Listen ad-free

Great Company with Jamie Laing

Jampot Productions

No gimmicks; just Great Company.


Join Jamie every Wednesday as he's joined by great guests for great conversation: it's GREAT COMPANY


A JamPot Original Podcast


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

read less
ComedyComedy
BusinessBusiness
Society & CultureSociety & Culture
Comedy InterviewsComedy Interviews
EntrepreneurshipEntrepreneurship
Personal JournalsPersonal Journals

Episodes

PROF TIM SPECTOR: 60% OF THE UK’S DIET IS ULTRA PROCESSED
Yesterday
PROF TIM SPECTOR: 60% OF THE UK’S DIET IS ULTRA PROCESSED
It’s the new year, a new series and I’m thinking about making good intentions for 2025 so who better to kick off the year with than Professor Tim Spector - founder of Zoe and leading voice in nutrition to talk to me all about the link between our gut and mental health, his opinion on Ozempic and how eating better really can change our quality of life.Having received an OBE for his research in the health sector, Tim is a real voice of authority when it comes to the gut microbiome. In this episode, he breaks down the gut-brain connection, explaining how changes to your diet can decrease levels of anxiety and depression, and shares insights from research which potentially show how cohabiting with someone can mean sharing microbes - and even feelings. We also talk about fad-diets, the rise of Ultra Processed Foods and how coffee is actually a health drink!This conversation reminded me it’s never too late to make the change towards healthier habits and how diet is deeply personal - the key is understand what works for your bodyTo hear more from Tim you can listen to the ZOE podcast here: https://link.chtbl.com/ZgzDXRVSAnd if you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have a wealth of fab guests and even more to come - you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcast and if you'd like to get in touch, you can email us at greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiVideo: Ryley KirbySocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
JAMIE LAING: I HAVE A FEAR OF BEING FORGOTTEN
01-01-2025
JAMIE LAING: I HAVE A FEAR OF BEING FORGOTTEN
Happy New Year! To celebrate the end of Great Company’s first chapter after 40 episodes we’re treating you to something special. For this bonus episode, the tables are turned, and I’m in the hot seat! Producer Jemima, who’s been there through it all, takes the reins to interview me!I open up about my time on Made in Chelsea, sharing how it shaped me, strained relationships, and led to social anxiety that pushed me to rely on alcohol as a crutch. We also tackle the topic of babies - a big step I’m finally ready for after years of fearing the permanence and responsibility of parenthood. And finally, I reflect on my deep desire to be liked and that need to be remembered, rather than forgotten, which has motivated me to keep pushing forward.This episode was a bit out of my comfort zone but it’s a reminder that sometimes, you just have to dive in and see where it takes you.And thank you for listening to the show - whether you've been here from the beginning or it's a recent find, I really appreciate every single listen so thank you! If you enjoyed it, please follow - it makes such a difference!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcast and if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake Ji & Ryley KirbySocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
ROB BRYDON: I CRIED FILMING THE GAVIN AND STACEY FINALE
23-12-2024
ROB BRYDON: I CRIED FILMING THE GAVIN AND STACEY FINALE
Surprise - it’s a Monday release! Christmas can get a bit hectic but we wanted to make sure you still had your weekly dose of Great Company - just like the December payday, we’re a little early…What really happened on the fishing trip? It’s the question Rob Brydon—beloved Uncle Bryn in Gavin and Stacey—gets asked a lot, and with their Christmas special just around the corner, I couldn’t wait to have him on the show to ask myself….Rob Brydon is a stalwart of British television, from hosting panel show, Would I Lie to You to starring alongside Steve Coogan in The Trip, the journey there was filled with hurdles and a healthy does of rejection, but Rob’s determination combined with undeniable natural talent to entertain meant he was always destined for our screens. He also reflected on his six unforgettable seconds as Sugar Daddy Ken in the Barbie movie and revealed a hilarious distaste for vapes!This conversation is with a born entertainer and I was thoroughly entertained!If you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcast and if you'd like to get in touch, you can email us at greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiVideo: Ryley KirbySocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
SHIRLEY BALLAS: THE STRICTLY CURSE COULD HAPPEN ANYWHERE
