The Next Chapter by Ellie Barker

Dan Simpson always loved acting and performing as a child — and this love took him to Fun Kids, the UK’s children’s radio station. But he’s always been just as curious about what goes on behind the scenes.So when he started thinking about writing his own novel, he decided to create a podcast — one that looks at the real routines and habits of our favourite authors called Writer's RoutineEight years later, with more than one and a half million downloads, Dan’s spoken to all kinds of writers — people like Sir Ian Rankin, Jojo Moyes, Lisa Jewell and David Nicholls.What I love about his story is that it shows how following your heart doesn’t just take you where you’re meant to be — it can end up helping others too.I’ve been listening to Dan’s podcast for several years now, and honestly, the stories he’s shared have really helped me keep going with my own writing. Dan’s funny, warm, and just brilliant. In our chat, we talk about the importance of a childhood filled with confidence — and he shares what to do when those pesky blocks of perfection start getting in your way.To discover Dan's brilliant podcast you find find him here: https://writersroutinedotcom.wordpress.com/To download your free novella a gift from me to your for supporting my podcast click here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/And to sign up to my Next Chapter 3 pieces of Inspiration mailing list - and I'd love that you can also click here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Next Chapter, Ellie Barker chats with life and career coach Abi Unwin, who shares how a simple piece of advice from a friend helped her reshape her career—and her life. Abi now supports everyone from CEOs to young adults in finding work and purpose that truly fits. She believes next chapters don’t have to be dramatic, but they do need the right people beside you. Abi’s story is full of warmth, wisdom, and practical tips to help you build a life that works for you, wherever you are right now.Links Mentioned: Learn more about Abi and her coaching: https://abigailjanecoaching.com/about-us/Ellie’s latest novel What Really Happened to Me? — a story of rediscovery set in Bristol’s Strawberry Village Stay Connected: Sign up for Ellie’s 3 pieces of Next Chapter Inspiration Newsletter—more of these podcasts, lessons from her own journey, and exclusive novelsnippets. It’s just Ellie, her Labrador Cookie, and you now at Flowerpot Productions—and they’re thrilled to have you with them. And you’ll get a copy of Ellie’s latest novella Could We Just Do That Again? absolutely for free.You can sign up here: www.elliebarkerwrites.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Marrs is the bestselling author who has sold millions and millions of copies of his psychological thriller novels and speculative fiction. His third book The One  which he originally self published went on to become a no.1 Netflix series and has sold more than a million copies. But before John became an author he was a journalist interviewing celebrities for the News of the World magazine. In this conversation John talks about the 80 rejections he received at the beginning of his career  and how these setbacks  helped shaped him. He’s warm humble and an inspiring reminder that a mixture of hope, hardwork, resilience and following our instincts can take us to places we never would even imagine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most of you will know Bill Ward as Charlie Stubbs in Coronation Street or James Barton in Emmerdale. With over 30 TV shows, 50 stage plays, and multiple British Soap Awards to his name, Bill has become one of the UK’s most familiar actors.But what you might not know is that before stepping onto the cobbles, Bill worked in advertising for companies like Saatchi & Saatchi. And not only that, alongside his acting career he has also become a multi-award-winning photographer. His breathtaking images have been exhibited in fine art galleries across the UK, and he is even a judge for UK Landscape Photographer of the Year.In this very special Next Chapter podcast, Bill shares what it’s really like behind the scenes of Britain’s biggest soaps – from Tracy Barlow’s prison storyline to his unforgettable first day on set with Ken Barlow. But beyond the scripts and cameras, this is also a powerful conversation about seizing chance moments, saying yes to opportunities, and avoiding a life of “what ifs.”Whether you’re here for the stories, the inspiration, or the laughter, this episode of The Next Chapter is a reminder that it’s never too late to write your own.The Next Chapter with Ellie Barker – Inspiring conversations for anyone ready to turn the page.To learn more about Bill Ward and his incredible photograpy click here✨ And if you love hearing about life’s next chapters, don’t forget Ellie’s Next Chapter novels – heartwarming, uplifting stories that explore fresh starts, bold choices, and new adventures. Perfect for anyone ready to begin their own next chapter.And if you'd like a FREE, yes FREE copy of my latest novella Could We Just Do That Again? to say thank you for listening to this podcast click hereTo learn more about Bill and his incredible