It Can't Just Be Me

It Can't Just Be Me

Podimo & Audio Always

Join Anna Richardson, TV host and author, as she sits down to discuss the sometimes shocking, often hilarious and always honest nuances of the challenges and obstacles life can throw at us, uncovering the ‘It Can’t Just Be Me’ moments. Come on in, make yourself comfortable, and join the conversation as they help you realise, we’re all in this together.Find us on other platforms here - https://audioalways.lnk.to/ItcantjustbemeSN If you're interested in sponsorship and advertising in It Can't Just Be Me, then we'd love to hear from you. Just email sales@audioalways.com and we'll te...

It's Not Just You: Reframing Failure As Success

It's Not Just You: Reframing Failure As Success

Anna is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Soph to answer a listener dilemma about how they feel they've failed when it comes to achieving their ambitions. Dr Soph encourages them - and us - to reframe what we consider to be failure, and get better at being our own 'inner CEO' and regulating the negative self-talk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 14, • 13:04

Dancing For Life with Dame Arlene Phillips

Dancing For Life with Dame Arlene Phillips

Joining Anna on the podcast this week is the legendary dancer and choreographer Dame Arlene Phillips. From humble beginnings in Manchester, she ended up at dance school in London, where she worked as a live-in nanny for none other than film director Ridley Scott in order to get by. From there, she gained stratospheric success in dance and choreography - and her groundbreaking dance troupe, Hot Gossip, made her a household name in the 70s.As a choreographer and director, her credits include count

Feb 12, • 49:05

It's Not Just You: Navigating On/Off Relationships

It's Not Just You: Navigating On/Off Relationships

This week Anna is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Hazel Harrison to discuss a listener's experience of her on/off relationship which she's starting to realise is unhealthy. Anna and Dr Hazel discuss the potential impact of this kind of relationship, how our attachment styles can affect how we interact with loved ones, and offer some gentle advice for navigating tricky situations like this.If you have a dilemma or situation you'd like discussed, reach out to Anna by emailing hello@itcantjustbe

Feb 7, • 14:59

Breaking Up with Diet Culture with Laura Adlington

Breaking Up with Diet Culture with Laura Adlington

Anna's guest this week, Laura Adlington, shot to fame as a finalist on the 2020 series of the Great British Bake Off. In the midst of the pandemic, she brought some light in the darkness of that horrible year with her sharp wit, especially in the face of culinary disaster (whatever you do, don’t mention ice cream cake).Since then, baking has taken a backseat. These days, she's an outspoken writer, presenter and campaigner around body image. Her Instagram has become a powerful platform encouragin

Feb 5, • 42:47

It's Not Just You: Getting Out Of Your Own Way

It's Not Just You: Getting Out Of Your Own Way

Anna is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Soph, aka Dr Sophie Mort, to answer a listener dilemma. This person is feeling like they've lost their sense of direction in life, but they also sense themselves getting in their own way in the process of trying to rediscover it. Dr Soph offers some positive, practical and simple advice and exercises that anyone feeling similiarly can try themselves at home.If you have a dilemma or situation you'd like discussed, reach out to Anna by emailing hello@itca

Jan 31, • 19:21

Resisting Objectification with Ashley James

Resisting Objectification with Ashley James

Anna's guest this week is Ashley James: woman full of contradictions. Originally from a working class family in Northumberland, she won a scholarship to boarding school where she had to change her accent to fit in, and had a friend with a castle who quite literally rubbed shoulders with royalty. She found fame via Made in Chelsea, and it's been hard graft since then: she’s DJ’d all over the world, built up an impressive broadcasting career, and is now a regular on This Morning. Over the past dec

Jan 29, • 42:25

It's Not Just You: Retiring To The Country

It's Not Just You: Retiring To The Country

This week, Anna is joined by psychotherapist Sam Pennells-Nkolo to discuss a listener question. Lou is in her 50s and very happy with her life, but her husband wants to relocate from the city to the country. Does getting older mean we automatically want a slower pace of life? And how do we navigate big decisions where ultimately people want different things without compromising a loving relationship? Sam has some excellent advice to share.If you have a dilemma or situation you'd like discussed,

Jan 24, • 13:03

The Power of Radical Honesty with Lou Sanders

The Power of Radical Honesty with Lou Sanders

Anna's guest this week is the one and only Lou Sanders. Anyone who's seen Lou's live shows, watched her on TV or read her memoir What's That Lady Doing? will know that she doesn't shy away from frankness – it's part of her signature candid style of comedy. But there's a deeper meaning to it as well, as she tells Anna: being honest about difficult situations is how you can get through them. She shares why choosing sobriety was essential, what alternative therapies have brought to her life and why

Jan 22, • 39:37

It's Not Just You: Recovery After Childbirth

It's Not Just You: Recovery After Childbirth

In these weekly episodes of 'It's Not Just You', each week Anna will be joined by a different expert to explore the issues and dilemmas that are affecting you. No guests, just your dilemmas discussed by Anna and her expert.This week, Anna is joined by Dr Shirin Lakhani to answer a listener's question about recovery after childbirth – both physical and emotional. It's very normal to need extended time to recover after birth before having sex again, but there are many misplaced expectations and id

Jan 17, • 9:49

Ripping Up Your Life in Midlife with Lu Featherstone

Ripping Up Your Life in Midlife with Lu Featherstone

Joining Anna this week is Lu Featherstone: a self-proclaimed former wild child, who turned ‘good wife’ and ‘good mother’, before throwing it all up in the air and reclaiming her freedom once again – this time, in her 50s. Feeling trapped after trying to squeeze herself into roles that didn’t feel true to who she really was, she finally exploded out of the box she’d found herself in, and embraced an avalanche of rainbow sequins, huge sunglasses and naked photos in the wild. Lu's story is familiar

