Poorna Bell: "Women want more, not more to do!" How to put yourself first

Poorna Bell: "Women want more, not more to do!" How to put yourself first

Author: Fearne Cotton February 23, 2026 Duration: 1:04:20

What more do you want from life? What more do you want for yourself? Award-winning journalist and author Poorna Bell reckons it’s time to start really asking ourselves these questions.


In this chat with Fearne, Poorna explains why it’s important to aim for goals you set for yourself, not the ones set by society. They talk about why challenging the narrative that women become invisible as they age is so important, and why we should be turning to elders for life wisdom.


Poorna also reflects on what she wishes she’d known about marriage before her wedding, and how we can all strengthen our relationships with our parents and children.

Poorna’s book, She Wanted More, is out now.


If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:


Poorna’s first Happy Place episode


Ashley James


Paloma Faith


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In a world that often feels loud and demanding, Happy Place offers a different kind of conversation. Here, Fearne Cotton sits down with a wide range of fascinating people-from artists and athletes to experts and everyday heroes-to explore the nuanced realities of human experience. These discussions gently peel back the layers on topics like mental resilience, physical well-being, cultural shifts, and the complexities of our relationships, moving far beyond simple soundbites. The core of this podcast lies in its authentic curiosity about how individuals navigate life's inevitable highs and lows. Rather than prescribing a single path to joy, each episode uncovers personal definitions of contentment and peace, often found in unexpected moments or hard-won perspectives. Listening feels like being part of a thoughtful, intimate dialogue where vulnerability is welcomed and stories are shared without pretense. Whether the conversation touches on overcoming loss, finding creative inspiration, or building a healthier society, Fearne guides it with empathy and a genuine desire to understand. This collection of interviews provides a quiet space for reflection, reminding us that happiness is not a constant state but a deeply personal and evolving journey. Tune in for a sincere exploration of what it means to live fully across all facets of life.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Happy Place
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