11-12-2024
SHIRLEY BALLAS: THE STRICTLY CURSE COULD HAPPEN ANYWHERE
Shirley Ballas is a powerhouse: she’s the only woman in history to win the British Open to the World Professional Latin Championships with two different partners, reaching the final an incredible 17 times, and now the head judge on Strictly Come Dancing. I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Shirley during my time on Strictly, and I’ve always been struck by how truly fascinating her story is so I’m so pleased to have her on the show this week…Shirley’s journey began on a housing estate in Northern England, where she grew up with her single mother and older brother, learning resilience early. By seven, she was traveling hours by bus and train to pursue her passion, supported by her hardworking mother, who remains her greatest inspiration. Along the way, Shirley has faced heartbreak, losing her brother to suicide—a tragedy that fuels her advocacy for mental health charities like CALM. She’s also navigated the complexities of love, with engagements as young as 15 and two marriages that taught her as much about herself as they did about relationships. She also opens up for the first time publicly about her relationship with her father, who she recently lost.This conversation explores Shirley’s rollercoaster life, her resilience, and her unyielding passion for dance. Behind the glamour lies a woman who’s faced intense scrutiny, reminding us of the importance of truly listening to the stories behind the spotlight.If you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!And don't miss the Strictly Christmas Special on BBC One on Christmas day!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcast and if you'd like to get in touch, you can email us at greatcompany@jampotproducitions.co.uk--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiSocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
ALIX EARLE: I CLOSED MYSELF TO LOVE FOR A LONG TIME
04-12-2024
ALIX EARLE: I CLOSED MYSELF TO LOVE FOR A LONG TIME
Skyrocketing to fame on TikTok in 2020, amassing millions of followers and securing the number eight spot on Rolling Stone’s 2024 list of the most influential creators, Alix Earle is a force to be reckoned with. She’s also been on my dream guest-list for a long time, so while I was in LA I was delighted to sit down with her…We began by connecting over our shared experiences with anxiety. Alix opened up about her first terrifying panic attack, which landed her in the hospital, and how she’s learned to navigate her mental health since. She also reflected on the challenges of rebuilding trust and embracing vulnerability after being cheated on—a journey that recently led to her celebrating one year with her boyfriend. And drawing from her own experiences, Alix offered her advice on dealing with loneliness and heartbreak.This conversation was a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and an inspiring testament to staying authentic and grounded through it all.If you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcast and if you'd like to get in touch, you can email us at greatcompany@jampotproducitions.co.uk--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiVideo: Lizzie McCarthySocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
JAMES WATT: THE TYPO THAT COST ME £50-MILLION
27-11-2024
JAMES WATT: THE TYPO THAT COST ME £50-MILLION
James Watt - or the BrewDog guy - is a guest I’ve wanted on the show for a while as, with these podcasts, I’m always curious to find out who the person is behind the name… So who is James Watt? For me, he’s an impressive business head, for some he’s a guy who sells great beer, others will know him from controversies surrounding the running of the business, but I think if I were to ask him, he’s say he’s still a North Sea fisherman at heart.In order to answer this question, I reached out to an old friend from my MIC days, who also happens to be James’ fiancé, Georgia Toffolo (Toff to me) to kick off the interview. Although his story is shaped by a tough upbringing - dogged with a speech impediment, crippling shyness and a strained relationship with his mother - these early challenges became the foundation of his resilience and relentless drive, shaping who he is today.We chat through the immense risks he took to build BrewDog, taking it to the dizzying heights of success, at its peak valued at $1.8billion, and how the profound impact of losing his father has shifted his outlook on what is important, and how time is the most valuable asset we all have.This conversation reminded me of the importance to make space to understand each other and the different parts that make us who we areIf you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcast and if you'd like to get in touch, you can email us at greatcompany@jampotproducitions.co.uk--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiVideo: Lizzie McCarthySocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
