The Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show

Networking with confidence, finding your tribe, and creating spaces where women genuinely belong — this episode is packed with energy, honesty and practical encouragement. Nancy is joined by Michelle Theuma, Chair of Women in Enterprise and one of the driving forces behind Milton Keynes’ International Women’s Day celebrations. Michelle shares how meaningful networking is about connection over transactions, why supportive rooms matter, and how the right community can change your business journey and your confidence. She talks about building welcoming spaces for women, the power of collaboration over competition, and how Women in Enterprise has evolved into both a professional network and a powerful social support system. They dive into the nerves many people feel before walking into a networking room, with reassuring advice on finding the right groups, letting go of the hard sell, and focusing instead on relationships, trust and shared experiences. If you’ve ever felt intimidated by networking, this will feel like a warm arm around the shoulder. The conversation also explores identity, confidence and visibility as women move through different life stages, including how style, comfort and self-expression play a role in how we show up in business and in life. There’s an uplifting look at dressing for joy, body changes, and why feeling comfortable in your clothes can transform how you perform in professional spaces. Michelle also reveals the story behind the growth of the local International Women’s Day event — from a small theatre gathering to a major, high-impact celebration supporting women’s causes, charities and female voices across the region. Expect inspiration, community spirit, and a reminder that taking time out to invest in yourself is not a luxury — it’s essential. A motivating, feel-good episode for women in business, anyone feeling isolated at work, or those ready to step back into the room with confidence. #WomenInBusiness #NetworkingConfidence #InternationalWomensDay #WomenSupportingWomen #MiltonKeynes #FemaleFounders #ConfidenceBoost #CommunityOverCompetition #StyleAndConfidence #WomenInEnterprise

Menopause, motivation, mindset and a much-needed reality check — this episode is packed with honest conversation and practical advice. Nancy is joined in the studio by menopause health and wellness expert Ailsa Petchey, a familiar voice to listeners and a trusted guide for women navigating midlife changes. They talk about the pressure of “new year, new you” and why winter is often the wrong time to force big life overhauls. Instead, Ailsa shares a gentler approach: small, consistent habits, deeper breathing, and actually allowing yourself to pause. The conversation explores overwhelm, being present, and why women so often push themselves past capacity. There’s a brilliant deep dive into body confidence during menopause, including how body shape changes, why hormones (not just calories) affect weight, and simple wardrobe tweaks that can instantly improve how you look and feel. They also unpack the new terminology shift from HRT to MHT, what each hormone does in the body, and the wide range of symptoms linked to oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone changes. Plus: the truth about grip strength and longevity, why strength matters for later life, how to start safely, and how breathwork can help anxiety, sleep, hormone balance and emotional release. A warm, informative and reassuring episode for any woman who wants to understand her body better and feel more in control of her wellbeing. #Menopause #MidlifeHealth #HormoneHealth #WomensWellness #BodyConfidence #HealthyAgeing #Breathwork #Perimenopause #Mindset #Wellbeing

It’s a culture-packed episode of The Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show on the new Horizon Radio, where theatre, film, books, television and real life all collide in Nancy’s wonderfully honest, high-energy style. Nancy shares her powerful theatre experiences with Dear England and Tina – The Tina Turner Musical, reflecting on psychology, resilience, leadership, abuse survival, racism, and the sheer emotional force of live performance. From Gareth Southgate’s mindset revolution to Tina Turner’s unstoppable rise, these are stories of strength, grit and reinvention. On the book front, Nancy gives her candid verdict on Freida McFadden’s The Intruder, questioning whether the thriller queen has matched the magic of The Housemaid. That leads perfectly into Movie Magic, with big-screen talk on The Housemaid, Song Sung Blue, and the heartbreaking Shakespeare-inspired drama Hamnet. TV lovers are spoiled too — The Traitors, The Night Manager, Harlan Coben thrillers and Knives Out all get the Nancy treatment, as she wonders what her obsession with murder and psychological drama says about her! Plus, personal stories, radio life, styling, burnout, joyful fashion, and a chance encounter with a fellow “dopamine dresser” that proves how powerful like-minded women can be. Culture, conversation, candour and a lot of heart — this is lifestyle radio with substance. #NancyStevensShow #HorizonRadio #TheatreLovers #TinaTurnerMusical #DearEngland #BookReview #MovieMagic #TVTalk #LifestyleShow #WomenInRadio #DopamineDressing #CulturalChat

