Happy Place

Epizody

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  Chris Olsen: “Addiction is so complicated because there’s no right answer” 15.10.2026 1h 5min

  TikToker Chris Olsen shot to stardom during the pandemic. But while all eyes were on his viral videos, he was struggling to forgive himself for the challenges of his past.In this candid conversation, Chris sits down with Fearne in New York City to talk about fame, recovery, and his journey to self-forgiveness.He talks about the addiction that consumed his late teenage years, and the life-changing intervention staged by his friends and family.He also reflects on his time in rehab, and why the worst version of yourself doesn’t have to define you.Chris’ book, I Think My Therapist Hates Me: A Memoir, is out now.A warning that this episode contains references to alcohol and drug addiction. If you’re affected by these issues, please listen with care.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Jesse Tyler FergusonSpencer MatthewsMillie Gooch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Jesse Tyler Ferguson: “If things don’t scare you, what’s the point?” Facing fear head-on 12.10.2026 52min

  Actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson spent 11 years on our screens as Mitchell Pritchett in the hit series, Modern Family. But when the opportunity presented itself to be alone on stage, in front of a sell-out audience, a different feeling started to creep in.In this chat with Fearne, Jesse opens up about the fear that drives him. He reflects on how he’s learned to work through it, and what he does to lean in and embrace the challenges ahead. He also talks about how playing Mitchell helped him prepare for fatherhood, and the impact his relationship with his onscreen daughter had on him becoming a dad.Plus, Jesse shares some of the White House secrets he learned when interviewing former First Lady, Jill Biden.You can catch Jesse as Truman Capote in Tru at the Menier Chocolate Factory in London until the 14th November 2026.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Joe LycettJoseph FiennesCaitlin Moran Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  “I know I’m safe but my body doesn’t!” Megan McKenna is coping with PTSD and sleep paralysis 08.10.2026 51min

  Entertainment personality Megan McKenna was once advertised in a straitjacket. She was nicknamed Mental Megan, branded mouthy, and edited down to her worst moments on camera. Now, she can see that none of that was who she really was.In this chat with Fearne, live from the Happy Place Festival, Megan explores how she’s learnt to live more authentically. For her, that means less drinking and more home cooking for her young family.Megan also opens up about the anxieties and sleep issues she’s been left with after a traumatic robbery. Fearne has some gentle advice for when your body feels unsafe, and your mind is spiralling.Plus, Megan reveals what really goes on behind the scenes on reality TV shows, from being plied with alcohol, to being nudged into confrontations by producers.Megan’s latest cookbook, Love Gluten Free, is out now.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Olivia AtwoodMichelle KeeganTulisa Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Stephen Graham and Orly Klein: "Consent, compassion, condom!" The advice teenage boys need 05.10.2026 1h 1min

  What part do male role models need to play in young boys’ lives? How do we raise young men with empathy and love? What should masculinity even mean? Adolescence’s Stephen Graham has teamed up with psychology researcher Orly Klein to answer these questions.In this chat with Fearne, Stephen and Orly explore what they’ve learnt about manhood, fatherhood, and generational trauma through asking lots of dads to write letters to their sons.They chat about why we need to stop treating boys like they’re a problem to be fixed, and why it’s so important to offer them positive messages so they don’t fall into the hands of toxic influencers.Plus, Stephen reveals how he felt about filming each Adolescence episode in one take...Stephen and Orly’s book, Letters To Our Sons, is out now.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like: Ashley WaltersCaitlin MoranSam Claflin Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Book Club Meets: Murder mysteries and naming emotions, with Susie Dent 01.10.2026 39min

  When mysterious symbols appear as graffiti around Oxford, lexicographer Martha Thornhill recognises them from an alphabet created by a deceased writer whose papers she once worked on. But this is no publicity stunt, and tensions intensify when further graffiti is found near the body of a university lecturer...Countdown’s Susie Dent has written Death Writ Large, a murder mystery that cleverly weaves her linguistic skills around a killer plot. In this chat, live from the Happy Place Festival, Susie teaches Fearne a few new words (confelicity, anyone?) and explains where phrases like Flaming Nora come from. Plus, why is it actually really good for you to swear, and how can naming emotions help you manage them?In October, we’ll be reading Murder at the Grand Alpine Hotel by Lucy Foley and Agatha Christie.Thank you to Zaffre for the use of the Death Writ Large audiobook, narrated by Louise Brealey.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Book Club Meets: Chloe AshbyBook Club Meets: Candice Carty-WilliamsBook Club Meets: Caro Claire Burke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Miquita Oliver: "I thought I hated you Fearne, I was actually scared!" Debunking female rivalry 28.09.2026 58min