LL COOL J: BECOMING THE GOAT
20-11-2024
LL COOL J: BECOMING THE GOAT
If you want to talk about OGs, you can’t get much better than LL Cool J; one of the earliest rappers to achieve commercial success, he’s gone on to star in movies, tv and after 11 years, he’s finally released another album and I was lucky enough to chat to him for today’s episode - what an insane honour.From a young age, LL Cool J knew music was his calling, but his journey to success was far from easy. At just four years old, he witnessed his father shoot his mother - an experience that shaped him, taught him resilience and maintaining a sense of calm in a storm. Despite the heights of his success and fame, LL confesses to being a bit of a bookworm and introvert - surprising considering how infectious his energy is and open his heart - he talks to me about the importance of chosen family and generosity, revealing that he gives 10% of all his earnings to the church.This was a conversation I won’t forget in a hurry - to speak to an icon, who’s life has been so different from mine, but to find connection, to laugh, to be made to think - it’s what unites us all.If you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcastAs I mentioned, LL's released his first music in 11 years - here's a link to the new album, The Force: shopuk.llcoolj.com--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiSocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
RIZZLE KICKS: MY ANXIETY PARALYSED ME
13-11-2024
RIZZLE KICKS: MY ANXIETY PARALYSED ME
After reaching the heights of success so quickly, it all came crumbling down for Rizzle Kicks when Harley’s anxiety left him incapable of performing. In an attempt to help him, Jordan realised he too had demons to conquer. Now, almost ten years later, Rizzle Kicks are back! - and I was lucky enough to chat to them about the journey from then to now…Known as the quiet one, Harley opens up for the first time in a public space about his battles with his mental health, his OCD and how he found a way out of the dark space he was in that led to the break in the music. Jordan also discusses his journey from that time, and how, in retrospect, he can see how their instant success warped their sense of achievement. We also discuss the value of role models and finding motivation from a place of peace.Harley and Jordan are such a wonderful example of friendship and the conversation was so honest and vulnerable - it reminded me of the important of sharing our experiences with one anotherRizzle Kicks have got a new album - you can find it here: rizzlekicks.tmstor.es/?lf=9c019ff825d8443192ddfe6e7be79e66And Jordan's book you can find here: www.amazon.co.uk/Avoidance-Drugs-Heartbreak-Jordan-Stephens-ebook/dp/B0CTMNQXP6If you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcast--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiSocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
EMILY ATACK: I'VE ONLY ENJOYED SEX A HANDFUL OF TIMES
06-11-2024
EMILY ATACK: I'VE ONLY ENJOYED SEX A HANDFUL OF TIMES
From her breakout role as Charlotte in The Inbetweeners and gracing the covers of lads’ mags, Emily Atack always knew she’d be famous but the level of attention that came with it wasn’t quite what she’d bargained for, especially when that attention has gotten nasty.Emily and I have been friends for some time but this is the first time I’ve seen her since becoming a mum so it was fantastic having the chance to chat to her about her career and how having a child has changed her world view. We chatted about her experience with the press and the toxic language we use around weight and women in the public eye. We also discussed her advocacy around the changing the laws of sexual consent and how she envisions a future where her son grows up in a world that respects and values women.A conversation with Emily will always be filled with laughter, but she also articulates so well the experience of being a woman in the public eye. Our conversation left me feeling just how much more men need to introspect—and ultimately step up.If you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcast or email us at greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukIf you'd like to see Emily in her new show, Rivals, head to Disney+--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiSocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
JON SOPEL: WHAT IT’S LIKE TO FLY WITH A PRESIDENT
30-10-2024
JON SOPEL: WHAT IT’S LIKE TO FLY WITH A PRESIDENT