A warm, honest and joy-filled conversation on the Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show, as Nancy is joined by Laura Fry, founder of Alexia Loves in Woburn Sands. Laura shares her journey from fashion retail to corporate life and back again, explaining how her boutique was built around confidence, inclusivity and making style feel accessible rather than intimidating. The discussion explores retail therapy, body confidence, shopping through life changes, and why the right clothes can be truly empowering at any age. Laura talks spring fashion trends, colour, capsule wardrobes, social media realities, and creating a relaxed, welcoming space where women support women. The episode also previews the sold-out “Don’t Sweat It” menopause confidence event, focusing on loving your body, managing change and dressing with confidence. A reassuring, uplifting listen about fashion, self-belief and feeling good in your own skin. #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #NewHorizonRadio #AlexiaLoves #WomenInBusiness #BodyConfidence #RetailTherapy #FashionConfidence #MidlifeStyle #MenopauseMatters #SupportLocal #WoburnSands #StyleWithConfidence

Welcome to the first Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show of 2026 – small but perfectly formed, and packed with brilliant conversation, reflections and cultural highlights. Nancy opens the year by swapping resolutions for intention-setting, sharing powerful insights from her Reset, Renew and Farewell to 2025 retreat, including journalling, vision boards and why clarity is her word for the month. There’s honest discussion about mindset, self-kindness and making meaningful change without setting yourself up to fail. The culture section is full of strong opinions, from the nostalgic chaos of Friends: The Musical Parody at Milton Keynes Theatre, to two wildly different films – the bewildering fever dream Marty Supreme and the emotional, swagger-filled boxing biopic Giant. TV fans are treated to a deep dive into The Traitors, exploring why this series works so brilliantly, the psychology of the players and why it’s some of the best television right now. Nancy also tackles the resurgence of colour analysis, calling out common misdiagnoses, explaining warm versus cool tones, and why wearing the right colours can transform confidence and wardrobe choices. With warmth, humour and sharp insight, this episode sets the tone for 2026 – reflective, passionate and completely authentic. #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #PodcastUK #LifestylePodcast #VisionBoard #IntentionSetting #FriendsTheMusical #FilmReview #TheTraitors #ColourAnalysis #PersonalStyling #NewYearMindset #UKPodcast

Welcome to the final Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show of 2025 – and a very special birthday episode as Nancy turns 59 and reflects on a year of personal growth, culture and connection. In this episode, Nancy looks back on the highs and lows of 2025, sharing festive fashion adventures, Strictly Come Dancing reflections, standout book recommendations including Chris Chibnall’s debut crime novel, and reviews of three very different pantomimes from Northampton to London’s Palladium. There’s also a wonderfully festive trip to London, taking in Christmas lights, Selfridges window displays, the Royal Opera House, the V&A and a candid look at how busy – and magical – the capital feels at Christmas. Nancy is joined by special guest Simon Tuck, DJ, radio presenter and community fundraiser for Age UK. Together they explore Simon’s journey through radio, the importance of preparation and authenticity in broadcasting, and the vital work Age UK does to tackle loneliness and social isolation, especially during the festive season. It’s an episode full of warmth, reflection, laughter and gratitude – a perfect way to round off the year and look ahead with hope. #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #Podcast #LifestylePodcast #RadioPresenter #AgeUK #ChristmasReflection #YearInReview #StrictlyComeDancing #BookRecommendations #Pantomime #RadioLife #Community #Loneliness #MiltonKeynes #HorizonRadio

