Young Again

Kirsty Young talks to the author Philip Pullman about what he’s learned from his life so far. Pullman is the acclaimed novelist behind global bestsellers like His Dark Materials. He recounts the story of his own childhood, how he still contemplates the mystery of his father’s death, and why he owes his literary success to hard work.

If you could have a conversation with your younger self, what would you tell them? In Young Again Kirsty takes her guests back to the pivotal moments in their lives. Reflecting on what they wish they’d known at the time, and what they’ve learned along the way, she discovers the honest – and surprising – advice they’d give their younger selves.

Producer: Sam Peach Content Editor: Richard Hooper Executive Editor: Alice Feinstein Senior Technical Producer: Duncan Hannant Presenter: Kirsty Young

A BBC Audio Production

Kirsty Young asks the comedian Sara Pascoe what advice she would give her younger self.

Pascoe found fame soon after moving from acting to stand up comedy in 2007. She has since packed out national tours, starred panel shows and sitcoms, and written three books including her acclaimed recent novel, Weirdo. She discusses drinking on stage, declaring bankruptcy, her first gig in front of just 12 people, becoming a mum in her forties and her continuing passion for performing stand up.

A BBC Studios Audio production.

Namulanta Kombo and parents build a “handbook to life”. Sharing your parenting advice, personal stories, and letters to your daughters. What will you tell your children?

Kirsty Young talks to comedian and actor Steve Coogan about what he's learned from his life so far. He describes his evolution from impressionist and stand-up comedian to award-winning actor, and reflects on how fame offered him a hedonistic lifestyle that quickly caught the attention of the tabloid press. What advice would he give his younger self? Steve talks candidly to Kirsty about class, recovery and sharing a parallel life with his alter-ego Alan Partridge.

Producer: Laura Northedge Content Editor: Richard Hooper Editor: Alice Feinstein Senior Technical Producer: Duncan Hannant Presenter: Kirsty Young

A BBC Audio Production

Kirsty Young talks to actor and producer Jada Pinkett Smith about the lessons she has learned from her life so far. Jada explains the impact of her parents’ drug addiction and her early experiences of Baltimore street life on her mental health and subsequent relationships. She reflects on her marriage to actor Will Smith and why she has chosen to go public about her private life. Would she do it all again? Jada talks to Kirsty about her extraordinary life.

Producer: Laura Northedge Content Editor: Richard Hooper Editor: Alice Feinstein Senior Technical Producer: Bob Nettles Presenter: Kirsty Young

A BBC Audio Production