We Need To Talk with Paul C. Brunson

To mark Transgender Awareness Week, Paul sits down with Married At First Sight’s Ella Morgan and her dad Chris for an honest conversation about identity, acceptance and family. From navigating misunderstanding to rebuilding their relationship with love and empathy, they share what it means to live authentically and to stand by one another through change. This episode is about courage and connection - reminding us that everyone deserves to feel safe in who they are. We’re Talking: Transgender Awareness (00:00) Intro (00:44) How Paul and Ella Met (03:05) What Is 'Dead-Naming'? (04:56) Ella's Relationship History Before MAFS (07:08) Safety as a Trans Person (09:47) Ella's Dad Joins the Conversation (10:42) How Did Chris Find Out About Ella's True Identity? (14:34) Paul Shows Chris a Picture of Him and Ella from 2001 (16:57) How Chris Handled the Terminology After Learning Ella's True Identity (18:00) Public Reaction to Ella Presenting as a Woman (19:25) Ella's Experience with Gender Reassignment Surgery (20:48) Chris' Experience of Ella's Transition Surgery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In her first ever solo interview, YouTube creator and mum of four Anna Saccone opens up about the truth behind The SACCONEJOLYs, the hidden pain behind her picture-perfect life, and the moments that almost broke her. Content warning: This episode includes discussion of eating disorders and miscarriage. For the first time, Anna shares the real story behind her marriage, her relationship with Jonathan, and the intense pressure of raising a family online while facing constant criticism and scrutiny. She also speaks candidly about her struggles with bulimia, body image, and identity - and how she’s finally learning to live life on her own terms. Anna shares: ◽ Why she wasn’t truly happy on her wedding day ◽ How her father’s obsession with appearance impacted her ◽ How she built a family-vlog channel that earned tens of thousands a month ◽ What it’s really like raising a trans child in the public eye ◽ How she feels about the negative comments ◽ How returning to school became her way of reclaiming her voice This conversation includes discussion of eating disorders and baby loss. We’ve included support links below, along with the organisation Anna mentions in the episode, which provides resources for transgender healthcare: Beat Eating Disorders - https://g2ul0.app.link/gHK6cjr3ZRb Tommy’s: https://g2ul0.app.link/yiLgVePdnVb Sands: https://g2ul0.app.link/1c7K7WVdnVb Anne Healthcare - https://g2ul0.app.link/BWEMiCQBbYb  Follow me here: https://www.instagram.com/needtotalk  https://www.tiktok.com/@weneedtotalkpod  (00:00) Intro (01:31) Why Anna Decided to Do This Podcast Without Jonathan (02:39) Anna's Experience Growing Up in Baltimore (05:46) How That Affected Anna's Relationship With Her Dad (05:47) Moving From Baltimore to Cork (12:15) The Beginnings of Anna's Eating Disorder (14:28) Meeting Jonathan & Quitting University (17:05) What Anna Initially Saw in Jonathan (23:43) How Anna and Jonathan Started on YouTube (28:05) Surprise Message From Jonathan (30:01) Anna's Struggle With Bulimia (32:48) Anna's Advice for Anyone Going Through an Eating Disorder (36:24) How the Growth of the YouTube Channel Affected Anna (42:44) Why Anna Thinks They’ve Been So Popular on YouTube (47:14) How Anna Deals With Online Criticism (58:03) Transgender Statistics in the UK and Anna’s View on the Current Climate (1:03:13) Shopify Ad (1:04:11) Adobe Express Ad (1:05:13) Anna’s Perspective on Featuring Her Children on Social Media (1:16:03) How Motherhood Impacted Anna (1:17:54) Struggling to Connect With Other Mums (1:22:57) Jonathan’s Gender Identity (1:25:54) How Anna Feels About the Negativity Directed Toward Jonathan (1:31:00) Dealing With Online Hate (1:33:30) Quick Fire Questions for Anna (1:39:05) Final Question: Anna’s Decision to Retrain in Nutrition (1:41:15) Most Memorable Conversation (1:45:32) Paul’s Takeaways Sponsored by: Shopify: https://www.shopify.co.uk/needtotalk  Adobe Express: https://ADOBE.LY/PAUL  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In honour of Anti-Bullying Week, we sit down with Nadiya Hussain, Megan Barton-Hanson, and Calum Scott to discuss their personal experiences with bullying and the profound impact it’s had on their lives. From childhood trauma to online harassment, these three open up about the struggles they faced and how they found strength in their vulnerability. We're Talking Bullying. (00:00) Intro (00:39) Nadiya's experience of bullying growing up (07:54) Megan's experience of bullying at school (12:21) Love Better Tour Ad (13:38) Calum's experience of coming out and the subsequent bullying Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Strictly Come Dancing winner Ore Oduba opens up about addiction for the first time - and the secret he’s carried for over 30 years.Content warning: This episode includes discussion of suicide and addiction. In this powerful and deeply moving conversation, Ore shares how he was first exposed at just nine years old - and the lifelong impact it had on his identity, confidence, and relationships. He also reflects on the emotional scars of growing up in fear, the silence he carried into adulthood, and the private battles behind his public success. Ore shares: ◽ Why he lived in fear of his father for years ◽ How his upbringing shaped his confidence, his career - and his silence ◽ The grief of losing his father and sister in such a short space of time ◽ How he felt like he was dying inside - while living what looked like a “perfect” life ◽ How Strictly Come Dancing became his awakening ◽ Why the West End reignited his joy and love for performing ◽ Why he struggled to open up, even to those closest to him ◽ How he’s learning to rewrite the story for himself, and for his children Ore Oduba, We Need To Talk. If you’re struggling, you don’t have to face it alone. We’ve included support charities below:  Samaritans - call on 116 123 or visit https://g2ul0.app.link/xghDmmYV4Wb   Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): https://g2ul0.app.link/npaQKXUV4Wb Naked Truth Project: https://g2ul0.app.link/JPSkS5mNZXb  Follow me here: https://www.instagram.com/needtotalk  https://www.tiktok.com/@weneedtotalkpod  (00:00) Intro (03:03) Growing Up in Dorset (06:11) Black Identity in 1990s Dorset (11:18) Childhood and Family Dynamics (14:08) Did Ore Feel Loved? (16:35) Early Love for Performing (20:48) Starting Out in TV Presenting (28:17) Ore on Newsround (32:38) Handling Media Scrutiny (34:22) Winning Strictly Come Dancing (45:22) Life After Strictly (47:41) Hiding Behind a Facade (53:43) Relationship With His Brother (1:03:30) Losing His Sister (1:07:47) Mental Health and Identity (1:12:35) Learning of His Father’s Death (1:15:32) Ore’s 30-Year Addiction Struggle (1:32:43) Adult Content Use Among Young People (1:45:05) Message From Strictly’s Joanne Clifton (1:47:25) Childhood Photo Surprise (1:51:33) Most Memorable Moment (1:55:33) Paul’s Takeaways Sponsored by: Adobe Express: https://ADOBE.LY/PAUL Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Birmingham - https://g2ul0.app.link/pJIj4XShrXb Manchester - https://g2ul0.app.link/4SQwKDXhrXb Brighton - https://g2ul0.app.link/BO71HSZhrXb London - https://g2ul0.app.link/gm6iB91hrXb Sync-ID MB01SOP0ZYTDXBS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

YUNGBLUD’s journey from growing up in Doncaster to securing a major record deal with Interscope Records is a story of defying expectations and embracing individuality. In this conversation, the boundary-pushing artist opens up about overcoming childhood struggles, breaking through perceptions, and how his unique style and unapologetic approach led to his big break in the music industry. This rare glimpse into YUNGBLUD's rise to fame reveals the challenges he’s faced and the lessons he’s learned about staying true to himself in a world that’s always trying to define him. We’re Talking YUNGBLUD. (00:00) Intro (00:41) Growing Up in Doncaster: Yungblud’s Early Years (03:29) People’s Perceptions of Yungblud: From Childhood to Adulthood (12:26) Love Better Tour Announcement (13:23) How Yungblud Was Signed to Interscope Records Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Glasgow - https://g2ul0.app.link/FMk3N4PhrXb Birmingham - https://g2ul0.app.link/pJIj4XShrXb Manchester - https://g2ul0.app.link/4SQwKDXhrXb Brighton - https://g2ul0.app.link/BO71HSZhrXb London - https://g2ul0.app.link/gm6iB91hrXb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do CIA spies detect lies, build trust fast, and navigate high-stakes relationships? Former covert officer Andrew Bustamante reveals how the tools he used in espionage can transform your personal life - from how you read people to how you love them. From growing up in a turbulent family, to commanding U.S. nuclear missiles at 24, to being recruited into the CIA, Andrew’s story is a journey through power, secrecy, love, and identity. But beneath the training lies a deeper lesson: the same psychological skills designed for national security became the ones that saved his marriage and founded Everyday Spy, an online education platform that provides people with useful spy skills for everyday life. As Andrew says: The CIA’s real superpower isn’t guns or gadgets - it’s learning how to systematise natural curiosity. In this conversation, he shares how those skills can change the way you connect, communicate, and build trust in everyday life. You’ll learn: ◽How to tell if someone is lying  ◽Why he cut off his girlfriend, friends, and family for the chance to join the CIA ◽The CIA method for building instant emotional trust ◽How to recognise when a relationship is starting to decline - and how to fix it ◽The hardest conversation of his life (and what it taught him about love) ◽His take on Jeffrey Epstein and possible CIA connections ◽How easy it really is to launch a nuclear missile - and what that reveals about power Part life story, part relationship masterclass, and part psychological thriller, this episode will change how you see honesty, loyalty, and the hidden motivations that shape every relationship. Andrew Bustamante. We Need To Talk. Follow me here: https://www.instagram.com/needtotalk  https://www.tiktok.com/@weneedtotalkpod Support Andrew here: Instagram: https://g2ul0.app.link/Ps9x0EkXMXb TikTok: https://g2ul0.app.link/1nNEZWvXMXb  YouTube: https://g2ul0.app.link/19tVZShXMXb EverydaySpy: https://g2ul0.app.link/wG0st3xXMXb Find Your Superpower: https://g2ul0.app.link/qqQlh5v0PXb Shadow Cell: https://g2ul0.app.link/GwDAB7DVMXb  (00:00) Intro (02:13) How Can You