Nancy brings a burst of colour, conversation and Christmas spirit to this week’s Lifestyle Show. She opens with her take on Pantone’s newly announced Colour of the Year and the huge reaction it has sparked, before diving into the latest Strictly Come Dancing upset and why trained dancers rarely lift the glitterball. There’s a full review of Goldilocks and the Three Bears at Milton Keens Theatre, celebrating Brian Conley’s triumphant return, plus her thoughts on Jeremy Clarkson’s newest Diddly Squat book and the surprising warmth behind the chaos of farm life. Nancy also shares stories from her trip to Hull, featuring generous northern hospitality, visits to cast members in Panto, and an unexpected mid-meal colour analysis for a Coronation Street star. This week’s guest, Amarie Turner from Pixiebe Creations, joins her to explore the mental health benefits of crochet, the rise of crafting culture, and the welcoming community that has grown around her workshops and retreats. With festive fashion chat, creative inspiration and plenty of sparkle, it’s a warm, uplifting episode perfect for the run-up to Christmas. #Lifestyle #NancyStevens #StrictlyComeDancing #Pantone #Crochet #Crafting #Panto #Goldilocks #MiltonKeensTheatre #DiddlySquat #JeremyClarkson #PixiebeCreations #UKPodcasts #RadioShow

Step into a festive, fast-moving edition of The Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show on New Horizon Radio, filled with reviews, real-life stories, wellness wisdom and a good dose of Nancy’s trademark sparkle. The episode opens with Christmas chaos creeping in, from crammed diaries to hormonal mayhem, before welcoming the much-loved Elsa, Nancy’s “hormonal fairy godmother”, who shares her best advice for staying balanced, calm and human over the holiday season. Nancy dives into Jeffrey Archer’s Endgame, praising its tension, humour and vivid London 2012 setting, followed by her honest take on the second Wicked film — dazzling visuals, powerful performances, yet something missing. That leads into a sharp, heartfelt conversation about Hollywood’s alarming trend of extreme weight loss, body image pressures and the worrying signals coming from the film’s press trail. There’s a gripping review of Malice, the new psychological drama starring Jack Whitehall, showcasing a completely different side to him. Nancy takes you through its Greek-island setting, unsettling twists and her own jaw-dropping reactions. Listeners also get a tour of a festive wreath-making workshop with Carys Botanical Designs, complete with pine cones, tartan ribbon and mild creative mayhem, plus a look at Nancy’s own wardrobe-edit and colour-analysis gift vouchers for those impossible-to-buy-for loved ones. In the second hour, Elsa returns to unpack menopause during the busiest time of the year — sleep, stress, food cravings, heart health, weight-loss drugs, body dysmorphia and how women can protect themselves physically and mentally. Practical tips include mindful eating, evening walks, protein-rich snacks, sleep banking and clever techniques to calm an overactive mind. There’s also an important discussion about women’s heart-attack symptoms, misdiagnosis, and why awareness needs to change. The episode closes with updates on Elsa’s “Don’t Sweat It” walking groups, the Beyond Project, and Nancy’s upcoming Christmas fashion and panto features. Warm, insightful, honest and full of personality — this show captures everything listeners love about Nancy. 00:00 – Opening, sponsor message and festive introduction 01:12 – Hormones, Christmas chaos and welcoming Elsa later in the show 03:10 – Review of Jeffrey Archer’s Endgame 08:40 – Wicked review, cast performances and visual spectacle 15:10 – Hollywood’s super-skinny trend and body-image concerns 23:00 – Jack Whitehall in Malice – full review and reactions 31:40 – Christmas wreath workshop at Carys Botanical Designs 37:55 – Wardrobe-edit gift vouchers and festive fashion ideas 41:05 – Welcoming Elsa for the menopause segment 42:15 – Stress, routine, sleep, overwhelm and festive coping tips 47:55 – Food, cravings, protein snacks and evening habits 50:30 – Weight-loss drugs, body dysmorphia and celebrity pressure 52:10 – Women’s heart health and symptoms to watch for 53:00 – Elsa’s walking groups, socials and Nancy’s Christmas previews #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #NewHorizonRadio #JeffreyArcherEndgame #WickedMovie #JackWhitehallMalice #MenopauseSupport #FestiveWellbeing #BodyImage #HeartHealth #CarisBotanicalDesigns #ChristmasWreath #LifestylePodcast #UKRadio #WomenSupportingWomen #HolidayStress #WellnessTips #GiftIdeas #ColourAnalysis #WardrobeEdit

