BBC Radio Podcasts from In the Psychiatrist's Chair

In the Psychiatrist's Chair

Sir Peter Hall

The acclaimed theatre director tells Dr Anthony Clare of the impact of shyness on his life

Martin Bell

Martin Bell explores the psychological aspects of his career as a TV war correspondent.

Mel Calman

Cartoonist, writer and gallery owner Mel Calman talks about the influences on his life.

Maya Angelou

Writer and campaigner Maya Angelou tells Dr Anthony Clare about her influences.

Sir Colin Davis

Colin Davis explores the psychological aspects of life as a music conductor.

RD Laing

A key figure in the 60s, influential psychiatrist RD Laing talks to Dr Anthony Clare.

Anita Roddick

Businesswoman and campaigner Anita Roddick tells Dr Anthony Clare about her early life.

Oleg Gordievsky

Former British secret agent Oleg Gordievsky talks to Professor Anthony Clare.

Dame Barbara Cartland

The romantic fiction writer talks about her career and strongly held beliefs.

Ken Russell

The film director tells Dr Anthony Clare about his early life and love of the image.

Ruth Rendell

The queen of crime reveals why she is jaundiced about the idea of the 'happy family'.

Spike Milligan

The writer and comedian talks about the impact of shell shock on his mental health.

Billie Whitelaw

The actress tells Anthony Clare about the profound impact Samuel Beckett had on her life.

Zoe Wanamaker

Actress Zoe Wanamaker opens up to Anthony Clare about her childhood and upbringing.

Ed McBain

The crime novelist tells Anthony Clare about his childhood and commitment to writing.

Steven Berkoff

The director and playwright tells Anthony Clare about his lonely childhood.

Hanif Kureishi

The novelist tells Anthony Clare about trying to make sense of his real self.

Nicola Horlick

The financier, dubbed 'superwoman', talks about coping with family illness.

Lord Lawson

Nigel Lawson reflects on a high profile political life and keeping feelings private.

Wayne Sleep

The dancer shares his thoughts on success, an awkward childhood, his physique and more.

Gitta Sereny

Gitta chose controversial figures for biographies and believed we are all born 'good'.

Brian Masters

The award-winning author of Killing for Company talks about his notions of good and evil.

Gillian Slovo

The South African-born writer shares thoughts about her parents' dedication to their cause

Professor Norman Stone

Professor Norman Stone on loathing Oxford University and admiration of Thatcher.

Paul Theroux

The controversial novelist and travel writer talks about what spurs him on to write.

Marjorie Wallace

The award-winning campaigning journalist tells Dr Anthony Clare about her major influences

Nigel Kennedy

The maverick violin star talks to Dr Anthony Clare about schooling, family and music.

Ann Widdecombe

The former MP opens up about religion, being single and her clash with Michael Howard.

Stephen Fry

The actor and writer opens up about love, self-loathing and contemplating suicide.