Tell If Someone Is Lying? (05:27) Is Every Relationship Transactional? (19:42) Andrew's Checklist for Profiling Someone (24:12) Was Jeffrey Epstein a Government Asset? (29:13) Shopify Ad (30:16) Love Better Tour Ad (31:14) Andrew's Upbringing in Pennsylvania and Mixed-Race Heritage (33:45) Andrew's Relationship With His Biological Father (37:48) Andrew's Journey to the CIA (39:47) Life at a Military Academy (46:51) Andrew's Time as a Nuclear Missile Officer (50:21) Nuclear Proliferation (52:58) How Andrew Became a CIA Agent (1:12:21) Romantic Relationships Within the CIA (1:16:22) How Andrew Met His Wife During His Time at the CIA (1:21:44) Why Andrew Proposed to His Wife (1:26:55) Why Andrew Decided to Leave the CIA (1:32:09) Getting a Job After Being in the CIA (1:39:18) Is 'Sexpionage' a Real Method of Spying? (1:41:59) A Skill Andrew Learned in the CIA That Applies to Everyone (1:45:11) What Andrew Thinks the Future of the World Looks Like (1:46:46) What Is the Biggest Threat to the World? (1:47:59) What Is Andrew's Identity Today? (1:51:51) Most Memorable Conversation (1:56:06) Paul's Takeaways Sponsored by: Shopify: https://www.shopify.co.uk/needtotalk   Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Glasgow - https://g2ul0.app.link/FMk3N4PhrXb Birmingham - https://g2ul0.app.link/pJIj4XShrXb Manchester - https://g2ul0.app.link/4SQwKDXhrXb Brighton - https://g2ul0.app.link/BO71HSZhrXb London - https://g2ul0.app.link/gm6iB91hrXb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In honour of Black History Month, we sit down with Jordan Stevens, Jamelia, and Estelle who share their personal stories of navigating life as Black and mixed-race individuals in Britain. From embracing their cultural roots to overcoming challenges in predominantly white spaces, they discuss what it means to belong, to be seen, and to celebrate Blackness in all its diversity. Their stories remind us that Black history is not just a month - it’s an ongoing journey of resilience, pride and connection. We're Talking Black History (00:00) Intro(00:50) Jordan Shares His Experience of Being Mixed-Race in Brighton(03:58) Differences in Perspectives on Race Between the USA and UK(04:37) Jordan Discusses His Identity and Navigating Different Social Spaces(08:23) Jamelia’s Upbringing in Birmingham(09:11) The Significance of 1981 in UK History(10:07) Jamelia’s Parents and Their Rastafarian Beliefs(16:45) Love Better Tour Ad(17:48) Estelle’s Childhood in Hammersmith(20:10) The Importance of Estelle’s Grandmother to Her Family Get Your Tickets to Paul’s Love Better Tour! Bristol - ⁠https://g2ul0.app.link/mt5I2RKhrXb⁠ Cardiff - ⁠https://g2ul0.app.link/5mZIoBNhrXb⁠ Glasgow - ⁠https://g2ul0.app.link/FMk3N4PhrXb⁠ Birmingham - ⁠https://g2ul0.app.link/pJIj4XShrXb⁠ Manchester - ⁠https://g2ul0.app.link/4SQwKDXhrXb⁠ Brighton - ⁠https://g2ul0.app.link/BO71HSZhrXb⁠ London - ⁠https://g2ul0.app.link/gm6iB91hrXb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

TOWIE star breaks silence after a decade on The Only Way Is Essex, the pressure of fame, and how postnatal depression pushed her to the edge.Content warning: This episode includes discussion of baby loss.Georgia Kousoulou sits down with Paul for an unfiltered conversation about life on and off screen. She speaks honestly about the behind the scenes of TOWIE, her relationships with fellow cast mates and how she met husband Tommy Mallett. Georgia also opens up about their wedding - and why some of her former castmates didn’t make the guest list.In this deeply emotional conversation, Georgia reflects on baby loss, the silent grief that followed, and the strength it took to begin again. She also opens up about a recent health scare - discovering a lump that led to the shock of finding ruptured implants. Now, she’s advocating for greater awareness around cosmetic surgery and the importance of listening to your body. Georgia also shares:◽ Her parents split and how it impacted her life◽ The truth about TOWIE and why she walked away◽ How she and Tommy became “the couple they couldn’t break”◽ How discovering Tommy’s ADHD changed their relationship ◽ Her struggle with postnatal depression - and how Tommy helped her survive it◽ The silent grief of baby loss - and how she found hope ◽ Why speaking out saved her - and might help others do the same◽ Welcoming her rainbow baby and learning to love herself again◽ The lump that changed everything - and why she’s speaking out about surgery safetyGeorgia Kousoulou, We Need To Talk.This episode contains discussion of miscarriage and baby loss. We’ve included links to support charities below:Tommy’s: https://g2ul0.app.link/yiLgVePdnVbSands: https://g2ul0.app.link/1c7K7WVdnVbCampaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): https://g2ul0.app.link/npaQKXUV4Wb Follow me here:https://www.instagram.com/needtotalk https://www.tiktok.com/@weneedtotalkpodFollow Georgia here:Instagram: https://g2ul0.app.link/1zyQaAGJCXbTikTok: https://g2ul0.app.link/X8T1MzKJCXb (00:00) Intro(02:33) How Closely Does Georgia Identify With Her Greek Heritage?(04:30) What Was Essex Like When Georgia Was Growing Up?(05:35) Georgia's Experience of School(07:28) What Did 16-Year-Old Georgia Want to Do With Her Life?(08:42) What Georgia Did for Work After Leaving School(12:47) How Georgia's Shop Got Her Onto TOWIE(14:09) How Successful Was TOWIE When Georgia Joined the Cast?