Jan 15, • 45:50

It's Not Just You: Breaking Cycles of Parenting

It's Not Just You: Breaking Cycles of Parenting

This week Anna is joined in the studio by Dr Radha. They're answering a dilemma from a listener who doesn't have a great relationship with their own mum, and wants to make sure that they're not repeating the same patterns of behaviour with their own children. How do we break the cycle of what happened to us with our own parents if it's not the way we want to parent too?If you have a dilemma or situation you'd like discussed, reach out to Anna by emailing hello@itcantjustbeme.co.uk or DM her on I

Jan 10, • 7:28

New Year, Not You with Sam Pennells-Nkolo

New Year, Not You with Sam Pennells-Nkolo

It's only the beginning of January and we've all already been bombarded with a million messages about how and why you should change your life this year. To counterbalance the endless 'New Year, New You' messaging, Anna is putting herself in the hot seat on the podcast this week! She's enlisted the help of Sam Pennells-Nkolo, psychotherapist at the London Practice, to get some sensible and helpful advice about how to approach the things that are worrying her about the year ahead. Feeling overwhel

Jan 8, • 27:19

It's Not Just You: Losing Friends After Babies with Secret Mum Club

It's Not Just You: Losing Friends After Babies with Secret Mum Club

This week Anna is joined by Emma and Sophiena from Secret Mum Club to answer a listener dilemma on something that's relatable to lots of us: navigating friendships after one of you has a baby. What happens when one friend becomes a mum and their life changes beyond recognition, but the other is following a different path? Can your friendship ever stay the same?If you have a dilemma or situation you'd like discussed, reach out to Anna by emailing hello@itcantjustbeme.co.uk or DM her on Instagram

Dec 20, 2024 • 16:00

No Such Thing as a Perfect Christmas with Secret Mum Club

No Such Thing as a Perfect Christmas with Secret Mum Club

Crack open the mince pies and pop the Bucks Fizz, it's the super festive It Can't Just Be Me Christmas special! Joining Anna in the studio are Sophiena and Emma from hit parenting podcast Secret Mum Club to talk about all things Christmas. It can be a tricky time of year for all sorts of reasons, and it doesn't help that we're all surrounded by perfect families having a lovely time on adverts and on TV. Soph, Emma and Anna compare notes on their own plans and traditions, how their feelings towar

Dec 18, 2024 • 44:15

It's Not Just You: Divorce Shaming

It's Not Just You: Divorce Shaming

In these weekly episodes of It's Not Just You, each week Anna will be joined by a different expert to explore the issues and dilemmas that are affecting you. No guests, just your dilemmas discussed by Anna and her expert.This week Anna is joined by TV and radio presenter, qualified counsellor and friend of the show Katie Thistleton to talk about a listener dilemma. Hannah recently split up with her partner and is enjoying a bit of post divorce freedom, but is feeling judged by some of her friend

Dec 13, 2024 • 13:06

Confronting Abuse with Sharon Gaffka

Confronting Abuse with Sharon Gaffka

Anna's guest this week is Sharon Gaffka, former Love Island contestant turned political campaigner and ambassador for the domestic violence charity Refuge. As she shares with Anna, Sharon's journey has been remarkable; from teenage beauty pageant queen to civil servant, then reality TV star to aspiring politician – but it's not been without its challenges. Sharon talks frankly about the horrifying racist and misogynistic abuse she's experienced online, how her personal experience of getting spik

Dec 11, 2024 • 41:45

It's Not Just You: Anxiety Overload

It's Not Just You: Anxiety Overload

In these brand new weekly episodes of 'It's Not Just You', each week Anna will be joined by a different expert to explore the issues and dilemmas that are affecting you. No guests, just your dilemmas discussed by Anna and her expert.This week Anna is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Hazel Harrison to discuss a listener's experience with overwhelming anxiety in all aspects of their life, from personal to professional. Anna and Dr Hazel discuss the potential impact of this kind of anxiety, and s

Dec 6, 2024 • 10:07

The Isolation of a Rare Medical Diagnosis with Betty Mukherjee

The Isolation of a Rare Medical Diagnosis with Betty Mukherjee

This time on In Can't Just Be Me, Anna is joined by Race Across The World's Betty Mukherjee, who won viewers' hearts this year with her down-to-earth humour and vulnerability as she travelled 15,000km from Japan to Indonesia with her brother, James. On the show, Betty revealed how a diagnosis of the rare condition MRKH syndrome at just 16 years old had altered the course of her life. Here, she shares with Anna how it felt getting such life-changing news at such a young age, and how the realities

Dec 4, 2024 • 42:43

It's Not Just You: Feeling overwhelmed with life

It's Not Just You: Feeling overwhelmed with life

In these brand new weekly episodes of 'It's Not Just You', each week Anna will be joined by a different expert to explore the issues and dilemmas that are affecting you. No guests, just your dilemmas discussed by Anna and her expert.This week, Anna is joined by broadcaster, author and GP Dr Radha Modgil to tackle a listener’s dilemma about feeling overwhelmed. Together, Anna and Dr Radha explore the impact of big life changes and how they can make even little things seem huge and stressful in ou

Nov 29, 2024 • 12:45

Embracing your upbringing with Jassa Ahluwalia

Embracing your upbringing with Jassa Ahluwalia

In this episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna sits down with actor, filmmaker and author Jassa Ahluwalia. Born to an English mother and an Indian father, he grew up the 'white' boy that was fluent in both English and Punjabi. Jassa talks to Anna about embracing his mixed heritage, why he wrote his book 'Both, Not Half' and how he navigates a world that wants to put us in boxes.If you or someone you know is struggling with any of the topics discussed in It Can’t Just Be Me, you can find useful res

Nov 27, 2024 • 39:54

It's Not Just You: Embarrassed about your vagina

It's Not Just You: Embarrassed about your vagina

In these weekly episodes of 'It's Not Just You', each week Anna will be joined by a different expert to explore the issues and dilemmas that are affecting you. No guests, just your dilemmas discussed by Anna and her expert.This week, Anna is joined by Dr Shirin Lakhani to tackle a listener’s dilemma about embarrassment around the appearance of her vagina. Together, Anna and Dr Lakhani explore the impact of feeling uncomfortable about how your vagina looks and feeling discomfort in that area. The