  Back in the noughties, Miquita Oliver thought Fearne Cotton was an irritatingly gorgeous, successful presenter – everything she wasn’t. Fearne was jealous Miquita was part of the TV cool gang. In reality? Fearne worried she was an unsophisticated nerd, and Miquita was feeling like the fat, ugly sidekick. In this episode, live from the Happy Place Festival, Fearne and Miquita chat for the first time in decades, finally able to see that it was press cruelty that created their feud. They talk through how to cope if you feel projection, assumption, or a misunderstanding have created a rift between you and a friend. Miquita also explores why she felt the need to drink to stay in a haze for much of her younger years, and why getting curious about why she felt like sh*t was the first step to getting her life back on track. Plus: how to dream bigger for yourself, and why adults need to play more!If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Matt Edmondson and Mollie KingRuth LangsfordAshley James Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Am I too old to run?! Fearne on why movement is vital for mental health 24.09.2026 10min

  There’s probably a bit too much pressure on reaching a definitive state of happiness isn’t there? It’s not realistic guys. So Fearne’s dropping into your feed every week for some honest chat about what’s making her (and you lot) feel great, and what’s making us all feel completely rubbish.This is a cosy little corner for all of us to explore what’s been on our minds, what’s been getting us down, inspiring us, and making us laugh. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!In this chat, Fearne explores:-Running – both the joy of it, and the sadness when you can’t because you’re injured-In a similar vein: why skipping is so fun... but also makes you pee yourself-The little interactions with strangers that make your day-‘Friends’ chatting behind your back-Whether we’ve started hibernating for winter a little too early  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Tom Read Wilson: “My quirks are my superpower!” Be ok with people not liking you 21.09.2026 57min

  We’ve all got quirks. Tom Read Wilson realised early on that no one else was going to celebrate his differences if he didn’t own them himself. In this chat with Fearne, live from the Happy Place Festival, Tom explains how he learnt to honour his eclectic personality.Fearne and Tom both have a history of extreme people pleasing, so they share what they’ve learnt about self-advocating and getting good at uncomfortable confrontation. Why does turning 40 seem to be when the real honesty kicks in?The I’m A Celeb jungle had a profound impact on Tom, particularly the digital detox part... he explores the huge physical and mental impact giving up his phone has had.Plus, Tom delights in finding the perfect whimsical words, and wonders that language is the key to unlocking better mental health.Tom’s new children’s book, Pricklepaper’s Letter Magic, is out on the 24th of September.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Todd RoseJoe LycettRuby Wax Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Fearne: “There are good eggs out there!” How to ignore the tw*ts and stay positive 17.09.2026 10min

  What’s been going on for you this week? What are you happy about, and what’s really not floating your boat? Fearne’s here with more chat about what’s putting her, Team Happy Place, and you lot in a good mood, and what’s feeling a bit heavier too.This is our space to explore what’s been on our minds. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!In this chat, Fearne explores:-The wholesome dream of growing your own food-Finally being paid to create the stuff you love-Being in awe of Marilyn Monroe-Sending your kid to high school when they’re not ready to cope-Why there’s always something on the Being A Grown Up to do list-The dull details of buying new white goods-The people who insist on being tw*ts to strangers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Caitlin Moran: "I’m two years anxiety-free!” How I finally calmed my nervous system 14.09.2026 1h 15min

  Writer Caitlin Moran's anxiety started when she was 13, when she accidentally let a family secret slip. That anxiety kept her wired for the next 30 years.In this chat with Fearne, Caitlin explains how choosing to be hopeful and see the good in life means she’s now two years anxiety-free.They also talk about how social media has drastically altered our perception of reality, and just how unkind (or kind!) a place the world really is. Angrily posting on Instagram at 3am? It’s not going to change society, but volunteering to pick letter... well... that might!Caitlin talks about the severe dread she feels when meeting up with her best friends; do you have that social anxiety too? Because Fearne does... Plus, how could presuming everyone’s having a really bad day make you a happier person?Caitlin’s book, How To Be Hopeful, is out on September 17th.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Todd RoseLucas JonesNicole LaPera Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Fearne: Why your 40s are ace and how to cope with imposter syndrome 10.09.2026 11min

  There’s probably a bit too much pressure on reaching a definitive state of happiness isn’t there? It’s just not realistic. So Fearne’s dropping into your feed every week for some honest chat about what’s making her (and you lot) feel great, and what’s making us all feel completely rubbish.This is a cosy little corner for all of us to explore what’s been on our minds, what’s been getting us down, inspiring us, and making us laugh. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!In this chat, Fearne explores:-Why being middle aged is actually ace-The iconic TV show that is Below Deck-Loving having grown up kids-How to lean into the cosiness of autumn-Dressing like a teenage boy in a 90s American TV show-Coping with imposter syndrome at work-Why on earth there have to be so many school Whatsapp groups-How to block out chronic pessimistsPs, you heard Fearne, if anyone has a contact for Below Deck’s Captain Sandy… slide into our DMs @happyplaceofficial! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  What if the universe is trying to tell you something? How to trust your intuition 07.09.2026 48min

  Do you ever feel like the universe is trying to tell you something? Call it spirituality, intuition, or science... we’ve all had moments that feel like a bit of a sign – a gentle nudge in a certain direction.In this episode, Fearne looks at the Happy Place moments that have explored the things we can't always explain… This is a curious dive into what happens when we leave a little room for mystery, wonder, and the possibility that there might be more to life than meets the eye.In this episode –-Poet and actor Lucas Jones’ take on why whether we call it religion, spirituality, or science, we’re all ultimately searching for meaning-Spiritual leader Gabby Bernstein is clear that the best thing you can do to change the world is tend to your inner world first-Musician Charlotte Church reflects on why she turned to nature to heal from trauma-Moon mentor Kirsty Gallagher explains how to live in tandem with the moon’s cycles-Holistic therapist Estelle Bingham explores the magic and the science behind the energy in your heart-Intuitive guide Sonia Choquette chats about how to trust your own gut instinct more-Entrepreneur Poppy Jamie shares a beautiful story that explains why she puts her faith in the universeCONTENT WARNING: This episode contains a number of conversations about trying to conceive and baby loss.A FESTIVAL ANNOUNCEMENT! Early Bird tickets for our London and Tatton Happy Place Festivals 2027 are out now. Head to happyplaceofficial.co.uk to get your Early Bird tickets.Listen to the full Happy Place episodes –Lucas JonesGabby BernsteinCharlotte ChurchKirsty GallagherEstelle BinghamSonia ChoquettePoppy Jamie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Monty Don: Get out of your bubble! Immerse yourself in a new culture on holiday 03.09.2026 44min

  What does a truly restful holiday look like to you? Do you want novelty or routine? Horticulturalist Monty Don relaxes most when he knows the drill: same Greek island, same terrace for breakfast, same collapsable travel kettle packed!Welcome to The Happy Place Guide To Holidays! In this chat with Fearne – brought to you by British Airways Holidays – Monty explains the difference between all the globe-trotting he does for work, and a proper switching-off holiday.They chat about the excitement of stepping off a plane into an entirely different culture, as well as why you won’t find either of them staying up late for a social dinner.Monty also explores why it was important to be one of the first people to talk about his mental health in the media decades ago, and what more still needs to be done to support those with depression. Plus, how does Seasonal Affective Disorder manifest for Monty?British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected, offer a 24hr holiday helpline, and allow you to book with a low deposit. All holidays include a generous baggage allowance per person. Go to Ba.com/holidays to find out more.Listen to other episodes of The Happy Place Guide To Holidays:Fearne’s holiday likes and dislikesChris McCauslandSophie Ellis-Bextor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  “I did things I’d never do sober” Consent concerns and social anxiety, with Millie Gooch 31.08.2026 1h

  How do you feel the morning after drinking the night before? For Millie Gooch the hangxiety was huge, so she stopped drinking and founded Sober Girl Society.In this chat, Fearne and Millie explore how to recognise when the silly, lols-in-the-group-chat stories from nights out have morphed into moments that are risky, dangerous, and not really you.For Millie, she had to be honest with herself about what she was trying to forget or avoid by drinking. She talks through how to get comfortable with sitting in uncomfortable emotions.Millie also explains why she didn’t know she was neurodivergent until she stopped drinking; how do the effects of alcohol get mixed up with symptoms of menopause, ADHD, and OCD?Millie’s book, Hangxiety, is out on the 8th of September.CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains frank chat about sexual assault.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Millie MackintoshProfessor David NuttLouise Newson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Book Club Meets: Holiday romance and friendship in your 40s, with Chloe Ashby 27.08.2026 35min

  For 20 years Maggie and Will have spent idyllic summers in the south of France with their friends Lydia and Roland. This year though, tension is brewing and loyalties are being tested. Their young kids are all there too, and they might end up stumbling upon secrets that were being kept from them...August’s Happy Place Book Club read is Family Friends. In this chat with Fearne, author Chloe Ashby explains why she wanted to explore relationship dynamics around the age of 40. Each character has brought a bit of extra baggage to this year’s holiday, so through them Chloe wonders at what point doing one bad thing makes you a bad person.Plus, why was it controversial to include a teenage holiday romance?Thank you to Penguin for the use of the Family Friends audiobook, narrated by Sally Scott.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Book Club Meets: Candice Carty-WilliamsBook Club Meets: Caro Claire BurkeBook Club Meets: Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Joe Lycett: "Nerves and excitement are the same!" How to reframe anxiety 24.08.2026 55min

  Do you find yourself cringing at your younger self? Did you lose yourself in the early part of parenthood? Do you wonder if who you’re being is who you really are? It’s check, check, and check for comedian Joe Lycett.In this chat with Fearne, Joe reflects on how much of his stage persona has become who he actually is, why paternity leave triggered a lot of existential crises all at once, and how he’s come out the other side caring a lot less about what anyone thinks.Fearne and Joe also wonder if the art of losing your inhibitions is gone forever thanks to camera phones, and why playing around and making mistakes is so important as an adult.Plus, how have Ant and Dec accidentally changed how Joe behaves at hotels? And, why is it you can always trust that you'll find community at the pub? Joe loves the human chaos of it, so he’s opening his own, but only for one hour a week...The Lycett Arms airs live on Channel 4 on Friday nights at 10pm, starting Friday 4th September. If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Alain De BottonAnt and DecPhilippa Perry Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  “Wear the OTT dress!” Fearne’s got wardrobe and dating advice 20.08.2026 13min

  What’s been going on for you this week? What are you happy about, and what’s making you not so happy? Fearne’s here with more chat about what’s putting her, Team Happy Place team, and you lot in a good mood, and what’s feeling a bit heavier.This is our space to explore what’s been on our minds. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!In this chat, Fearne explores:-Why the regular mates getaway is so vital-Why – contrary to popular advice – it’s important to talk to strangers-Sitting on a train without looking at your phone-Just bloody wearing the outfit you think is too extra-Coping with ill parents-Trying not to get frustrated with older people taking things slow-Young kids being obsessed with slime (???!) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  My OCD gave me existential dread! Finding meaning in difficult times, with poet & actor Lucas Jones 17.08.2026 1h 1min

  We’re all looking for meaning in life in our own way. Poet and actor Lucas Jones reckons it doesn’t really matter whether we call it God, The Universe, spirituality, or science, we all want to believe in the wonder in our world.In this chat, Fearne and Lucas bond over not being able to do small talk, instead wanting to deeply connect over their big feelings. They also both share their different experiences of having OCD.Lucas feels therapy is a brilliant thing – he’s really benefitted from CBT – but wonders if the rise in therapy comes from a loss of real community. How can we truly listen to and connect with each other again?You can buy Lucas’ book of poetry, I Still Believe In Miracles, now.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Will PoulterTuppence MiddletonPoppy Jamie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Chris McCausland: “Dependence is exhausting!” Holidaying with a disability 13.08.2026 42min

  What ratio of planned activities to spontaneity do you love when you travel? Comedian Chris McCausland has to know some top tier activities have been booked ahead of time.Welcome to The Happy Place Guide To Holidays! In this chat with Fearne – brought to you by British Airways Holidays – Chris explains how holidays have changed since he lost his sight. He thinks hard about everything from communicating in a foreign country, to how dependent he’ll need to be on his loved ones. He also chats about getting into his daughter’s favourite holiday hobby: rollercoasters!Plus, Chris reveals why he reckons being a maths geek has helped him in comedy, and why he initially turned Strictly down a number of times...British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected, offer a 24hr holiday helpline, and allow you to book with a low deposit. All holidays include a generous baggage allowance per person. Go to Ba.com/holidays to find out more.Listen to other episodes of The Happy Place Guide To Holidays:Sophie Ellis-BextorRichard E GrantTess DalyClara AmfoSara Cox Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Ruby Wax: “I was addicted to rage!” How to respond instead of reacting 10.08.2026 46min

  Have you noticed that your memory and rational thinking disappear when you’re anxious? Ruby Wax wants you to retrain your focus and attention in a digital world that’s always trying to steal it.In this chat with Fearne – live from the Happy Place Festival – Ruby explains the difference between mental health and mental illness, and why she calls meditation ‘mind gym’. She also explores why laughing – getting into your body – is one of the greatest things you can do for your mental health.Ruby also tells some raucous stories about the celebrities she’s interviewed. Why did Trump want her kicked off his plane? And what was her read of OJ Simpson?You can get tickets for Ruby’s tour Absolutely Famous here.Join Ruby’s Frazzled Café here.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Ruby’s first Happy Place episodeRuby’s second Happy Place episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.