Step into this heartwarming episode of The Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show, where friendship, creativity and honest conversation take centre stage. Nancy welcomes one of her oldest friends, Justine McNulty, the creator behind Wooden Wick Candles, for a rich and uplifting chat that flows from personal stories to powerful reviews and a touch of festive inspiration. Nancy opens the show with her trademark blend of humour and insight before moving into three deeply engaging reviews — the haunting power of Nuremberg, Elizabeth Gilbert’s raw new memoir All the Way to the River, and the glossy, dark drama of Wild Cherry. Her reflections span history, grief, addiction, privilege and the unsettling realities of modern life, delivered with the emotional intelligence and warmth listeners adore. We then dive into the world of candle-making with Justine, exploring how a lockdown hobby blossomed into a thriving business featured in John Lewis. The pair discuss premium waxes, evocative scents, creative workshops, and the joy of gifting experiences rather than things. Their conversation is filled with nostalgia, laughter, shared memories, and the importance of meaningful female friendships. The episode also wanders beautifully through books, films, fashion mishaps, Strictly Come Dancing favourites, and the chaos of naming children — an unfiltered snapshot of two women who have lived, laughed and grown together for 25 years. It’s cosy, candid, and full of soul, perfect for anyone craving warmth during the darker winter months. If you love uplifting conversation, heartfelt reflections, lifestyle inspiration and the magic of women supporting women, this episode will wrap around you like a soft blanket. #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #WoodenwickCandles #CandleMaking #LifestylePodcast #BookReviews #FilmReviews #FriendshipMatters #CreativeWorkshops #JohnLewisMakers #NurembergFilm #ElizabethGilbert #WildCherryDrama #StrictlyComeDancing #WomenSupportingWomen #BritishPodcast #LifestyleChat #FeelGoodListening #MKRadio #IndependentMakers #FestiveInspiration

A lively episode packed with chaos, culture and creativity as Nancy navigates a week worthy of its own sitcom. From car troubles and cat carrier battles to a soothing facial that didn’t quite soothe, she brings her trademark humour to every mishap. Nancy reviews Gone Before Goodbye, shares her love for Fawlty Towers on stage, and offers heartfelt thoughts on the beautifully made film The Choir. The show’s highlight is her inspiring conversation with Tara from Seamstress MK, exploring sewing, sustainability and the joy of making something with your own hands. #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #NewHorizonRadio #MiltonKeynesLifestyle #SeamstressMK #MiltonKeynesMakers #CreativeMK #SmallBusinessStories #BookReviewUK #TheatreReviewUK #FilmReviewUK #MKCommunity #WomenInBusiness #SewingWorkshops #SupportLocalMK

This week’s Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show features festive inspiration and powerful stories. She shares her experiences at creative local workshops — from wreath making at Caris Botanical to jewellery crafting at Coroné Wood and candle pouring with Water & Wick. Nancy reflects on Virginia Giuffre’s posthumously published memoir Nobody’s Girl, explores the moving film I Swear about Tourette’s syndrome, and discusses wardrobe weeding tips ahead of Christmas. Special guests Steve Clark and David Pibworth from Milton Keynes Theatre of Comedy join Nancy to talk about their festive double bill — The Vicar of Dibley and Porridge — on stage this December. Packed with laughter, style advice, heartfelt reviews, and festive cheer, it’s an episode celebrating creativity, courage and community. #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #NewHorizonRadio #MiltonKeynes #FestiveWorkshops #ChristmasInspiration #WardrobeWeed #VirginiaGiuffre #NobodysGirl #ISwearMovie #TouretteAwareness #MiltonKeynesTheatreOfComedy #VicarOfDibley #Porridge #LocalTheatre #SteveClark #DavidPibworth #CreativeChristmas #SupportLocalTheatre #LifestyleRadio #NancyStevens

Join Nancy Stevens on The Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show on Horizon Radio for a packed and heartfelt episode celebrating inspiration, resilience and creativity. Nancy shares her admiration for beauty icon Bobbi Brown and her empowering autobiography Still Bobbi, discusses the brilliance of Sally Wainwright’s groundbreaking TV drama Riot Women, and gives a glowing review of Mary Poppins The Musical at Milton Keynes Theatre. She also opens up about body confidence, her battle to find the perfect jeans, and welcomes award-winning foodie and content creator Sophie etc. for an inspiring chat about supporting independent restaurants, running a social media agency, and building community through events like Sophie’s Street Feast and Supper Club. A thoughtful, funny, and uplifting show that’s all about real women, real talk and real inspiration. #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #NewHorizonRadio #BobbiBrown #StillBobbi #RiotWomen #MaryPoppinsMusical #MiltonKeynesTheatre #SophieEtc #FoodieMK #IndependentRestaurants #SocialMedia #WomenInBusiness #BodyConfidence #LifestylePodcast #MiltonKeynes #RadioShow

In this lively edition of The Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show, Nancy dives into Shirley Ballas’s inspiring new book Best Foot Forward, exploring the grit and glamour behind Strictly’s head judge. She shares her thoughts on the powerful Bruce Springsteen biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere and the surprising news that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are leaving Strictly Come Dancing. Nancy also welcomes the talented Violeta Corso and Sarah Wood from Coro & Wood to discuss their stunning handcrafted jewellery, sustainable workshops in Mursley, and the joy of creating wearable art. #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #ShirleyBallas #BestFootForward #BruceSpringsteen #DeliverMeFromNowhere #StrictlyComeDancing #CoroAndWood #HandcraftedJewellery #MiltonKeynes #LifestyleShow #Inspiration #Creativity #JewelleryWorkshop #RadioInterview #ArtsAndCulture

In this special 40th edition of The Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show, Nancy celebrates 40 weeks of uplifting radio with heartfelt gratitude and her trademark sparkle. She welcomes multi-talented performer Ollie Corbett, who shares his inspiring journey from musical theatre to performing worldwide with Jack Pack — and even treats listeners to a stunning live rendition of Fly Me to the Moon. Nancy also reviews Elizabeth Day’s gripping novel One of Us, debates whether animal print is the new neutral, and dives into her latest obsessions — from Married at First Sight to her passion for yoga, fashion, and self-discovery. Packed with warmth, laughter, and honesty, this milestone episode offers a glimpse into Nancy’s world — her career, her family, and her mission to inspire confidence and joy in women everywhere. #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #RadioInterview #OllieCorbett #JackPack #ElizabethDay #BookReview #FashionTalk #AnimalPrint #MarriedAtFirstSight #MiltonKeynesRadio #LifestyleShow #WomenInspiringWomen #RadioPresenter #BritishRadio

Nancy Stevens serves up a lively, thoughtful hour covering TV, theatre, books and wellbeing. First, Nancy reacts to Joe Wicks’ hard-hitting Channel 4 documentary Joe Wicks: Licensed to Kill, unpacking the stunt around a deliberately harmful “killer” protein bar and what it means for ultra-processed foods, labelling and everyday shopping choices. She shares practical tips on reading ingredients and questions whether protein bars really deserve the health halo they wear. Nancy then brings a spellbound review of Cirque Éloize’s iD Reloaded at Milton Keynes Theatre — a high-octane fusion of circus, stunt biking, trampoline work and contemporary dance that left her speechless. She also gives a candid take on Miranda Hart’s memoir Is It Just Me?, calling parts charming but overall a touch self-indulgent, and rounds up Strictly Come Dancing’s Movie Week, praising guest mentor Cynthia Erivo while picking out the night’s highs and lows. The second half features a warm, in-depth interview with Annette Walters of Radiant Wellness. Annette explains how qi gong, Reiki, nutrition and NHS prevention programmes can boost energy, ease pain and support long-term change — plus practical ideas for busy lives, retreats, vision boards and her YouTube series Annette’s Qi Gong Journey. Sponsored by Havsley — experts in sales, lettings and block management — this episode blends hard-hitting debate with feel-good theatre love and useful wellness takeaways. Tune in for informed opinion, theatre magic, and a reassuring conversation about small, sustainable changes that make a big difference. #NancyStevensShow #Lifestyle #JoeWicks #LicensedToKill #UltraProcessed #CirqueEloize #MiltonKeynesTheatre #TheatreReview #MirandaHart #StrictlyComeDancing #CynthiaErivo #Wellness #Reiki #QiGong #DiabetesPrevention #VisionBoard #RadiantWellness #Havsley #RadioShow

In this vibrant episode of The Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show, Nancy dives into colour, confidence and candid conversation. Discover how to find your perfect seasonal shades with her fun colour analysis feature, including which tones best suit your complexion and why teal works for everyone. Nancy also reviews two very different books — the moving Buckeye by Patrick Ryan and The Artist by Lucy Steed — before sharing her emotional reaction to The Smashing Machine, starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. There’s laughter too, as she recounts being disastrously late for a sound bath! The show’s highlight is a heartfelt chat with wellness expert Ailsa Petchey of The Olive Collective, Milton Keynes’ own answer to Davina. Together, they explore Menopause Month, the myths and truths about hormone changes, and practical advice for thriving through every stage of life. #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #MenopauseMonth #AilsaPetchey #ColourAnalysis #SeasonalStyle #WellnessJourney #MiltonKeynes #BookReview #TheSmashingMachine #FashionAndConfidence #HRTSupport #MenopauseAwareness #RadioShow #WomenInMidlife #HealthAndWellbeing #NancyMK

On this episode of The Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show, Nancy shows you how to make the seasonal switch from summer to winter fashion effortless with clever layering and timeless wardrobe staples. She also reviews the dazzling musical Top Hat, shares her thoughts on Dr Rachel Clarke’s moving book Breathtaking, and dishes on the sparkle of Strictly’s first live show. Plus, special guest Tracy Wong, Bake Off: The Professionals finalist and co-founder of Canal Street Coffee, joins Nancy to talk all things pastry and passion. 📌 Fashion tips | Wardrobe staples | Showbiz reviews | Inspiring stories | Foodie delights 💬 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more lifestyle sparkle every week! #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #Lifestyle #FashionTips #WinterWardrobe #StrictlyComeDancing #TopHat #BakeOffTheProfessionals #TracyWong #CanalStreetCoffee #PastryLovers #StyleInspiration #Foodie #Wellness #MiltonKeynes #RadioShow