Nov 22, 2024 • 11:12

Let's Talk About Sex with Oloni

Let's Talk About Sex with Oloni

In this episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna sits down with podcaster, sex and relationship expert and author Dami "Oloni" Olonisakin for an open and unfiltered discussion about sex. They cover crucial aspects of sex education, the importance of self-pleasure and navigating relationships. Oloni shares some of the most common questions she receives about sex and opens up about where her own boundaries lie. They also discuss faking orgasms, consent and celebrate empowerment and self-discovery when

Nov 20, 2024 • 40:59

It's Not Just You: Feeling left behind in life

It's Not Just You: Feeling left behind in life

In these brand new weekly episodes of 'It's Not Just You', each week Anna will be joined by a different expert to explore the issues and dilemmas that are affecting you. No guests, just your dilemmas discussed by Anna and her expert.This week, Anna is joined by broadcaster and counsellor Katie Thistleton to tackle a listener’s dilemma about feeling left behind. Together, Anna and Katie explore the impact of feeling that you may not be progressing fast enough in life—whether it’s moving out on yo

Nov 15, 2024 • 15:32

Living by your own rules with Nadia Almada

Living by your own rules with Nadia Almada

In this episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna Richardson sits down with the trailblazing Nadia Almada. At just 27 years old, Nadia made history as Big Brother’s first transgender winner, transforming her life in the process. Nadia shares her journey with Anna, recounting her experiences before, during (when only the audience knew her true gender identity), and after her time in the Big Brother House. They discuss her desire to embrace her life without labels, how she captured the hearts of the Br

Nov 13, 2024 • 29:05

It's Not Just You: That doesn't like your Siblings

It's Not Just You: That doesn't like your Siblings

This week Anna is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Hazel Harrison to discuss a listener dilemma around having no relationship with their siblings and the issues this causes within their family. Anna and Dr Hazel discuss the impact it can have on your relationships and family dynamics and some practical tips on how to manage it with parents and family gatherings.If you have a dilemma or situation you'd like discussed, reach out to Anna by emailing hello@itcantjustbeme.co.uk or DM her on Instagr

Nov 8, 2024 • 12:04

Telling it like it is with Kate Lawler

Telling it like it is with Kate Lawler

In this episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna Richardson sits down with model, DJ, and broadcaster Kate Lawler. It's been 22 years since Kate made history as the first female winner of Big Brother. Anna and Kate talk about how her life changed overnight after the show and her evolution from party-loving DJ to a married mother of one. Not afraid to tell it like it is, Kate opens up about her uncertainty regarding motherhood, attending couples therapy with her husband and how she tackles mum shamin

Nov 6, 2024 • 47:43

It's Not Just You: with the Sunday Scaries

It's Not Just You: with the Sunday Scaries

In these brand new weekly episodes of 'It's Not Just You', each week Anna will be joined by a different expert to explore the issues and dilemmas that are affecting you. No guests, just your dilemmas discussed by Anna and her expert.This week Anna is joined by Dr Radha Modgil to discuss a listener dilemma around 'Sunday Scaries'. An anxious feeling we can sometimes feel at the end of the weekend. They discuss symptoms, how it can impact you and some practical tips to help overcome the pattern. I

Nov 1, 2024 • 10:54

Reinventing Yourself with Linda Lusardi

Reinventing Yourself with Linda Lusardi

In this episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna Richardson engages with model, actress, and photographer Linda Lusardi. They explore Linda’s evolution from Page 3 pin-up to crafting and sustaining 30-year career. The conversation covers her rapid rise to fame at just 19 years old, her reflections on Page 3 and whether she felt exploited, her family life, the devastating loss of her parents and how she carved a path for herself as a successful actress and business woman.If you or someone you know is

Oct 30, 2024 • 39:02

The Road to Recovery with John Robins

The Road to Recovery with John Robins

In this episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna Richardson sits down with award-winning comedian and broadcaster John Robins. They delve into John's journey of recovery from alcohol addiction, highlighting his experiences with alcohol abuse, gambling addictions and relationship challenges. John opens up on the valuable lessons he has learned, his coping strategies and how both comedy and therapy are playing crucial roles in helping him reclaim his physical and mental health.If you or someone you kn

Oct 23, 2024 • 49:31

Surviving midlife redundancy with Eleanor Mills

Surviving midlife redundancy with Eleanor Mills

In this episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna Richardson sits down with award-winning editor, writer, and broadcaster Eleanor Mills. They discuss Eleanor’s shock and devastation at losing her job in her late 40s, how she coped with her world being turned upside down and went on to transform her experience into an exciting new adventure. Eleanor discusses her book Much More to Come and shares the inspiring story behind her business, Noon, a vibrant community designed for midlife women to empower o

Oct 16, 2024 • 48:59

Dementia in the Family with Sian Welby

Dementia in the Family with Sian Welby

In this special episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna Richardson sits down with radio and TV presenter Sian Welby, along with special guest Jordan Adams. Both Anna and Sian share their experiences of having a parent living with dementia, while Jordan offers a deeply moving account of how dementia has affected his family after his mother was diagnosed at just 47, when he was only 15. Following this, he underwent genetic testing and learned that he has inherited the faulty gene that caused his moth

Oct 9, 2024 • 45:59

Unexpected Pregnancy After a One-Night Stand with Charlotte Chilton

Unexpected Pregnancy After a One-Night Stand with Charlotte Chilton

In this episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna Richardson sits down with The Traitors star Charlotte Chilton who shares her journey of navigating an unexpected pregnancy following a one-night stand. Amidst a separation from her wife, Charlotte opens up about her surprise at becoming pregnant and her feelings of betrayal by the baby’s father. Despite the challenges, she talks about her excitement at finally welcoming a baby after enduring years of heartbreaking fertility struggles.If you are strugg

Oct 2, 2024 • 37:47

Finding Self Belief and Navigating Empty Nesting with Nadiya Hussain

Finding Self Belief and Navigating Empty Nesting with Nadiya Hussain

In this episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna Richardson sits down with TV Chef Nadiya Hussain to reflect on a decade since her victory on The Great British Bake Off. They explore the inspiration behind Nadiya’s new book, Cook Once, Eat Twice and engage in an open conversation about her childhood experiences, coping with anxiety and her long journey to self-belief. As her children prepare to leave home, Nadiya shares her thoughts on this new chapter in her life and her aspirations for the future.