Former BBC North America Editor, Jon Sopel spent eight years in Washington, D.C. covering the Obama administration, to Trump, and far too many mass shootings. He now hosts The News Agents podcast and I must admit, I was a little nervous to speak to Jon, as he’s such an experienced broadcaster and commentator, but the conversation was fantastic - he was warm, insightful and a great guide through some complex topics.We discussed the gun crisis in the states where there are, on average, 700x more deaths by guns than here in the UK. Jon shared the surprising truth of what it’s like to travel inside Air Force One with the president, and what it feels like to be reporting on the front line in a war zone. We chat about the changing cultural landscape in the UK, and the need for open-mindedness between sides. And of course, we briefly talk about the upcoming American election and what it was really like in Washington on 6th January with the attack on the US Capitol.This conversation highlights the threat of misinformation and importance of seeking truth in our newsIf you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcast or email us at greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukAnd if you want to read Jon's latest book, Strangeland: How Britain Stopped Making Sense: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Strangeland-Britain-Stopped-Making-Sense/dp/1529938406--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiSocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
MUNYA CHAWAWA: TRUMP IS FALLING OUT OF A DICTATOR'S HANDBOOK
22-10-2024
MUNYA CHAWAWA: TRUMP IS FALLING OUT OF A DICTATOR'S HANDBOOK
The news can be pretty overwhelming at times and the politics of it all can be confusing too but there are people who make it understandable and possible to engage with; Munya Chawawa’s satire is smart, it’s funny and it gets people talking. He, himself is smart and funny and I was keen to get him talking - he’s a guest I’ve been eager to speak to for a while so was delighted when he came into the studio to chat!At the start of his career, Munya was told he needed 30K followers be taken seriously, so he made it his mission to do that, putting out video after video, and accrued millions of followers along the way. He never set out to become a social media sensation but its influence on his career is notable, leaving him with a sense of imposter syndrome in spaces he absolutely belongs. Growing up in Zimbabwe, Munya’s drive to do well is something that came into conflict on arriving in the UK where he was branded a ‘boffin’ for wanting to achieve. Munya also opens up about the men who shaped him and his determination to break the emotional stoicism passed down from his father.This conversation is a good example of how humour can help us tackle difficult topics and open our minds.If you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcast or email us at greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukAnd if you like Munya and want more of him, you can find him on @munyachawawa on IG and TT, and his show, 'How To Survive A Dictator' is here: www.channel4.com/programmes/how-to-survive-a-dictator--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiSocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
PROF. SARAH BERRY: MENOPAUSE CAUSES 10% OF WOMEN TO LEAVE THEIR JOBS
15-10-2024
PROF. SARAH BERRY: MENOPAUSE CAUSES 10% OF WOMEN TO LEAVE THEIR JOBS
From increased risks of chronic diseases to sleepless nights and even leaving workplace, menopause can have a profound impact on women's lives —but what exactly is it? I’ll admit, I was embarrassed by how little I knew, despite knowing the word. That’s why I’m delighted to have leading expert and Chief Scientist at ZOE, Professor Sarah Berry, joining me for this special expert episode.Professor Berry breaks down the truth about HRT, debunking common myths and shedding light on the surprising symptoms women experience during menopause. She also shares her groundbreaking research on how diet can help manage these symptoms, and even answers a personal question from my mum about her own menopause journey and how it affected her.This is an essential conversation for everyone—men and women alike—packed with insights that will help break the silence around menopause and provide better support for women navigating this stage of life.If you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcastAnd if you want to know more about Zoe's Menoscale Calculator, you can find it here: zoe.com/menoscale--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiSocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
SIMON GUNNING: SUICIDE IS THE BIGGEST KILLER OF PEOPLE UNDER 30
01-10-2024
SIMON GUNNING: SUICIDE IS THE BIGGEST KILLER OF PEOPLE UNDER 30
‘How are you?’ - a question we don't ask enough, but one Simon Gunning wants us to ask more often. Ahead of World Mental Health Day, I’m joined by Simon, CEO of CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), a charity dedicated to suicide prevention, raising awareness, and offering practical support. As an ambassador for CALM and someone who has had struggles with anxiety myself, this conversation means a lot to me, and one that is important to share.TW - this conversation contains discussion of suicide which some listeners might find distressing.There are some staggering stats about death by suicide in recent years and yet it’s still such a difficult thing to talk about but charities like CALM are breaking down barriers and really shining light into a topic which can sometimes feel intolerably dark. Simon and I reflect on our relationships with our fathers, how a handshake was his only physical connection with his dad, and why these generational silences shape men’s aptitudes of emotion.This episode is about why leaning into the uncomfortable can be life changing - or indeed, saving.If you, or anyone you know is affected by anything in today’s episode, you can speak to Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) in confidence. Find out more about CALM's helpline, tools and resources at thecalmzone.netOne of the ways to support CALM's life-saving work is through the latest Omaze Million Pound House Draw - offering the chance to win a luxurious home in Devon worth over £2,000,000 - plus £250,000 in cash - with paid entries starting from £10. Draw entries are available now at @omazeuk.The Draw closes at midnight on Sunday 27th October.Link: https://goto.omaze.co.uk/3N1t8oJIf you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcast--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake JiSocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
ALAIN DE BOTTON: WE LOOK FOR FAMILIARITY NOT HAPPINESS IN RELATIONSHIPS
17-09-2024
ALAIN DE BOTTON: WE LOOK FOR FAMILIARITY NOT HAPPINESS IN RELATIONSHIPS
Alain de Botton views the world in a way that is profound yet easy to understand; a modern-day philosopher and essayist, he set up the School of Life, which explores self-understanding and aims to educate people on the aspects of life we don’t get taught at school - like relationships, careers, anxiety, ageing and so much more. I had the honour of sitting down with Alain to chat, and am so pleased it was recorded as I’ll be listening back to this episode aplenty.What is love? How do we navigate heartbreak? Why is our childhood so informant on the rest of our lives? How do we sit with ourselves? And while we’re at it - what actually is the meaning of life? Alain talks me through why we experience the ‘ick’, the emotional burdens parents project onto their children, and how breakdowns can be breakthroughs. He also helps me understand better my own relationship, examining how attachment styles and past experiences can shape the way we love.This conversation is rich in kindness and full of appreciation for the complexities of being a human. If you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @greatcompanypodcastAnd if you want to read Alain's latest book, A Therapeutic Journey: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Therapeutic-Journey-Lessons-School-Life/dp/0241642558--THE CREDITSExec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake Ji and Ryley KirbySocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
NICOLE VIGNOLA: ADHD AND ITS HIDDEN LINK TO DEPRESSION
27-08-2024
NICOLE VIGNOLA: ADHD AND ITS HIDDEN LINK TO DEPRESSION
What is ADHD? Are you born with it? How can it affect your life and the people around you? Nicole Vignola, neuroscientist and ADHD expert joins me for an expert special episode of Great Company to talk all things ADHD.Branded as a naughty child, with difficulty regulating emotions and concentrating, I was diagnosed with ADHD while at school, and later in life struggled with chasing thrills which left me feeling empty. With Nicole, I ask all the questions I've ever wanted answered about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and discover the reason behind the rise in adult diagnoses. Nicole also shares with me what’s happening in our brains when we fall in love, or go through a break up, and how we can help ourselves when we’re in a cycle of overthinking.This episode is a fascinating listen for anyone who’s ever felt they’re wired a little differently…And if you want more of Nicole, you can find her on IG: @nicolesneuroscience or grab a copy of her latest book, Rewire here: https://www.waterstones.com/book/rewire/nicole-vignola/9780241661833#:~:text=CHANGE%20YOUR%20MIND%20TO%20CHANGE,to%20achieve%20peak%20mental%20wellbeingIf you enjoyed this episode, please click follow - we have so many great guests like this one, you won't want to miss out!You can also follow us on:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/greatcompanypodcast/TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@greatcompanypodcast—THE CREDITS:Exec Producer: Jemima RathboneAssistant Producer: Gurlina HeerVideo: Jake Ji & Ryley KirbySocial Media: Laura CoughlanThis is a JamPot Original podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.