Question The Default is a podcast that challenges the unspoken rules and harmful norms shaping modern life.
Host Harry Corin is joined by guests from sport, entertainment, politics, and academia as they explore some of the biggest issues we face today. From mental health, masculinity, and addiction to the growing impact of AI on our health, the series responds to the headlines and conversations shaping the world right now.
Too many of our struggles persist because we accept “that’s just the way things are.” This series challenges that – opening up honest conversations about what it really takes to move forward.
Created in partnership with Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), Question The Default goes beyond awareness to uncover the systems, stories, and beliefs that need to change.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Question The Default is a podcast that challenges the unspoken rules and harmful norms shaping modern life.
Host Harry Corin is joined by guests from sport, entertainment, politics, and academia as they explore some of the biggest issues we face today. From mental health, masculinity, and addiction to the growing impact of AI on our health, the series responds to the headlines and conversations shaping the world right now.
Too many of our struggles persist because we accept “that’s just the way things are.” This series challenges that – opening up honest conversations about what it really takes to move forward.
Created in partnership with Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), Question The Default goes beyond awareness to uncover the systems, stories, and beliefs that need to change.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Harry is joined by broadcaster, DJ and CALM ambassador Harpz Kaur for an honest and emotionally powerful conversation on Question the Default.
In this episode, Harpz opens up about her journey into media, the unseen reality behind success, and the long years of rejection, unpaid work and financial instability that deeply impacted her mental health. Despite appearing confident and accomplished on the outside, she shares what it was really like navigating depression while building a career in the public eye.
The conversation moves into grief, suic*de, and the devastating impact of losing multiple loved ones – all men – to suic*de. Harpz speaks candidly about the cultural silence around mental health, the pain of never getting answers after a loss, and why searching for “why” can sometimes keep people stuck in grief.
She reflects on the damaging expectations placed on men to stay strong, not cry, and carry everything alone – and why this silence continues to cost lives. Harpz also shares what led her to work closely with CALM, including writing a deeply personal letter about loss, survival and learning how to move forward.
Together, Harry and Harpz explore the importance of real conversations, representation, and asking the simple question that can make a difference: are you okay?
They speak openly about:
-Struggling behind career success
-Years of unpaid work and rejection
-Losing loved ones to suic*de
-Grief, acceptance and living without answers
-Cultural taboos around mental health
-Why silence is dangerous
-The power of honest conversations
-Why talking can save lives
-This is a compassionate episode about grief, resilience, and challenging the societal defaults that stop people from speaking – and being heard.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Harry is joined by broadcaster, DJ and CALM ambassador Harpz Kaur for an honest and emotionally powerful conversation on Question the Default.
In this episode, Harpz opens up about her journey into media, the unseen reality behind success, and the long years of rejection, unpaid work and financial instability that deeply impacted her mental health. Despite appearing confident and accomplished on the outside, she shares what it was really like navigating depression while building a career in the public eye.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Harry is joined by Simon Gunning – CEO of Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) the leading charity in suic*de prevention – for a powerful, unfiltered conversation about culture, crisis, and why the way we talk about suic*de needs to change.
For nearly a decade, Simon has led CALM through some of its most influential campaigns, from Project 84 to The Last Photo, reshaping how the UK understands suic*de and challenging a system that has failed too many people for too long.
In this episode, Simon speaks openly about:
• The cultural myths that keep people silent
• Why saying the word “suic*de” saves lives
• The rise in youth suic*de and what’s driving it
• Government inaction and the cost of doing nothing
• The power of hope, community and “the crack of light”
• What real prevention looks like in everyday life
Simon also shares personal reflections on how CALM’s work has shaped his life.
This is an honest and essential conversation about a crisis facing all of us – and the hope that comes when we stop seeing suic*de as “other people’s problem” and start seeing it as a shared responsibility.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Harry is joined by Simon Gunning – CEO of Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) the leading charity in suic*de prevention – for a powerful, unfiltered conversation about culture, crisis, and why the way we talk about suic*de needs to change.