Sep 25, 2024 • 42:58

Embracing Your Authentic Self - with Leigh Francis

Embracing Your Authentic Self - with Leigh Francis

In this episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna Richardson has an open conversation with TV and Radio star Leigh Francis. They delve into the reality beyond the iconic personas Leigh has crafted for the screen. He shares his experiences navigating a changing television and comedy landscape, his sadness at losing his Dad and his friend Caroline Flack and his support network behind closed doors. In this candid chat Leigh explains why he decided to write his book Leigh, Myself and I and opens up

Sep 18, 2024 • 42:22

Does Therapy Really Work? with Katie Thistleton

Does Therapy Really Work? with Katie Thistleton

In this episode of It Can’t Just Be Me, Anna Richardson sits down with Radio and TV Presenter Katie Thistleton for an honest discussion about mental health. Katie opens up about her personal battles and how she overcame struggling in the workplace. They discuss how her brave decision to seek treatment and begin therapy not only helped her manage her depression but also sparked a complete transformation in how she lives her life. Katie speaks openly to encourage listeners to take whatever steps t

Sep 11, 2024 • 25:47

The Battle to Be Skinny - with Danny Beard

The Battle to Be Skinny - with Danny Beard

Anna Richardson chats to broadcaster and Drag Race UK winner Danny Beard as they share an intimate look into Danny’s lifelong struggle with emotional eating, fad diets, and the growing trend of Ozempic use. In this very honest discussion, they explore the underlying issues driving Danny’s relationship with food and the impact of using “skinny jabs.” Does chasing thinness truly bring happiness?In this episode we’ll be talking about weight loss in a way that could be challenging if you have strugg

Sep 4, 2024 • 40:15

Coming Back from Self Destruction with Jordan Stephens

Coming Back from Self Destruction with Jordan Stephens

Join Anna Richardson and the multi-talented musician, actor, and author Jordan Stephens for part two of their chat as they delve into his journey navigating ADHD, overnight fame and profound personal challenges. In this very candid conversation, Anna and Jordan openly discuss his struggles with anger and grief and how his self-soothing techniques ultimately led to a breakdown. Discover how hitting rock bottom became a catalyst for his incredible transformation towards sobriety, and finding his w

Aug 28, 2024 • 44:34

Why is the country so angry? With Jordan Stephens

Why is the country so angry? With Jordan Stephens

Ahead of the series' full relaunch, join Anna and the multi-talented musician, actor, and author Jordan Stephens as they unpack the emotions surrounding the recent violence that has gripped the UK. In this mini-episode, after his heartfelt response went viral online, Jordan shares his insights on why he thinks people are experiencing such profound anger and why that anger is misdirected.It Can't Just Be Me returns on Wednesday August 28th.If you have an It can't Just Be Me you would like discuss

Aug 21, 2024 • 16:09

41: Why do I feel so lonely? With Gaby Roslin

41: Why do I feel so lonely? With Gaby Roslin

Last week, it was reported that the middle-aged population in Britain is the loneliest in Europe, so Anna has invited TV presenter and broadcaster, Gaby Roslin, to interrogate why that might be. Gaby is passionate about curbing the epidemic of loneliness, which can impact people of all ages and looks different for everyone. In this episode, she shares some of what she’s learnt from her investigations into loneliness – including tips on how to prevent it, as well as explaining just how detrimenta

Mar 27, 2024 • 44:23

40: My dad’s secret life? With Jaz Singh

40: My dad’s secret life? With Jaz Singh

The entire nation was gripped by the lies and betrayals in the hit TV show The Traitors, with viewers particularly impressed by Jaz Singh’s (a.k.a Jazatha Christie) ability to sniff out the traitors. Today, Anna has Jazatha Christie himself in the studio to talk about earth-shattering family secrets, to which Jaz is no stranger.When Jaz revealed on The Traitors that his dad has a second family, he was overwhelmed with messages on social media from people going through similar heartbreak over fam

Mar 20, 2024 • 37:23

39: The Cult of Wellness? With Charlotte Church and Michele Knight

39: The Cult of Wellness? With Charlotte Church and Michele Knight

The wellness industry is worth about $5 trillion worldwide and it feels like there's always something we should be spending money on to benefit our mind, body and soul. But the quest to feel our best can come at a cost that extends beyond the financial - it can impact our relationships too.Here to unpack the world of wellness, spirituality and radical healing with Anna is Charlotte Church (singer and founder of wellness and healing centre, The Dreaming) and Michele Knight (psychic, astrologer an

Mar 13, 2024 • 42:44

38: International Women’s Day Special - With Charlie Webster

38: International Women’s Day Special - With Charlie Webster

To mark International Women's Day this week, Anna puts the spotlight on one of the most dangerous issues that many women are facing - domestic abuse. Anna is joined in the studio by Charlie Webster (award-winning broadcaster, journalist, and Women's Aid Ambassador) who shares her own moving story of surviving abuse, Sarah Davidge (Women's Aid Head of Research) and psychotherapist Fiona Kau. Together, the group unpack a dilemma from a woman who had an abusive partner when her daughter was young.

Mar 6, 2024 • 44:04

37: Facing shame as a trans person? With Jake Graf

37: Facing shame as a trans person? With Jake Graf

This episode centres around one powerful voicenote from a listener called Fiona – a trans woman who grew up in the 1950s. Fiona got in touch to share the turmoil she went through growing up and the ripple effect it’s had on her life. Fiona asks how we can stop young trans people today feeling the same level of shame and ultimately create a more accepting society for future generations. To unpack this question, Anna is joined by one of the most prominent trans male voices in the UK today Jake Gra

Feb 28, 2024 • 46:39

36: Can Porn be Ethical? With Megan Barton-Hanson and Ruby Rare

36: Can Porn be Ethical? With Megan Barton-Hanson and Ruby Rare

Nearly 14 million people watch porn every month in the UK alone. Yet, many people keep their relationship with porn under wraps – a secret between us and our screens.In this episode, Anna opens conversations about porn into the public sphere by having an honest and frank conversation about porn and the ethics behind its production. She’s joined by television personality, Megan Barton-Hanson, who made a name for herself on Love Island and is now one of the UK’s highest earners on Only Fans. And,

Feb 21, 2024 • 46:31

35: Lover or Scammer? With Kelle Bryan and Becky Holmes

35: Lover or Scammer? With Kelle Bryan and Becky Holmes

For this Valentine’s Day special , Anna is joined in the studio by actor, broadcaster and CEO Kelle Bryan, alongside author Becky Holmes to deep dive into romance scams and coercive relationships.With psychotherapist Fiona Kau, Anna and her guests share their personal experiences of scams and coercive relationships and tackle a dilemma from a listener who’s worried their colleague is caught up in a romance scam.You can find out more about fraud, including how to report it, via ActionFraud. You c

Feb 14, 2024 • 46:30

34: Menopause Special – with Kate Thornton & Dr. Louise Newson

34: Menopause Special – with Kate Thornton & Dr. Louise Newson

A couple of weeks ago, Anna asked you to get in touch with your questions about the menopause. And, oh boy – did you deliver! We were inundated with your responses – which varied from questions about vaginal dryness, worries about the impact of menopause on libido, concerns around HRT, and experiences of mental health struggles during the menopause. So today in the studio, Anna is joined by broadcaster and presenter, Kate Thornton and GP and menopause specialist, Dr Louise Newson. Together, they

Feb 7, 2024 • 45:39

33: Grief and Guilt? With Vogue Williams

33: Grief and Guilt? With Vogue Williams

Anna is joined this week by Irish icon, Vogue Williams – one of the few people who could bring a touch of humour to the difficult subject of grief. Vogue reflects on her own experience of navigating grief, after losing her dad, Freddie, in 2010. She recounts the guilt she felt following his passing, and – with the power of perspective gained after 14 years – considers her reaction in the early days of grief. With the assistance of psychotherapist Fiona Kau, Vogue and Anna respond to a dilemma fr

Jan 31, 2024 • 39:03

32: Falling out with Family over Politics? With Grace Campbell

32: Falling out with Family over Politics? With Grace Campbell

This week, Anna is joined by comedian, author, actor and host of the podcast 28 Dates Later, Grace Campbell to talk all about family breakdowns over politics and toxic jealousy in friendships. Anna, Grace and psychotherapist Fiona Kau discuss Grace’s experience growing up in a family where she witnessed her fair share of intense debates. Now, as an adult, Grace speaks about how she sees her feminism influencing her father's (Alastair Campbell) politics.Together, they get into a dilemma from a li

Jan 24, 2024 • 38:19

31: Why is my Partner so Angry? With Anna Mathur

31: Why is my Partner so Angry? With Anna Mathur

In today's episode, Anna digs into rage, anxiety and intrusive thoughts with Psychotherapist, best-selling author and fellow podcaster, Anna Mathur. Together, they speak candidly about collective rage in the world today, the shame attached to anger and how to express this emotion in a healthy way in our personal relationships. They also tackle two dilemmas - one from a listener who’s struggling to live with her partner’s temper and another from a listener who is experiencing intrusive thoughts a

Jan 17, 2024 • 34:56

30: From lovers to friends? With Sue Perkins

30: From lovers to friends? With Sue Perkins

Is it ever possible to transition from a romantic relationship to a friendship? This week, Anna welcomes writer, actor, presenter, comedian and all-around National Treasure - Sue Perkins - to unpick this very question, along with the help of psychotherapist Sam Pennells-Nkolo.The trio hear from a listener who, after coming out as gay to her husband, is struggling with their new dynamic. Together they consider how deep love and respect can still exist in a relationship even when it's no longer ro

Jan 10, 2024 • 37:11

29: Struggling in Early Motherhood? With Jess Phillips

29: Struggling in Early Motherhood? With Jess Phillips

This week, Anna invites the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley into the studio to respond to a dilemma from a listener who is apprehensive about preparing for her second baby. She recounts just how challenging she found her first weeks and months of early motherhood and shares some of her unique memories of this time. Anna and Jess are joined by psychotherapist, Sam Pennells-Nkolo, who shares her professional advice, as well as relating to Tiffany as a mum. The trio discuss the importance of build

Jan 3, 2024 • 38:18

28: Navigating Big Life Changes? With Shirley Ballas

28: Navigating Big Life Changes? With Shirley Ballas

This week we have a special treat for anyone missing the glitz and glam of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing – Anna is joined in the studio by the show’s head judge, Shirley Ballas! In the spirit of looking forward to the New Year, and the changes that may be on the horizon, they’re talking all about change, and how best to navigate it. With the assistance of psychotherapist Fiona Kau, Shirley and Anna respond to a dilemma from a listener called Amanda. She’s experiencing two major changes – one p

Dec 27, 2023 • 33:40

27: The Series So Far...

27: The Series So Far...

This week we’re looking back on some of the fun, powerful and moving moments captured on It Can’t Just Be Me so far.  Since launching the podcast, we've welcomed extraordinary guests and experts into the studio who have shared their personal stories with us and given their advice in response to your burning dilemmas.So here are just some of our highlights from the series - are they the same as yours? Get in touch and let us know your favourite moments from the series so far! We’ll be back next w

Dec 20, 2023 • 23:29

26: Festive Fun with Sophie Habboo

26: Festive Fun with Sophie Habboo

It’s a festive special in the studio today as Anna and guests tackle the classic seasonal dilemma of how to split your time at Christmas while doing your very best to keep everyone happy. Our listener Ellie is not only trying to figure out how to fit in time with family and friends alongside a job with anti-social hours, but she’s also in a long-distance relationship.Luckily, Anna has seasoned podcaster, TV personality and content creator Sophie Habboo on hand to help work through Ellie’s conund

Dec 13, 2023 • 41:36

25: Mental-load, work and motherhood? With Sophia Webster

25: Mental-load, work and motherhood? With Sophia Webster

Today’s dilemma is from an entrepreneur and mum to two young children. She’s finding it increasingly frustrating that the responsibilities of parenting aren’t split equally between her and her male partner. It’s a cliche she’s always been keen to avoid, so she wants to know what practical steps she can take to redress the balance in her relationship.Cue iconic shoe designer, entrepreneur, and mum to five – Sophia Webster. Sophia has found a way to make this seemingly impossible balancing act wor

Dec 6, 2023 • 34:39

24: Cutting down on alcohol? With Dr Alex George

24: Cutting down on alcohol? With Dr Alex George

We are bursting with excitement as we have Dr Alex George in the studio this week to talk through a dilemma from a listener who’s thinking about cutting down on alcohol, in the run up to the festive season. Dr Alex is a former A&E doctor, ex-Love Islander and expert Mental Health Ambassador. He gave up drinking in December 2022, so he couldn’t be better placed to give some advice to our listener. With the help of psychotherapist Nadiyah Davis, Anna and Dr Alex talk about why it’s not just to

Nov 29, 2023 • 44:42

23: Coming out as a teenager? With Riyadh Khalaf

23: Coming out as a teenager? With Riyadh Khalaf

Come on into this episode where we’re talking all about coming out as a teenager.   In the studio with Anna, we have the inspiring LGBTQ+ advocate, author, TV presenter and celebrity-masterchef, Riyadh Khalaf. Riyadh’s challenging, but incredibly powerful, story of coming out as a teenager to his then Irish Catholic mother and Iraqi Muslim father, means he has much wisdom to pass on to our listener today. Our dilemma is from a listener struggling to come out to her parents, whilst also dealing w

Nov 22, 2023 • 47:21

22: Intimacy after Trauma? With Grace Victory

22: Intimacy after Trauma? With Grace Victory

Grace Victory is one of those people who just draws you in — she is utterly compelling. So, it was a total pleasure to have her join Anna in the studio to offer some advice to a listener who is struggling with intimacy following a previous trauma. Having experienced trauma herself — both in her early years, and more recently — Grace generously shares her own story and the wisdom she's gathered on her own healing journey. With the assistance of super psychotherapist, Sam Pennells-Nkolo, Grace and

Nov 15, 2023 • 41:20

21: Managing Perimenopause? With Gabby Logan

21: Managing Perimenopause? With Gabby Logan

Anna can really relate to this week’s dilemma - it comes from a woman who’s severely struggling with her perimenopause symptoms and is asking why it seems to be so much harder for some women than others. So, Anna has called on the expert sports broadcaster and host of The Mid.Point podcast, Gabby Logan, to share her sage advice. With the assistance of TV doctor extraordinaire, Dr Ellie Cannon, Anna and Gabby share anecdotes from their own perimenopause and suggest some of the tips and tricks tha

Nov 8, 2023 • 43:08

Introducing: Where's Home Really?

Introducing: Where's Home Really?

One more week until It Can't Just Be Me returns with special guest Gabby Logan!In the meantime, how's this to keep you busy?This is an episode of Where's Home Really?, an award-winning podcast that sets out to  discover what home means to famous faces from the worlds of TV, music, comedy, food and beyond.In this episode, Jimi meets chef, author and broadcaster Andi Oliver. to discuss cultural appropriation, jerk rice and the time Andi accidentally joined a punk band.You can subscribe to Where's

Nov 1, 2023 • 38:31

Introducing: Go Love Yourself

Introducing: Go Love Yourself

We've got a little treat for you before Anna is back to solve more of your dilemmas and prove that it's not just you.This is an episode of Go Love Yourself, an award-winning podcast that’s helping us love ourselves a little more. You might know its host, Laura Adlington, from the 2020 Bake Off final. Along with her best mate Lauren, Laura is unlearning everything she's been taught about body image, acceptance and confidence.This episode is about the effect that magazines have had on our body ima

Oct 25, 2023 • 46:35

20: Dwindling Sex Drive? With Gizzi Erskine

20: Dwindling Sex Drive? With Gizzi Erskine

There’s no question about it - sex is a big deal in an intimate relationship. How often do we have it? How do we feel about it? Do our expectations align with our partner? And, how should we communicate when they don’t? Well, this week Anna has a listener dilemma that skirts around all of these questions. It’s from a woman in a happy relationship, who’s looking for some advice on how to navigate her dwindling desire for sex with her partner. To help out with this one, Anna is joined by someone w

Oct 18, 2023 • 37:07

19: Pets and Mental Health? With Pandora Morris

19: Pets and Mental Health? With Pandora Morris

It’s Mental Health Awareness day this week, so who better to join Anna in the studio than mental health advocate and the host of the Hurt to Healing Podcast, Pandora Morris. Pandora’s story is one of survival and resilience. And, in today’s episode, she shares her journey in response to a listener’s dilemma — as a reminder that everyone’s mental health journey is different. With the guidance of psychotherapist, Shabnam Yasmin, Anna and Pandora respond to a dilemma from a listener who found that