(16:16) Georgia's First Appearance on TOWIE(20:35) How Georgia's Career Ambitions Changed on TOWIE(21:46) Why Georgia Thinks She Was a Hit on TOWIE(24:07) What Happened to Georgia's Relationship While on TOWIE?(25:32) How Her Parents' Split Affected Georgia as an Adult(27:34) How Georgia Met Tommy(31:02) How Georgia Knew Her Relationship With Tommy Was Real(32:34) The Atmosphere Amongst the TOWIE Cast(39:25) Did Georgia Feel Media Pressure on Her and Tommy's Relationship?(42:59) Has Georgia Kept in Touch With Her TOWIE Castmates?(47:02) Georgia's Feelings About Marrying Tommy While on TOWIE(50:21) Adobe Express Ad(51:20) Love Better Tour Ad(52:20) Georgia's Experience of Becoming a Mum and Postnatal Depression(01:04:27) How the Dynamic Between Georgia and Tommy Changed After Brody(01:10:13) Tommy's ADHD Diagnosis and Adult Diagnosis Statistics(01:14:48) Georgia's Experience of Miscarriage(01:24:38) How Georgia and Tommy Healed From Their Trauma(01:28:06) Georgia's 'Obsession' With Conceiving Another Baby(01:30:36) The Birth of Georgia's 'Rainbow Baby' Gigi(01:31:47) Georgia's Thoughts on 'Bouncing Back' From Childbirth(01:35:52) Georgia's History of Plastic Surgery and Thoughts on the Industry(01:39:54) What's Next for Georgia?(01:42:59) Most Memorable Conversation(01:46:51) Paul's TakeawaysSponsored by:Adobe Express: https://ADOBE.LY/PAUL Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Sync-ID MB01P3JT0TPVKYPMB01GVJTUESWJR8 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Katie Price, Mel Robbins, and Caity Baser share their journeys with ADHD and the challenges they’ve faced in navigating relationships, careers, and self-understanding. ADHD is more common than we realise, yet it often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood, especially in adults. From late diagnoses to daily struggles with focus and impulsivity, they discuss how ADHD has shaped their lives and relationships, and how understanding their condition has changed everything. Their stories remind us that ADHD isn’t just a label - it’s a lens through which we can better understand ourselves and others. We’re Talking: ADHD Awareness(00:00) Intro(00:49) Katie Price's ADHD Diagnosis(06:27) How Mel Robbins Manages Her ADHD in Her Marriage(17:33) Love Better Tour Ad(18:32) How Caity Baser's ADHD ManifestsGet Your Tickets to Paul’s Love Better TourBristol - https://g2ul0.app.link/mt5I2RKhrXb Cardiff - https://g2ul0.app.link/5mZIoBNhrXbGlasgow - https://g2ul0.app.link/FMk3N4PhrXbBirmingham - https://g2ul0.app.link/pJIj4XShrXb Manchester - https://g2ul0.app.link/4SQwKDXhrXb Brighton - https://g2ul0.app.link/BO71HSZhrXb London - https://g2ul0.app.link/gm6iB91hrXb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oscar-winning author and artist Charlie Mackesy opens up like never before - about anxiety, grief, loneliness, and the quiet power of kindness.Content warning: This episode includes discussion of suicidal ideation.  Charlie is the creator of The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse - the longest-running Sunday Times bestseller in history, translated into over 50 languages and embraced by millions around the world. In this rare and deeply personal conversation, Charlie reflects on the moments that shaped both his life and his work - from the loss that changed everything to the drawings that helped strangers feel less alone. He and Paul talk about anxiety, friendship, and the radical courage it takes to be vulnerable. Charlie shares: ◽ The moment grief changed the course of his life◽ The story behind the illustrations that helped strangers stay alive◽ How he sketched his way around the world◽ How bad the anxiety got - and the breathing trick that helped him survive◽ The path to The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse◽ The journey to his new book, Always Remember◽ What it took to create his Oscar-winning film◽ How shame isolates men - and why kindness is the antidote Charlie Mackesy, We Need To Talk.If you’re struggling, you don’t have to face it alone. We’ve included support charities below: Samaritans - call on 116 123 or visit https://g2ul0.app.link/xghDmmYV4Wb Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): https://g2ul0.app.link/npaQKXUV4Wb Follow me here:https://www.instagram.com/needtotalk https://www.tiktok.com/@weneedtotalkpod Support Charlie here:Instagram: https://g2ul0.app.link/llwkLT0jrXb Always Remember: https://g2ul0.app.link/l0I8zRXjrXb  (00:00) Intro(02:38) Charlie's Upbringing in Northumberland(06:34) Changing Schools at 16(10:16) Why Charlie Started Drawing(19:02) Losing His Best Friend at 18(19:58) Moving to London and Starting His Career(23:12) Time in Manhattan(33:16) Picking Tea in Zimbabwe(35:13) Connection to Brixton(40:07) Adobe Express Ad(41:06) Shopify Ad(42:06) Creating *The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse*(55:48) The Book’s Commercial Success(1:02:43) Behind the Scenes of *Love Actually*(1:06:25) Making the Film Adaptation(1:08:42) Winning an Oscar(1:12:36) Concept Behind *Always Remember*(1:14:47) Love Better Tour Ad(1:15:46) Facing Darker Periods in Life(1:19:51) Managing Anxiety(1:27:55) Attention Span(1:29:30) Creative Process Demo(1:30:56) Friendships Past and Present(1:38:19) Thoughts on Faith(1:43:13) What Paul and Charlie Are Grateful