Begin Again with Davina McCall

Latest Episodes:

Tom Davis on Sobriety, Fatherhood & the Anxiety That Took Him Off Stage Jul 31, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Begin Again, actor, comedian, and writer Tom Davis opens up about the battles behind the laughter—and how sobriety and fatherhood helped him find himself again.

Best known for Murder in Successville, King Gary, and his raw, relatable humour, Tom shares the quieter struggles that shaped his journey: crippling anxiety, imposter syndrome, and the fear that nearly stopped him from ever stepping on a stand-up stage again.

In this intimate and revealing conversation, Tom explains how giving up alcohol brought him clarity, how becoming a father changed everything, and what it took to return to comedy after years of self-doubt. Alongside his partner Kathryn, he also speaks candidly about grief, IVF, and the strength it takes to support a loved one through illness.

This is a powerful story of growth, vulnerability, and learning to show up for the people you love—especially yourself. Whether you're battling self-belief or just need a reminder that it’s never too late to begin again, Tom’s journey is funny, moving, and packed with perspective.

💬 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway from Tom’s journey?

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(00:00) Intro

(00:24) Overcoming Dyslexia: Tom’s School Struggles

(00:59) Imposter Syndrome & Believing in Yourself

(03:50) How Early Jobs Shape Identity

(08:56) Finding Comedy

(14:27) Anxiety and the Pressure to Succeed

(19:16) Losing Yourself on the Path to Success

(25:24) Ancient & Brave Ad

(29:35) Airbnb Ad

(31:02) Supporting a Partner Through Illness

(32:47) Kathryn’s Fertility Journey

(35:17) Coping with Grief: Tom Opens Up

(41:02) Choosing a Surrogate & Quitting Alcohol

(44:02) Gaining Perspective & Returning to Stand-Up

(51:03) Fatherhood and Life with Daughter Grace

(55:11) Lifestyle Changes and Getting Fit

(57:28) Failing Forward: Being Kinder to Yourself

(01:03:25) Tom’s Hero & a Message from Kathryn

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The Brain Health Doctor: Do This To Reduce Your Risk Of Dementia! Jul 24, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Begin Again, Davina sits down with Dr. Sabina Brennan, a leading neuroscientist and brain health expert, to explore how simple lifestyle changes can prevent dementia and enhance brain health. Drawing from her personal experience as a caregiver for her mother, alongside her deep scientific knowledge, Dr. Brennan reveals actionable strategies for boosting cognitive function, preventing dementia, and improving care for those living with it.

Discover how brain health goes beyond genetics and learn practical steps you can take right now to safeguard your mind. Whether you're caring for a loved one with dementia or concerned about your own cognitive future, this episode offers powerful insights, practical tips, and inspiring stories of hope and transformation.

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Dr Sabina Brennan:

Linktree to various purchase points of Still Me - https://linktr.ee/stillmesabinabrennan

Sabina's website - www.sabinabrennan.ie

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(00:00) INTRO

(00:01:08) Intro to Sabina and 'Still Me'
(00:02:33) Brain Fog vs. Dementia and Ageism
(00:09:16) The Science Behind Dementia
(00:13:35) How You Can Prevent Dementia
(00:15:03) How Knowledge Impacts Dementia Outcomes
(00:15:45) How to Manifest & What It Really Means
(00:18:14) 3 Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Symptoms of Dementia
(00:27:39) Napping & the Importance of Sleep
(00:32:50) Hearing Loss & Dementia
(00:40:02) 12 Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia
(00:44:21) Supporting a Loved One with Dementia
(00:49:38) Live Well While Caring for Someone with Dementia
(00:49:38) Self-Care and Dementia Care
(00:54:05) UTIs, Delirium, and Misunderstood Symptoms
(00:59:25) Davina’s Final Message from Her Father
(01:03:55) Back to 'Still Me' and Poem

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Gillian Anderson: Why Talking About Sex Changed My Life & The Real Power Of Fantasy! Jul 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Begin Again, award-winning actress, author, and advocate Gillian Anderson opens up about the personal journey behind her public persona. Best known for her iconic roles in The X-Files, The Fall, and Sex Education, Gillian shares how embracing sexuality, owning her fantasies, and confronting shame transformed not only her relationships—but her entire sense of self.