Oct 11, 2023 • 39:21

18: Questioning my sexuality? With Milena Sanchez

18: Questioning my sexuality? With Milena Sanchez

This week, Anna is responding to a dilemma from a woman in her late 40s who has questions around her sexuality. This listener was in a relationship with a man for 30 years, but after the breakdown of this marriage, she had a whirlwind romance with a woman. Now, she’s navigating teenage kids, questions around her sexuality, and to top it all off… the menopause. Yikes! To help Anna get to the bottom of this dilemma, she’s joined by the brilliant Milena Sanchez. Milena is one-third of The Receipts

Oct 4, 2023 • 43:34

17: Non-monogamy? With Ruby Rare

17: Non-monogamy? With Ruby Rare

Anna’s getting the low-down on non-monogamy this week, and, who better to guide us through this rich and fascinating topic than sex-positivity advocate, and practicer of non-monogamy themselves, Ruby Rare. Ruby offers some guidance to a listener who has just opened up their previously monogamous relationship and is asking for some advice around how to approach conversations about their new sexual-liaisons with their long-term partner. With the assistance of Chris Sheridan (The Queer Therapist),

Sep 27, 2023 • 37:30

16: Kinks, Icks, and Parenthood: An Extended Quick Fire Round with LalalaLetMeExplain

16: Kinks, Icks, and Parenthood: An Extended Quick Fire Round with LalalaLetMeExplain

Anna Richardson is back with a brand new season of It Can’t Just Be Me, and she's primed and ready to answer your burning questions! To kick-start the season, Anna is joined by superstar anonymous Agony-Aunt, LalalaLetMeExplain. Anna and Lala trawl through some of the juiciest dilemmas in the inbox. From belly-button kinks, parenthood, icks, and dating apps - Anna and Lala leave no stone unturned and have a good old laugh along the way. For more from LalalaLetMeExplain, you can listen to her pod

Sep 20, 2023 • 38:11

Introducing... First Dates: the Podcast

Introducing... First Dates: the Podcast

You loved the glorious Cici Colman when she joined me for last week's episode of It Can't Just Be Me. So, I'm sharing the first episode of her brilliant podcast, First Dates: The Podcast with you this week whilst I take a break for the summer.First Dates: The Podcast, is like a podcast version of the debrief you have with your best friend after you've gone on a first date. Co-hosted by Cici and the fabulous Frankie Bridge - I just know you're going to love it!You can find the show wherever you'r

Aug 9, 2023 • 33:46

15: Do I want Children? With Cici Coleman

15: Do I want Children? With Cici Coleman

Cici Coleman is amazing at many things — she's the nation's favourite waitress, the co-host of First Dates: the Podcast, and a brilliant fitness and life coach. But, one thing Cici isn’t very good at is making decisions. And there's one decision that plagues her more than any other — whether or not to have children. So, for this episode, I’ve beckoned her into my podcast studio to respond to a dilemma from a woman who is child-free by choice and is struggling with feeling like she has to explain

Aug 2, 2023 • 37:43

14: Let’s talk about sex, with Sam Pennells-Nkolo

14: Let’s talk about sex, with Sam Pennells-Nkolo

It’s no secret that I love talking about sex… and judging by our inbox, it seems that you lot do too! So, I decided that the time has come to give the people what they want — advice about sex, pleasure, and everything in between! To help me get stuck into this sexy special, I’ve invited our resident psychotherapist — the fabulous Sam Pennells-Nkolo — to join me.  It’s a hot and steamy ride — from secret masturbation, orgasms, infidelity, long-distance relationships, and even some scandalous pers

Jul 26, 2023 • 31:18

13: Dealing with divorce? With Sali Hughes

13: Dealing with divorce? With Sali Hughes

It's been more than ten years since Sali Hughes, The Guardian’s resident beauty columnist, went through a divorce. But she says it's still the most traumatic thing she's ever been through.In this episode Sali joins Anna and divorce coach, Maxine Clancy, in the studio to reflect on her experience and offer advice to a listener in the early stages of a separation. Together they share tips on how to approach the horrible practical tasks that come with a separation — like divvying up shared stuff —

Jul 19, 2023 • 40:16

12: Do I have ADHD? With Shaparak Khorsandi

12: Do I have ADHD? With Shaparak Khorsandi

Ever wondered if you have ADHD? In the past it seemed like this was a label reserved only for naughty boys, but these days more adults than ever are being diagnosed with the condition. Which begs the question: do some of us have it and don't even know? In this episode Anna is joined by comedian Shaparak Khorsandi, whose life was transformed for the better when she was diagnosed with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) in her forties. With the support of NHS consultant psychiatrist Dr

Jul 12, 2023 • 38:47

Introducing... Best Friend Therapy

Introducing... Best Friend Therapy

Feed your soul with nourishing conversations from two best friends, one therapist - and zero filter. Listen to Best Friend Therapy with Elizabeth Day and Emma Reed-Turrell on Global Player or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 6, 2023 • 0:29

11: Losing weight for my wedding? With Vicky Pattison

11: Losing weight for my wedding? With Vicky Pattison

Everyone wants to look their best for their wedding, but is it healthy to lose weight just for the big day? In this episode Anna is joined by Geordie Shore icon, body positivity advocate and soon-to-be-bride Vicky Pattison. Together, the pair grapple with a dilemma from a nutritionist who’s feeling conflicted: she tells her engaged clients they shouldn't lose weight just to look 'better', but now her own big day is coming up she's tempted to shed some pounds for the sake of those photos. With th

Jul 5, 2023 • 38:37

10: Anxiety in parenthood? With Suzi Ruffell

10: Anxiety in parenthood? With Suzi Ruffell

Suzi Ruffell is a professional comedian, a parent, and one of few people who has managed to turn crippling anxiety into a successful comedy show. So Anna knew she was the person to call on for this week’s dilemma, which comes from a parent who's feeling anxious about the fact they're feeling anxious.With the help of our resident psychotherapist, the wonderful Sam Pennells-Nkolo, Anna and Suzi consider whether parents should be honest with their children about their anxieties, or if they should t

Jun 28, 2023 • 37:50

9: From burn-out to dating as a doting dog-parent — An extended quick-fire round with Owen O’Kane

9: From burn-out to dating as a doting dog-parent — An extended quick-fire round with Owen O’Kane

Owen O’Kane is a best-selling author and a qualified psychotherapist. His advice is hailed by the likes of Benedict Cumberbatch, Dame Kelly Holmes, and Fearne Cotton, so Anna is keen to make the most of having him in the studio and mine him for as much advice as possible.  In order to take full advantage of Owen’s expertise, this episode runs a little differently than usual. Anna puts several listener dilemmas to Owen — ranging from bringing a partner home after coming out as gay, dating as a do

Jun 21, 2023 • 39:06

8: Partner with depression? With Evanna Lynch

8: Partner with depression? With Evanna Lynch

Actor Evanna Lynch has come a long way since she played Luna Lovegood in the Harry Potter films. In this episode she looks back on her own relationships and mental health struggles to offer advice to a listener who’s concerned her partner is depressed.Anna and Evanna are joined by our resident psychotherapist Sam Pennells-Nkolo from The London Practice, as they ask: how much responsibility do we have for our partner’s happiness? And, if they won’t get help, at what point should we just walk away

Jun 14, 2023 • 42:49

7: Finding joy after loss? With Sarah Keyworth

7: Finding joy after loss? With Sarah Keyworth

When comedian Sarah Keyworth lost their good friend Paul, they were floored by the strength of their grief. In the end, the only way to process it was to talk about the friendship in their stand-up routines, and relive the joyful, and sometimes silly, moments they enjoyed together. In this episode, Sarah reflects on their experience as they join Anna to unpack a dilemma from a listener who is grieving two important people in his life, and is struggling to move on.This episode touches on the subj

Jun 7, 2023 • 28:05

6: Envious of my stepchildren? With Kate Ferdinand

6: Envious of my stepchildren? With Kate Ferdinand

This week's dilemma is one of the rawest we've had so far, so we brought Kate Ferdinand (the queen of blended families!) into the studio for some expert support. Listen in as Anna and Kate help out a step-mum who admits that when her stepchildren are around, she resents not being her partner's 'number one'. Along the way Kate discusses being step-mum to footballer Rio Ferdinand’s kids, and shares some of the challenges she’s faced.  Anna and Kate are joined in the studio by the brilliant psychot

May 31, 2023 • 30:42

5: Sharing my fertility struggles? With Izzy Judd

5: Sharing my fertility struggles? With Izzy Judd

When Izzy Judd and her husband Harry decided to start a family, they had no idea what kind of journey lay ahead of them. They battled through miscarriage, IVF and some very dark days to get to where they are now - a happy family of five. In this week’s episode Izzy joins Anna to tackle a dilemma from a midwife who’s going through IVF. She wishes her friends and family could understand what she’s going through and stop suggesting she should ‘just adopt’ instead.Anna and Izzy are joined by Anne Br

May 24, 2023 • 39:37

4: Coming out in later life? With Dr Ranj Singh

4: Coming out in later life? With Dr Ranj Singh

Medical doctor and TV presenter Ranj Singh came out at the age of thirty after being married to a woman. In this episode he and Anna reflect on their own experiences of coming out, and unpack a dilemma from a gay woman who wants her male exes to know that their relationship was authentic.We want to thank Erene Hadjiioannou who joined Anna and Ranj for this recording. Erene is an Integrative Psychotherapist who specialises in LGBT+ matters. In the episode Erene recommends a resource called Mappin

May 17, 2023 • 34:34

3: Disability on my dating profile? With Rosie Jones

3: Disability on my dating profile? With Rosie Jones

Comedian Rosie Jones joins Anna to tackle a dilemma from a woman preparing to get back on the dating scene. Along the way Rosie opens up about her own dating history, and reveals the moving moment she realised she was worthy of love as a woman living with cerebral palsy.Anna and Rosie are joined in the studio by Jennie Williams, CEO of Enhance the UK. This charity runs The Love Lounge, an initiative that gives disabled people one-to-one advice on dating and intimacy. We want to thank Enhance the

May 10, 2023 • 36:46

2: Partner envious of success? With Scarlette Douglas

2: Partner envious of success? With Scarlette Douglas

Scarlette Douglas (I'm a Celeb 2022, A Place in the Sun) helps Anna unpack a dilemma from a woman who thinks her boyfriend resents her successful career.In this episode Scarlette offers her advice and opens up about her own experience with an ex who she felt wasn’t supportive of her dreams. Anna and Scarlette are joined in the studio by psychotherapist Sam Pennells-Nkolo from The London Practice. …Have questions about sex? Divorce? Motherhood? Menopause? Mental health? With no topic off limits,

May 3, 2023 • 31:49

1: Friends with an ex? With Mel Schilling

1: Friends with an ex? With Mel Schilling

In the first episode of this series, Anna is joined by love and relationship coach Mel Schilling to tackle dilemmas on break-ups, friends who won’t take good advice, and telling your dates you don’t want kids.You’ve probably seen Mel advising new couples on Channel 4’s Married at First Sight. But while she’s an expert, she’s had her own fair share of ups and downs in the relationship department, so she really knows what she’s talking about!…Have questions about sex? Divorce? Motherhood? Menopaus

May 3, 2023 • 36:43

Introducing: It Can't Just Be Me

Introducing: It Can't Just Be Me

Anna Richardson is primed and ready to solve that big dilemma in your life. And she’s invited some very special celebrity guests and experts to help.Have questions about sex? Divorce? Motherhood? Menopause? Mental health? With no topic off limits, Anna’s here to prove that whatever you’re going through, it’s not just you.If you have a dilemma you’d like unpacked, visit itcantjustbeme.co.uk and record a voice note. Or tell Anna all about it in an email to itcantjustbeme@podimo.comThis podcast con

Mar 30, 2023 • 1:13

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