For(1:45:18) Drawing Mantra(1:48:36) Latest Drawing Reveal(1:50:20) Paul's TakeawaysSponsored by:Shopify: https://www.shopify.co.uk/needtotalk Adobe Express: https://ADOBE.LY/PAUL  Get Your Tickets to Paul’s Love Better Tour!Bristol - https://g2ul0.app.link/mt5I2RKhrXbCardiff - https://g2ul0.app.link/5mZIoBNhrXbGlasgow - https://g2ul0.app.link/FMk3N4PhrXbBirmingham - https://g2ul0.app.link/pJIj4XShrXbManchester - https://g2ul0.app.link/4SQwKDXhrXbBrighton - https://g2ul0.app.link/BO71HSZhrXbLondon - https://g2ul0.app.link/gm6iB91hrXb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In honour of Baby Loss Awareness Week, Paul sits down with Perrie Edwards, Myleene Klass, and Katherine Ryan, who share their personal stories of grief and resilience. Miscarriage and baby loss are more common than we think, yet remain one of society's most unspoken struggles. From the uncertainty of pregnancy to the heartbreaking reality of loss, they discuss what it means to grieve, to speak up, and to advocate for better support. Their stories remind us that no one has to face this alone. This is a space for honesty, healing, and hope. You are not alone. We're Talking: Baby Loss Awareness Support charities: Tommy’s: https://g2ul0.app.link/yiLgVePdnVb Sands: https://g2ul0.app.link/1c7K7WVdnVb Baby Loss Awareness Week: https://g2ul0.app.link/ye2qd7YQiXb  Baby Loss Awareness Week is an opportunity to bring us together as a community and give anyone touched by pregnancy and baby loss a safe and supportive space to share their experiences and feel that they are not alone. Sponsored By: Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beauty powerhouse Lou Teasdale opens up about life on the road with One Direction, her close friendship with Caroline Flack, and her mission to change the conversation around mental health. Content warning: This episode includes discussion of self harm and suicide. From styling the world’s biggest boyband to navigating the intense scrutiny of fame, Lou shares what life was really like behind the scenes with Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Liam Payne - from fans chasing cars to quiet one-to-one moments in the chair, where conversations often felt like therapy. Lou reflects on her friendship with Caroline Flack - from the qualities that made everyone adore her, to navigating mental health challenges under the eyes of the world. Today, Lou channels her pain into purpose through her work with suicide-prevention charity Body & Soul, determined to ensure others get the help they need and to show that kindness can truly save lives. Lou shares: ◽ How she became One Direction’s hair stylist ◽ Her favourite One Direction hairstyles ◽ The truth about working on The X Factor ◽ The reality TV transformations they weren’t allowed to do ◽ How mental health support is often left to “unqualified people” ◽ Insights from her close friendship with Caroline Flack◽ Why we need to do more on mental health awareness ◽ Her relationship with footballer Andy Carroll Lou Teasdale, We Need To Talk If you’re struggling, you don’t have to face it alone. We’ve included support charities below: Samaritans - call on 116 123 or visit https://g2ul0.app.link/xghDmmYV4Wb  Body & Soul - https://g2ul0.app.link/yoNKZXDYeXb Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): https://g2ul0.app.link/npaQKXUV4Wb Follow me here: https://www.instagram.com/needtotalk  https://www.tiktok.com/@weneedtotalkpod Follow Lou here: Instagram: https://g2ul0.app.link/Wt22ItOYeXb TikTok: https://g2ul0.app.link/QmcImVJYeXb  (00:00) Intro (02:31) Why Lou wanted to join us (04:07) How Lou became a make-up artist at 16 (05:51) Lou's choice to work as a make-up artist for boybands (07:17) The role of a make-up artist outside aesthetics (10:57) Lou's time on X-Factor (15:20) How Lou met Caroline Flack (16:51) How Lou ended up working with One Direction (19:49) How did One Direction change as they found fame? (22:00) Life on the road with One Direction (25:52) Lou's most influential look whilst being with One Direction (28:00) Lou reflects on the year anniversary of Liam Payne's death (33:21) Adobe Express Ad (34:19) Love Better Tour Ad (35:27) The popularity of Caroline Flack (39:35) What was most misunderstood about Caroline? (42:27) The events in 2019 that impacted Caroline's life (48:06) Caroline’s mental health struggles and navigating media coverage (51:00) The role of friends and family in supporting Caroline’s well-being (56:20) The events leading up to Caroline’s passing (58:22) Lou's experience of discovering Caroline (01:01:45) The '#BeKind' social media movement (01:04:49) Lou's charity work with Body and Soul (01:09:09) Lou's relationship with Caroline's mother (01:11:34) Lou's relationship with Andy Carroll (01:14:55) The tabloid treatment of Andy Carroll (01:17:02) Who's the celebrity that's most surprised Lou? (01:17:54) Which celebrity currently has the best hairstyle? (01:18:54) Most memorable conversation (01:23:02) A letter from Lou's sister (01:26:35) Paul's Takeaways Sponsored by: Adobe Express: https://ADOBE.LY/PAUL Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Gabor Maté explores what trauma really is, how it shapes who we become, and why so many people are living disconnected from their authentic selves. From attachment styles to emotional wounds, Paul and Gabor break down how childhood experiences affect our adult relationships - and what it takes to truly heal. Whether you're navigating your own trauma or trying to better understand someone you love, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and a path toward deeper connection. We're Talking Trauma with Gabor Maté (00:00) Intro (00:53) How Does Gabor Define Trauma? (03:40) How Many People Today Are Living in Trauma? (05:46) How Do We Heal Our Trauma? (08:21) How to Become Your Most Authentic Self (14:02) Love Better Tour Ad (15:07) Attachment Styles (20:23) How Do You Earn a 'Secure Attachment'? Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Strictly Come Dancing’s head judge Shirley Ballas joins us for an exclusive conversation about her extraordinary life on and off the dance floor. She also reflects on the loss of her brother David, and why she now campaigns to raise awareness around men’s mental health and suicide prevention. From her early years on a Merseyside council estate to global fame, Shirley shares the resilience, heartbreak, and lessons that shaped her. She opens up about her family heritage, the bullying she endured through school years and beyond, and the sacrifices she made to rise to the top of the dance world. She speaks candidly about her relationships, turbulent love affairs and lifelong struggles with body image. Shirley also takes us behind the scenes of Strictly Come Dancing - from a “disastrous” first audition to navigating the highs and lows of being on one of the biggest shows on television. Shirley shares: ◽ How discovering her family heritage reshaped her identity ◽ The bullying that left lasting scars - and how she found strength through dance ◽ Walking away from a marriage at the peak of her career - and the regrets that followed ◽ The pressures of body image in the dance world and her experiences with surgery ◽ The moment her Strictly audition went wrong - and how she turned it around ◽ The toll of online trolling and public criticism as head judge ◽ Why championing men’s mental health is so important to her ◽ What happiness means today  Shirley Ballas, We Need To Talk If you’re struggling, you don’t have to face it alone. We’ve included support charities below: Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): https://g2ul0.app.link/npaQKXUV4Wb Samaritans - call on 116 123 or visit https://g2ul0.app.link/xghDmmYV4Wb  Follow me here: https://www.instagram.com/needtotalk  https://www.tiktok.com/@weneedtotalkpod Follow Shirley: Instagram: https://g2ul0.app.link/EGAa8y0V4Wb TikTok: https://g2ul0.app.link/rAaQ8f3V4Wb  Best Foot Forward: https://g2ul0.app.link/So4hbb5V4Wb  (00:00) Intro (02:08) Otto and Shirley's Heritage (06:49) Shirley's Upbringing in the Wirral (09:15) Shirley's Experience of School (12:10) How Shirley Became Obsessed with Dance (15:06) Moving to London at 16 (18:40) Moving to Manchester and Starting Her Latin Dance Career (22:13) Class in the UK and How It Relates to the Dance Industry (29:56) How Shirley Met Corky Ballas (35:46) Does Shirley Regret Leaving Sammy for Corky? (44:42) Why Shirley and Corky's Relationship Came to an End (48:16) Tinder Ad (49:16) Adobe Express Ad (50:34) How Shirley Came to Be on Strictly Come Dancing (55:10) The Enduring Popularity of Strictly (01:00:37) Would Paul Go on Strictly? (01:01:41) Who Is Shirley's Fantasy Strictly Contestant? (01:03:05) Who Is the Biggest Surprise During Shirley's Time on Strictly? (01:04:32) The Importance of Shirley's Brother David to Her Life (01:14:41) Shirley's Battle With Body Image (01:22:12) Shirley Reads a Letter to Her Younger Self (01:25:44) Most Memorable Conversation (01:31:16) Shirley and Celebs Go Dating (01:37:38) Paul's Takeaways Sponsored by: Tinder: https://tinder.com/en-GB  Adobe Express: https://ADOBE.LY/PAUL  Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour! Bristol - https://g2ul0.app.link/mt5I2RKhrXb Cardiff - https://g2ul0.app.link/5mZIoBNhrXb Glasgow - https://g2ul0.app.link/FMk3N4PhrXb Birmingham - https://g2ul0.app.link/pJIj4XShrXb Manchester - https://g2ul0.app.link/4SQwKDXhrXb Brighton - https://g2ul0.app.link/BO71HSZhrXb London - https://g2ul0.app.link/gm6iB91hrXb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three of the UK’s biggest online creators - TommyInnit, DanTDM, and Talia Mar join Paul to explore what it really takes to build a streaming career. They share how they grew their platforms, stayed creative under pressure, and built communities that reach millions. We’re Talking Streaming. (00:00) Intro (00:53) How Tommyinnit started his streaming career (01:40) Tommy is one of the most followed people in the world (02:50) How Tommy built his streaming following (07:30) Tommy's Guiness Records (10:35) How DanTDM became a full-time YouTuber (13:22) The grind that led to Dan's success on YouTube (17:00) 2017 Forbes Article about Dan (18:58) Love Better Tour Ad (20:03) How Talia Mar started streaming and built her following Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Love Island star Shakira Khan breaks her silence in her first ever podcast interview. In this exclusive conversation, Shakira opens up about growing up mixed-race in Burnley, the beauty standards that shattered her confidence, and the behind-the-scenes reality of life inside the Love Island villa. For the first