For nearly a decade, Simon has led CALM through some of its most influential campaigns, from Project 84 to The Last Photo, reshaping how the UK understands suic*de and challenging a system that has failed too many people for too long.
Question The Default is in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Strictly Come Dancing head judge and CALM Ambassador Shirley Ballas joins Harry for one of the most powerful and emotional conversations recorded on Question The Default.
Shirley speaks with extraordinary honesty about the loss of her brother David to suic*de, the seven-year stalking ordeal that changed every part of how she lives, and her own experiences of suic*dal thoughts during the menopause.
For the first time, Shirley reads aloud a letter she has carried in her heart for nearly 20 years. A letter to David. Words she has never written down, until now.
In this deeply moving episode, Shirley opens up about:
• Losing her brother to suic*de
• The fear and hyper-vigilance caused by years of stalking
• Protecting her mum and niece through that trauma
• Living with grief and unanswered questions
• Her own darkest moments and how counselling saved her
• Why talking openly about mental health matters more than ever
This is a conversation about love, loss, stigma, survival and the strength it takes to keep showing up.
It’s also a reminder of why honest conversations about suic*de save lives – and why nobody should face these experiences alone.
A hugely important episode, told with courage, vulnerability and heart.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Strictly Come Dancing head judge and CALM Ambassador Shirley Ballas joins Harry for one of the most powerful and emotional conversations recorded on Question The Default.
Shirley speaks with extraordinary honesty about the loss of her brother David to suic*de, the seven-year stalking ordeal that changed every part of how she lives, and her own experiences of suic*dal thoughts during the menopause.
Full episode live on Wednesday 3rd of December
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Most people know Danni Menzies as the confident presenter from A Place in the Sun. Very few know the story behind the camera – the panic attacks, the trauma, the anxiety, and the strength it took to rebuild not once, but twice.
In this raw and honest episode, Danni opens up about the two defining moments that changed her life.
She talks about the severe panic attacks and agoraphobia that hit her at university, leaving her unable to leave the house. And then the devastating moped accident that came out of nowhere years later, derailing her career, confidence and sense of identity.
Dani speaks candidly about:
• What panic attacks really feel like in the body
• The link between trauma, anxiety and ADHD
• How EMDR, cold water, movement and therapy helped her recover
• Rebuilding her career after a traumatic injury
• Dating, egg freezing and life in her late 30s
• Why she’s choosing a new chapter
This is an episode about agency, rebuilding and refusing to let a traumatic moment define your future.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re starting again from zero – Danni’s story is a reminder that you can come back stronger than you ever imagined.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Most people know Dani Menzies as the confident presenter from A Place in the Sun.Very few know the story behind the camera – the panic attacks, the trauma, the anxiety, and the strength it took to rebuild not once, but twice.
In this raw and honest episode, Dani opens up about the two defining moments that changed her life.
She talks about the severe panic attacks and agoraphobia that hit her at university, leaving her unable to leave the house. And then the devastating moped accident that came out of nowhere years later, derailing her career, confidence and sense of identity.
Full episode released Wednesday 26th of November.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Professional football is often painted as a world of glory, wealth and limitless opportunity – but for Michael Chopra, it was also the backdrop to a battle with addiction that nearly cost him everything.In this powerful, unfiltered podcast, former Premier League striker Michael Chopra opens up about his extraordinary rise from academy prospect to top-flight goalscorer, and the devastating gambling addiction that followed him every step of the way.
Michael reveals:
His journey through elite football
The pressure and expectations
How a seemingly harmless habit spiralled
Coping with a life-controlling addiction
Financial and emotional consequences
The moment where he almost took his own life
The turning points towards recovery
What he’s learned along the way
This episode is more than a story about football. It’s a raw, human look at the cost of gambling addiction, the realities behind the headlines, and the strength it takes to rebuild.
Whether you’re a football fan, someone affected by addiction, or simply drawn to stories of perseverance, this podcast shines a light on the struggles many never see – and the hope that comes from speaking out.
A note on language: Michael uses the phrase ‘committing suicide’ when speaking about his experience. This is a very common way people talk about suicide, rooted in a time when it was treated as a crime, which most people don’t realise. Many now prefer language such as ‘take my own life’ or ‘died by suicide’ to help reduce stigma.
