Vanessa Lloyd Platt has seen it all—from high-profile splits to deeply personal breakdowns. As one of the UK’s most sought-after family lawyers, she brings decades of experience, candour, and compassion to the often-overlooked health impacts of divorce. In this episode, she joins Dr Hilary for an eye-opening conversation about why divorce doesn’t just break hearts—it can break your health. From the emotional toll of loneliness and insomnia to the physical risks like diabetes and heart disease, Vanessa explains why managing expectations, mental well-being, and nutrition during separation is critical. Together, they explore the pitfalls of bad legal advice, the psychological fallout of modern “no-fault” divorces, and why mediation and support systems are more essential than ever. Vanessa also shares her campaign for grandchildren’s rights, the surprisingly different ways men and women cope, and her holistic approach to helping clients survive—and thrive—post-divorce. 💬 Ask Dr Hilary. Whether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr. Hilary will answer your health and wellness questions. If it's on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com. For more about the show, visit https://www.drhilaryjones.com/Support the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

👉 A former NHS doctor and now YouTube’s Head of Health UK, Dr Vishaal Virani joins Dr Hilary for a wide-ranging conversation about the power—and perils—of online health content. They discuss how YouTube combats misinformation, the rise of AI deepfakes, and how technology is helping both patients and doctors alike. Plus: real stories of lives saved by videos, the unexpected benefits of virtual wards, and why getting outdoors might be the best health hack of all. 💬 Ask Dr Hilary. Whether it's advice on sleep, diet, mental well-being, or everyday medical concerns now's your chance to get answers. Each week, Dr. Hilary will answer your health and wellness questions. If it's on your mind, he wants to help. Send your questions to Ask@drhilaryjones.com. For more about the show, visit https://www.drhilaryjones.com/Support the show: https://www.drhilaryjones.com/dr-hilary-jones-show/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.