photograpy click here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AJ says he was a really shy child growing up – he says he often didn’t feel very good at anything and wasn’t invited to parties. However, as he got older and his confidence grew he became a broadcast journalist before spending 8 weeks in the Big Brother House. But inside AJ was still struggling at the time. What he didn’t know then, was a woman had come to the live audience to cheer him on because she’d been so touched seeing his story while she watched at home. What AJ also didn't know was that this woman, Victoria Hyde, would later change his life. I interviewed Victoria back in episode 1 of this series – but today AJ is not only doing his dream job as an award-winning bestselling historical fiction author but he also organises book parties with Victoria bringing authors, readers and reviewers all together.  Now in this conversation we cover such a lot – AJ tells us about coming out as a gay man at university, what really happens after going on a show like big brother and how some of his darkest moments paved the way to happier times. This is a story of love, friendship and what can really happen when you make your dreams come true, not just for your sake but for all the people who were shy children at the back of the class too. To find out more about AJ West's historical fiction click here: https://ajwestauthor.com/To learn more about me and my uplifting romantic novels click here:  www.elliebarkerwrites.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David grew up on a council estate in Chiswick in two rooms with his mum, sister, aunt and grandmother - plus a debt collector, Mr Butler, who visited most weeks. Despite having no money, he says it was a childhood filled with love. But when he was a teenager David was attacked by a gang and he says he was never quite the same. David went on to work in the world of showbiz as a television producer with the likes of Richard Gere, Julia Roberts and Mr Motivator (I know!)But after having to face his own struggles, David today works as an addiction therapist. David says we all need to feel seen, whoever we are.You can find out more about David here: https://www.davidyatestherapy.co.uk/And loads more about me, my podcast and my books: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kylie Pentelow says she grew up in a big family which was filled with love and a strong hard working ethic. This she says provided the foundation to her career as a journalist - and what a career. From the Bath Chronicle to the BBC and then to ITV where she not only presented ITV West Country’s 6 o'clock show but the national ITN news as well.  But when Kylie became a mother her whole outlook on life and work changed. She decided to go freelance and today, alongside looking after her son Edward, she regularly presents BBC News, Radio 4’s Woman’s hour and BBC Radio 5 live. In this conversation we discuss what it really feels like to present the national news, the importance of accepting setbacks and how a hot air balloon changed Kylie’s life.  Kylie spends much of her time interviewing people, so for me it was an honour to interview her – and what an interviewee she is. She’s warm, open, raw, brilliant and funny. I’ve known Kylie for many years now and I’ve personally learned such a lot from her – so I’m delighted now to be able to spend some time with her and you. To learn more about Kylie you can find her here: https://www.instagram.com/kyliepentelow/If you'd like to keep in touch and I'll send you weekylish notes of Next Chapter inspiration. You can sign up here and learn all about my own books too here:  www.elliebarkerwrites.com If you'd like to keep in touch and I'll send you weekylish notes of Next Chapter inspiration. You can sign up here and learn all about my own books too here:  www.elliebarkerwrites.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you live in the West Country the chances are you know Kate. She’s been a weather presenter for ITV for more than 25 years. Her sunny forecasts have brightened our televisions, no matter what the weather is actually doing. Kate has for a long time been interested in mental health, and a few years ago she started to train as a therapist. Her idea – you talk, she listens and together we find a new way. But it was while she was training and still working as a weather presenter Kate was diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma which had spread through her body. A mother of teenage twins, married to her husband Mark, and a friend and colleague loved so much by us all – this was a devastating time. Kate has now been given the all clear, we all watched in awe as she tackled her diagnosis with her usual determination, passion and love for life. She is now a qualified therapist and is using her dark moments to help others see there is always another way. In this conversation we do touch on some darker sides of life, but just like Kate and her forecasts she shows there’s always sunshine behind those clouds . Kate is open, honest, humble and funny – she shows how her family’s love and her love for life helped her through. I’m very lucky to call Kate my friend, and I’m delighted I can now introduce her to you.To learn more about Kate and her wonderful work you can find her here: https://www.katehaskell.com/Cookie (my golden lab) and I would love you to keep in touch - as we navigate our Next Chapter living together. We'll send you weeklyish notes with 3 pieces of inspiration. You can sign up here : https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Victoria always loved books, she didn’t want to write them, she just wanted to read them. She worked in hotels after she left school, and then as a receptionist but it was when she had her daughter she started to wonder if there was a way she could make a living by reading books.The answer is yes. Not only that, Victoria had no idea how going to a live Big Brother eviction would change everything.I will let Victoria explain all but this is a story of how it really is possible to create your dream job, change worlds and help others. Victoria also shares some very personal insights – which shows we are never alone, even when sometimes we feel we are. She is brilliant, brave and kind and I can’t wait for you to meet her.https://www.thebookparty.co.uk/https://www.instabooktours.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“I felt as a mother I’d failed.” When Sarah Lou’s daughter became unwell with her mental health, Sarah Lou saw there was no support for parents and family members in these most difficult of times. So, she founded Parental Minds. What started as a coffee morning has led to her and her team helping more than 1,000 families.If you have any concern for your child or anyone’s mental health in your family, I can’t recommend listening to Sarah-Lou’s conversation enough, and her team may be able to help. Sarah Lou’s story shows it is possible to find that sunshine again.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it really take to create a great pub? Charlie Luxton had no idea a chance conversation would lead him to a job setting up Soho House - a super-cool private members club in the centre of London that would become a global brand. He also had no idea a chance conversation would lead him to create his own group of pubs and restaurants around Wiltshire and Somerset.The brilliant Charlie explains in this episode why it’s so important for us all to follow our hearts.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caroline says she was a perfectionist as a child and she continued living life like this way into adulthood. A straight-A student, she worked as an airline stewardess travelling with British Airways as part as Tony Blair’s cabin crew.But when her marriage fell apart Caroline says she found herself at rock bottom.A single mum and 80 thousands pounds in debt she says she was suffering from anxiety and depression - and then her house was repossessed. She could only think how had she ended up here?But slowly Caroline, through therapy, began to learn more about her marriage and patterns she hadn’t even questioned were actually abuse. The more she learned, the stronger she became. She rebuilt her own life into something bigger and better than she could ever have imagined and now she’s helping other women do the same.Today Caroline works as a trauma therapist and author. Her podcast Narcissistic Abuse and Trauma Recovery has been download more than 3 million times. She has hundreds of thousands of followers across social media and her work is being featured on shows all over the world. In this conversation we discuss:The difference between normal and ups and downs and when it becomes something elseThe power that comes from recognising our own patternsHow Caroline believes we can all create lives we truly love and thrive - with the right helpWhat to do if you’re worried about yourself or someone elseNow, this might be a tougher conversation, but there are still lots of laughs and so much hope too. Caroline says she could never have imagined she could feel as happy as she does and she wants to help as many other women feel the same.To learn more about Caroline's work you can find her here: https://carolinestrawson.com/This is of course an educational episode - it is not a substitute for professional help. If you are worried about yourself or anyone you know the Samaritans are available here: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/To keep in touch with me and join my Next Chapter community - I'd love it if you did - you can find me here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tony Anderson had no idea a random job he got at a job centre would lead him to create a life bigger than he could ever imagine. He loved sport and in his own words, was 'rubbish with money’ but today he owns Anderson Financial Management, helping all different people make their financial ambitions and dreams come true.In this episode we discuss:Why it’s natural to have fears around money and earning what we think we’re worthHow money is all about ‘building a muscle’ just like everything else in lifeWhy ‘hustle’ should never be a dirty wordThe importance of having the right people around youTony is so honest and open about the negative beliefs he sees every day around money. He believes fear of rejection is what holds so many of us back, but by applying some simple tricks and looking at why we feel the way we do - earning more money doesn’t have to be as difficult as we may think.To learn more about Tony's work, click here: https://www.andersonfinancial.co.uk/To join my Next Chapter Community, click here: www.elliebarkerwrites.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was when Nicola worked with her dad at the Liverpool fish markets as a teenager, she learned all about grit, hard work and having the courage to speak up for herself. She had no idea then these lessons would be the foundation of an extraordinary career.Nicola started out in journalism and went on to work at places like ITN and GMTV. But when her working life wasn’t suiting her personal life – she created her own talent agency. Eventually she sold this – but carried on with working in the industry at James Grant Management.Over the years Nicola has worked with huge names like Ant and Dec, Claire Balding and Gabby Logan. But then she decided she’d have another next chapter and yes, she created another company.Now she runs her executive search firm, Ibison Media placing people in leadership roles in huge television and media companies all over the world.In this episode we discuss:How to overcome the nerves we all feel.What it’s really like working with those superstars.How a chance (little bit drunken) conversation with Anthea Turner’s sister, Wendy changed everything.What to do when your work life and personal life no longer match.What happened when Nicola was sent to look for a one-legged duck.Nicola believes so much comes down to being kind and supportive to others. She says everyone feels nervous, but sometimes we just have to take a deep breath and pick up the phone.To learn more about Nicola and her fabulous work you can find her here: https://ibisonmedia.com/And I'd love it if you kept in touch . I'll send you little notes about these conversations and much here - you can sign up here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nancy, whose real name is Amanda (she writes under a pseudonym) claims she was a little annoying at school. But it was this curiosity and spirit that took her into the world of tabloid journalism where she worked on huge investigations for papers like the News of the World.But then life took Amanda along a path she didn’t expect. Her husband was diagnosed with a head and neck cancer and at the same time she found herself on her own IVF journey.Amanda used writing to help her (and others) navigate this hugely difficult time - using her humour and thoughts in a column about her experience. She had no idea this was going to take her to the world of fiction and writing saga novels.Her Shipyard Girls books have sold more than half a million copies and have reached No. 2 on the Sunday Times Bestsellers list.In this conversation we discuss:What it was really like working for tabloids like The News of the WorldWhat happened when Amanda and her husband had to face a cancer diagnosis and IVF at the same timeWhy we can never be sure where life will take us, but why Amanda believes it’s essential we all know what we really love.Amanda is open, brave and funny in this conversation, I felt like I’d known her for years. I hope you’ll love meeting her as much as I did. To learn more about Amanda and her Nancy Revell books you can find her here: https://amandarevellwalton.co.uk/To learn more about my books and to join my Next Chapter community (and I would SO love that!) you can find me here https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Roger Saul created Mulberry - you know the one - from a £500 loan from his parents. By the 1990s, Mulberry was exporting to 30 countries, winning the Queen’s Award for Export three times, and attracting fans like Kate Moss, Kate Winslet, and Bob Geldof.Roger, his wife Monty and their team at Mulberry, also went on to open the Michelin-starred Charlton House Hotel and restaurant as well as transforming Kilver Court in Somerset into a designer village. But when everything came to an end he could never have foreseen, Roger still didn't give up. Today he and Monty run Sharpham Park and Roger is now a walnut farmer. Roger shares how resilience, reinvention, and Somerset roots shaped his extraordinary journey. Perfect for listeners seeking entrepreneurial wisdom, creative courage, and stories of bold new beginnings.To learn more about Sharpham Park click here: To keep in touch (and I'd love that) - I'll send you my Next Chapter 3 pieces of Inspiration newsletter click here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/To download your free heartwarming romance novella - Could We Just Do That Again? click here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when you reach a point in life where the path you’re on no longer feels like the right one? In this powerful and uplifting episode of The Next Chapter, TV Journalist Ellie Barker talks to Clare Mackintosh — former police officer turned internationally bestselling author, whose novels have sold more than three million copies worldwide.Clare shares her extraordinary journey from policing the streets to writing page-turning crime fiction. A chance wrong turn at university led her into the police force, where she spent twelve years witnessing both the best and worst of life. But when her life wasn't suiting Clare and her family, she made the brave decision to step awayIn this conversation, they discuss: Finding courage to start again How going through the wrong door lead her to a whole new worldHow grief and love sit side by side — and why storytelling helps her make sense of bothThe power of curiosity, creativity, and self-belief in building a new lifeWhat it really means to “write your own narrative”If you’ve ever wondered how to begin again, pivot your career, or rediscover who you are after change, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and hopeful. Clare’s warmth, honesty, and humour shine through as she reminds us that the next chapter often begins when we least expect it.🎧 Listen now to The Next Chapter with Clare Mackintosh — a story of resilience, reinvention, and the courage to turn the page.To learn more about Clare and her brilliant books you can find her here: https://claremackintosh.com/To download your ABSOLUTELY FREE heartwarming, romantic novella click here : https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/And to sign to Ellie's 3 pieces of Next Chapter Inspiration click here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gemma Haigh says she was a little distracted at school – but later discovered she was neurodivergent. Her love of diving deeply into subjects led her to a fascinating career as an art curator, working in extraordinary places like Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle.But when Gemma began experiencing anxiety, she found unexpected comfort in plants. What started as a simple hobby soon grew – quite literally – into something much bigger. Without realising it, Gemma was planting the seeds (if you’ll pardon the pun) for her own business.Today, Gemma runs Plant Parlour, collaborating with a wide range of people and companies. She’s even been working on a top-secret set at Shepperton Studios and recently won a Silver-Gilt award at the Chelsea Flower Show.Gemma’s enthusiasm is infectious in this episode. She explains how receiving her diagnosis didn’t hold her back – it helped her find her true passion. And she shares some wonderful advice to help you do the same.For more on Gemma's work: https://www.theplantparlour.co.uk/For the Author's Circle (as mentioned in the conversation): https://jenndepaula.com/For the branding experts I mention: https://brandbuildersgroup.com/And if you'd like to download your FREE, yes FREE novella or join my Next Chapter mailing list you can find me here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/My Next Chapter Novel Collections are all stories of love, hope, and the power of being you. You can learn more about them here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/bookshop Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Next Chapter podcast, Ellie Barker speaks with brand expert and former social worker Chris Endersby, whose journey from child protection to corporate leadership is as unexpected as it is inspiring. Together, they explore the power of compassion, the impact of early life experiences, and how we can all find meaning—even in the most challenging moments.Chris shares stories of growing up in rural Kent, the loss of a close friend that shaped his path, and the lessons learned from working with vulnerable young people.Show links:To learn more about Chris Endersby's work at Firestarter click here: https://www.firestarter.live/To download your FREE romantic novella Could We Just Do That Again click here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/If you believe in second chances, quiet strength, and the beauty of becoming who you’re meant to be then this episode is for you.✨ Ellie’s Next Chapter novels are filled with hope, love, and the courage to begin again. This podcast is no different. ✨You can find all her novels and the story behind them all here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/bookshopAre you ready for your Next Chapter? 🎧 Listen now and be reminded: your next chapter might be closer than you think. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Scott started out, he says as the class clown. But he is the one smiling now. He's had a working life many could only dream of. He loved making costumes and ended up working on iconic films like Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill and Tomb Raider. He went on to be a regular face on national television with Lorraine and This Morning - and if this wasn't enough he created his own sewing channel with thousands and thousands of fans. Here he tells us how he got the job on Four Weddings and a Funeral. He is open, funny and so good and making the most out of life's opportunities- he's such a breath of fresh air, he came on the podcast twice. You can click below to listen to the full episodes.To listen to John's first appearance on The Next Chapter click here To listen to John's second appearance on The Next Chapter click here To download your lovely FREE uplifting novella - Could We Just Do That Again? by Ellie Barker click here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.