The Convex Conversation

Best-selling author & broadcaster Tim Marshall gives context to the war in Ukraine

After 24 years as a correspondent, Foreign Affairs Editor & Diplomatic Editor at Sky News, award-winning journalist Tim Marshall has used his experiences to write best-selling books using maps of crucial regions to explain the geo-political strategies of world powers. 
Tim - who is commentating on the situation in Ukraine and writing for publications like The New Statesman - explains why he thinks this conflict is the best example in the world of geography being a determining factor.
He tells Helen there's been an outpouring of need for context in what he describes as a 'watershed moment' in our history - from both a detailed level on the ground and a bird's-eye view of why this is happening and the deep background & history to it all.

Helen meets TikTok star The Hebridean Baker on the Isle of Seil

Coinneach Macleod, who comes from a small crofting settlement on the remote island of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, reveals how he’s unexpectedly become known to millions all over the world as The Hebridean Baker.
Coinneach’s unique blend of delicious recipes & fascinating stories from the Scottish Islands, music, stunning scenery, culinary secrets from his Aunt Bellag (93) & Gaelic in his one-minute baking films has attracted more than 17 million views on TikTok.
The fact the videos went viral have led to publication of a beautiful cookery book - featuring a “wee slice” of the Hebridean life Coinneach's so proud to share - numerous TV appearances & an upcoming book tour of America.

Helen chats to actor Neil Morrissey about almost everything!

Actor Neil Morrissey was catapulted to fame in Men Behaving Badly & has been on our screens for the last four decades, in drama & comedy. 
The Good Karma Hospital star tells Helen about growing up in children's homes from the age of ten, being taken away from his parents, and how acting saved him. 
He also explains what it was like being a household name through the phone hacking years, talks about his pub, brewing his own Morrissey Blonde, new projects with broadcaster Sara Cox & Richard Osman & his love of relaxing in the middle of nowhere in France.

Helen discusses the Ukrainian refugee crisis with the founder of Indigo Volunteers

The Ukrainian refugee crisis is the fastest growing in Europe since the second world war & could last years, with more than 2 million people already abandoning their homes following Russia’s invasion.
Founder & CEO of Indigo Volunteers Holly Penalver talks about her charity’s role at the Ukranian borders, the extraordinary international response & the need for the UK to urgently issue more visas.
Holly and her teams work in the field in countries like Serbia, Bosnia & Greece long after the headlines are over, coordinating the grassroots refugee response and matching volunteers to organisations which provide vital support.
She says the current momentum for Ukraine is unlikely to be sustained therefore explains the need to pace ourselves for the mid- to long-term humanitarian crisis.
 
 

Afghan news presenter Shabnam Dawran on standing up to the Taliban

To mark International Women's day, we hear from Shabnam Dawran – a national news presenter from Afghanistan – who made headlines all over the world for standing up to the Taliban in Kabul when she was refused entry to her TV studios in the first few days of the new regime. 
 
The 26-year-old was forced to flee her home country a few months ago after being threatened at gun point & sharing her story on social media.
 
With support from Convex, Shabnam is building a new life in the UK with her younger brother and sister but dreams of returning to her family in Afghanistan in safer times & resuming her career as a national news anchor. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Melanie Sykes shares her relief at being diagnosed with autism

Broadcaster & editor-in-chief of The Frank Magazine Melanie Sykes speaks openly to Helen about her recent discovery she’s autistic & her new-found determination to speak out & help others.
 
Melanie has embraced her diagnosis at the age of 51 & says she’s looking at life through a different lens, unpicking and making sense of some of the past.
 
Melanie also talks passionately about the magazine she founded; her love of creating, interviewing, elevating & inspiring others, and a life-changing trip to India to connect with her family’s roots.  

Entrepreneur Alessandro Savelli shares the story of creating Pasta Evangelists

As a young boy, Alessandro Savelli grew up in Genoa in Italy enjoying pasta made by his grandmother. When he wanted to start a brand from scratch, he came up with the idea for Pasta Evangelists, offering hand-made fresh pasta and the ingredients for delicious sauces delivered through the letterbox.
 
Alex and his partner Finn pitched on Dragons Den two years ago for £75,000 of investment but were turned down. They humbly listened to the Dragons’ advice but continued with their plans and sold a major stake in their company last year for £40 million.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Screenwriter Allan Scott shares his 30-year journey to get The Queen’s Gambit to our screens

Netflix say The Queen's Gambit has broken all records for the most watched limited series, with 62 million households gripped by their seven-part drama. But the story behind it is just as fascinating.
 
Co-creator & executive producer Allan Scott bought the rights to the Walter Tevis book in the eighties & tells Helen the trials & tribulations behind trying to get studios interested in the story of orphaned chess prodigy Beth Harmon. Chess being the blocker. 
 
Allan, who brought us iconic films like Don’t Look Now starring Donald Sutherland & Julie Christie and the musical Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, jokes he thought he was hallucinating when he watched the first episode air from his hospital bed!
 

Helen chats to ARTAH founder & nutritional therapist Rhian Stephenson

As well-intentioned New Year’s resolutions fade & over-ambitious goals for a new body start to slip, wellness guru Rhian Stephenson explains the power of food and how to feel good & energised all year round.
 
Rhian is a nutritional therapist & naturopath who gave up her role as CEO of Psycle London to create her own wellness company, ARTAH out of her passion to help and inspire people to enjoy optimal health.
 
As a child Rhian suffered unexplained respiratory illnesses & skin conditions which were only resolved when, aged 17, a naturopath discovered she was allergic to a protein in milk.
 
 

Actor Peter Wight on his upcoming BBC drama & film Cyrano

British actor Peter Wight tells Helen about filming the upcoming BBC drama The Reckoning, based on the life of disgraced entertainer Jimmy Savile. He also chats about working with Game of Thrones star Peter Dinklage on Cyrano which is out at cinemas now.
 
Peter, who has graced our screens & performed on stage for five decades, shares stories of working with legendary film director Mike Leigh; brushing shoulders with Hollywood’s Brad Pitt & Kiera Knightley & explains what drove him as a teenager to become one of Britain’s finest theatre actors.

Film writer/director & mentor Fredi Nwaka talks about his new comedy

Fredi Nwaka’s latest film, On the Other Foot, about a white racist cabbie who find himself stuck in a black body for 72 hours is comedic as well as thought-provoking. 
 
Fredi looks back on growing up as the only black child in the seaside town of Deal in Kent; reflects on his time in a notorious London gang and explains how he draws on his experiences to mentor young offenders & gang members to help steer them away from a life of crime.
 
The award-winning writer & rapper works in schools, prisons and in America with Crips & Bloods gang members.

Simson Uri-Khob talks about his life saving black rhinos in Namibia

Simson Uri-Khob is CEO of Save the Rhino Trust Namibia & this year’s winner of Prince William's Tusk Lifetime Award for Conservation in Africa.
 
He explains why he’s dedicated his life to protecting the world’s last free-roaming black rhino population in the desert from poachers & preserving their habitat with the vital help of local communities and leading conservation charity Tusk.
 
Simson also recalls taking the Duke of Cambridge rhino tracking in Namibia’s Kunene region & their joy at finally seeing one for 30 seconds after hours of trekking!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to brand strategist & FLEX author Annie Auerbach

Annie Auerbach explains how learning to flex in our work & home lives, being rebellious & reinventing the rules, helps to create a smarter, happier life.
 
Annie is the co-founder of trends & cultural insights agency Starling and an expert in the future of work.
 
Her book on living & working on our own terms was written before the pandemic & has been critically acclaimed by the FT, Sunday Times Style, Stella & many more publications. Discover how Annie's findings can help you. 
 

Post COP26, Helen talks to California’s Secretary for Environmental Protection

Born in the UK to American parents, Jared Blumenfeld is one of America’s most innovative environmental leaders. He attended COP26 in Glasgow & gives us his take on what was achieved at the UN’s climate change summit as well as talking about the progress being made in California & the extreme weather America’s largest state is experiencing.
 
Jared believes we’ve gone beyond the precipice with climate change & that big business needs to be held more accountable for its actions. He also describes his extraordinary one-man 2,662-mile trek from Mexico to Canada, across searing deserts & rugged mountain ranges, on the stunning Pacific Crest Trail. 
 
 
 

Helen chats to master jewellery artist Sabine Roemer

Sabine knew at the age of 15 she wanted to design jewellery & work for herself. She shares fascinating stories of making a bracelet for Morgan Freeman for the Oscars; a golden corset for Angelina Jolie for the Maleficent 2 red carpet & reflects on precious time she spent with former South African President Nelson Mandela.
 
Sabine explains how she helped women in Botswana make a living, teaching them to make more sophisticated jewellery from ostrich eggshells & talks about the importance of giving back after surviving a terrifying cloud burst & devastating floods in India which destroyed entire villages & mountainsides.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Triple amputee & Pride of Britain winner Mark Ormrod MBE shares his incredible story

This year’s Pride of Britain Fundraiser of the Year & Royal Marines Veteran Mark Ormrod tells Helen how his life was devastated in a split second in the early hours of Christmas Eve 2007. He stepped on & triggered an improvised explosive device on routine foot patrol in Afghanistan. He was just 24 & lost both legs & his right arm.
 
Mark has raised more than £600,000 to help other veterans & a film is being made of his inspirational story based on his book, Man Down.
 
He shares how, with the unwavering support of friends & family, he came back from suicidal thoughts, changing his mindset to become an 11-times medal winner at the Invictus Games, a peak performance coach & motivational speaker.
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to musicologist & BBC Radio 3 broadcaster Dr Hannah French

Dr Hannah French takes Helen on a musical journey through her life as a baroque flautist, studying and tutoring at the Royal Academy of Music. She talks about her passion for Bach & the pleasure she gets helping audiences unlock the fascinating secret stories classical music holds. 
 
Hannah has Ehlers Danlos syndrome – a genetic collagen deficiency which means she dislocates easily. She explains how she copes with the chronic pain, describing it as a constant companion she’s learnt to live with, and reveals how she fights the pain to make way for her music. 
 
 
 

AVM Harv Smyth, Britain’s first Director Space, talks about building the UK’s space programme

Air Vice-Marshal Harv Smyth gives a fascinating insight into his job as as Britain’s first ever Director Space for the Ministry of Defence, responsible for building & delivering a national space programme for the UK.
A fast-jet pilot of 20 years & former leader of the combat arm of the Royal Air Force, AVM Smyth reveals he’s currently concentrating on low earth orbit, operating 63 miles above our planet and beyond.
His focus is looking back at Earth from space, using satellites & state- of-the-art technology to help with issues like climate change, agriculture, coastal erosion & to militarily protect & defend our nation.

Helen talks to meteorologist & broadcaster Clare Nasir about our climate change crisis

As Britain prepares to host the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP26, meteorologist Clare Nasir talks about the deep learning and research going on at the Met Office where she works by some of the biggest brains in climate science.
Clare says the science behind climate change has been known for decades and points out that this autumn the Nobel Prize for Physics went to two scientists for their work on the Earth's climate & reliably predicting global warming back in the sixties.
But we're now on the frontline, experiencing extreme weather, and chasing our tails. Clare stresses the need has never been more urgent to change our lifestyles and reduce our CO2 emissions. 

Helen skydives with Sgt Frank Millerick – leader of The Tigers Army Parachute Display Team

Helen free-falls at 125mph from 15,000 feet for an exhilarating sense of life as a member of The Tigers Army Parachute Display Team, in the capable hands of their leader, Sgt Frank Millerick.
 
Frank has done more than 3,000 jumps and talks about his passion for instructing hundreds of soldiers, watching them go from zero to hero, and seeing that light bulb moment. He talks openly about the challenges of life in the military and his pride at being part of the British Army’s Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment.  
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to endurance runner & mental health activist Dan Keeley

As we mark World Mental Health Day, Dan Keeley shares his battles with his own mental health in the hope his journey can help others who may feel too afraid to speak up.
 
Dan, who describes being bi-polar as both a blessing & a burden, talks about his extreme adventures including running unsupported from Rome to Home – 1,250 miles in 65 days – to raise awareness. His sights are now set on Mont Blanc’s ultra-marathon.
 
He’s just delivered his first TEDx talk on the power of speaking up when we’re suffering for which he received a resounding standing ovation.
 
TEDx photographs by Simon Finley 
 

Helen talks to former NCIS special agent & counter terrorism expert Mark Fallon

Mark Fallon spent 27 years as an NCIS special agent and was the US Deputy Assistant Director for Counterterrorism. He’s been undercover in some of the darkest corners of the world - with drug lords in Thailand buying heroin, capturing poachers in the Kenyan Bush and spent time questioning prisoners at Guantanamo Bay.
Mark says the most frightening thing of his entire career was a decision made by the US Government to “embrace torture as an instrument of national policy”. 
He talks about the rapport techniques he’s developed based on science which preserve the dignity of the process and the people on both sides of the interrogation table, resulting in more reliable information. 
Mark’s book - Unjustifiable Means, The Inside Story of How the CIA, Pentagon, and US Government Conspired to Torture – was published in 2017 but with more than 113 redactions. 
 

Helen chats to the CEO of Plastic Oceans International, Julie Andersen, in Malibu

As Britain prepares to host the United Nation's Climate Change Conference COP 26, the CEO of NGO Plastic Oceans International talks to Helen about the catastrophic situation the world is in and the serious threat to our ecosystems. 
More than 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced every year. 10 million tonnes end up in our oceans with only 10 per cent recycled. Julie explains if we don't change our sight line, it will have catastrophic results for the planet. She shares innovative stories of positive projects happening in communities around the globe and stresses the massive difference we can all make collectively towards ending plastic pollution. 

Helen chats to actors/entrepreneurs Ed Currie & Andy Coxon

West End actors Ed Currie & Andy Coxon met in 2015 rehearsing for a punishing schedule of live performances of Beautfiful: The Carole King Musical in London.
In the mele & drama of performing an intensely physical show under hot lights & high pressured conditions, theatre-life inspired them to create a natural deodorant balm which not only solved a problem for their fellow actors (!) but has been voted top in its field by Vogue. 
Ed & Andy have become unlikely yet hugely successful entrepreneurs & share their unusual story in this week’s podcast.
 

Helen chats to Dr Hilary Jones about life on breakfast TV & his debut novel

Dr Hilary has been broadcasting on breakfast shows like ITV's Good Morning Britain & Lorraine for more than 30 years, keeping his finger literally on the pulse of the nation! 
Never has he faced a more “fascinating & professionally challenging” time than throughout the pandemic.
Hilary talks about the responsibilities which come with being a TV doctor; how he helped people in one of the most remote areas of the world as a young medic & reveals the inspiration behind his epic WW1 debut novel, Frontline.
 

Anneka Rice talks stand-up comedy, art & challenges with Helen

TV presenter Anneka Rice talks about her latest project - performing stand-up comedy for BBC Radio 4 in which she goes in search of her missing Madame Tussauds waxwork head!
It's 30 years since Challenge Anneka drew TV audiences in their millions. Annie reveals she's still involved with most of the show's 60 projects, including the Romanian orphanages she drew the world's attention to.
Anneka also talks about her dad's ten year battle with Alzheimer's & how she's championing Alzheimer's Research UK.
 
 

Astronomer Mark Thompson DSc tells Helen about his 140-hour space lecture

 
Astronomer Mark Thompson DSc is preparing to deliver a 140-hour marathon lecture – a first in terms of studying extreme sleep deprivation & an attempt which will hopefully break a Guinness world record.
A familiar face from BBC1’s The One Show & Stargazing Live, Mark will be scientifically monitored as he lectures on deep space, our solar system, black holes, the fact all our body atoms were created inside stars (!) & much more.
Marks explains the results will likely have real implications, including the possible development of an algorithm to detect when people are too tired to drive. 

Helen chats to food stylist & culinary history expert Lisa Heathcote - the real-life Mrs Patmore!

Downton Abbey, Cold Mountain, Batman & Outlander are just some of the dramas & films food stylist Lisa Heathcote has worked on, cooking up screen dishes & banquets for stars like Nicole Kidman, Dawn French, Hugh Bonneville & Dame Maggie Smith.
She's currently letting her imagination run wild on the set of the new series of Bridgerton for Netflix.
Lisa worked on Downton from episode one & shares behind the scenes stories of how she not only makes the 20th century fare look the part upstairs and below stairs, but ensures it's historically accurate, edible & survives the studio lights & retakes. 
 

Singer/Songwriter Jon Allen chats to Helen about his life in music

Jon Allen was originally discovered by Mark Knopfler gigging in a small club in Shepherd’s Bush in 2006 which led to him touring in the UK & Europe with Dire Straits.
 
Jon plays alongside artists like Seal, Dionne Warwick & Damien Rice. He’s had more than 5 million downloads on Spotify, is back on the road performing tracks from his new studio album 'Meanwhile' & laughs about how the whisky-soaked “husk” he tried to lose as a teenager has paid the bills!
 
 

Helen chats to the pioneer at the cutting edge of electric aircraft design

George Bye, founder & CEO of Bye Aerospace in Colorado, has created the eFlyer – stunning & innovative all-electric aircraft designed for two, four & eight passengers which will revolutionise the skies.
A pilot himself, George tells Helen how sustainable electric flying will not only eliminate CO2 and noise, it will significantly reduce costs, making the thrill of aviation accessible to many more people. The eFlyer 2 is expected to be FAA certified by the end of next year. 
 

Sophie Ellis-Bextor share stories from her life in music & lockdown kitchen discos

Singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor reveals how feeling paralysed by a lack of creativity & inspiration during lockdown, and "with no manual for how to do this", her musician husband Richard came up with the idea for her much-loved kitchen discos. 
Sophie tells Helen how her podcast series Spinning Plates featuring inspirational mums has been one of the best projects she's taken on; talks about writing her autobiography, and the pleasure of being back on stage performing at live gigs throughout the UK.
 

Helen chats to the deputy CEO of The Diana Award

 
The Princess of Wales believed young people have the power to change the world. Alex Holmes talks about Diana’s legacy and how the only charity set up in her memory is continuing her work.
 
Alex suffered severe racial bullying as a young boy and, thanks to his award-winning efforts, there are now more than 35,000 Anti-Bullying Ambassadors in the UK & Europe. Alex sits on the board of the Gates Foundation & was the first person in the UK to receive a Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award.

The host of Jay's Virtual Pub Quiz tells Helen his story

 
Jay Flynn shares with Helen how his idea to host a virtual pub quiz for his mates in lockdown took off overnight & led to more than 180,000 households across Britain uniting.
 
Jay has broken a world record for the number of participants; is a regular on Zoe Ball’s Radio 2 breakfast show & has been joined on the quiz by Stephen Fry, Jonathan Ross & other celebrities. He’s also raised more than a £1 million pounds for charities including Connections which helped him get his life back on track when he was homeless for two years in London. 

Helen chats to the founder/conductor of the gospel choir who sang at the Royal wedding

 
Karen Gibson MBE tells Helen how life for The Kingdom Choir changed after 2 billion people watched them perform at Harry & Meghan’s wedding.  
 
The unexpected call on the 87 bus & stunning performance at St George’s Chapel, Windsor, has led to tours of the US, Australia & UK; appearances at The Hollywood Bowl, Royal Albert Hall, Invictus Games, a recording deal with Sony & to singing with legends like Barbra Streisand & Gladys Knight.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to Dr Emma Egging – Founder/CEO of the Jon Egging Trust

 
On August 20 2011, RAF Red Arrows pilot Flt Lt Jon Egging lost his life whilst completing a display at Bournemouth Air Festival. 
 
Dr Emma Egging shares the inspirational story of how she started the Jon Egging Trust ten years ago to realise her husband Jon’s dream of inspiring youngsters through his love of aviation, teamwork & leadership, empowering them to achieve without limits. 
 
JET has helped more than 30,000 young people to overcome adversity & reach their full potential and aims to help 1 million over the next decade.
 
 
 

Helen chats to Network Rail’s first Director of Diversity & Inclusion

Loraine Martins OBE has spent the last eight years gradually making positive change at Network Rail to ensure their 43,731 strong staff come from all walks of life & feel valued in their work.
 
Loraine - who played a key role in developing London’s Olympic Park - talks about growing up in London with her Jamaican parents; tells stories which reveal where her great sense of social justice comes from, and gives inspirational advice on how to make a difference in ED&I.

Helen meets the Officer Commanding of The Red Arrows at RAF Scampton

Wing Commander David Montenegro OBE - Officer Commanding of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team – chats to Helen about the Reds’ role on the world stage & the images he’ll never forget of the G7 leaders captivated by their display.
 
Monty talks about the innovative work going on with students & industry to develop a sustainable synthetic fuel mix for the iconic red, white & blue smoke; shares the thoughts that went through his mind as he made history leading the team into China & reveals the split-second decisions which saved his life when he & his synchro teammate clipped each other as they flew their Hawks towards each other at a closing speed of 800mph.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to Apothecary Amanda Saurin in a yurt in the Outer Hebrides

Back on Scotland’s beautiful Isle of Harris, Helen meets Apothecary Amanda Saurin & finds out how she creates her natural skincare range as well as botanicals for drinks companies using flowers, bark, blossom, roots, moss - everything “Mother Nature’s larder” has to offer.
Amanda - who founded the small batch distiller A.S Apothecary - is also a homeopath & distiller and drew on her knowledge of healing to play an unexpected & much appreciated role in the pandemic, helping nurses, frontline workers, care home staff & many more. 

Helen heads to the Outer Hebrides to discover the story of the Isle of Harris Distillery

 
Anderson ‘Burr’ Bakewell fell in love with the rare & elusive spirit of the beautiful, remote Isle of Harris & pondered how one could bottle the island & share it with the world.
 
Shona Macleod – one of the first members of staff at the Isle of Harris Distillery – reveals how the distillery came about with a focus on providing employment for the community & describes how that spirit is captured in Harris Gin & will be in The Hearach, their first legal dram, when it’s ready.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen meets 70 year-old Frank Rothwell who raised £1 million rowing the Atlantic solo

 
Inspired by his brother-in-law’s battle with dementia, Frank Rothwell explains why he took on the 3,000-mile Talisker Whisky Atlantic race alone, aged 70, arriving early after 56 days at sea. 
 
Frank raised more than a million pounds for Alzheimer’s Research UK & hopes it will make a difference supporting the charity's scientists in their quest to find ground-breaking ways of treating the disease many years before symptoms show. 
 
 
 
 
 

Chris Floyd shares stories about some of the artists, musicans & actors he's photographed

 
Chris Floyd takes us on a wander through his photographic archives - both film & digital - sharing stories behind the portraits he's taken of some of the world's most famous artists, musicians & actors. 
Chris's images of The Verve; David Hockney; Damian Hirst; Sir Paul McCartney; Oasis; Adrian Lester; Dame Sheila Hancock; Paul Weller; Naomi Watts; Olivia Colman; John Lee Hooker; Iggy Pop & Robert de Niro - to name but a few - have graced the covers of magazines over the last two decades. And recently Chris was invited to Kensington Palace to photograph Willliam & Kate for their tenth wedding anniversary. 
Photograph of Chris by Berit von Enoch

Helen chats to Royal commentator & journalist Katie Nicholl

Katie Nicholl gives a fascinating insight into 15 years of life as a Royal commentator & a look at what’s going on behind the Prince Harry headlines. 
 
She shares her thoughts on Harry’s latest revelations of wanting to break the cycle of “genetic pain” & explores the rift with the Princes. Katie talks about the very modern future of the Monarchy with the Duke & Duchess of Cambridge leading the way & lets us in on the amusing tack Prince William uses to make people feel at ease in his presence.

Helen chats to digital entrepreneur & diversity advocate Sarah Wood OBE

 
Sarah Wood shares the remarkable story of how she co-founded the global video advertising marketplace ‘Unruly’ with her husband knowing little about the tech world yet sold to News Corp, just nine years & a lot of hard work later for £114 million!
 
Sarah was running late on the day of the 7/7 bombings in London, narrowly missing the terrorist attacks. That moment led to her reassessing life, leaving academia behind & finding the courage to take the plunge as an entrepreneur. 

Helen chats to The Metals Company CEO & Chairman Gerard Barron

Helen discovers how polymetallic nodules lying at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean could be the answer to making more sustainable batteries to power electric vehicles.
 
The four metals needed are in abundance in the rocks. The Metals Company CEO & environmentalist Gerard Barron explains the work his scientists are doing & the benefits of extraction from the seabed over deep land mining which is destroying rain forests, causing massive CO2 emissions & displacing communities.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to Aerospace Executive Diane Simard about her "unlikely gift" of breast cancer

Diane is one of America's leading business women - a senior executive & board member at Bye Aerospace, at the cutting edge of the the design & production of the world's first all-electric aeroplanes.
She explains how writing an honest, raw account based on her journals about the trials & triumphs of breast cancer treatment has helped her heal & reveals she's found a new self & purpose on the other side.
 

Helen chats to Alastair Campbell about his battle with depression

 
Alastair Campbell – writer, strategist & famous for being former Prime Minister Tony Blair’s Director of Communications – talks openly & frankly about his long battle with depression & the techniques he’s discovered to help him cope.
 
He also reveals why, after more than four decades together, he’s finally tied the knot in a civil partnership with Fiona Millar; his life-long passion for Burnley Football Club & his love of playing the bagpipes.
 
 
 
 

Toby Foxcroft on leadership, culture change & his surprise friendship with Muhammad Ali

 
 
Toby Foxcroft coached some of the world’s top tennis stars, working alongside US tennis legend Nick Bollettieri.
In this week’s Convex Conversation, Toby explains how he uses lessons learned during his time in elite sport to mentor international business leaders.
He also shares an unexpected friendship with Muhammad Ali & talks about his involvement with the Coalition of Hope which aims to use two decommissioned aircraft carriers to help with humanitarian crises & natural disasters.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to four Royal Marines who rowed the Atlantic for very personal reasons

 
Storms with waves up to 10 metres high; extreme sleep deprivation; military rations & painful injuries – all in a day at sea for four extraordinary young Marines who spent 49 days, 19 hours & 45 minutes rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic. 
 
Afghanistan veterans Juniour Mcilhiney & Will Schweppe teamed up with serving Marines David Bruce & Sam Edwards to raised tens of thousands for The Royal Marines Charity under The Cockleshell Endeavour banner.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to Dan Parry-Williams - Director of Engineering Design at McLaren Automotive

When Dan Parry-Williams told his careers teacher he wanted to design racing cars, he was handed leaflets about banking & the legal profession. 
But, inspired by growing up listening to the "angry sound of bees" from Brands Hatch at the bottom of his garden, Dan pursued his dream & shares incredible stories of being the chief designer of McLaren's iconic & limited-production P1 as well as other impressive supercars. 

Helen chats to explorer & filmmaker Reza Pakravan FRGS

 
Reza shares some of his extreme adventures & reveals what drives him to tell untold stories – often putting his life at risk to do so - in the world’s most dangerous places.
 
Indigenous tribes whose lives & cultures have remained unchanged for centuries but whose reliance on nature is making them vulnerable in today’s modern world are often at the heart of Reza’s films as he takes viewers on extraordinary journeys.
 
Reza is a Fellow of The Royal Geographical Society.
 
Images by @simonbuxton & @nomadmark
 
 

Helen chats to BBC Click presenter Lara Lewington

As Lara celebrates ten years as a tech journalist & co-presenter of the BBC's flagship technology programme Click, she explains her passion for how innovation can change lives for the better.
 
Lara reveals the initial challenges of being 'on air' from home, the fact she's head of tech in her family life & laughs about being called Mrs MSE by her husband, Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to the founder of Horatio’s Garden, Dr Olivia Chapple

Horatio’s Garden is named after 17-year-old Horatio Chapple who dreamt of becoming a doctor. He realised there was nowhere for spinal injury patients to go to begin to come to terms with their life-changing injuries when he volunteered at an NHS unit in Salisbury. 
 
Horatio’s vision has been brought to life by his mother Olivia & his father David – a spinal surgeon – along with friends & family, after he was killed on a summer camp to Svalbard in an attack by a polar bear. 
 
This is a story of unbelievable courage & hope, borne out of the most appalling tragedy. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Natalie O'Rourke shares how people power & £1 million in donations saved Park Lane Stables

Celebrities Rob Brydon & Rory Bremner got behind an extraordinary campaign to save a RDA stables in Teddington from closure. Park Lane Stables helps disabled riders, youngsters with difficulties, able-bodied riders & basically makes riding accessible for all. 
People power & a heart warming appeal saved the day. Ten of thousands of small donations flooded in & even Her Majesty The Queen was so touched she's invited 12 people from the stables to visit her horses.
Main photo: Rebekah Morgan

Helen chats some more to impressionist Rory Bremner

 
In part two of our podcast, Rory reveals his affection & admiration for Prince Charles & HRH's keen sense of humour. 
 
He talks about his gratitude to legendary broadcaster the late Sir Terry Wogan for his first break on TV; his patronage of conservation charity Tusk including his escape from the paparazzi to Africa during his honeymoon & explains candidly how his ADHD is both friend & foe.

Helen chats to impressionist & political satirist Rory Bremner

 
In this week's podcast, Helen encounters Boris Johnson, Donald Trump, President Biden and a plethora of famous faces as she chats to impressionist Rory Bremner, well-known and well-loved for political satire.
Rory shares how recently released National Archives have revealed his spoof calls to former PM John Major's backbench rebels may have helped keep him in Downing Street & explains how he develops voices in the hope of eventually inhabiting the character he's taking off. 

Helen chats to Quiet Storm advertising Creative Director Trevor Robinson OBE

Trevor Robinson OBE is the man behind some of the UK's most successful ad campaigns. Think Haribo, Pot Noodles & You've Been Tangoed! He reminisces about growing up on a rough estate in London where riots & racism were rife & reveals how he went on to become one of the most respected talents in advertising.  
Trevor has relaunched his Create Not Hate campaign following the murder of George Floyd to champion diversity in his industry, open up opportunities & prepare teenagers for the racism they're sadly still likely to face.
 
 
 

Helen chats to Dr Maria Kempinska MBE - founder of Jongleurs Comedy Clubs

 
Maria Kempinska helped launch the careers of many of today’s top comedians including Rory Bremner, Eddie Izzard, Graham Norton & Lee Mack.
 
She gave up her own dreams of performing on stage to open her first club in 1983 where many of them got their first break. Maria shares stories of the challenges of life in comedy & how humour is a vital part in her work as a psychotherapist.
 

Helen chats to popular TV personality Nick Hewer

 
The Apprentice & Countdown star Nick Hewer talks about stepping down from C4’s popular afternoon quiz-show after a decade at the helm.
 
Nick shares surprising & amusing stories from his autobiography ‘My Alphabet – A Life From A-Z’ including working with Lord Sugar; eye watering adventures on the 12,000-km Mongol Rally in a battered Renault 4; his passion for tractors & old bangers & plans for his new best friend Molly, the Labrador pup.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to elite performance expert Ruben Tabares

 
Ruben Tabares - one of the world’s most sought-after health & wellness gurus - offers simple & achievable goals to help us all get & stay fit.
 
Ruben shares incredible stories of training former World Heavyweight Boxing champion David Haye to victory; getting Hollywood actor Jeremy Piven in shape for romantic scenes in Mr Selfridge & talks about the pleasure of working with stars like Tinie Tempah, P Diddy, Naomi Watts & Dina Asher-Smith.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to broadcaster Lorraine Kelly CBE

Lorraine Kelly talks about the privilege of broadcasting throughout the pandemic & the importance of keeping the nation's spirits up even when she felt low & anxious at times. 
 
Lorraine chats about her incredible 35 years in the industry; the major stories she’s covered; the celebrities she’s interviewed & laughs about her appearance on C4’s The Last Leg & the fallout when she named ITV's Good Morning Britain host Piers Morgan her hero.
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to Michelin starred chef Tom Kerridge

 
Chef Tom Kerridge calls for a Ministry for Hospitality to help the industry get back on its feet after the pandemic & an end to politicians calling low-paid workers "low-skilled".
 
Tom & Helen discuss their shared passion for saving Britain's pubs, subject of his latest BBC2 series, & Tom reveals how providing meals for exhausted NHS staff when his businesses like two Michelin starred The Hand and Flowers closed has led to him forming a charity cooking for the elderly & vulnerable.   
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to the inventor of the iconic Brompton Bicycle, Andrew Ritchie MBE

Andrew Ritchie MBE shares the fascinating story of how he invented the now iconic folding Brompton Bicycle 45 years ago in his bedroom overlooking London’s Brompton Oratory. 
 
Whip rounds from friends got him started & set him off on what he describes as a perilous journey at times, but which resulted in his award-winning bike being used & loved all over the world, revolutionising city travel. 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to Charlie Mayhew MBE – CEO & Founder of Tusk

 
As Tusk celebrates 30 years as one of the world’s leading conservation charities, Charlie Mayhew says having Prince William as a Royal patron from the early days has been of immense value to conservation in general & the projects Tusk supports. 
 
Charlie shares his personal story of how he started out at Lloyd's of London, fell in love with Africa after hearing stories of life in the Bush from his aunt & uncle, & explains how what started as almost a hobby has developed over the last three decades, providing protection for endangered wildlife & much needed support for communities. 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to comedy actress & entrepreneur Cleo Rocos

 
Cleo Rocos, who shot to fame starring alongside comedy legend Kenny Everett in the eighties, tells Helen about growing her award-winning tequila brand from scratch including trips to Mexico working in the fields with the jimadores on the agave harvest.
 
Cleo also reminisces about life on set with Kenny; their close friendship & secret fun times with Queen's Freddie Mercury & Princess Diana who loved to quote sketches from the BBC primetime show.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to one of the nation’s favourite actors, Neil Stuke

 
In this week’s Convex Conversation, actor & man of Kent Neil Stuke talks about his roles in everything from Silk & Dr Foster to Silent Witness, Dr Who & Game On.
 
He also shares his passion for community & saving the great British pub; his love of art, architecture & design, & reveals how an early morning cold swim in the sea off the Kent coast kick starts his day! 
 
Cover photograph by Liam Duke
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to Hilary Evans - CEO of Alzheimer’s Research UK

 
In this week’s Convex Conversation, Hilary Evans talks about the pioneering research the charity is leading to find effective treatments for Alzheimer’s. Digital fingerprints could lead to early detection and treatments years before symptoms even show.
 
Actor & supporter Samuel L Jackson speaks movingly about how he & his family have been affected by dementia & gives us an insight into the disease & how it takes hold.  
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to food & travel writer John Gregory-Smith

John takes us on a culinary journey to some of the incredible places he’s visited & the dishes he’s brought back to share in his beautiful cookery books. Middle Eastern & North African food are a favourite & John’s cooking films have inspired many on Instagram.  
 
He also talks about his experiences in Gaza for The World Food Programme which supports millions of refugees. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to Google's Crystal Eisinger

Crystal is responsible for social media for Google UK, at just 30, her contribution to the tech & media world has already been recognised in a series of awards.
Crystal shares her leadership style; the secrets to driving positive change by being 'more pirate' & reveals she's writing a book of things she wished she'd known when she started in the industry. 

Helen chats with world-renowned sculptor Helaine Blumenfeld OBE

American-born sculptor Helaine Blumenfeld gives a fascinating insight into how she creates her public sculptures - some of which are five metres high - in materials like white Italian marble & bronze.
Helaine talks about her extraordinary life from growing up in New York; studying under Russian sculptor Ossip Zadkine who after admiring her early work, expected her to be a man, to living in England with her husband & sons & working in her studio in Pietrasanta in Tuscany.
Taking Risks image with Helaine by Henryk Hetflaisz
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to actor, writer & broadcaster Adil Ray OBE

 
Adil Ray, of Good Morning Britain & Citizen Khan fame, talks about his upcoming film with Dame Judi Dench; the joys of live broadcasting on ITV & Lingo - the new word game he’s hosting.
 
Mr Khan makes a welcome appearance, as Helen & Adil explore his early days growing up in Birmingham; the surprise discovery he’s related to the Bugandan royal family & his fascination with socks! 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to #BlackLivesMatter hero Patrick Hutchinson

 
Personal trainer Patrick Hutchinson made headlines all over the world when an unforgettable photograph of him carrying a far-right protestor to safety during a Black Lives Matter demonstration in London went viral.
 
Patrick tells Helen how his life changed that day. 
 
His unexpected notoriety has given him & his friends a platform to set up UTCAI – United To Change And Inspire – aimed at overcoming injustice & prejudice, & championing equality for all.
 
#BLM protest image by Dylan Martinez, Reuters
Portraits by Chris Floyd
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to UN Patron of the Oceans Lewis Pugh

 
Endurance swimmer Lewis Pugh describes the harsh dangers & absolute beauty of swimming in a glacial river under the ice sheet in Antarctica in just his Speedos to highlight the devastating effects of climate change.
 
Lewis explains how all of our futures will be determined by the polar regions which are melting at a frightening rate. He continues to push himself to the absolute limit to encourage global leaders & policy makers to be courageous & take the urgent action that’s needed – now.
 
Photographs by Kelvin Trautman
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to Camille Waxer, CAO of Canary Wharf Group plc

Camille talks about the challenges & joys of transforming the Docklands wasteland of the early nineties into a stunning city within a city.
 
She also shares her love of art which she’s brought to the Canary Wharf estate; discusses the importance of women at senior levels; talks about the drive & determination she believes she got from her father & laughs about her well-known dislike of holidays! 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to Capt Neil Jeffers, Chief Pilot of London's Air Ambulance

 
Neil gives a fascinating insight into what it's like flying advanced trauma medics to the scene of critical incidents including stabbings, shootings & road accidents in the capital. 
London has one of the world's most complex & crowded airspaces and the aim is to take the hospital to the roadside to deliver life-saving care for patients like Yair & Victoria who we hear from in this week's Convex Conversation.
 
 

Helen chats to Radio 4 presenter the Rev Richard Coles

 
Former Communard, vicar of Finedon, co-presenter of BBC's Saturday Live, musician, writer & Twitter lover Richard Coles shares stories from his youth, his days as an accidental pop star & life as a vicar. 
 
Richard also talks about coping with grief after the unexpected loss of the love of his life and reveals he’s "standing up & facing forward". 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats to round the world yachtswoman Dee Caffari MBE

 
Dee shares remarkable stories from her six circumnavigations of the globe. She earned a place in the record books & an MBE for being the first woman to go solo the ‘wrong’ way, against prevailing winds & currents, inspired by Sir Chay Blyth. 
 
Dee talks frankly about life alone in some of the most hostile waters & conditions; learning to live with herself 24/7; the beauty & power of nature; devastating plastic pollution & the leadership skills she’s developed as a skipper. 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Helen chats with the co-founder of Benugo, Ben Warner

 
Ben shares his extraordinary business journey. He started out selling sandwiches & opened his first café more than 20 years ago with his brother Hugo, hence the name ‘Benugo’.  
He talks to Helen about the ups & downs of growing his business into a £100-million-pound empire, the challenges of being in some of Britain’s most prestigious museums & galleries including the V&A, & the importance of Benugo culture. 
 

Interview with SAS : Who Dares Wins star Ollie Ollerton

 
 
Helen chats with former UK Special Forces operative Ollie Ollerton from Channel Four's reality show SAS : Who Dares Wins.
Ollie talks frankly about the battles he's been determined to overcome, including a vicious & traumatic attack when he was a young boy & shares how he uses his own extreme personal & military experiences to help others turn their lives around through his organisation, Break-Point. 

Interview with TV Presenter Gethin Jones

 
Helen chats to Gethin Jones about his time on Celebrity MasterChef 2020 including his surprise departure at the final stages.
 
Gethin also talks about presenting on The One Show & Radio 2, his Blue Peter audition & the autism foundation he’s set up inspired by his nephew. And he attempts to teach Helen some Welsh! 
 

Interview with broadcaster Penny Smith

 
Presenter & journalist Penny Smith chats about her career in live broadcasting, her passion for opera & theatre, and shares the five things she can’t live without!
 
She also reveals the terrifying moment she found herself on the wrong end of a submachine gun and feared her time was up. 
 