Episode 36 of the Nancy Stevens Lifestyle Show on New Horizon Radio is a dazzling mix of fashion, theatre, books, and conversation. Nancy begins with a style segment, sharing expert advice on how to use pops of colour, neutrals, bold tones, and texture to elevate your wardrobe and discover what kind of dresser you really are. She then turns to the entertainment world, giving her thoughts on the Strictly Come Dancing launch show, its intriguing celebrity pairings, and the drama of contestants pulling out before the competition has even begun. From the small screen to the big, Nancy delivers a heartfelt review of the Downton Abbey grand finale, reflecting on its emotional storytelling, stunning costumes, and how it served as a fitting farewell to beloved characters. In books, she explores Holly Smale’s I Know How This Ends, a bittersweet romance about fate and free will, and reviews the chilling yet atmospheric stage production 2:22 A Ghost Story, starring Kevin Clifton and Stacey Dooley. The episode also features a fascinating conversation with guest Donna Bond, writer, comedian, and founder of The Slab Press, who talks about her publishing work, the importance of short stories, her time as Bard of Northampton, and the upcoming MK Indie Book Fair, which will showcase over 70 authors, live readings, and family activities. It’s a show full of colour, creativity, and inspiration that celebrates fashion, storytelling, and the arts in all their forms. #NancyStevensLifestyle #NewHorizonRadio #StrictlyComeDancing #DowntonAbbeyFinale #FashionTips #ColourfulStyle #BookReviews #HollySmale #222AGhostStory #DonnaBond #MKIndieBookFair #TheSlabPress #ShortFiction #LifestyleRadio #RadioShowHighlights #ArtsAndCulture #TheatreReviews #SparkleAndStyle

Nancy discusses personal experiences and cultural observations, including a challenging commute during London tube strikes, a fashion masterclass highlighting the cultural significance of colours, and her first experience at a singles event. There's an in-depth review of the ITV drama "Anne" and Koko Mela's debut novel "Cleopatra and Frankenstein". Plus guests Sam and Rachel from Solo Connects, discuss the challenges and successes of their in-person dating service, which aims to combat the difficulties of online dating by fostering real-life connections and friendships. Sheridan Smith's powerful four-part true-crime drama, 'I Fought the Law, on ITV and ITVX tells the true story of Ann Ming, a mother who embarks on a 17-year legal battle to overturn the UK's ancient double jeopardy law after her daughter, Julie Hog, is murdered in 1989. Sheridan Smith portrays Ann Ming, delivering what is described as one of her strongest performances to date, embodying both the fragility and fierce determination of a working-class woman fighting for justice. The drama, which benefited from the real Ann Ming's involvement as a consultant, sensitively handles the grief, horror, and indignities faced by the family, providing an inspiring account of sustained fight leading to victory. Koko Mela's debut novel, 'Cleopatra and Frankenstein, is a compelling yet not-so-easy read. The premise revolves around Cleo, 24, whose student visa is expiring in New York, leading to an impulsive marriage with Frank, a successful 44-year-old. The novel delves into themes of infidelity, emotional baggage, addiction, ambition clashes, family trauma, loneliness, grief, and disappointment, resonating with personal experiences of impulsive marriage and the complexities of love. It explores how their worlds and friendship groups collide due to their age gap and differing lifestyles, ultimately offering an honest depiction of love as a difficult journey. The episode also includes insights from a fashion masterclass in London, despite tube strikes that caused long commutes. A significant learning point from the masterclass was the cultural significance of colours in different regions and religions. For example, black signifies death and mourning in the West, but wealth and prosperity in Eastern cultures; white represents purity and weddings in the West, yet death and mourning in Eastern countries and China. Red, associated with love and danger in the West, symbolises prosperity, good fortune, and celebration in China and India, making it taboo to wear at Indian weddings. Listeners are advised to research or consult a stylist to avoid cultural misappropriation, especially for significant events like weddings or funerals. There's essential bra fitting advice, highlighting that 80% of women wear the wrong bra size. A quick method to estimate bra band size is to add 20 to your dress size (e.g., a size 10 is a 30 band). Common mistakes include wearing white bras under white clothing (nude is recommended as the best buy) and wearing bands that are too big and cups too small, leading to discomfort and an unflattering silhouette. The importance of a proper bra fit is emphasised for creating space between the breasts and tummy, and techniques like 'swoop and scoop' are suggested for correct wear. Recommendations for bra fitting include Bravissimo and John Lewis. Tips for bra care, such as handwashing or using a laundry bag in a machine on a 30-degree cycle and air-drying from the straps (never tumble-drying), are also shared. Finally, the show features an inspiring discussion with Sam and Rachel from Solo Connects for National Singles Week, focusing on real-life dating and building confidence. Solo Connects, founded by two single mothers in Milton Keynes, aims to combat the horrors of online dating by organising in-person singles events. Nancy shares her personal, initially daunting, experience of attending a Solo Connects event, highlighting the 'walk of fear' felt when entering a room full of strangers, even for a confident person. The events use icebreakers like card games to encourage interaction and have fostered incredible friendships and social lives for members, beyond just romantic connections. #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #IFoughtTheLaw #SheridanSmith #CleopatraAndFrankenstein #KokoMela #FashionTips #BraFitting #SoloConnects #NationalSinglesWeek #DatingAdvice #Confidence #HorizonRadio