Through honest and intimate conversation, Gillian explores how therapy helped her navigate anxiety from a young age, why women still feel ashamed of desire, and what it really means to speak up about what you want—in bed and in life.

This episode is a powerful exploration of female empowerment, sexual honesty, and emotional courage. Whether you're curious about how to talk about desire, or simply want to understand your own agency more deeply, Gillian's story is raw, relatable, and deeply inspiring.

Packed with wisdom, vulnerability, and breakthrough moments, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in sexual confidence, mental health, and reclaiming your power.

🎙️ Drop a comment: What’s Your Biggest takeaway?

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Buy 'Want' here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/want-9781526657893/

(00:00) Intro
(01:09) Davina Intro
(02:02) Intro & Being a Role Model to Women
(05:47) Gillian's Youth and Cultural Identification
(09:33) Therapy at 14 after Mental Health Struggles
(12:28) Gillian's Big Break at 24
(16:59) Taking Risks in Her Career
(19:50) Family Life and Career Balance
(21:46) Becoming Stella in 'The Fall' and Thatcher in 'The Crown'
(26:43) Ancient and Brave Ad
(28:22) New Audiences and Playing Jean in 'Sex Education'
(35:13) Sexual Assault and Recent Discourse
(39:47) ‘Want’ and How it Came About
(46:38) Fantasies, Shame and Satisfaction

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This Is Why You Aren’t Happy: The Chimp Paradox Explained! Jul 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Begin Again, world-renowned psychiatrist and author of The Chimp Paradox, Professor Steve Peters, shares groundbreaking insights on managing our minds. With decades of experience working with elite athletes and professionals, Steve explains the Chimp Paradox theory, showing how understanding our "inner chimp" can transform mental and emotional well-being.

Steve offers practical strategies to take control of our thoughts, behaviours, and decisions. Learn how to shift negative patterns, improve resilience, and make better choices for personal growth and performance. No matter your background, Steve’s advice helps you unlock your full potential and live a more fulfilling life.

Packed with expert insights and real-world applications, this episode is essential for anyone looking to improve mental strength and well-being.

🎙️ Drop a comment: What’s Your Biggest takeaway?

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Professor Steve Peters:

Links:

Short Courses - https://chimpmanagement.com/self-development/short-courses-with-prof-steve-peters/ website: https://chimpmanagement.com Socials: https://www.instagram.com/chimpmanagement_ltd?igsh=bHVsdGQxbHg1ZjFz

(00:00) Intro

(01:16) Origin of the 'Chimp System' & Chimp Paradox Explained (04:39) How 'The Machine' Hijacks Our Lives (06:19) The Amygdala & The First Success of the Chimp Model (08:12) How Steve's Book Changed the Game (08:41) Solving the Puzzle: Helping Others Find Success (09:24) Sports Therapy with Steven Gerrard & Chris Hoy (13:46) Unlocking the Power to Change from Within (17:04) Emotional Scars: Building Resilience in Children (21:04) The Role of Critical Parenting in Child Development (25:03) Navigating Strained Relationships and Making Tough Decisions (28:43) Understanding Your Brain: Living in Your 'Chimp Brain' (32:50) How the Brain Functions Like a Computer (34:56) Gremlins, Beliefs, & Behaviors: Understanding Their Impact (36:52) Life Experiences, Beliefs, and the Power of Reflection (39:56) Relationships, Suffering, & Emotional Growth (42:31) Rewiring Your Brain: Steps to Making Lasting Changes (46:06) Finding a Path Through the Jungle of Life (50:10) Steve's Workshops, Outreach, & Social Media Impact (55:14) Speaking to Your Inner Chimp: Practical Insights (01:01:18) Final Advice from Professor Steve

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How to Date in Midlife and Reignite Your Sex Life! Jul 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Begin Again, celebrated relationship expert and Married At First Sight psychologist Mel Schilling shares the most powerful lessons she's learned from decades of guiding couples — and from her own late-in-life love story.

Mel opens up about what dating later in life really looks like, why modern romance requires a different mindset, and how anyone — at any age — can find meaningful connection. She reflects on her journey of becoming a mother in her forties, meeting her partner abroad, and the myths we need to unlearn about love, sex, and intimacy as we age.

With warmth, clarity, and a no-nonsense approach, Mel explains how to keep the spark alive in long-term relationships, why emotional intimacy is often misunderstood, and the practical shifts every couple can make to deepen their connection.

This episode is full of honest insights, surprising truths, and expert strategies for anyone navigating love — whether you're starting over or trying to reignite what you already have.

🎙️ Drop a comment: What’s Your Biggest takeaway?

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https://www.tiktok.com/@beginagainpod00:00 Intro

01:00 Davina’s Introduction

01:55 Mutual Appreciation and Warm-Up

04:22 Mel’s Early Ambition and Power of Manifestation

07:25 Where Psychology Meets Peak Performance

09:02 Finding Love Later in Life: Mel’s Story

11:01 Trust, Safety, and Dating After 40

13:39 Building a Dating Brand: Self-Awareness and Authenticity

16:30 Letting Go of Old Identities in Relationships

19:13 Mindset Shifts That Transform Dating Perspectives

25:20 Rejection, Resilience, and Emotional Strength in Dating

29:11 Knowing Your Dealbreakers While Actively Dating

33:15 Core Relationship Values

35:23 Mel’s Honest Miscarriage Journey

38:37 The Reality of Sex While Trying to Conceive

41:13 Mel’s IVF Experience and Emotional Impact

44:40 Thoughts on Parenthood and Family Life

47:35 Ancient + Brave Ad

49:04 Davina Reflects on Her Relationship with Michael

51:45 Ranking Relationship Values with Michael and Davina

1:13:13 Davina and Michael on Marriage and Commitment

1:13:45 Which Values Matter Less in a Relationship?

1:17:37 Understanding Consent in Modern Relationships

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Rita Ora: I Proposed to my Husband Taika! Jun 26, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Begin Again, global pop icon and actress Rita Ora sits down for her most open conversation yet. She reflects on the intense scrutiny she’s faced, the pressure of fame, and why speaking her truth now matters more than ever.

Rita shares how Beyoncé’s support helped her through a time when her identity and integrity were under attack. She speaks honestly about the journey to feel seen on her own terms, the impact of tabloid pressure in her twenties, and how she finally feels more grounded, more herself, than ever before.

The episode dives into her marriage to Taika Waititi, the joy and complexity of becoming a stepmother, and what it means to fully embrace her sexuality. With warmth, wisdom, and clarity, Rita reveals how she’s built a more peaceful, authentic life—one shaped by self-trust, real love, and personal growth.

🎙️ Drop a comment: What’s Your Biggest takeaway?

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(00:00) Intro

(00:04:26:10) Celebrating Confidence & Sexuality

(00:07:03:02) False Headlines

(00:10:04:17) Rita’s Fanbase: The Ritabots

(00:11:53:19) Rita’s Work Ethic & Refugee Life

(00:17:38:19) Signing with Jay-Z’s Label

(00:22:11:24) 'Hot Right Now' Global Success

(00:24:19:00) Love-Hate Relationship with the Press

(00:28:01:00) Media Impact on Mental Health

(00:31:42:23) Ridiculed for Embracing Sexiness

(00:33:37:19) The Masked Singer Journey

(00:35:09:12) Rita's Acting Career

(00:36:48:10) Ancient & Brave Ad

(00:38:35:14) Friendship With Beyoncé

(00:43:44:23) Rita’s Relationship with Taika

(00:58:17:07) Overcoming Challenges

(01:00:00:06) Becoming a Stepmother

(01:05:01:24) Rita’s Proposal to Taika

(01:08:14:14) Plans for the Future

(01:09:30:02) Mental Health & Hypochondria

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Shaolin Master: The Hidden Mental Trap You Fall Into Daily! Why You’re Always in Fight or Flight Jun 19, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Begin Again, Shaolin Master Shi Heng Yi reveals the hidden mental trap that keeps millions of us stuck in fight-or-flight mode. He shares how modern life quietly poisons our peace of mind—and why stress, anxiety, and overwhelm have become our default state. Through the lens of ancient Shaolin wisdom, Shi Heng Yi offers a powerful alternative: mastering the breath, reconnecting with the body, and breaking free from inherited emotional patterns.

The conversation explores how discipline, self-reflection, and stillness can transform even the most chaotic life. From his own journey growing up in a refugee household to becoming a Shaolin Master, he explains why inner mastery—not escape—is the path to true peace. You'll learn the real reason you're exhausted, the unconscious habits keeping you disconnected, and how to begin again with clarity, purpose, and calm.

Whether you're navigating burnout, trauma, or simply feeling lost in a noisy world, this episode offers deep insight, grounded philosophy, and tools to reclaim your mind.

🧘‍♂️ Drop a comment: What mental habit are you ready to break?

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Shaolin Spirit: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/464095/shaolin-spirit-by-yi-shi-heng/9780241715192

(00:00:00:00) Intro

(3:51) Shi Heng Yi: Becoming a Shaolin Master

(6:50) Dangers of a Scattered Mind

(10:34) Legacy, Self-Assessment & Growth

(15:15) Building True Self-Perception

(19:23) Unity Through Breath Awareness

(24:22) How to Master Breathwork

(29:50) Ancient & Brave (Ad)

(31:18) How to Handle Stress Effectively

(35:31) Taking Ownership for Self-Mastery

(37:38) Letting in the Light: Breaking the Cycle

(43:28) Two Common Mistakes on the Path to Truth

(46:27) Burnout Recovery: From Robots to Nature

(49:01) Clarify & Live Your Core Values

(51:03) How to Build Discipline in 21 Days

(55:11) Reviving Shaolin Temple Europe

(56:01) Experiencing the Shaolin Lifestyle

(1:00:37) Transforming Self-Perception

(1:03:00) Learning to Truly Let Go

(1:09:31) Gratitude & Discovering Your Unique Path

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Mel Robbins: These 2 Words Will Fix Your Relationships! Jun 11, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Begin Again, Mel Robbins reveals how she escaped £800,000 in debt, overcame crippling anxiety, and rebuilt her life using a simple tool known as the 5 Second Rule. She opens up about hitting rock bottom, the moment that sparked her transformation, and why waiting to “feel ready” is a lie. Mel also shares the science behind breaking bad habits and how small, consistent actions create real change.

The conversation also dives into Mel’s viral “Let Them” Theory—a powerful mindset shift that’s helping millions let go of control and heal their relationships. From navigating marriage struggles and parenting challenges to building inner peace, Mel offers hard-earned wisdom, practical tools, and emotional honesty. This is a must-watch for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or ready to begin again.

🎙️ Drop a comment: What’s Your Biggest takeaway?

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"Let Them" Available here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Let-Them-Theory-Life-Changing-Millions/dp/1788176189/ref=tmm[…]1OoSw1UBXmoh1rOflxcVGDm_jVjrYTds--OUYM&qid=1749572663&sr=8-1

(00:00:00:00) Intro

(00:00:03:02) Coming Up...

(00:01:12:07) Gratitude

(00:01:40:02) Becoming Mel Robbins

(00:07:05:17) Mel's Personal Journey and Finding Motivation (00:14:33:09) How I Got Out of $800,000 in Debt

(00:17:44:17) Being the Villain of Your Own Story

(00:19:09:21) Talking About Family

(00:20:14:17) 5 Second Theory

(00:27:52:07) Ancient & Brave Ad

(00:29:21:16) TEDx Talk in 2011

(00:33:47:06) Science Behind the 5 Second Theory

(00:35:59:05) Understanding Motivation and What Holds Us Back (00:37:57:13) Let Them Theory