time, she spills the tea on her fellow islanders, lifts the lid on the villa “divide,” and reveals where things really stand with Harry today.Shakira reveals: ◽ How bullying and identity struggles forged her confidence ◽ The surprising truth about Love Island casting and how she got on the show ◽ Why she broke down in tears to her chaperone before entering the villa ◽ Her unfiltered take on Harry and the accusations of gaslighting inside the villa ◽ Why she won’t judge another Love Islander again ◽ The truth about the villa “divide” ◽ Why she now feels proud of her mixed-race identity  ◽ Where her relationship with Harry really stands - and if she sees a future with him Shakira Khan, We Need To Talk. Follow me here: https://www.instagram.com/needtotalk https://www.tiktok.com/@weneedtotalkpod Follow Shakira: Instagram: https://g2ul0.app.link/XSsa2GZORWb TikTok: https://g2ul0.app.link/icWRTO7ORWb (00:00) Intro (02:16) Why is Shakira Ready to Tell Her Story Now? (02:53) Growing Up In Burnley (09:06) Shakira's Mixed Heritage (13:56) How Did Religion Impact Shakira's Upbringing? (19:04) Shakira's Young Social Circles (23:04) The P Word and Racism (25:54) When Did the Tide Change? (27:13) Romance and Racism (28:53) How Did Shakira Gain Self Worth? (31:50) Did Shakira Ever Have a Healthy Relationship? (34:20) Why Love Island? (40:04) How Did Shakira Get on Love Island? (52:41) Treatwell Ad (53:56) Tinder Ad (54:59) Shakira's Relationships on Love Island (01:00:57) Shakira Talks About Ben (01:04:27) Shakira Talks About Connor (01:07:28) Shakira Talks About Harry (01:13:08) Shakira Talks About Megan (01:14:54) The Divide in the Villa (01:22:49) Harry and Shakira's Mum (01:27:09) Perceptions of Shakira, Toni and Yasmin (01:31:11) What Did Shakira See in Harry? (01:37:30) What's Next for Shakira? (01:38:33) Most Memorable Conversation (01:40:29) Paul's Takeaways Sponsored by: Treatwell: http://Treatwell.co.uk with code PAUL20 - T&Cs apply Tinder: https://tinder.com/en-GB  Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three Strictly legends pull back the glittery curtain on the UK’s biggest dance show. Oti Mabuse opens up about breaking down in the shower during the show’s most intense moments, and the pressure she felt to represent Black women in the spotlight. Karen Hauer reflects on dancing with her ex Kevin Clifton after their breakup - and gives an honest take on the “Strictly Curse” - why emotional connections form, and how it changes relationships forever. Ashley Roberts shares how appearing on Strictly became a tribute to her late father, and why dance remains deeply personal for her. These are the stories behind the sparkle - raw, real, and rarely told. We're Talking Strictly! (00:00) Intro(00:38) Oti breaks down the ‘Strictly Curse’(05:31) Karen’s take on the ‘Strictly Curse’(15:30) What is something the audience don’t know about Strictly?(17:52) Love Better Tour Ad(18:49) How intense is being on the show?(21:40) Being on the show whilst going through the break-up of her marriage(24:47) How was it for Ashley returning to dance on Strictly?(26:34) Ashley’s favourite dance on the show Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

They fell in love in 7 days, got engaged without ever seeing each other, and married on national TV. In this Love Is Blind UK exclusive, Kieran and Meg reveal the full story: what the cameras showed, what they didn’t, and what really happened during the year they kept their relationship a secret. They offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the experiment really works - from living arrangements and dating prompts to why they focused on building a genuine connection rather than chasing screen time. From their first 8-minute pod date to a real-life wedding, their love story defied the odds. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Kieran and Meg speak candidly about trust, drama, and the emotional toll of navigating love on camera while staying true to each other off screen.Kieran & Meg share: ◽️ Why their first 8-minute date changed everything ◽️ How Kieran almost ended up on Love Island ◽️ What it was like keeping their marriage secret for a year ◽️ The real story behind the on-screen drama  ◽️ How their past shaped their present-day relationship ◽️ Why they’re renewing their vows  ◽️ What Love Is Blind taught them about dating with intention Kieran & Meg, We Need To Talk. (0:00) Intro (1:51) Why Meg And Kieran Are On We Need To Talk   (4:35) Meg And Kieran's Relationship History Prior To Being On Love Is Blind   (10:31) How Did Meg And Kieran Come To Be On The Show?   (16:48) What's The Living Situation Like On Love Is Blind?   (18:50) How Does The Initial Dating Work On Love Is Blind?   (20:21) How Did Meg And Kieran Know They Had A Connection From The First Date?   (30:43) How The Next Stage Of The Experiment Works   (37:11) When Did Kieran Know He Loved Meg?   (43:33) The Proposal   (53:29) Adobe Express Ad   (54:29) Tinder Ad   (55:34) How Did The Dramas On The Show Affect Their Relationship?   (01:03:35) Masculinity And Men's Behaviour On Reality TV Shows   (01:10:06) Kieran And Meg's Fashion   (01:12:47) The Marriage Circumstances On Love Is Blind   (01:17:22) Meg's Relationship With Her Father   (01:23:42) Paul's Letter To Meg And Kieran   (01:31:16) Most Memorable Conversation   (01:37:02) Paul's Takeaways  Follow me here: https://www.instagram.com/needtotalk  https://www.tiktok.com/@weneedtotalkpod Follow Kieran and Meg: Kieran’s Instagram: https://g2ul0.app.link/2mJiQVEyGWb Meg’s Instagram: https://g2ul0.app.link/RrGKc3IyGWb  Sponsored by: Adobe Express: https://ADOBE.LY/PAUL  Tinder: https://tinder.com/en-GB  Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

TW: This episode discusses suicide and mental health in detail. In this week's episode for World Suicide Prevention Day, we’ve brought together some of the most powerful moments from past conversations on We Need To Talk - featuring Jordan Stephens, Ella Morgan, and DanTDM - who’ve all spoken bravely about their mental health journeys. These are not just stories of pain, but of survival. Of reaching out. Of finding light in the darkest moments. By revisiting their words, we hope to break the silence around suicide and remind anyone struggling: you are not alone. Together, they unpack the silence around suicide and why honest conversations matter more than ever (00:00) Intro (01:27) Jordan's Experience of Suicide and Suicidal Ideation (07:28) Jordan's 'Break-Up' with His Mother (14:06) Ella's Experience of Suicidal Ideation at 16 (17:00) Ella Coming Out as Trans to Her Mum (20:12) Dan TDM's Experience Suicidal Ideation (22:00) Telling His Wife How He Felt (23:45) How Therapy Helped Dan (27:46) Love Better Tour Ad Please take care watching. If you or someone you know needs support, please see support charities below: Samaritans - https://g2ul0.app.link/1CRhatR7mPb  CALM - https://g2ul0.app.link/YvmzhM17mPb  MIND - https://g2ul0.app.link/d72yzu7jJOb  Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kerry Katona opens up about some of the most shocking and transformative moments of her life in the spotlight. From turbulent relationships and public scandals to finding love again, Kerry shares the truth behind the headlines. In part 2 of her raw and unfiltered conversation, Kerry speaks candidly about the chaos of her marriages, her infamous appearance on This Morning, and the devastating impact of addiction on her family. She reflects on the abuse she endured in her relationship with George, the trauma of his passing, and how she rebuilt herself in the aftermath. Kerry also reveals the reality of her financial struggles and why she turned to OnlyFans, before sharing the unexpected love story that unfolded on Celebs Go Dating with Paolo, and what it’s like navigating a relationship under the glare of the media. Kerry shares: ◽ How her relationship with Mark began and ended in heartbreak ◽ The media’s betrayal and stories sold at her expense ◽ The home invasion that shook her family to its core ◽ The moment she realised she needed to end her addiction ◽ The painful truth of her marriage to George and his tragic passing ◽ Her experience of bankruptcy and finding new ways to survive ◽ How she found love again with Paolo on Celebs Go Dating despite the age gap ◽ Her hopes for the future and what’s next for her career Kerry Katona, We Need To Talk, again! This episode includes some difficult conversations. If you’re impacted, we recommend the support charities below:Survivor's Trust: https://g2ul0.app.link/yh0NrvNsvTb      Refuge: https://g2ul0.app.link/td2zqEPpGTb  CALM: https://g2ul0.app.link/uULaUXcM3Nb  MIND: https://g2ul0.app.link/gbuRaxjM3Nb Follow me here: https://www.instagram.com/needtotalk  https://www.tiktok.com/@weneedtotalkpod Support Kerry here:Instagram: https://g2ul0.app.link/otKjdok9cWb  TikTok: https://g2ul0.app.link/391l8Vg9cWb Kerry & Katie’s Tour: https://g2ul0.app.link/6dGc2te9cWb Mamma Mia Tour: https://g2ul0.app.link/ubKU5P88cWb  (00:00) Intro (02:20) How Did Kerry's Relationship with Mark Begin? (07:00) Stories Sold to the Papers About Kerry (11:57) Kerry's Experience of Home Invasion (16:52) Kerry's Infamous Appearance on This Morning (27:36) Kerry's Wedding to Mark (29:29) Kerry's Epiphany About Her Drug Taking and the End of Her Relationship with Mark (35:00) Kerry's Difficult Conversation with Her Children About Her Public Image (39:06) Adobe Express Ad (40:21) Tinder Ad (41:22) How Kerry Entered into Her Relationship with George (46:17) George's Abusive Behaviour During Their Marriage (52:55) George's Psychotic Break (57:31) George's Passing and How It Affected Kerry (01:01:37) The Double Standard Between Genders in Showbiz (01:03:36) Treatwell Ad (01:04:37) How Kerry Met Ryan (01:07:57) Kerry's Various Bankruptcies (01:11:54) How Kerry Got into Doing OnlyFans Content (01:14:53) How Did Kerry's Relationship with Ryan End? (01:16:15) Kerry's Experience of 'Celebs Go Dating' and Meeting Paolo (01:20:56) Kerry's Feelings on the 11 Year Age Gap Between Her and Paolo (01:22:12) How Kerry's Feelings for Paolo Developed Over the Course of Shooting 'Celebs Go Dating' (01:28:20) How the Media Will Portray Kerry and Paolo's Relationship (01:31:58) Kerry's Biggest Takeaway from 'Celebs Go Dating' (01:35:06) Kerry's Upcoming Projects (01:36:34) Most Memorable Conversation (01:40:11) Paul's Takeaways Sponsored by: Adobe Express: https://ADOBE.LY/PAUL Tinder: https://tinder.com/en-GB Treatwell: http://Treatwell.co.uk with code PAUL20 - T&Cs apply Get Your Tickets to the Love Better Tour: https://bit.ly/lovebetter-YT  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices