Blank Podcast with Giles Paley-Phillips & Jim Daly (Blank Podcast with Giles Paley-Phillips & Jim Daly)

Malcolm Kamulete is an actor and musician, known for Ill Manors (2012) Top Boy (2011) and most recently BBC One's Champion. Giles and Jim talked to Malcolm about his love of football, following your gut instincts and finding your true purpose. Champion will air on BBC One from July 1 at 9.15pm, with all episodes immediately available on BBC iPlayer Get more from the BLANK Podcast at patreon.com/blankpodcast Massive thanks to our patrons: Mary Catherine Byrnes, Victoria Nielsen, Manya Kay, Alex Williams, Joel Piveteau, Richard Astill, Samantha Beaton, Claudia McKelvey, John Holland, Katherine Keen, Lynn Robinson, It's Coming Home 2022, Alice Chrystall, Maddie Lightfoot, Alex Collis, Martin Grimm, Vicki, Julianna Williams, Rachel Bowen, Witnessthebigness. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy @mkamulete blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Simon Brodkin is a comedian, performer and renowned prankster. Best known for his character Lee Nelson, which had several series broadcast on BBC 2, and more recently his high profile stunts which has seen Simon give Theresa May a P45 and gatecrash a Fifa press conference to throw money at Sepp Blatter. We met with Simon in Old Street a day or two ahead of his new stand-up tour, his first as himself. We discussed the process and differences this has been to doing character comedy shows and how it has been a freeing experience. Simon tells us about those times in the early days when playing tricks didn't always go to plan and his years working as a junior doctor before launching a career in comedy. Simon was on top form and sharply dissected Giles and Jim's patter throughout, leaving us, quite rightly, flustered and in fits of laughter. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amy Hoggart is a British-American stand-up comedian and actress, best known for starring in Almost Royal, a faux-reality show on BBC America, and Full Frontal with Samantha Bee, an American political satire show on TBS. She has also hosted her own show It's Personal with Amy Hoggart, on truTV. Amy spoke to Giles and Jim about Washington, DC, getting into comedy and acting, interviewing MAGAs and pregnancy. Check out Amy's podcast here: https://shows.acast.com/femanism Massive thanks to our patrons: Mary Catherine Byrnes, Victoria Nielsen, Manya Kay, Alex Williams, Joel Piveteau, Richard Astill, Samantha Beaton, Claudia McKelvey, John Holland, Katherine Keen, Lynn Robinson, It's Coming Home 2022, Alice Chrystall, Maddie Lightfoot, Alex Collis, Martin Grimm, Vicki, Julianna Williams, Rachel Bowen, Witnessthebigness. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy @amy_hoggart blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sophia Myles is an actor known for her roles inThunderbirds, Isolde in Tristan & Isolde, Darcy in Transformers: Age of Extinction, Erika in Underworld and Underworld: Evolution and Freya in Outlander. We spoke to Sophia about her early life growing up in Notting Hill and being the daughter of a vicar. Sophia spoke candidly about her life and work as an actor and opened up about her mental health and how she is trying to come terms with the effects it has had on her wellbeing. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fiona Murden is a leadership psychologist and author of several books, including Defining You, that looks at the process of psychological profiling and fulfilling your potential. We've been wanting to speak to Fiona for quite some time to look at a bit deeper at some of the science behind what Blank moments occur and what is most effective in combatting them. We started off by chatting about the full out from the coronavirus pandemic and how it will affect people's mental health in the longterm. Fiona tells us about her work with big business leaders and what goes into doing a successful psychological profile of potential employees. We discuss sleeping habits and the many themes we hear each week on the podcast from public failure to imposter syndrome. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jess Impiazzi is an actress, writer and former glamour model and reality TV star. Jess first came to prominence during her time on Ex-On the Beach and Celebrity Big Brother, but her first love has always been acting, having trained at Italia Conti as a teenager and she's now back doing what she loves. We met up with Jess in Surrey to talk about her early life and the many challenges and difficult moments she faced at a very young age. Jess talked candidly about suffering from depression in her late teens and the moment she attempted to take her own life and why that was a turning point for her. We talked about the negative aspects of reality TV and the lack of aftercare that is shown to participants and how Jess is excited about returning to her lifelong passions. It was a real privilege to chat with Jess, and her warmth and positivity are truly inspiring. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Susannah Fielding is an English actress who has worked in theatre, film, television and radio. After graduating from Guildhall she started her career in theatre where in 2014 she won the Ian Charleson Award for her portrayal of Portia in The Merchant of Venice at the Almeida Theatre. She starred in the CBS sitcom The Great Indoors, and Channel 4's Pete Vs Life and High and Dry. She has most recently won much critical acclaim co-starring with Steve Coogan in This Time with Alan Partridge. Giles and Jim met up with Susannah on a beautiful sunny morning in March down at the Nordic Bar. We started by discussing being tidy and organised and how that relates and opposes our various creative lives. Susannah discussed growing up in Havent, near Portsmouth and the encouragement she received when first starting her acting career. We talk Partridge and the pressures of being involved with such a huge character and the audition process involved. Susannah admits how sometimes being a risk taker has helped in her career. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Morrissey is an English actor, director, producer and screenwriter. At the age of 18, he was cast in the television series One Summer (1983). After making One Summer, Morrissey attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, then acted with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre for four years. He is most well-known to fans of The Walking Dead and Dr Who, but his body of work is huge and diverse. David met up with Jim and Giles down at the Nordic Bar just before Christmas. We examined David's early life, and the brave decision he made to leave home and pursue acting at the age of 16. We discuss what it means to be involved in a theatre company and the bonds you make with your 'Theatre Family'. David takes us through his love of the craft and those dreaded blank moments on stage. We also manage to chat a little football and David reveals one of his proudest achievements is the gig he got with Liverpool FC   Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James O'Brien is a British broadcaster, radio presenter, journalist and podcaster. James is best known for his show on LBC and his recent book 'How To Be Right' We met up with James back in July to talk about his early life, going to boarding school and how he eventually followed in his father's footsteps to become a journalist via a short stint trying his hand at acting. James talked candidly about his time working as a gossip columnist and what led him into broadcasting and his now infamous take downs of callers on his live phone ins on LBC. Amazingly it takes us nearly an hour before we talk about Brexit and Trump and we could have chatted for hours, James is always incredibly insightful, intriguing and wonderful company. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reece Shearsmith is an English actor, writer and comedian. He created, wrote and starred in sketch show The League of Gentlemen, along with Steve Pemberton, Mark Gatiss, and Jeremy Dyson. Reece and Steve Pemberton also created, wrote and starred in the dark comedy series Psychoville, before going on to write and star in their anthology series Inside No. 9. Reece has also starred in Spaced, Shaun of the Dead, The World's End and Doctor Who. Giles and Jim met with Reece down at the Nordic Bar and started our chat by talking about having vivid dreams and trying to come down from live performances. Reece tells us about that terror and injustice of being told off at school when you've not done anything wrong. We discuss a love of horror stories and Reece making mini-sketches of magic shows where he would fire shots with his uncle's air rifle at his toy Hugo the Man of a 1000 Faces. We delve into shyness and how that forms a big part of Reece's 'Blank' moments and how difficult social occasions are if you are incredibly shy. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Julia Bradbury is an English television presenter, specialising in documentaries. She is best known for co-presenting the BBC's Countryfile from 2004 until 2014. She also presented Watchdog (2005–2009) and Planet Earth Live (2012) for the BBC and Take on the Twisters (2013), The Wonder of Britain (2015) and Britain's Best Walks (2017) for ITV. Julia's most recent project has seen her travelling around Australia in an eight-part series for ITV We met up with Julia in central London for a catch up and a cuppa, she told us all about her early career on pioneering news shows with Janet Street-Porter and her early desires to work in marketing as a copywriter. Julia explains how she avoids BLANK moments by continuing to hustle and that by staying busy she can sometimes buy herself more time. Jim and Giles trade stories about small town nightclubs and Julia tells us why she tried to design her own nightclub as a teenager called Cocaine! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary radio and television presenter Nicky Campbell has been a mainstay of British broadcasting for decades. He has presented the BBC Radio 5 Live breakfast programme since 2003, BBC One's Sunday morning show The Big Questions since 2007, and Long Lost Family on ITV since 2011. He presented the game show Wheel of Fortune from 1988 until 1996, and the consumer affairs programme Watchdog from 2001 to 2009. He joins Giles and Jim to chat about his established career, the ups and downs of live broadcasting, dealing with Twitter trolls and idiots in real life with fruit salads.  