(00:41:16:00) Control, Power, and Relationships

(00:47:52:05) When 'Let Them' Becomes 'Let Me'

(00:52:36:12) Mel on Working with Her Daughter & Breakups

(01:00:54:12) Applying the Let Them Theory to Children

(01:04:52:06) Dealing with a Fight or Flight Mentality

(01:12:56:23) Navigating Adult Friendships

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Katie Piper: From Surviving an Acid Attack to Finding Faith & Love Jun 05, 2025

Show notes

In this powerful episode of Begin Again, Katie Piper opens up about her remarkable journey following the horrific acid attack in 2008. She reflects on her path to survival, the deep emotional and physical challenges she faced, and the profound transformation that followed. From struggling with agoraphobia and navigating countless surgeries to discovering her faith, Katie shares how she rebuilt her life. Alongside this, she reveals the moments of humour and strength that helped her endure.

Katie also discusses how she found faith in her 20s, a journey that’s shaped her perspective on life and healing. She opens up about finding love, building a deep connection with her husband, and the joy of navigating motherhood—experiences that have been pivotal in her recovery. With raw honesty, she speaks about the loneliness of recovery and how she learned to embrace her new identity.

This conversation is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, the power of faith and love, and the ongoing process of healing as Katie navigates life after trauma. Her story is one of profound strength, transformation, and the importance of embracing the complexities of life’s challenges.

Katie’s Book ‘Still Beautiful’ - https://www.dk.com/uk/book/9780241722596-still-beautiful/

Upcoming Events for Katie - https://www.katiepiper.co.uk/book-tour

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(00:00:00) Coming up…

(00:01:02) Davina's Introduction

(00:02:18) Meeting Katie Piper

(00:05:21) Katie on Finding Her Faith

(00:10:51) Katie's Acid Attack Story

(00:18:03) Who Was Katie Before the Attack?

(00:24:37) Immediate Aftermath & Hospital Life

(00:30:25) The Impact of Loneliness After Trauma

(00:31:26) Identity & Physical Appearance Post-Attack

(00:36:33) Life in Rehab

(00:38:40) Mental Health Impact After Being Attacked

(00:43:16) Katie Isolating Herself After the Attack

(00:49:48) Katie’s Mum's Diary Entries: A Personal Look

(00:58:09) Overcoming Mental Health Struggles

(01:02:50) Drawing Confidence from Suffering

(01:05:03) Dealing with Misogyny & Inspiration from Deborah James

(01:09:34) Finding Comfort in Aging

(01:13:27) Navigating Dating

(01:18:49) Meeting Her Partner & Finding Romance

(01:28:07) Pregnancy & Parenting After Trauma

(01:33:38) Letter from Katie’s Mum

(01:37:01) Parenting Through Trauma & Healing

(01:41:19) Katie’s Foundation: Giving Back & Raising Awareness

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Women's Health Expert: It's Not Just Hormones! Why Doctors Get It Wrong For Women. Dr. Hazel Wallace May 29, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with women's health expert Dr. Hazel Wallace to have the candid conversation too many women are still waiting to hear. Hazel opens up about the personal loss that led her into medicine, why she made the bold decision to freeze her eggs, and how her own health struggles reshaped her career.

Together, they unpack the systemic issues that continue to leave women misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and overlooked in healthcare. From PCOS and painful periods to fertility, hormones, and beyond—this is an eye-opening and empowering conversation that challenges what we've been taught to accept as 'normal.' With raw honesty and hard facts, Hazel shines a light on what every woman deserves to know about her body.

🎙️ Drop a comment: What part of Hazel’s story resonated with you the most?

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Buy 'It's Not Just a Period' NOW: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Not-Just-Period-Reclaim-Hormones/dp/1035049597

(00:00) Intro

(00:00:56) Davina Intro

(00:01:53) Meeting Hazel and Her Background

(00:02:56) Losing Her Dad and Starting a Career in Medicine

(00:08:35) Finding Reliable Health Advice Online

(00:11:43) Leaving Medicine to Study Nutrition

(00:13:37) Why I Chose to Freeze My Eggs