Question The Default is in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Professional football is often painted as a world of glory, wealth and limitless opportunity – but for Michael Chopra, it was also the backdrop to a battle with addiction that nearly cost him everything.In this powerful, unfiltered podcast, former Premier League striker Michael Chopra opens up about his extraordinary rise from academy prospect to top-flight goalscorer, and the devastating gambling addiction that followed him every step of the way.
Out on Wednesday, 19th of November.
Question The Default is in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Harry is joined by fellow CALM ambassadors Amber Rose Gill – Love Island winner, broadcaster, best-selling author, DJ and creator – and Tal Booker, talented artist and top tattooist, to talk honestly about mental health and the realities of living with a neurodivergent mind.
All three share a personal connection to ADHD or autism, and a shared passion for breaking stigma, suic*de prevention, and honest conversations that help people feel less alone.
From the pressure of public life and the hidden cost of fame, to how late ADHD and ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) diagnoses shaped who they are today, this is a conversation full of honesty and insight.
Amber opens up about overnight fame, the aftermath of Love Island, and the lowest point of her life when she was at the centre of untrue tabloid stories.
Tal speaks openly about grief, addiction and recovery after losing his cousin to suic*de – and why he’s determined to help young people before they hit rock bottom.
They speak candidly about:
• Living with ADHD and ASD
• The pressure of instant fame
• Coming back from rock bottom
• Grief, addiction and recovery
• Honesty about mental health
• The danger of toxic productivity
Question The Default is in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Harry is joined by fellow CALM ambassadors Amber Rose Gill – Love Island winner, broadcaster, best-selling author, DJ and creator – and Tal Booker, talented artist and top tattooist, to talk honestly about mental health and the realities of living with a neurodivergent mind.
Out on Wednesday, 12th of November.
Question The Default is in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
When England’s Children’s Commissioner says a generation is still suffering from lockdown, it’s a warning we can’t afford to ignore.
In this powerful episode, Dame Rachel de Souza joins Harry to speak candidly about what she’s heard from more than a million children – and why she believes we’re failing them.
A former teacher and headteacher of 30 years, she reflects on the moment she realised the second school closure was “an unmitigated disaster” – and how decisions made in fear left deep scars on children’s education, confidence and mental health.
From the rise in anxiety and school avoidance to the “dark labyrinth” of social media, Dame Rachel paints a stark picture of what it means to grow up in today’s world.
She shares shocking findings from her national research: 25% of eight-year-olds have already seen hardcore pornography or violent content online; teenage girls’ happiness has plummeted; and AI “nudifying” apps are leaving young women and even teachers exposed to deepfake sexual abuse.
This is a call to action from the person whose job is to make sure every child’s voice is heard.
She speaks candidly about:
• The second school closure “an unmitigated disaster”
• What a million children said after lockdown
• The rise in anxiety and school absence
• Inside the “dark labyrinth” of social media
• How early kids are seeing porn online
• Why girls fear AI “nudifying” apps
• Tech giants failing to protect young people
• Building schools that include every child
• Why government must listen to children
Question The Default is in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
When England’s Children’s Commissioner says a generation is still suffering from lockdown, it’s a warning we can’t afford to ignore.
In this powerful episode, Dame Rachel de Souza joins Harry to speak candidly about what she’s heard from more than a million children – and why she believes we’re failing them.
A former teacher and headteacher of 30 years, she reflects on the moment she realised the second school closure was “an unmitigated disaster” – and how decisions made in fear left deep scars on children’s education, confidence and mental health.
From the rise in anxiety and school avoidance to the “dark labyrinth” of social media, Dame Rachel paints a stark picture of what it means to grow up in today’s world.
She shares shocking findings from her national research: 25% of eight-year-olds have already seen hardcore pornography or violent content online; teenage girls’ happiness has plummeted; and AI “nudifying” apps are leaving young women and even teachers exposed to deepfake sexual abuse.