This week, Nancy is joined by her long-time friend, the incredible Carole Matthews, a bestselling romcom author who has sold over 7 million books worldwide and received a lifetime achievement award from the Romantic Novelists' Association. Nancy kicks off the show with her latest obsessions and reviews: * An in-depth look at The Roses, a modern reimagining of the 1981 film "War of the Roses," starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Coleman, which Nancy found "utterly brilliant" despite its sad portrayal of a collapsing marriage. * Her "absolutely incredible" experience at "Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief" musical, based on Rick Riordan's fantasy novels, calling it "utterly, utterly joyful". * Nancy's lifelong, nearly 50-year obsession with ABBA, discussing tribute bands, the phenomenal ABBA Voyage show, and her many viewings of "Mamma Mia!" the musical. * Reviews of recent celebrity books, including Rob Renda's "The Protest" which she "really, really enjoyed," and Reverend Richard Coles' "Murder at the Monastery". * Her take on the Netflix film "The Thursday Murder Club," adapted from Richard Osman's book, praising its "powerhouse cast" and finding the film even better than the book. Carole Matthews then shares insights into her incredible career: * She reflects on her early success, including her first book selling 75,000 copies in a week and becoming a bestseller due to perfect timing in the "chick lit" genre. * Advice for aspiring writers: Carole emphasizes writing what you know and love, rather than chasing trends, and highlights the increasing accessibility of self-publishing. * She discusses her decision to step back from full-time writing during lockdown, embracing an allotment and finding joy outside the intense deadlines. * Hear about her popular books, including the award-winning "Sunny Days and Sea Breezes," the "fun" "Happiness for Beginners" and "Christmas for Beginners" series featuring "naughty alpacas," and her biggest worldwide series, "The Chocolate Lovers' Club". * Carole shares her concerns about the impact of AI on authors and the arts particularly regarding scraping content and potential job losses for translators and artists. * She also shares her love for the Tudor period and historical fiction, and her appreciation for musicals like "Six" and plays like "2:22 Ghost Story". Nancy and Carole also touch upon their 25-year friendship, the importance of local support for authors, and Nancy's own colourful relationship history which she hopes Carole might someday write about. Carole highlights that in her books, "the man is never the fix; they always sort the problems out themselves," and the man is a "bonus". Don't miss this insightful and joyful conversation between two incredible women! Get in Touch: * Carole Matthews' books are available at Waterstones, Milton Keynes and on Amazon. * Follow Nancy Stevens on Instagram: @_Nancymk_ If you enjoyed the show, please follow, like, or leave a review! ✨ #NancyStevensLifestyleShow #CaroleMatthews #RomcomAuthor #BestsellingAuthor #TheRoses #WarOfTheRoses #BenedictCumberbatch #OliviaColeman #PercyJacksonMusical #TheLightningThief #ABBA #ABBAVoyage #ABBATribute #RobRenda #TheProtest #TheThursdayMurderClub #NetflixFilm #RichardOsman #CozyCrime #BookReview #MusicalTheater #AuthorInterview #WritingTips #AspiringWriters #ChickLit #AIinWriting #SunnyDaysAndSeaBreezes #ChocolateLoversClub #222GhostStory #TudorHistory #WaterStMiltonKeynes #Lifestyle #Podcast #RadioShow #NewHorizonRadio #BookRecommendations #Literature #AuthorsOnAir