Interview with Syrian refugee Eid Aljazairli

 
Helen meets refugee Eid Aljazairli & hears about his extraordinary escape from war torn Syria at the hands of smugglers & the moment he feared he would drown at sea when the small wooden boat he was in collapsed.
Despite being a non-swimmer when he left his family in Damascus, Eid is now training for Tokyo 2021 where he hopes to compete as a swimmer for the Olympic Refugee Team & is a financial intern at Convex.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Interview with actress Amanda Redman

One of Britain’s favourite actors Amanda Redman chats to Helen about how the devastating burns accident she had as a child inspired her to come up with a new plotline for ITV drama The Good Karma Hospital; reminisces about happy times on the set of New Tricks with Dennis Waterman, Alun Armstrong & James Bolam & shares her passion for her drama school. 
 

Interview with British personality Gyles Brandreth

 
Gyles shares with Helen everything from his friendships with Dame Judi Dench and Mrs Thatcher to his relationship with the Royal family.
 
He keeps his synapses supple by reciting poetry & talks about the podcast series he does with Countdown’s etymologist Susie Dent on their shared passion for words.
 

Interview with BBC Horrible Histories' Chief Nerd Greg Jenner

 
 
Greg Jenner, of Horrible Histories & You’re Dead to Me, shares how his childhood interest in toy knights & Tony Robinson’s sitcom Maid Marian and her Merry Men may have contributed to him becoming a public historian.
 
We explore the history of celebrity, discuss why comedy & history work so well together, and find out about Greg’s mission to inspire those who don’t think history is their thing to find a love for it.
 
 
 

Interview with Barnardo's CEO Javed Khan

 
Barnardo’s CEO Javed Khan talks about the devastating effect COVID has had on Britain’s vulnerable youngsters & the crippling drop in funds now faced by Britain’s leading children’s charity as a result of lockdown.
 
He warns the current children’s mental health crisis could become a catastrophe; shares his thoughts on #BlackLivesMatter & his personal experiences of racism growing up in the seventies in inner city Birmingham. He speaks about the privilege of leading Barnardo's & how his job as CEO doesn’t feel like work.
 
 

Interview with Countdown’s etymologist Susie Dent

C4 Countdown’s Susie Dent reveals how a shy lexicologist from Oxford first ended up on our screens more than 25 years ago.
She confesses to a fascination for the hot topic of swearing, shares her favourite & least favourite words and reveals the fun behind Eight of Ten Cats & recording her new podcast, Something Rhymes with Purple, with Gyles Brandreth in her kitchen.

Interview with mountaineer Sir Chris Bonington

Sir Chris Bonington has lived life on the edge. In The Convex Conversation, he talks to Helen Fospero about the draw of the beauty of the mountains, his desire to push himself to the limit on expeditions and the attraction to the risks involved. 
 
Chris describes his emotional ascent to the summit of Everest; takes us on a journey to the north face of the Eiger and gives an insight into the shy young boy from Hampstead whose life became defined by his passion for climbing. 
© Chris Bonington Picture Library
Photo by Jim Fotheringham © Chris Bonington Picture Library
 
 
Chris & Pertemba after summiting Everest 1985  © Chris Bonington Picture Library
Chris & mum  © Chris Bonington Picture Library
Chris & Wendy's wedding day 1962   © Chris Bonington Picture Library
Chris & Loreto by Paul Ross © Chris Bonington Picture Library
Chris & Ang Lhakpa on the summit of Everest 1985  © Chris Bonington Picture Library
 

Interview with Anna Jones, Co-Founder of AllBright

 
Entrepreneur Anna Jones tells us why she quit her job as CEO of a top publishing house to set up a members’ club aimed at championing women in business, networking and developing their careers.
 
A chance meeting at a party led to the formation of AllBright in the UK and in the States. 
 
The name was inspired by former US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright who famously said: “There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women.”
 

Interview with music legend Bob Harris

Music legend Bob Harris joins us from his studio ‘Under The Apple Tree’.
 
He reminisces about happy times with John Lennon in New York, being on tour with Queen in Vegas, and friendships with Robert Plant, Marc Bolan, Sir Elton John & Sir Alex Ferguson. 
 
He also reveals how doctors saved his distinctive voice, loved by millions, during life-saving treatment for an aortic tear.
 
And Whispering Bob shares favourite tracks from The Shires and Elles Bailey. 

Interview with blind entrepreneur & adventurer Amar Latif

Blind entrepreneur and TV presenter Amar Latif talks about his life and how blindness has helped him see the world. 
 
Amar’s passion for travel has taken him to more than 100 countries. He’s clocked up half a million miles including trekking through inhospitable jungles & shark infested waters in Nicaragua, and reaching the summit of North Africa’s highest peak, Mount Toubkal. 
 
He set up the world’s first tour operator for blind and sighted travellers. 
 

Interview with Stephen Catlin, CEO & Chairman of Convex

Convex CEO & Chairman Stephen Catlin gives a personal insight into his life as an insurance underwriter & entrepreneur. 
He shares stories from his childhood; his youth in the seventies; becoming a ‘scratch boy’ for Lloyd’s of London despite his mum’s misgivings about his suitability for an office job; his passion for the great outdoors, and his excitement at starting all over again with a blank sheet of paper & long-term investment at Convex. 
 
 
 
 

Interview with paralysed motivational speaker Claire Lomas MBE

When Claire Lomas was paralysed in a riding accident, she remembers thinking in her darkest days how dull life would be. In our Convex Conversation she reveals how wrong she was. Claire talks about the extraordinary challenges she’s taken on, not least of them becoming a mum against the odds. She’s raised more than three quarters of a million pounds for spinal research, including for The Nicholls’ Spinal Injury Foundation. She races motorbikes; skis; walks marathons in a bionic suit & is learning to fly.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Interview with Squadron Leader Martin Pert of The Red Arrows

In our debut Convex Conversation, Perty reveals the challenges of being Red One; the extraordinary trust that exists between the pilots & engineers; a close shave on frontline duties in Afghanistan and why The Queen has a photo of him in her handbag! 
I hope you enjoy our podcast – we'd love you to share Red One’s story with friends and family.
 
 
 
 
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