This is a call to action from the person whose job is to make sure every child’s voice is heard.
She speaks candidly about:
• The second school closure “an unmitigated disaster”
• What a million children said after lockdown
• The rise in anxiety and school absence
• Inside the “dark labyrinth” of social media
• How early kids are seeing porn online
• Why girls fear AI “nudifying” apps
• Tech giants failing to protect young people
• Building schools that include every child
• Why government must listen to children
Question The Default is in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Alastair Campbell is one of the most influential figures in modern British politics – best known as Tony Blair’s former Downing Street Press Secretary and a driving force behind New Labour’s rise to power. But behind the political headlines lies a decades-long journey through breakdown, depression, and recovery.
In this deeply honest conversation, Alastair joins Harry to explore how his experience of psychosis and mental illness has shaped his life – and why openness, not silence, remains his only rule.
Together, they discuss his first-hand experiences of breakdown, suic*dal ideation, and the different elements that have played in his recovery. Alastair reflects on his brother Donald’s schizophrenia, the stigma still surrounding serious mental illness, and what needs to change to make suicide prevention a national priority.
From the police officers who saved his life, to how he’s learned to rate his mental health every morning on a 1–10 scale, this is a rare and powerful insight into one of Britain’s most outspoken mental health advocates.
He also shares how his writing, music, and football obsession keep him grounded – and why, even after decades of progress, we still haven’t built a society that is progressing enough in mental health.
He speaks candidly about:
- His first experience of mental illness in childhood
- His brother Donald’s schizophrenia and the power of acceptance
- The psychotic breakdown that changed everything – and the police officers who saved his life
- Addiction, recovery, and learning to manage depression through self-awareness
- Suic*de, loss, and the importance of meaning in recovery
- How workplaces and governments can better prevent suicide
- Why language still matters – and how society can stop fuelling shame around mental illness
- The mental health impact of climate change, AI, and social media
- His daily mental health scale and how openness became his rule for living
Question The Default is created by Harry Corin, in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – challenging the societal defaults that stop us from talking, feeling, and living freely.
👤 Follow Host Harry CorinLinkedIn – Harry CorinInstagram – @harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The DefaultInstagram – @questionthedefaultpodTikTok – @questionthedefaultpodLinkedIn – Question The Default Podcast
🎤 Follow Guest Alastair CampbellInstagram – @alastaircampbell
This episode discusses sensitive topics including mental health, addiction, and suic*de.
Please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so.
If you need support, help is available:
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
If you’re in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Chris Hughes first became a household name on Love Island (and more recently Big Brother) – but behind the rise to fame came battles with anxiety, public scrutiny, and the pressure to hold it all together.
In this honest and open conversation, Chris joins Harry to reflect on what life in the spotlight really did to his mental health, how he coped with the highs and crushing lows of reality TV, and why showing emotion has become his biggest act of strength.
He speaks candidly about:
• The toll of fame and being judged by millions overnight
• The ripple effects of kindness – including a message from Liam Payne that stayed with him
• Finding resilience in vulnerability, not silence
• His brother’s cancer diagnosis and how it reshaped his perspective
• The unexpected love story that’s bringing him joy today
A raw and human conversation that challenges what we think we know about masculinity, fame, and strength – and a reminder that bottling it up always comes at a cost.
Question The Default is in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – Harry Corin
📸 Instagram – @harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – @questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – Question The Default Podcast
🎤 Follow Guest Chris Hughes
📸 Instagram – @chrishughesofficial
🎧 TikTok – @chrishughesofficial
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Question The Default is a podcast that challenges the unspoken rules and harmful norms shaping modern life.
Host Harry Corin is joined by guests from sport, entertainment, politics, and academia as they explore some of the biggest issues we face today. From mental health, masculinity, and addiction to the growing impact of AI on our health, the series responds to the headlines and conversations shaping the world right now.
Too many of our struggles persist because we accept “that’s just the way things are.” This series challenges that – opening up honest conversations about what it really takes to move forward.
Created in partnership with Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), Question The Default goes beyond awareness to uncover the systems, stories, and beliefs that need to change.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.