How Do You Cope? …with Elis and John
BBC Radio 5 Live
Elis James and John Robins talk to a range of guests about the challenges and hurdles they've faced in their own lives, whilst asking the question... How Do You Cope?
S4 Listener Correspondence: ‘Thank you for creating a safe space and content that’s inclusive’
For the final episode of series four Elis and John read through some of your correspondence about the topics covered over the last few months. This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Aug 22, 2023 • 47:31
S4 Shaun Murphy: ‘Even in the darkest of moments remember that you are actually in control’
In the final guest episode of this series Elis and John are joined by snooker player and broadcaster Shaun Murphy, who discusses his struggles with his weight and his relationship with religion.If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information and support at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Aug 15, 2023 • 1:14:36
S4 Gabby Logan: ‘The grief never really leaves, you just learn to make friends with it’
This week Elis and John speak to broadcaster Gabby Logan about the loss of her brother Daniel at the age of 15, how she’s coped in her professional life, and witnessing the Bradford City stadium fire in 1985.This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Aug 8, 2023 • 1:31:40
S4 James Cracknell: ‘The neurologist said “Where you are after three years will be where you are for the rest of your life”’
This week Elis and John are joined by double Olympic gold medalist James Cracknell, who opens up about suffering a brain injury in 2010, his recovery, and how it has affected his life. This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Aug 1, 2023 • 1:24:43
S4 John McCarthy: ‘If I was still bitter I’d still be a hostage’
This week, Elis and John are joined by journalist John McCarthy who shares his experience of being held hostage for over five years during the Lebanon hostage crisis, and some of the coping mechanisms he developed in order to survive. This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Jul 25, 2023 • 1:29:45
S4 Jordan Gray: ‘I wasn't bitten by a radioactive woman’
On this week’s episode of How Do You Cope Elis and John chat to comedian Jordan Gray about gender identity and transgender issues. This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Jul 18, 2023 • 1:28:15
S4 Mohsin Zaidi: ‘We’re told to grow in a certain way and we acclimate’
In this week’s episode Elis and John are joined by author Mohsin Zaidi, who shares his experiences growing up queer in a devout Muslim family.This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Jul 11, 2023 • 1:35:54
S4 Iain Lee: 'Suddenly I was incredibly high, and this voice in my head said “Welcome back son”'
Broadcaster Iain Lee shares his journey to becoming a counsellor, and retiring from his former profession.This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Jul 4, 2023 • 1:31:33
S4 Lady Unchained: ‘I don’t want somebody to think “Only when I get to prison I can be creative”’
Podcaster and poet Lady Unchained discusses her time in prison, the prison system, and how discovering poetry has helped her cope.This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Jun 27, 2023 • 1:31:05
S4 Maria Romanenko: ‘We were just a peaceful country, living our life like you guys are’
Journalist Maria Romanenko talks about fleeing Ukraine due to the full-scale Russian invasion, how she has settled into life in the UK, and her plans to return.If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Jun 20, 2023 • 1:20:25
S4 Katie Piper: ‘Why don’t I let go of what I thought should happen and start living in what is happening?’
In the second episode of this series Elis and John chat to broadcaster and author Katie Piper about her story of recovery, and some of the things that have helped her cope.This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline.This podcast has been edited since publication.
Jun 13, 2023 • 1:29:19
S4 Stressed Elis and Sober John: ‘It was like the last light got switched off’
In the first episode of a new series of How Do You Cope Elis and John share what they’ve been through over the past year, including Elis’s experiences with stress and John addressing his relationship with alcohol.This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode there’s more information at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Jun 6, 2023 • 1:11:55
How Do You Cope - Series 4 teaser
Elis and John are back with a new series of How Do You Cope, and they’re here to share what they’ve got in store, including some of the guests that will be featuring.Remember, all previous episodes of How Do You Cope are available online, featuring the likes of Sir Brian May, Azeem Rafiq, George Ezra, Josie Long and Adam Kay.