Get BLANK Podcast merchandise here: https://www.podcastmerch.co.uk/blank Buy us a coffee here: https://ko-fi.com/blankpodcast Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gary Neville is a retired football player and co-owner of Salford City. Since retiring from football in 2011, Neville went into punditry and was a commentator for Sky Sports until he took over the head coach position at Valencia in 2015.  After being sacked by the club in 2016, he returned to his position as a pundit for Sky Sports later that year. He was also assistant manager for the England national team from 2012 to 2016   We met with Gary just before Christmas to talk about his early life, his career at Manchester Utd and his subsequent move into punditry at Sky Sports. Gary talked openly about a 6 month period in his career which led him to talk to a psychologist and how the things that he learnt from that have continued to be effective in his daily life.  We discussed difficult moments in our lives and Gary spoke honestly about one of his hardest challenges being when he lost his Dad.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Addison is a comedian, actor, writer and director. Starting in Stand-up Chris made his name touring the UK and playing high profile slots at Edinburgh Festival before moving into acting with his role in the multiple award-winning The Thick of It. Further acting roles and regular appearances on panel shows like Mock the Week have propelled Chris to being one of the UK's most loved performers. He has recently taken up directing with his feature debut The Hustle starring Rebel Wilson and Anne Hathaway. With the ongoing difficulties due to the outbreak of coronavirus, we have had to adapt to how we do things a little. It has always been our intention with Blank to sit down in the real world with our guests, we feel that physical connection is truly key in making sure we have the most authentic, natural and relaxed conversations, however with social distancing now being imposed we had to decide whether to have a break from podding for a while or to try some different approaches, so we've gone with the latter, because most of all, we want to continue to bring you the show, and we hope that it might give all of our wonderful listeners a little respite from the very challenging situation we currently find all ourselves in. The Pod MUST go on So Jim and Giles sat down in our respective homes, in Amersham and Seaford, to record with the brilliant Chris Addison in London. We'd arranged to pod with Chris some time ago, but his work schedule had intervened, but with work going into shutdown, Chris messaged to say let's do a podcast. We started off by chatting about messy workspaces and how this might be a good time to address it, or not as the case may be. Chris talked about those difficult years directly after university and how people can often feel adrift and not know where their path will lead, for Chris it was dreams of theatre directing, but soon became a career in stand-up comedy. We talked to Chris about his move into directing and how much of it is down to the inspiration and mentorship of people like Armando Innaucci who took a chance on Chris whilst making The Thick of It. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jake Humphrey is a sports broadcaster and presenter. Originally from Norfolk, Jake started in Local TV before joining CBBC as a presenter. He's best known for presenting Formula One coverage and more recently BT Sports coverage of the Premier League. We headed down to Frequency Cafe near King's Cross to sit down for a natter with Jake over a very nice cup of coffee. Jake spoke to us about his upbringing and the encouragement and empathy he received from his parents, particularly during some challenging times at school due to be bullied. Jake explained his move into TV after failing his A-Levels and his subsequent rise to where he is now as a leading sports presenter. We discuss the many pitfalls of working in the football industry, with it's divisions of opinion and how Jake is trying to be a more positive and kind presence on social media, especially in light of Jake's own experiences with mental health in his early 20's Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephen Fry is a writer, comedian and actor. A prolific career spanning some over 35 years, Stephen Fry has become an icon of British TV, film and literature and a genuine national treasure. We caught up with Stephen while he was in LA and began our conversation by talking about America and how it has changed since the time Stephen spent there filming his documentary series 'In America'. Stephen shares his ideas and thoughts around the role of art and how realism has been somewhat sidelined by fantasy and he tells us about how at the age of 63 whether he still feels able to influence and have open discussions with those who have opposing views. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the Spring break, so we though we'd put together a little selection of clips from some of our favourite episodes from last year to keep you going till we return in a few weeks time with some amazing new episodes. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Harry Lawtey is a British actor most recently seen in HBO/BBC series Industry We talked to Harry about his early life living in Cyprus and moving to London on his own to study acting and performance and how it was hard to be away from home. Harry tells us about working on Industry and learning more about the finance industry to prepare for the role. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is the Blank Podcast, an interview pod where celebrities and well known people talk about moments things all went a bit "blank". The first episode with author Jon Ronson launches November 7th with new episodes every Wednesday thereafter. So hit that subscribe button to get the Blank Podcast in your feed every week. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Baddiel is a comedian and writer from London. He is very well known for his work on The Mary Whitehouse Experience, Newman and Baddiel in Pieces and his work alongside Frank Skinner on Fantasy Football. In recent years he has branch into writing books for children and his sold out tours and recent play God's Dice have been highly acclaimed. We met David on a very cold General Election Day in London, we tried to avoid politics, but could only hold back for a couple of minutes before diving in on the current political landscape. Thoughts soon changed to dealing with insomnia and David's early life growing up in North London, and his early love of music and trying and failing to be in a band. We discussed getting into comedy, forming collaborations with others and how that has sometimes not always been the easiest way of working. David tells us about his blank moments, which often manifest in his anxiety around health and mortality, that often been exacerbated by caring for his Dad, who had dementia Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A special episode where Giles and Jim - just them - sit down for a chat. Among this episode topics were movies, DeNiro vs Pacino, 90s music and more. Get more from the BLANK Podcast at patreon.com/blankpodcast Massive thanks to our patrons: Mary Catherine Byrnes, Victoria Nielsen, Manya Kay, Alex Williams, Joel Piveteau, Richard Astill, Samantha Beaton, Claudia McKelvey, John Holland, Katherine Keen, Lynn Robinson, It's Coming Home 2022, Alice Chrystall, Maddie Lightfoot, Alex Collis, Martin Grimm, Vicki, Julianna Williams, Rachel Bowen, Witnessthebigness. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Troy Townsend is Head of Development for Kick It Out, football's quality and inclusion organisation. A key part of Troy's work is addressing gaps in representation across all areas of the game and includes delivering equality and diversity workshops to English Football League (EFL) and scholars with the League Football Education (LFE). We talked to Troy about his early life and how the lack of encouragement and supportive role models in his life at that time lead him to stop pursuing a playing career in football. Troy opens up about the loss of two huge figures in his life, his son Kurtis, who tragically died aged just 19 and his best friend Steve Browne, who he worked with for some 15 years or more. These two extremely difficult moments in his life leading him to question his own existence and experiences he is only just beginning to be open about. We also discuss Troy's work with Kick It Out and the everyday challenges that his work brings. (TW: This episode contains discussions on suicide and bereavement) Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Gatiss is an English actor, comedian, screenwriter and novelist. His work includes writing for and acting in the TV series Doctor Who and Sherlock. Together with Reece Shearsmith, Steve Pemberton and Jeremy Dyson, he is a member of the comedy team The League of Gentlemen. His most recent work includes roles in The Favourite, and the forthcoming Good Omens and Dracula. We met with Mark at Acast HQ on a crisp spring morning for a nice chat and a cuppa in one of the recording rooms which we all agreed could double for the lair of a Bond Villain. Mark and Giles began by acknowledging their love of County Durham, where Mark grew up and Giles spent many childhood summers. Mark tells us about his time at drama school where he originally met the other members of The League of Gentlemen, and his love of the macabre and in particular Hammer Horror. We talked Brexit and social media, as often happens on BLANK and the idea that some people appear to want to go back to a time when things were actually pretty grim. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Louise Minchin is a TV presenter, journalist, author and athlete. She presented the UK’s most successful morning television programme BBC Breakfast for two decades and at 45 was inspired to take up triathlon after a BBC Breakfast challenge. Three years later she represented her age-group in the World and European Championships. Louise spoke to Giles and Jim about getting into journalism, the perils of live television, and writing and researching her new book. Pre-order Louise's new book 'Fearless: Adventures with Extraordinary Women' here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/fearless-extraordinary-adventures-with-courageous-women-louise-minchin/7277897?ean=9781399401180 Massive thanks to our patrons: Mary Catherine Byrnes, Victoria Nielsen, Manya Kay, Alex Williams, Joel Piveteau, Richard Astill, Samantha Beaton, Claudia McKelvey, John Holland, Katherine Keen, Lynn Robinson, It's Coming Home 2022, Alice Chrystall, Maddie Lightfoot, Alex Collis, Martin Grimm, Vicki, Julianna Williams, Rachel Bowen, Witnessthebigness. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy @louiseminchin blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gary Lineker is a former professional footballer and current sports broadcaster. He holds England's record for goals in FIFA World Cup finals, with 10 scored and is England's third highest top scorer. Lineker's media career began with the BBC, where he still presents the flagship football programme Match of the Day since the late 1990s. He has also worked for Al Jazeera Sports, Eredivisie Live, NBC Sports Network and currently hosts BT Sport's coverage of the UEFA Champions League. He currently hosts Lineker and Baker - Behind Closed Doors, a podcast that shines a light on the world of football. Gary very kindly invited Giles and Jim to his house in South West London for a cuppa and a chat about all things BLANK. We talked about making big decisions at a young age and the feeling of getting to a point where you're confident in what you do. Gary also talked openly about those moments off the field, including when his first son George was diagnosed with leukaemia as a child, had affected him and how football helped him through that time. With Christmas just around the corner, Giles and Gary share some cooking tips while Jim ponders what a waterbath is. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy @garylineker blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jon Culshaw is an English actor, comedian and impressionist. He is best known for his work on the radio comedy Dead Ringers, Spitting Image and Doctor Who. We talked to Jon about the art of impersonation, writing comedy and expressing yourself through your work Get more from the BLANK Podcast at patreon.com/blankpodcast Massive thanks to our patrons: Mary Catherine Byrnes, Victoria Nielsen, Manya Kay, Alex Williams, Joel Piveteau, Richard Astill, Samantha Beaton, Claudia McKelvey, John Holland, Katherine Keen, Lynn Robinson, It's Coming Home 2022, Alice Chrystall, Maddie Lightfoot, Alex Collis, Martin Grimm, Vicki, Julianna Williams, Rachel Bowen, Witnessthebigness. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy @jonculshaw blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr Radha Modgil is a medical doctor broadcaster and writer, she has appeared on many shows including The Sex Education Show on Channel 4 and Feeling Better on Cbeebies. She also co-hosts Radio 1's Life Hacks podcast. We started the conversation talking about love and kindness and how we all need to consider these things more when we converse and connect, particularly online and on social media. Radha tell us about her time at Cambridge University and the realisation that she didn't want or need to strive so highly for perfection. We discuss her move into broadcasting and about the things we can all be doing to help with our own mental well being and how it's could to take our time and reflect before posting on Twitter. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Naomi Wilkinson is a television presenter, actress and producer, best known for her work in children's televsion on Cbeebies and Channels 5's milkshake. We started our chat by talking to Naomi about her time working at Butlins as a a Red Coats and how that was in someways a launchpad for her career in presenting. She admits that being a presenter on children's TV was always the dream job having watched shows like Choc A Block and Play Away as a child. We chatted about the challenges of working freelance and still being able to carve out a traditional television career in the digital age. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steve Parish is an English business man, part-owner and Chairman of Crystal Palace Football Club. He began his career working in computer graphics before going on to buy a stake in a company called Adplates Ltd, where he later assumed control of the business renaming it Tag Worldwide. In 2010, Steve led a consortium named 'CPFC2010' acquired Crystal Palace Football Club during a period of administration. Three years later in 2013 the club won promotion to the Premier League via the playoffs and has now enjoyed six consecutive seasons in the top flight of English football. Giles and Jim met up with Steve in his offices in Soho to catch up and chat about the club, but also Steve's journey in business. We discussed the brutal nature of football fandom and how social media is a toxic environment for any one who works in the industry, Steve talked candidly about how when losing a game he will often use Twitter as a form of punishment. Steve is really open about his drive and desire to do the very best for the football club and how that can be all consuming at times. It's no secret that Jim and Giles are Palace fans and it isn't often that people in football are so open about what goes on in running a club, so this episode was both insightful and a real pleasure Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Kermode is a writer, broadcaster, film critic and musician. As well as being chief film critic for The Observer, Mark is known for his broadcast work for BBC, Radio 5Live's 'Kermode and Mayo's Film Review' alongside Simon Mayo and his documentaries 'Mark Kermode's Secret Cinema'. More recently Mark present's his own own podcast 'Kermode On Film' and a music soundtrack show on Scala Radio. He has written several books including How Does It Feel?: A Life of Musical Misadventures We caught up with Mark at the end of September and started by talking about Mark's early life and his love of music and in particular playing in bands and how that connection with others really helped during those sometimes challenging teen years. Mark opens up about the insecurity he experiences with his written work and how that is a stark contrast to how he feels when performing music and we discuss what it's like when a critic gets criticised. Get BLANK Podcast merchandise here: https://www.podcastmerch.co.uk/blank Buy us a coffee here: https://ko-fi.com/blankpodcast Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Evanna Lynch is an actress, podcaster and writer. Born in County Lough, Ireland, Evanna first acting job was starring as Luna Lovegood in the last four Harry Potter movies, a character which has developed a huge cult following. She has appeared in many stage productions and has a her own podcast about veganism and animal rights called The ChickPeeps. We spoke to Evanna at the end of May and started our conversation by discussing some of the interests she has been pursuing in recent months which include studying of Astrology. We chat about Evanna's time joining the world of Harry Potter and how the book had helped her through some difficult times, the subsequent desire to work on more personal, passion projects instead of chasing fame and her new found love of circus skills. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marcus Brigstocke is a comedian, writer and actor. Known for satirical stand-up, musical theatre and radio broadcasting on stations such as Jazz FM. We met up Marcus a couple of months back, to discuss all manner of stuff, starting with all of our passions for the arts, particularly music, each of us talking about our first albums. Marcus tells us about his passion for cheese and the poignant moment in his life this passion stems from. The chat moved on to mental health and how Marcus makes a gratitude list each morning to help him stay level. We thought we'd give you all a little extra this week and have put together a little Spotify playlist to accompany this episode, see if you can spot the songs from our first albums https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3icMfrPwid1Stu2l9DTUsI Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rachel Parris is a multi-talented comedian, musician, improviser and presenter who stars in The Mash Report on BBC Two and is a regular member of the improv theatre group Austentatious. She has made several appearances on BBC Radio 4 and BBC 6 Music, most recently in The Now Show, and on TV, she appeared in the highly anticipated IT Crowd Special on Channel 4, which was nominated in the Bafta Awards. Rachel presented the Game of Thrones fanshow, Thronecast on Sky Atlantic and she has appeared in BBC2's Murder in Successful, Russell Howard's Good News, satirical sketch show Revolting. Rachel is one of the nicest people and very kindly invited us round for a coffee and we started by comparing the price of haircuts and the downsides of multi-option takeaways. Rachel's tells us about her early life growing up in Leicester and enjoying school. We discuss the process of performance and wanting to have some order to things to help rein in the nerves and how a recent period of anxiety became a worry that performing live would be affected by it. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amanda Abbington has had an incredible and varied career starting in 1993 with roles on TV shows like the Bill and Wycliffe, but is probably best known for playing Miss Mardle in Mr Selfridge and Mary Morstan in the Hit BBC adaptation of Sherlock. We met up with Amanda in London to talk about her BLANK moments in her working and personal life. We talked about politics, social media and in particular debating online and binary discussions. We delve into how things are more grey than simply black and white. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Fenton Stevens is an actor, comedian and podcaster. He is best known for being a founder member of The Hee Bee Gee Bees and the voice behind the Spitting Image 1986 number 1 hit "The Chicken Song". He was a prominent member in the birth of the alternative comedy scene in England in the 180s and also starred in KYTV, its Radio 4 predecessor, Radio Active and Benidorm as Sir Henry since Series 4 which was first broadcast in 2011, and as an anchor on 3rd & Bird on CBeebies. Mike chats to Jim and Giles about his established career, how he dealt with blank moments and plenty more in between. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Professor David Wilson is a former prison governor, known for his work as a criminologist specialising in serial killers through his work with various British police forces, academic publications, books, and media appearances.  He is professor of criminology at Birmingham City University has published widely on the criminal justice system generally and prisons specifically, and was the Editor of the Howard Journal of Criminal Justice (2000–2015), and is the author of more than 15 books. Prof David spoke to Giles and Jim over Zoom about some of the darker aspects of his job and how to spot a psychopath (thankfully none of this podcast we can confirm!) He also talks about his love of rugby and pinpoints the exact moment he decided to pursue a life in criminology.  Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emily Dean is a writer and presenter, well known for her role alongside Frank Skinner on Absolute radio, she also presents the amazing Times podcast Walking the Dog and is the author of the incredible memoir 'Everybody died, so I got a dog' We met up with Emily on a dreary winter's day in London, and started our conversation by talking about how we cope in a crowd, and are we performing and analysing what we say afterwards, and the perceptions we create about ourselves from the others point of view. Emily tells us about her Bohemian upbringing and the desire to have the life of the various 'Dog families' she encountered, who had more settled and less chaotic lives. We discuss Emily's brilliant book and the many aspects of grief she has experienced, and continues to experience and what led her to get a dog and how Raymond has changed her life. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ellie Gibson is an award-winning journalist, presenter, stand-up comedian and co-host of the phenomenal Scummy Mummies podcast. Ellie very kindly invited us around to the Gibson house for a natter about all things BLANK. We started by talking about preparing for a live tour and Edinburgh Fringe, and the incredible success of Scummy Mummies and the podcast movement in general. Ellie told us about her early career as a video games journalist and the challenges of working in such a male dominated industry. We discussed how Ellie met her comedy partner Helen Thorn and then entering into the precarious world of stand-up and the hottest topic of all, which is better, Sonic or Mario?! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jill Halfpenny is one of the most recognisable faces on British TV. Her notable roles include Rebecca Hopkins in ITV soap opera Coronation Street; Kate Mitchell in BBC One soap opera EastEnders; Izzie Redpath in Waterloo Road; and Diane Manning in In The Club. She won the second series of the television dance contest Strictly Come Dancing in 2004. Jill talked to Giles and Jim about auditions, self doubt, following your gut feeling and getting a book of poetry from Ken Loach.  Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mehreen Baig is a former teacher and British television presenter. She has presented several documentaries on topics relating to Britain's Asian and Muslim communities. Her show Glow Up Your Grades helps support many pupils with their GCSEs every year. Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUn2zTSlKmGBQ-qnL8iDEtg Giles and Jim talked to Mehreen about her time as a teacher, the challenges of the education system in the UK, her move into broadcasting and her book Hidden Lessons - Growing Up On The Frontline Of Teaching. Buy a copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hidden-Lessons-Growing-Frontline-Teaching/dp/152938303X Massive thanks to our patrons: Mary Catherine Byrnes, Victoria Nielsen, Manya Kay, Alex Williams, Joel Piveteau, Richard Astill, Samantha Beaton, Claudia McKelvey, John Holland, Katherine Keen, Lynn Robinson, It's Coming Home 2022, Alice Chrystall, Maddie Lightfoot, Alex Collis, Martin Grimm, Vicki, Julianna Williams, Rachel Bowen, Witnessthebigness. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy @mehreenbaig blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lucy Pinder is a British model, actress, and podcaster. Originally from Winchester, Lucy has been seen in several films and has made many TV appearances in Dream Team, Book at Bedtime and Celebrity Big Brother. We met up with Lucy back in July at Acast to chat about our mutual love of podcasting, changing careers and how Lucy's 'blank' moments come from an unexpected place. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Suzi Ruffell is a comedian, actor and writer. She began her stand-up[ career in 2006 and has been touring extensively ever since. Suzi has regularly appeared on many panel shows including Mock the Week, 8 Out of 10 Cats and The Last Leg. Since October 2015,she has co-hosted the podcast Like Minded Friends with comedian Tom Allen and this year she started the podcast Out with Suzi Ruffell. We began by talking about school and how at times is was extremely challenging for Suzi because of her dyslexia, but also how drama and performing gave her a focus and a distraction and eventually led her to stand-up. Suzi tells us about being dazzled by visiting the West End on a school trip and how that moment was the start of her creative journey. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lucy Porter is an actress, writer and comedian. She has performed extensively at the Edinburgh Fringe, the Brighton Festival and many clubs around Britain. Jim and Giles caught up with Lucy for an epic chat about all things from sex robots to the menopause. Lucy tells us about her early stand-up gigs and working hard on the craft of comedy. Jim talks about his own fears of getting back into stand-up and we discuss what it means to have empathy with an audience and dying on stage Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kevin Day is a national treasure and one of the Uk's most recognised and well known standup comedians and comedy writers. Kevin came to prominence in the British alternative comedy stand up scene of the late eighties and early nineties, and quickly was MCing The Comedy Store. He has gone on to tour extensively, play the Edinburgh Fringe almost every year since the early 90s and write for multiple shows including Have I Got News For You and League Of Their Own. Kevin talks to Giles and Jim about a range of topics, including how he got over stage fright minutes before the first run of an Edinburgh show after an absence from comedy, the grief of losing his mum and the changes he has witnessed in the UK comedy scene over the past 30 years. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Miller is a comedian, actor, and writer who is known for the award-winning The Armstrong and Miller Show and his acting roles in Death in Paradise and The Worst Week of My Life. In recent years Ben has appeared in many films including Paddington 2 and as well as publishing two highly acclaimed books for children. We met up with Ben at Nordic Bar and began our conversation by discussing Vikings and their true motives back in the day. Ben told us about his life at school and being an academic before discovering comedy and pledging himself to the craft. We discussed being writers, how sometimes that gets forgotten as performing becomes more prominent and being away from home filming can be very challenging. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sian Harries is a writer, comedian and actress. Sian has written for both television and radio. She co-wrote both Greg Davies's Man Down for Channel 4 and 2018 sitcom, The Tourist Trap, starring Sally Phillips, for the BBC. Known by her closest friends as The Giggler, we spent almost the entire podcast laughing at everything from school plays, live comedy performances and terrible names for super villains. We also discussed collaboration min comedy and putting your trust in others when it comes to creative decisions. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Bradley is an English actor, best known for his role as Samwell Tarly in the HBO fantasy TV series Game of Thrones, and has recently finished work on the film Marry Me alongside Jennifer Lopez and Owen Wilson. We met up with John on a very cold afternoon in London to sit down and talk at length about his acting process, the little intricacies that he wants to put into every role and how sometimes that attention to detail spills into his real life. We discussed the pressure of expectation on being in such a huge show and John's own moments of coping with impostor syndrome and how home, in Manchester, is such an important part of his life. John tells us about finding a quiet respite in drumming and his ultimate drum along song. Make sure you listen right to the end! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Sweeney is a British investigative journalist and author. During his time at the BBC he worked on shows such as Panorama and Newsnight where his combative and bold style have seen him doorstep Putin, go undercover in North Korea, challenge Trump on his association to the mob and most infamously the time he yelled at scientologists. We caught up with John on what was VE Day and started our conversation by discussing the new normal, what we miss and what things we like about lockdown in the UK. John tells us about his journey into journalism and his time working at The Observer, the subsequent move into broadcasting at the BBC and the darker moments he has experienced personally, since leaving the corporation after an investigation he was doing on Tommy Robinson saw him land in hot water. John is wonderful company, with so many amazing stories from what is an incredible career spanning several decades and we hope this won't be the last time we talk. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sanjeev Bhaskar is a British comedian, actor, documentarian and broadcaster, he best known for his work in the BBC Two sketch comedy series Goodness Gracious Me and The Kumars at No. 42 as well as documentary series 'India with Sanjeev Bhaskar' and Bollywood and Beyond. Most recently Sanjeev has been none for his role as DI Sunny Khan in Unforgotten and is currently the Chancellor of the University of Sussex. Jim and Giles met with Sanjeev at Acast studio and started by talking about Sanjeev's lifelong love of The Beatles and how a lot of us consume music differently these day, rarely listening to full albums. Sanjeev explains his late arrival into comedy having studied marketing at university and after experiencing a dark period in his professional life he decided to pursue comedy and live performance. We discuss the power of the creative journey and how that is why we often do what we do, not the end goal. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grace Blakeley is a political commentator, writer and activist, she has been a staff writer for The Tribune and economics commentator for The New Statesman. We caught up with Grace to talk about her life in politics, which awaken in her early 20's but has probably been her destiny from a young age. We discuss the state of international and community politics, something Grace has been able to look at during her time as an activist and her time in the states while touring with her book 'Stolen' and how powerful hope can be particularly in darker times. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dame Kelly Holmes is a one of Britain's best loved and most high decorated athletes and what better person to help celebrate our 50th Episode. We met up with Dame Kelly at Acast Studios to chat about all things Blank, she talked about her time in the army and how the levels of discipline helped her when competing as an athlete. We discussed the difficult moments that come when form dips and how one such period became incredible challenging. Kelly also opens up on how she has been affected by grief in recent years, about being her own person and the power of 'Come ON!" Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephen Mangan is an actor and writer. Born in London in 1968, Mangan began his acting career in theatre before moving in TV working with the likes of Armando Iannucci, Steve Coogan and in the Multi-Award winning Green Wing. In more recent years Stephen has moved away from more comedy roles to concentrate on drama, and has recently been in BBC One's The Split alongside Nicola Walker. We met with Stephen down in South London on a very brisk February morning. We began by talking about Stephen's early life as a young lad from a large catholic family, something that really resonated with Jim, who also came from similar beginnings. Stephen told us how he got into acting the loss of his mother at a young age was a pivotal moment in him pursuing his career. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Louisa Connolly-Burnham is an actor who is best known for her performances as Shannon Kelly in Bafta-nominated Wolfblood, Willow Jenks in Bafta-nominated House of Anubis and Avril Fox in Bafta-nominated Call The Midwife. She has also appeared in the multi-award winning short film Beneath Water for which she was nominated for Best Actress at the Queens World Film Festival , ITV's Midsomer Murders, Sky1's Little Crackers, BBC's Holby City, Doctors and Outbumbered. She spoke to Giles and Jim about traumatic auditions, transitioning into writing and surviving the lockdown. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rachel Shenton is a British actress who has appeared in a number of British television series and films. She is most well known for her role as Mitzeee Minniver on the Channel 4 teen drama Hollyoaks. Shenton made her American TV debut on ABC Family drama Switched at Birth in Season 3 as Lily Summers and stayed until the show's finale in Season 5. Shenton also appears in BBC2 comedy White Gold. In 2018, she won an Academy Award for her short film The Silent Child Giles and Jim met Rachel at Nordic Bar to have a cuppa and catch up on what has been a whirlwind year for Rachel after her and her husband Chris Overton wrote and Directed the Oscar winning short film, The Silent Child. We talked at length about the genesis of the film and Rachel's longtime campaigning for the deaf community. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emma Kennedy is a writer, comedian, actress and Lego guru. Originally trained as a solicitor, Emma moved into acting and live performance and then onto writing. Her books include The Tent, The Bucket and Me, which went on to be adapted in a BBC Series called The Kennedys. In 2012 Emma won Celebrity Masterchef. We started our conversation with Emma and Giles comparing Lego sets, a passion for them both. Emma tells us about her accidental move into acting and how writing has always been her first passion. Emma gives us some wonderful tips on becoming a writer and how as creatives we have to consider ourselves as small businesses. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A special episode to announcement to let you guys know that we have written a book! It's called Blank: Why it's Fine to Falter and Fail, And How To Pick Yourself Up Again and it's out on March 18th, 2021. We are joined by Celine Hughes, our fantastic Senior Commissioning Editor from Quadrille Publishing, who have published out book to talk about why they acquired the book and the process of how a book goes from an idea to a fully formed thing. Our book explores many of the themes that crop up on the podcast with the best bits of advice from our fantastic guests including Louis Theroux, David Harbour, Reginald D Hunter, Jon Ronson, Dawn French, Amanda Abington, Rufus Sewell and Gary Lineker. Some of the recurring themes include public failure, social anxieties, fear, mental health, grief and more. Whether in your personal life, career, relationship, or in a public situation, writer's block, social anxiety, imposter syndrome, being off-form or having an identity crisis can affect anyone at any time. It's part of the human condition and yet it can throw us off course and make us feel helpless. You can pre-order a copy now here: smarturl.it/blankmoments Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr Poppy Gibson is a Senior Lecturer whose key interests involve children's psychological development and mental health and wellbeing. We talk about the UK education system, the positive aspects of social media, what it means to be a doctor and what we will do in a robot uprising! Get more from the BLANK Podcast at patreon.com/blankpodcast Massive thanks to our patrons: Mary Catherine Byrnes, Victoria Nielsen, Manya Kay, Alex Williams, Joel Piveteau, Richard Astill, Samantha Beaton, Claudia McKelvey, John Holland, Katherine Keen, Lynn Robinson, It's Coming Home 2022, Alice Chrystall, Maddie Lightfoot, Alex Collis, Martin Grimm, Vicki, Julianna Williams, Rachel Bowen, Witnessthebigness. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy @poppygibsonuk blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Roisin is a brilliant and multi-talented comedian and actress. Having won the Foster’s Edinburgh Comedy Award 2010 for Best Newcomer, Roisin is now one of the nation’s favourite comic faces on television, appearing regularly on hugely popular entertainment shows such as Have I Got News For You (BBC One), 8 Out of 10 Cats does Countdown (Channel 4), Would I Lie To You (BBC One), and the new Channel 4 edition of The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice, having been a series regular on the BBC2 series. In March 2018, she also appeared on the Stand Up to Cancer Celebrity Bake Off edition. Roisin Conaty’s sitcom GameFace, which she created, writes and stars in, aired its first series on E4 in late 2017, quickly followed by a US release on Hulu. We sat down with Roisin at Nordic Bar nr Oxford Circus to chat all things BLANK. We talked at length about the different aspects of performing live stand-up and how Roisin has used meditation as a way of focusing her creativity. We also chatted about her processes when writing her brilliant Channel 4 series Gameface and how that has changed as she's been writing series 2. Giles fails to get to grips with saying season and series and Jim gets some much needed stand-up advice as he looks to try out some new material live again. Our wonderful pod music is by the amazing Paul Pilot and you can hear more from him here: http://paulpilot.com Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mita Mistry is a Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapist & Coach, Acupuncturist and author. We talked about Mita's journey into helping people, the rudiments of acupuncture, the challenges of trying to rest in the modern world and how to combat social anxiety. Buy Mita's books here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Mita-Mistry/author/B0B1P24Z11?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Get more from the BLANK Podcast at patreon.com/blankpodcast Massive thanks to our patrons: Mary Catherine Byrnes, Victoria Nielsen, Manya Kay, Alex Williams, Joel Piveteau, Richard Astill, Samantha Beaton, Claudia McKelvey, John Holland, Katherine Keen, Lynn Robinson, It's Coming Home 2022, Alice Chrystall, Maddie Lightfoot, Alex Collis, Martin Grimm, Vicki, Julianna Williams, Rachel Bowen, Witnessthebigness. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy @mitamistry blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ian Rankin is a multi-award winning novelist and writer. Best known for his novels based in Edinburgh starring DI John Rebus and in more recent years DI Malcolm Fox, Ian Rankin has regularly contributed to BBC Arts Review and several documentaries for Channel 4 and BBC Four. We talked to Ian from his flat in Edinburgh and began by chatting about his first tools for writing, including the jotting pads from the school equipment cupboard. Ian tells us about feeling like a bit of an outsider growing up wanting to be a writer instead of learning a trade. We talk about the challenges of working in isolation and we talk about Ian's passion for music and being a front man in a band. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vicky McClure is a Bafta award-winning actress and presenter. Best known for her roles as DI Kate Fleming BBC's Line of Duty and Lol in Shane Meadows This Is England film and subsequent series on Channel 4. In 2019 she made a very personal documentary called Our Dementia Choir, which showed the powerful and positive impact music has on those with all different types of dementia. Vicky tells us about her early days of performing and moving from her original love of dancing into acting and the TV workshop in Nottingham that really helped to craft and hone her craft. We discuss those difficult moments in carving out a career in acting and that you don't always have to have had a formal drama school education to succeed. Vicky talks about her time working with Shane Meadows and the process of preparing for roles in films like This Is England and she tells us about the joys of being in an acting family on shows like Line of Duty, and how that collaboration is what makes acting so special. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Piddock is an English actor, writer, and producer who began his career on the stage in the United Kingdom, before emigrating to the U.S. in 1981. He's best known for his work with Christopher Guest in films such as Best in Show, A mighty Wind and Mascots which he co-wrote. He's also starred in many movies including The 5 Year Engagement alongside Emily Blunt and Jason Segal. We met up with Jim while he was over in London from L.A. where he spends most of his time these days. Jim talked about making the move to the US when he was just in his early 20s and treading the boards before making the move into film. We discussed working on multiple projects, being a writer, producer and actor Jim often wears many different Hats at one time.  Jim gives us some candid accounts of life on set, particularly when the chemistry isn't quite there. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hal Cruttenden is a stand-up comedian, writer and actor, who has appeared on many shows including Mock the Week, Live At The Apollo, Have I Got News for You, and The 11 O'Clock Show. He has also written for The Omid Djalili Show and The Rob Brydon Show. In 2002 Hal was nominated for Best Newcomer at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards. We sat down with Hal at Acast Studios in London on a warm day in May. Hal is a true bundle of energy and such lovely company, we started off by talking about Hal's university days and wanting to marry Kylie Minogue. We discuss Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prof Kate Williams is a British historian, author, and television presenter, she regularly appears on Television and Radio and has a role as Professor of Public Engagement with History at the University of Reading. We caught up with Kate as children were returning to schools and we discussed whether having more time at home had helped Kate dedicate more time to writing. We talked about diary writing and its vital role in Historical research and how we all need to look far deeper into our own societies past to best inform our future. Get BLANK Podcast merchandise here: https://www.podcastmerch.co.uk/blank Buy us a coffee here: https://ko-fi.com/blankpodcast Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Harbour is an American actor from New York who has performed in film, television, and the theatre. He is best known for his role as Chief Jim Hopper on the Netflix original series, Stranger Things and the lead in the new adaptation of HELLBOY He is also known for his role as CIA agent Gregg Beam in Quantum of Solace, Shep Campbell in Revolutionary Road alongside Leonardo DiCaprio, Van Hauser in End of Watch and Dexter Tolliver in Suicide Squad Trying to arrange interviews for the podcast is often challenging, all our guests have extremely busy schedules and finding a time and place to record can be tricky. We tried really hard to meet up with David while he was fleetingly in the UK at the tail end of 2018, but we just couldn't make it work. However, David is a wonderful man and promised to work out some time for us in January whatever his schedule. So, we finally sat down at Acast studios a few weeks back and recorded our first episode live from New York via Skype, which we've tried to keep as natural and authentic to our own experience in the room listening through the headphones. We discussed David's exploits living in Bristol, England when he was just 16, having been back there recently to shoot HELLBOY. We talk about working in theatre and the impact on David's life now being in a huge show like Stranger Things. David speaks openly about his mental health and the new book he is writing he hopes will open up more discussion around the subject. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jamie Murray is is a British professional tennis player from Scotland. He is a six-time Grand Slam doubles winner and a Davis Cup champion, currently the world No. 8 doubles player, and a former doubles world No. 1. We caught up with Jamie just before the start of the grass court season, and with Wimbledon about to begin we chatted about what goes into preparing for a major tournament and processes you go through during each match. Jamie talked candidly about his teen years when he was one of the top singles player in the world and the challenges of seeing many of his peers, among them Rafael Nadal, progress, while he struggled to settle whilst being away from home, and how it affected his confidence. He tells us about how working with a new coach helped him to believe in his own style and play the game to his own strengths which lead to him become the No.1 doubles player in the world. Jamie talks about living out of suitcases during the touring months and we discuss how the tragic events in Dunblane when he was a child, haven't changed the way he lives his life. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lou Sanders is an English stand-up comedian, writer and actress. We talk about being grateful, writing processes, not being hard on yourself and Lou's new book 'What's That Lady Doing?: False Starts and Happy Endings' Buy Here: https://amzn.eu/d/1jYtC0Z Get more from the BLANK Podcast at patreon.com/blankpodcast Massive thanks to our patrons: Mary Catherine Byrnes, Victoria Nielsen, Manya Kay, Alex Williams, Joel Piveteau, Richard Astill, Samantha Beaton, Claudia McKelvey, John Holland, Katherine Keen, Lynn Robinson, It's Coming Home 2022, Alice Chrystall, Maddie Lightfoot, Alex Collis, Martin Grimm, Vicki, Julianna Williams, Rachel Bowen, Witnessthebigness. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy @lousanders blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alastair Humphrey is an adventurer, author and public speaker, who has been National Geographic's Adventurer of the Year. Alastair has cycled the globe, busked through Spain and created a new movement of micro adventures. We started our chat with Alastair about his epic journey around the world, where he cycled some 46,000 miles over four years, we find out the darker times along the way, when Alastair thought he might give up, and also the experiences of kindness and seeing the best sides of humanity. Alastair brought along his violin for a short recital at the end of the pod and tells us how he achieved a journey across Spain by busking with it every day. Alastair is an adventurer through and through and it was a truly memorable interview for us. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura Whitmore is a radio broadcaster, TV presenter, writer and podcaster. Laura's first big gig was presenting for MTV, which led to her then presenting on ITV's I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! More recently Laura has presented her own show on Radio 5Live, as well as being the presenter for ITV's Love Island and team captain on Celebrity Juice. Laura also presents many podcasts including Cast Away, a podcast about podcasts. We spoke to Laura from her home in London and started by chatting about studying journalism, and her experiences in both Dublin and Boston, US. Jim and Laura discuss thinking in shorthand and what led her into presenting. We touch on the press and how a lot of people are really starting to switch off from the clickbait style of modern mainstream journalism, and in particular the print media and how podcasts have really helped to allow guests and presenters to express themselves and be more comfortable and candid. Laura gives us her advice on dealing with her own blank moments and how imposter syndrome is often something she has to deal with. Get BLANK Podcast merchandise here: https://www.podcastmerch.co.uk/blank Buy us a coffee here: https://ko-fi.com/blankpodcast Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have something exciting to tell you so we hope you'll indulge us this special, short, mini episode. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the summer break, so we though we'd put together a little selection of clips from some of our favourite episodes so far to keep you going till we return in the Autumn with some amazing new episodes. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lorraine Kelly OBE is a Scottish broadcaster, interviewer and journalist, for over 36 years she has been a stalwart of ITV's Breakfast television coverage, including her own show Lorraine, which is live every weekday morning. We started our chat by talking to Lorraine about adapting to working during lockdown and the challenges, but also the positive aspects this has brought to broadcasting. Lorraine tells us about growing up in Glasgow and making her way into journalism in local news, before applying to work at the BBC. We discuss disappointment, something she experienced whilst on maternity leave when she was replaced in her job, and Lorraine reveals to us her worst interview. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Isy Suttie is an actress, musician, comedian and writer. Best known for role as Dobby in the multi-award winning Peep Show, Isy is also a hugely successful stand-up and is the author of the brilliant The Actual One. We met up with Isy a few weeks back, but Coronavirus was very much on all of our minds and was the basis of our conversation. The chat soon shifted to Isy's childhood in Derbyshire and her teen years experimenting with Quija boards and how she was the go to person at parties. We discussed creativity and when it isn't quite working, Isy reveals to us her favourite pastime of looking around derelict buildings and we talk about the destructive nature of social media. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maddy Anholt is an actress, comedian and writer, having spent a number of years on the UK stand-up circuit, Maddy has regularly performed at Edinburgh Fringe, her latest show being How to Train Your Psychopath, and show she is now adapting into a book and several other projects. She Appeared and co-write the award nominated short film 'Kelly' and has made numerous TV appearances on This Morning, various panel shows and has written for BBC Radio 4, BBC Three and also Warner Bros. We spoke to Maddy just a couple of weeks after she had moved to Brighton, having spent many years living in central London, we discussed how the change came about and the difference it will make to her life going forwards. Maddy tells us about her latest show 'How to Train Your Psychopath' and its origins coming from some difficult relationships she's had in the past and we all have a go at expressing our thoughts out loud Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Angela Scanlon is an Irish television presenter and broadcaster for RTÉ and the BBC having worked on a variety of different shows. Since 2016, she appeared as a reporter on The One Show, and presented in the absence of Alex Jones having had her first major British show role as a co-host of Robot Wars with Dara Ó Briain. More recently she has been the host on Your Home Made Perfect and her amazing podcast Thanks a Million. Angela talks to Giles and Jim about her career, the ups and downs and why she has only recently found a bit of peace with what she does. She also tells them stories of things going wrong on live TV and her hopes for the future. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dawn French is a British actor, comedian and writer. Her partnership with Jennifer Saunders, which began in the early 80's has produced multi-award winning sketch shows for the BBC and made them household names. She has been a successful actor in her own right starring in comedy shows like The Vicar of Dibly and dramas such as Delicious for Sky Arts. Dawn is also a prolific writer and has had several bestselling novels including A tiny Bit Marvellous and her ME/YOU Diary. We met up with Dawn on a crisp autumn morning at Frequency Cafe near Kings Cross, our conversation began with discussing the merits of Gloucester services and the many times we have to stop when we're on the road whilst touring. Dawn spoke about her time moving around as a child because of her Dad's job in the RAF. We discussed trying to find our thing and when we do making sure we own it. Dawn spoke about the serendipity of meeting her comedy partner Jennifer Saunders, dislike of awards and how blank moments for her need to be face head on. *Little warning; the c-word does appear once in this episode so if you have kids listening you may want to use headphones!* Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Edith Bowman is a broadcaster, DJ and podcast presenter, as well as for presenting a variety of music-related television shows and music festivals. We met with Edith down at the Nordic Bar to chat and have a cuppa tea. Edith tells us about her brilliant podcast Soundtracking and her methodical preparation for interviews, including the time she was able to keep Harrison Ford interested by talking about carpentry. We discuss dream guests and Edith's early days helping out at her parents hotel in Scotland. Edith tells us about the time she was told by producer she wouldn't make it as a presenter because of her accent and we find out what it takes avoid blank moments in front of famous people. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Carrie Hope Fletcher is an English singer, songwriter, actress, author and YouTube sensation. Carrie Started her musical theatre career at the age of 7 appearing on the West End in Les Miserables. She has appeared in many productions since including, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Mary Poppins and in recent years Heathers. She is also a bestselling author and has 652,000 Subscribers on her Youtube channel. We caught up with Carrie during lockdown and started our conversation by discussing the merits of distressed jeans. Carrie told us about her early years in musical theatre and the support she was shown from her parents. We talked about the perils of social media and how the trolling element is starting to spill into real life, where Carrie has received harsh comments at the stage door, which have led to a difficult time for her. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The multi-talented actress who is appearing in the upcoming Wonder Woman sequel 1984, Sarah Barlondo joins Giles and Jim over Zoom to chat about her eventful career that started off as a professional tennis player before incorporating acting before a horrific car crash took her down a completely different path that saw her study architecture and then return to acting but face many challenges along the way. This is a brutally honest, open and uplifting interview with a brilliant guest who has so many lessons to pass on and so much great advice for blank moments that left everyone on the podcast in tears before the end of it! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul Pilot aka Paul Wilkinson is musician, composer and producer from Northern Ireland. Best known for his band The Amazing Pilots and his recent film scores on documentaries like Finding Oscar and Netflix production The Final Cut for Orson, Paul has been a producer and sound engineer on works by Duke Special, Athlete, Rue Royale and All the Luck in the World. He is also the composer of our very own Blank Podcast title music. Paul is based in Berlin and so meeting up to record had always been difficult to arrange so, a remote recording was always on the cards. We started our chat by talking about expensive microphones and how much of a difference they make to the fine margins in vocal recordings. Paul tells about his own creative process and how we often find it hard to be satisfied with what we've made. We discussed his time as a kid growing up in Northern Ireland during the troubles and his desire to eventually seek a career in music by moving away. Paul tells us about collaboration and what it is like to be in a band with your brother. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dubbed 'The Iceman', Wim Hof is a Dutch extreme athlete noted for his ability to withstand freezing temperatures. He has set Guinness world records for swimming under ice and prolonged full-body contact with ice, and still holds the record for a barefoot half-marathon on ice and snow. In short, he is superhuman. He attributes many of his feats to his Wim Hof Method, a combination of frequent cold exposure, breathing techniques and meditation. On this episode of BLANK Wim talks to Giles and Jim about his methods and how they can and have helped people, especially in the time of Coronavirus. He also talks about his own dark moments of the past and takes Giles and Jim through an introduction to his breathing technique. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arguably the greatest sportsman of all time, snooker legend Ronnie O'Sullivan, joins us to talk about how he navigated an incredible career and all the ups and downs that came with it. Now 44 and recently crowned World Champion for the sixth time he also holds a record seven Masters titles, and a record seven UK Championships for a record total of 20 titles in Triple Crown tournaments. He is one of 11 players to win a career Triple Crown, O'Sullivan holds the all-time record for the most ranking titles with 37. He broke the record he shared with Stephen Hendry by winning the 2020 World Snooker Championship. Quite simply he is a legend but also a really nice guy who openly talks about the moments in his star-studded 30-year as a professional when times were tough, the mental side of playing a solo sport and introduces Giles and Jim to card game kalooki. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hayley Tamaddon is an multi-talented actor, who is best known for her TV roles as Del Dingle in Emmerdale, Andrea Beckett in Coronation Street and as Calista in Shameless but has performed on stage in many huge productions. She spoke to Giles and Jim about how she landed her first big roles in theatre and the graft it took to get there. She also described being thrust into the fame spotlight after landing that role on Emmerdale and the perils of social media, how in particular she strives to keep her social presences so positive.  Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sir Nick Faldo is one of the greatest British golf players of all time, winning The Open three times – the first home player to do so since Henry Cotton – as well as the Masters also three times, he spent 97 weeks as No.1 in the world and is now a regular analyst for CBS and designer of courses.  We met up with Sir Nick in his UK home in Eton, right by the river Thames. It was an early start for us all, so we hastily retreated to a local cafe to grab a cuppa and chat about Sir Nick's incredible career, his dedication to the game, which started at an early age and how blank moments can be controlled by visualising positive outcomes.  Sir Nick tells us about taking risks, in particular, when going through a period of poor form he decided to drastically change his swing, which changed his career forever.H Huge thanks to Ben Corrigan of the amazing Excuse the Mess podcast for the additional post production support.Check out his podcast here: https://castbox.fm/va/2111179 Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Bailey Smith, also known by the stage name Doc Brown, is an English rapper, comedian, actor, screenwriter, radio presenter and children's writer. He has starred in many TV and film roles, most notably opposite Ricky Gervais in David Brent: Life on the Road. He's released several albums including 2017's highly acclaimed 'Stemma' Jim and Giles sat down to talk to Ben at Nordic Bar back at the beginning of the year, early on in the discussion Ben told us about giving up watching porn and why he chooses to avoid social media. We talked about all the different aspects of Ben's career, and the BLANK moments that occur, especially when doing stand-up comedy and the highs and lows of gigging. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Lloyd is an English television producer and writer best known for his work on comedy television programmes, including Not the Nine O'Clock News, Spitting Image, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Blackadder and QI, blackadder and QI. We spoke to John as our special guest on our first ever live podcast at Latitude Festival, which was daunting enough in itself as well as meeting one of British comedy's most influential producers and writers. We started our conversation by taking John back to school days where he began to first cultivate, what has been his lifelong determination to question authority and buck trends. John tells how Blank moments are an ever present part of the creative life and how using mindfulness techniques and practices has really helped him in these moments. We talked about the lack of questioning for high level politicians now that shows like Spitting Image are no longer on TV and how we need to get back to a place in comedy where we can start to do that again. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richie Driss is a TV presenter best known for being on Blue Peter for four years season 2019 to 2023. He has also presented for JOE.co.uk and written and hosted the BT Sport documentary The Special 1 on goalkeepers. Watch The Special 1 here: https://www.bt.com/sport/football/features/bt-sport-films-the-special-1 Richie chatted to Giles and Jim about bad interviews, good interviews, grief, staying focused, perspective and his beloved Manchester United. Get more from the BLANK Podcast at patreon.com/blankpodcast Massive thanks to our patrons: Mary Catherine Byrnes, Victoria Nielsen, Manya Kay, Alex Williams, Joel Piveteau, Richard Astill, Samantha Beaton, Claudia McKelvey, John Holland, Katherine Keen, Lynn Robinson, It's Coming Home 2022, Alice Chrystall, Maddie Lightfoot, Alex Collis, Martin Grimm, Vicki, Julianna Williams, Rachel Bowen, Witnessthebigness. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy @richiedriss blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Janet Devlin is a Northern Irish singer-songwriter who competed in the eighth series of X-Factor in 2011 where she finished in fifth place. Devlin's debut album was released in 2012 and her second studio album Confessional was released this year.  Jane is incredibly open about her career in the music industry and all the ups and downs that has brought her so far, including her struggles with alcoholism and addiction and getting screwed over by record labels. She talks honestly and candidly with Giles and Jim about all sorts of blank moments in this epic episode. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lindsay Galvin is an author from East Sussex, whose debut novel from Middle Grade, The Secret Deep was released in late 2018 to much critical acclaim. Her second novel is due out in 2019. Lindsay joined us on a sunny day back at the end of September to chat about her debut book and her experiences of being a first-time author. Lindsey opens up about her anxiety as a child and how that has resurfaced in later life. We discuss those blank moments that are common for writers and how we can overcome them. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Watson is a British comedian and novelist, originally from Bristol, Mark has been a mainstay of the UK stand-up scene and has had several fiction titles published including Eleven and Hotel Alpha. We met with Mark down at Nordic Bar on what was an incredibly soggy day in London. We started our chat by talking about Seasonal affective disorder and how much the weather changes our moods. Mark told us about his early days doing stand-up and having adopted a Welsh accent, he explained the process of moving away from that and doing his own voice. We soon moved onto our online lives and negotiating social media and what are the best ways to stay being creative. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anu Vaidyanathan is a filmmaker, comedian and engineer whose memoir Anywhere But Home was long-listed for the Mumbai Film Festival's word-to-screen market in 2016. Her show 'Blimp' is part of Edinburgh Fringe 2023, tickets are currently available here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/anu-vaidyanathan-blimp We talked to Anu about her segue into comedy via engineering, her time at the Philippe Gaulier clown school and using comedy as a vehicle to express bigger themes. Get more from the BLANK Podcast at patreon.com/blankpodcast Massive thanks to our patrons: Mary Catherine Byrnes, Victoria Nielsen, Manya Kay, Alex Williams, Joel Piveteau, Richard Astill, Samantha Beaton, Claudia McKelvey, John Holland, Katherine Keen, Lynn Robinson, It's Coming Home 2022, Alice Chrystall, Maddie Lightfoot, Alex Collis, Martin Grimm, Vicki, Julianna Williams, Rachel Bowen, Witnessthebigness. @blankpod @eliistender @jimdalycomedy @anu.vaidyanathan blankpodcast2018@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rebecca Callard is an actress and writer, best known for her roles in Detectorists, The Grand and The Borrowers. Rebecca's first play A Bit of Light won a commendation award from The Bruntwood prize in 2017 and is currently being adapted into a screenplay. Rebecca kindly invited us to her home in South London for a good natter about going BLANK. We chatted at length about Rebecca's impressive and slightly dated VHS collection and her obsession with Horror films. Giles and Rebecca look into each other's struggles with insomnia and how that has at times affected Rebecca's acting for good and bad, and also those times when BLANK moments have occurred during auditions. Our wonderful pod music is by the amazing Paul Pilot and you can hear more from him here: http://paulpilot.com Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mathew Horne is a British actor, comedian, and writer. Best known for his work with Catherine Tate and for playing Gavin in Gavin and Stacey, Mathew has been a prolific stage and screen actor, most recently playing Raymond in Rain Man. We talked to Mathew about his career where he initially started in comedy whilst studying at Manchester University, and how that eventually led to a now, 20-year collaboration with comedian Catherine Tate. Mathew tells us about ambition never being at the heart of what he does, his lack of jealousy towards fellow creatives, and what he does to prevent that. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fred Sirieix is a presenter, TV personality and maître d'hôtel, best known for his work on Channel 4's First Dates, BBC's Remarkable Places to Eat, Snackmasters and ITV's Gordon, Gino and Fred's Road Trip. We talked to Fred about his early experiences with food and making his way in the industry, going from training to be a chef to working front of house. Fred tells us about his difficult moments when his career wasn't quite going the way he wanted and the beauty of connecting and talking to all walks of life in the service industry. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Layla Anna-Lee is a television presenter best known for fronting live MMA action and interviewing the best footballers on the planet. She sat down with Giles and Jim at Nordic Bar in central London to talk about moments on live TV when things went wrong, dealing with social media trolls and the pressures of being a presenter. She also brought donuts to the pod, the first guest to do so, and the three of us rated an reviewed the treats she brought because why not? Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Susie Dent is an English lexicographer and etymologist. She has appeared in "Dictionary Corner" on the Channel 4 game show Countdown every year since 1992. She also appears on 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and Dent's Guide to Swearing  Jim and Giles headed to the historical city of Oxford to meet up with wordsmith and National treasure Susie Dent to talk all things BLANK. Susie tells us about the origins of the word BLANK also about the various connotations of it. Susie explains how she is often most happy when she's living in her own head, and how a new found love for walking allows her that time. We discuss BLANK moments on the set of Countdown and one of Susie's favourite subjects - Swearing!   Our wonderful pod music is by the amazing Paul Pilot and you can hear more from him here: http://paulpilot.com Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kayleigh-Paige Rees is an actress best known for her role as Julia Beaufort in ITV's Primetime period drama 'Sanditon'. Kayleigh-Paige started her career in successful independent films most notably, Ann in Ann Rolls Green currently on Amazon Prime and Mona in Skinny World, an award-winning short film taking a closer look at eating disorders. She spoke to Giles and Jim about awkward auditions, the stress of working in the entertainment industry and opens up about her eating disorder.  Get BLANK Podcast merchandise here: https://www.podcastmerch.co.uk/blank Buy us a coffee here: https://ko-fi.com/blankpodcast Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Blake Harrison is a British actor, writer and director, best known for his portrayal of Neil in Channel 4 comedy series The Inbetweeners, Blake has also been in Films such as Dad's Army, BBC hit drama A Very English Scandal and has also written with his wife Kerry Keenan Lynch and directed an award short film Hooves of Clay. We spoke to Blake about his early life in Peckham before he went to creative arts school BRIT and how he felt more at home there among peers who were into the same things. Blake tells us about his time just after filming the first series of The Inbetweeners, where he had to get a job performing at Madame Tussaud's. We discuss the perils of social media and how we sometimes envy the work others are doing and Blake tells us who are the nicest people to work with behind the scenes. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jon Terry is an actor and producer, his company Rabbit in Headlights create theatre productions to enrich businesses and those in education. We discussed discovering a love of acting, taking a leap of faith with your career and why George Orwell's Animal Farm is still so relevant so many years after it was written. Buy Tickets for Animal Farm: https://www.rabbitinheadlights.co.uk/theatre-productions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessica Fostekew is a comedian, actor, writer and podcaster. We met up with Jessica just before the start of her Edinburgh Fringe show, which she was busily putting the finishing touches to. We discussed food and podcasts before diving into finding out about Jessica's early life and negotiating friendship groups through secondary school and how one group allowed her to finally find herself. Jessica tells us about finding comedy and the power of collaboration, working with a producer and also, starting to produce with others. We talk writing groups and the perfect 90's ice creams Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/theblankpodcast.   See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices