Rachel Johnson's Difficult Women

Available Episodes

5 of 194

182. Polly Toynbee
Rachel sits down with Polly Toynbee, one of The Guardian’s most respected columnists, for a wide-ranging conversation about politics, society, and the role of the press. Rachel draws out Toynbee’s reflections on her decades at the heart of political journalism, exploring how her upbringing, values, and career have shaped her perspective. Toynbee speaks candidly about inequality, social mobility, and the challenges facing modern Britain, while offering a sharp critique of those in power.
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Helen Whately MP
Rachel sits down with Helen Whately MP, Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary. They explore the challenges facing the NHS and social care sector, delve into the realities of policy-making, and discuss Helen’s journey through politics - from balancing motherhood with ministerial duties to navigating turbulent times in Westminster. A must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of politics, leadership, and social impact in today’s Britain.
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Sophia Money-Coutts
In this lively and entertaining episode, Rachel Johnson sits down with author and journalist Sophia Money-Coutts for a sharp, funny, and refreshingly honest conversation. The two discuss Sophia’s transition from Tatler columnist to bestselling novelist, her hilarious takes on modern romance, and what it’s really like growing up among Britain’s aristocracy. With her trademark wit, Rachel draws out stories of dating mishaps, social faux pas, and the inspiration behind Sophia’s hit books. WARNING: This episode contains strong language.
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Emma Forrest
In this intimate episode, Rachel sits down with acclaimed author Emma Forrest for a candid conversation about the turning points that shaped her life. Emma reflects on the moment Nigella Lawson gave her a crucial early break, the raw challenges of becoming a mother, and her ongoing battle with mental health. She also opens up about her emotionally charged and complex relationship with actor Colin Farrell. With honesty and depth, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the resilience behind Emma’s creative spirit and the personal stories that have defined her journey as a writer and woman. WARNING: This episode contents discussion of self-harm.
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Sharon Gaffka: from Love Island to the Lobby.
Sharon Gaffka shot to fame on Love Island, but she’s since traded villa drama for real-world impact. A former civil servant turned fierce activist, Sharon now champions women’s rights, digital safety, and diversity in public life. Whether she’s taking on online abuse or advocating for change in Parliament, she’s using her platform to make waves far beyond reality TV. Smart, driven, and refreshingly outspoken, Sharon’s journey is anything but ordinary.
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About Rachel Johnson's Difficult Women

Well-behaved women rarely make history – as someone once said – difficult women do. In this new LBC new podcast, Rachel Johnson's Difficult Women, Rachel will be talking to women who had to be a pain in the backside to get where they are today. Women who take the word difficult as a compliment not an insult. And women who had to fight, resist, insist, or otherwise be badly behaved in order to get things done. Listen and subscribe on Global Player, or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Rachel on Twitter: @RachelSJohnson For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: [email protected]

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