In this episode of Begin Again, Davina McCall sits down with old friend and renowned chef and TV personality, Andi Oliver, to discuss the challenges that shaped her life and career. Andi opens up about her difficult childhood, her early experiences with racism, and the impact these had on her journey. She reflects on her time in the pioneering band Rip Rig + Panic and the profound loss of her older brother, Sean, whose passing led Andi to struggle with an eating disorder. Through it all, Andi has repeatedly reinvented herself, embracing the ethos that “you just have to do it, even if it scares you.” In this candid conversation, Andi shares how she has navigated grief, growth, and the constant reinvention of her life, emerging as a powerful and inspiring figure who continues to face each challenge with resilience and determination.

📢 Drop a comment: What’s your biggest takeaway or favourite moment from the episode?

Follow me here:
www.instagram.com/beginagain
www.tiktok.com/@beginagainpod

00:00 Intro
02:33 Davina and Andi Reunite
03:31 Childhood Memories
04:10 Growing Up in Cyprus
09:21 Returning to 70s Britain: Racism and Escapism
14:41 Moving to London at 16: A New Beginning
24:59 Motherhood, Career Risks, and Personal Growth
28:32 London’s Music Scene and Meeting Neneh Cherry
31:02 Rip, Rag & Panic Years
44:10 Ancient & Brave Ad
45:15 Impact of Sickle Cell and the Death of Andi's Brother Sean
46:37 Coping With Loss: Remembering Sean Oliver
54:00 Overcoming an Eating Disorder and Rediscovering a Love for Food
01:06:21 Finding Broadcasting
01:20:56 Cooking as Art and Creative Expression
01:24:22 Andi and Miquita’s Journey Through the Caribbean
01:26:06 Overcoming Fear and Hosting Primetime TV
01:30:34 The Journey To Self Love
01:42:16 A Heartwarming Surprise for Andi
01:44:53 Key Takeaways

Sponsored by:
Ancient + Brave - ancientandbrave.earth/pages/planet