May 30, 2023 • 3:07
S3 Listener Correspondence: 'You've made me feel less alone'
In the final episode of series three Elis and John read through a selection of your messages and reflect on some of the topics covered throughout the series.Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Jun 7, 2022 • 48:45
S3 Elise Christie: ‘Replacing a negative habit with a positive one is the most important thing’
In this week's episode Elis and John are joined by former speed skater Elise Christie to discuss her mental health battles, her experiences as a professional athlete and her life post-retirement.Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
May 31, 2022 • 1:00:11
S3 Professor David Nutt: ‘If anyone ever criticises or comments on your drinking, take it seriously'
In this week’s episode Elis and John are joined by neuropsychopharmacologist Professor David Nutt to discuss the effect drugs and alcohol have on the body and mind.Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
May 26, 2022 • 1:16:29
S3 Gail Porter: ‘I had a great time, but with great times comes bad times’
In this week’s episode Elis James and John Robins are joined by broadcaster Gail Porter, where they discuss her mental health battles and her diagnosis with alopecia.This episode contains some strong language. Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
May 17, 2022 • 1:09:26
S3 Brian May: ‘My name’s Brian and I’m a depressive’
This week Elis and John are joined by Queen guitarist Brian May. They talk to him about living with depression, the grief that came from losing his father and bandmate in the same year and his experiences with therapy.Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
May 10, 2022 • 1:13:28
S3 Lemn Sissay: ‘I only knew the importance of family by not having it’
This week Elis and John are joined by poet and broadcaster Lemn Sissay to discuss growing up in the care system and the journey to his identity.This episode contains strong language. Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
May 3, 2022 • 1:25:35
S3 Guvna B: ‘The toxic view of masculinity shouldn’t stop you from talking’
In this episode Elis and John are joined by rapper and author Guvna B to discuss toxic masculinity, his experience with counselling and how it’s helped him deal with grief.This episode contains strong language. Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Apr 26, 2022 • 1:07:36
S3 Mike Kerr: ‘Being sober is like life in HD’
This week Elis and John are joined by Mike Kerr, one half of the rock band Royal Blood, to discuss going sober and how the touring lifestyle has impacted his mental health.This episode contains strong language. Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Apr 19, 2022 • 1:11:43
S3 Katy Wix: ‘Finding meaning in all this pain has been really helpful for me’
Elis and John chat to actor, comedian and writer Katy Wix about some of the topics covered in her book Delicacy, including eating disorders, grief and issues around body image. Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Apr 12, 2022 • 1:24:18
S3 Mark and Maddy Austin: ‘It was never about the food’
Elis and John are joined by Sky News presenter Mark Austin and his daughter Maddy to discuss her battle with anorexia, the impact on their family and her subsequent recovery. Please note: NHS England and South West England were contacted regarding comments made by Maddy and Mark in the episode about access to treatment, but did not respond to our requests for comment. Trigger warning: This episode contains descriptions of anorexia and may not be suitable for all audiences. If you, or someone you
Apr 5, 2022 • 1:06:52
S3 Matt Edmondson: ‘I just thought I sometimes got depressed’
Elis and John chat to Radio 1 presenter about living with cyclothymia, the impact of losing his Dad and how creating music has become a coping mechanism for him.Warning: This episode contains discussions about suicide. If you or someone you know is in need of help, you can find links to organisations who can provide help and support on the BBC Actionline website.
Mar 29, 2022 • 1:11:04
S3 George Robinson: ‘Life is still fulfilling, and as fulfilling as it was’
This week Elis and John are joined by actor George Robinson to discuss the accident that led to his sudden paralysis, and how he approached starring in the series ‘Sex Education’.Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Mar 22, 2022 • 1:16:04
S3 Ruby Wax: ‘We live in a society where the thoughts never shut down’
Elis and John are joined by comedian and entertainer Ruby Wax, who shares her mental health journey and how mindfulness strategies have helped her cope. This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Mar 15, 2022 • 54:24
S3 Azeem Rafiq: ‘All it needed was “sorry, we got it wrong”’
Elis and John chat to cricketer Azeem Rafiq about his struggles with mental health as a result of his experience with racism in cricket, as well as the impact of him and his wife losing their son. This episode contains strong language and discussion of miscarriage and racism that some people might find offensive or upsetting. Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Mar 8, 2022 • 1:03:58
S3 Reverend Richard Coles: ‘Our life is rounded by sleep’
In the first episode of a new series of How Do You Cope Elis and John are joined by Rev. Richard Coles to discuss the loss of his husband David after a long battle with alcoholism, and how he’s dealt with the subsequent grief.This episode contains strong language that some people might find offensive. Details of organisations that can provide help and support on some of the issues raised in this episode or the rest of the series are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Mar 1, 2022 • 1:14:50
How Do You Cope - Series 3 teaser
Elis James and John Robins return with Series 3 of How Do You Cope, and here they are to talk about some of the guests they've got lined up.
Feb 22, 2022 • 3:12
S2 Damon Gough: 'Every day should be Mental Health Awareness Day'
Elis and John talk to musician Damon Gough AKA Badly Drawn Boy, about how he copes with his mental health issues and alcoholism.
Nov 24, 2020 • 1:02:51
S2 Michael Rosen 'Hello body, what can you do?'
Elis and John talk to children's author and poet Michael Rosen about his battle with Coronavirus and how he coped when he lost his son, Eddie.
Nov 17, 2020 • 1:05:46
S2 Chris Packham 'My autism is a gift'
Elis and John talk to TV presenter Chris Packham about how he copes living with autism and how it's impacted his life.
Nov 10, 2020 • 1:00:36
S2 Candice Brathwaite - 'It’s not on black people to solve racism'
Elis and John are joined by Candice Brathwaite who wrote about her experiences as a black British mother.
Nov 3, 2020 • 1:02:57
S2 Simon Thomas: ‘I’m going to pursue life again’
After a short illness, Simon Thomas lost his wife Gemma to cancer at the age of 40. He talks to Elis and John about how life has been since this traumatic moment in 2017.
Oct 27, 2020 • 1:07:51
S2 Terri White: ‘Memory isn't built out of metaphors’
After a number of traumatic childhood experiences, Empire magazine editor Terri White discusses her subsequent battles with self harm and alcohol abuse.
Oct 20, 2020 • 1:05:02
S2 Grace Woodward: 'Excuse me, if I’m freaking out'
Elis and John chat to Grace Woodward about how she coped with her mother's eating disorder and how her career in fashion effected her mental health.
Oct 13, 2020 • 1:01:32
S2 Monty Panesar 'I've dug myself a massive hole'
Elis and John chat to Monty Panesar about how his mental health issues impacted his cricketing career.
Oct 6, 2020 • 1:06:15
S2 Alex Brooker ‘It’s my insecurity, not theirs'
Elis and John chat to Last Leg host Alex Brooker about how his disability affected his youth, career, family and mental health.
Sep 29, 2020 • 57:17
S2 Emma Barnett: ‘I feel like I’m being pulled down to the ground’
Elis and John chat to 5 Live broadcaster Emma Barnett about suffering from endometriosis and how it's affected her life and family.
Sep 22, 2020 • 1:00:52
S2 Fabrice Muamba: 'Tomorrow isn't guaranteed to anyone'
Elis and John talk to former footballer Fabrice Muamba about the cardiac arrest he suffered on the pitch where his heart stopped for 78 minutes.
Sep 15, 2020 • 57:52
S2 Josie Long: 'I'm not invisible'
Elis and John are joined by comedian Josie Long to talk about how she dealt with sexism and harassment from online trolls in her career.
Sep 8, 2020 • 54:13
S2 George Ezra: ‘I’m not a freak, I’m not alone’
In the first episode of a new second series, Elis and John are joined by singer songwriter George Ezra to talk about his career and how he copes with his anxiety and OCD.This episode contains some strong language, and discussion on intrusive thoughts which some people may find offensive.
Sep 1, 2020 • 1:03:45
How Do You Cope - Series 2 teaser
Elis James and John Robins talk about some of the guests they've got lined up for the return of How Do You Cope.
Aug 25, 2020 • 4:21
S1 Sally Phillips: ‘Life is harder, but it’s much funnier’
For the final episode of this series, actor and comedian Sally Phillips talks to Elis and John about bringing up her son Olly, who has Down’s syndrome.
Dec 24, 2019 • 1:06:26
S1 Paul Sinha: ‘It’s my story, it’s not anybody else’s story’
Comedian and quizzer Paul Sinha discusses with Elis and John the challenges he’s faced in the comedy world, as well as his recent diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease.
Dec 17, 2019 • 1:10:39
S1 Jane Couch: ‘Keep going, keep going, just keep going’
Former boxer Jane Couch talks to Elis and John about how she battled to become the first ever licensed female boxer in Britain and the challenges she faced in the process.
Dec 10, 2019 • 1:04:32
S1 Poorna Bell: ‘I was never angry at him’
Journalist Poorna Bell talks to Elis James and John Robins about how she coped with the grief of losing her husband to suicide in 2015.
Dec 3, 2019 • 1:17:40
S1 Mark Watson: ‘I blame myself for a lot of the problems’
Comedian and novelist Mark Watson discusses anxiety, relationships and his near-death experience on Celebrity Island with Bear Grylls.
Nov 26, 2019 • 1:02:05
S1 Bryony Kimmings: 'I didn’t want to be someone’s sorrow'
Performance artist Bryony Kimmings discusses her struggles with psychosis, postpartum depression, and the health of her son.
Nov 19, 2019 • 1:11:00
S1 Tom Bradby: ‘The mental health equivalent of a heart attack’
Journalist and novelist Tom Bradby talks to Elis and John about his past struggles with insomnia and what brought on this disorder in the first place.
Nov 17, 2019 • 1:13:14
S1 David Cotterill: ‘You need to want it for yourself’
Ex-footballer David Cotterill talks to Elis James and John Robins about his recent struggles with alcoholism and depression.
Nov 12, 2019 • 1:01:54
S1 Emily Dean: 'The picture and not the frame'
The brilliant Emily Dean talks to Elis James and John Robins about how she coped with losing her mum, dad and sister all in the space of three years.
Nov 5, 2019 • 1:13:09
S1 Adam Kay: 'You just scar a bit'
Launching this new series for BBC Sounds, presenters Elis James and John Robins invite Adam Kay to talk them through his coping techniques from his time as an NHS junior doctor.
Oct 29, 2019 • 1:10:49