Podcast
Mo Gilligan: Beginning, Middle & End
Catalog
Episodes
- Ep 95 - Femi Koleoso on Success, Faith & Building Ezra CollectiveJun 10, 2026 · 54 minFrom playing drums in church and youth clubs in Enfield to winning BRIT Awards and the Mercury Prize with Ezra Collective, Femi Koleoso joins Mo Gilligan for a powerful conversation about music, faith, friendship, and perseverance.
They discuss the early days of Ezra Collective, life on the road, performing at the BRITs, turning down opportunities that didn’t align with their vision, and why giving back to the next generation matters more than any award.
This is a conversation about staying true to yourself, building community, and creating something bigger than success.
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- Ep 94 - Dawn French: From Strip Club Gigs to National TreasureJun 3, 2026 · 1 hr 8 minDawn French is one of Britain’s most beloved comedians, but her journey to becoming a national treasure is far more surprising than you might think.
In this episode of Beginning, Middle & End, Dawn sits down with Mo Gilligan to reveal how a shared flat with Jennifer Saunders changed her life forever, the heartbreak she carried after losing her father, and the unexpected path that led her from teaching drama to performing comedy above a Soho strip club.
She shares never-before-heard stories from the birth of alternative comedy, working alongside legends like Rik Mayall and Robin Williams, The Vicar of Dibley, and the friendship that has kept her and Jennifer Saunders together for over four decades.
Funny, honest, moving and packed with incredible stories, this is Dawn French like you’ve never heard her before.
🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with the world’s biggest entertainers, comedians and cultural icons.
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- How Maverick Sabre Survived the Music IndustryMay 27, 2026 · 52 minFrom sofa surfing in London to chart-topping success — Maverick Sabre joins Mo Gilligan for a raw and inspiring conversation about music, hustle, and staying true to yourself.
Maverick opens up about being discovered by Plan B at 17, grinding through London’s open mic scene, navigating the highs and lows of the music industry, and why he walked away from major labels to reclaim his artistry. He also shares untold stories about mentoring Jorja Smith, life on chaotic early tours, industry “angels and sharks,” and how music gave him purpose.
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- How Sophie Willan Turned Her Life Into a Hit TV ShowMay 20, 2026 · 52 minBAFTA-winning writer and comedian Sophie Willan joins Mo Gilligan for a brutally honest and hilarious conversation about turning real life chaos into award-winning TV.
From getting expelled from school after turning up drunk in a bikini, to building the hit series Alma’s Not Normal, Sophie opens up about the moments that shaped her career — including how her grandma inspired her creativity, the reality of writing a TV series from scratch, and why becoming a mother has completely changed how she looks at work.
Mo and Sophie also dive into stand-up nerves, Edinburgh comedy memories, growing up in Bolton, and the gritty early days of chasing a creative career.
Expect laughs, honesty, and a proper behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to turn life experience into comedy gold.
Topics in this episode:
• Becoming a BAFTA-winning writer
• Sophie Willan’s chaotic teenage years
• The truth about writing TV shows
• Edinburgh comedy circuit stories
• Parenthood and creativity
• Why stand-up comics are built differently
Subscribe for more conversations with the biggest voices in comedy, culture and entertainment.
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- Vikkstar Opens Up About Money, Burnout & Building The SidemenMay 13, 2026 · 53 minVikkstar joins Beginning, Middle & End for a candid deep-dive into the journey behind one of the internet’s biggest success stories. From the early days of uploading videos and building Sidemen, to navigating fame, pressure, business moves, and staying relevant in a constantly changing digital world — this episode covers the real story behind the screens.
We talk ambition, burnout, money, friendships, discipline, and what it actually takes to stay at the top for over a decade. Honest, insightful, and packed with lessons for creators, entrepreneurs, and anyone chasing something big.
Whether you know him as Vikkstar123, gamer, entrepreneur, or one of the OGs of UK YouTube — this is Vikkstar like you’ve never heard him before.
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- Tommy Fordham | I Built a £100M Brand… Then Lost EverythingMay 6, 2026 · 58 minFrom labouring jobs in London to building a multi-million pound fashion brand, Tommy Fordham’s journey is anything but normal.
In this episode, Tommy sits down with Mo Gilligan to talk about the reality behind success — from being cast on TOWIE and suddenly becoming famous, to building global sneaker brand Mallet and generating over £100M in sales.
But the story doesn’t stop there.
Tommy opens up about losing millions, starting again from scratch, being diagnosed with ADHD and autism later in life, and why he believes failure was the best thing that ever happened to him.
This is a raw conversation about entrepreneurship, fame, mental health and what it really takes to build something from nothing.
If you’re interested in business, fashion, or the mindset behind success, this episode is one you don’t want to miss.
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- Natalie Cassidy: Growing Up in Front of 10 Million ViewersApr 29, 2026 · 58 minWhat’s it really like growing up famous on one of Britain’s biggest TV shows?
This week on Beginning, Middle & End, Mo Gilligan sits down with EastEnders legend Natalie Cassidy. From starting on the show at just 10 years old, to dealing with tabloid pressure as a teenager, Natalie opens up about the reality of growing up in front of millions.
They talk about the surreal moment she realised Walford wasn’t a real place, the pressure of filming 6 days a week, and why people still treat her like Sonya Fowler in real life.
Plus:
• The truth about soap rivalries
• Growing up on TV
• What life is really like behind EastEnders
• Why Natalie decided to leave after 30 years
• The weirdest fan encounters
This is one of the funniest and most honest conversations about fame, TV and growing up in the public eye.
🎧 Listen now.
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- The Tastemaker Behind UK Music Culture - Manny NorteApr 22, 2026 · 46 minManny Norte is known as “The Name You Can Trust” in UK music — but his story runs deeper than radio. In this episode, Manny sits down with Mo Gilligan to break down the untold journey behind UK nightlife, radio, fashion, and global culture. From dance battles and pirate radio to DJing for Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Drake and Kanye, Manny reveals how he became one of the most trusted tastemakers in the game. They talk about:
• The wild West End club era when DJs were superstars
• The truth about modern DJs vs vinyl culture
• Playing private parties for Dave Chappelle, Naomi Campbell & Stormzy
• Launching Kanye’s Yeezy in London
• Breaking artists on Capital XTRA radio
• The reality of staying relevant for 20+ years in music
Plus Manny reveals the industry secrets behind brand events, fashion circles, and celebrity after-parties. If you love music culture, UK nightlife history, and stories from behind the velvet rope — this one is special.
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- Ovie Soko on Fame, Basketball & Surviving Love IslandApr 15, 2026 · 1 hrOvie Soko finally sits down with Mo Gilligan for a conversation that goes way beyond Love Island.
From playing basketball in America to suddenly becoming one of the most recognisable faces on British TV, Ovie opens up about the surreal moment he realised his life had changed forever — including fans literally stopping traffic when he walked into Selfridges.
They talk about the pressure of being a Black man in the spotlight, life on US college campuses, dating after reality TV, and why Ovie chose to go back to basketball instead of chasing the influencer lifestyle.
This episode is honest, funny and reflective — a rare look at what happens after the villa.
Expect stories about American culture shock, fame, identity and staying true to yourself when the whole world suddenly knows your name.
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- Hak Baker: “I Learned Guitar in Prison… It Changed My Life”Apr 8, 2026 · 51 minEast London storyteller Hak Baker joins Mo Gilligan to talk about the moments that shaped his life — from growing up on the Isle of Dogs to learning guitar in prison and becoming one of the UK’s most unique voices in music.
Hak opens up about redemption, staying loyal to lifelong friends, refusing to be boxed in as an artist, and the moment that changed everything.
This is a powerful conversation about mistakes, growth, music, and finding your voice when life forces you to sit down.
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- Isaac Ryan Brown | What Disney Doesn’t Tell You About Child StarsApr 1, 2026 · 55 minIsaac Ryan Brown might only be 20 years old — but his career already reads like a Hollywood biography.
He first went viral at 6 years old singing Michael Jackson on America’s Got Talent, before becoming one of Disney Channel’s breakout stars on Raven’s Home. Since then he’s worked on major shows like Black-ish, voiced characters in Family Guy, and is now launching his music career after hitting #1 on UK iTunes.
In this episode, Isaac sits down with Mo Gilligan to talk about:
• Growing up in Detroit before moving to Hollywood
• Auditioning for Disney and landing Raven’s Home
• The reality of child stardom behind the scenes
• Staying grounded while fame hits young
• Working on shows like Black-ish and Family Guy
• Why the music industry is a completely different game
He also shares incredible stories about performing as a kid, the pressures of Hollywood, and the lessons he learned growing up in the spotlight.
This is Isaac Ryan Brown’s Beginning, Middle & End.
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- K Trap Reveals The Truth About Drill MusicMar 25, 2026 · 51 minThis week on Beginning, Middle & End, Mo Gilligan sits down with K Trap for one of the most honest conversations about fame, music, and growth you’ll hear all year.
From the moment K Trap removed the balaclava that defined his early career, to scoring a global hit with “Warm,”he’s been navigating the pressure of evolving in a genre that often refuses to let artists change.
In this episode they talk about:
• The real reason K Trap took off the mask — and why people said he was “finished”
• How Drake bringing him out at Wireless changed everything
• Why drill music gets blamed for everything
• Being recognised in the Maldives playing tennis
• The pressure on young rappers to flex chains and success
• Building a business empire beyond music
• Fatherhood and finding purpose outside the industry
Plus K Trap opens up about being an introvert, the anxiety behind fame, and why he’s determined to become a global artist — not just a drill rapper.
This is the Beginning, Middle & End of K Trap’s journey so far.
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- From Harry Potter to Shakespeare’s King | Alfred EnochMar 18, 2026 · 56 minFrom child wizard to Shakespearean king.
This week on Beginning, Middle & End, Mo sits down with Alfred Enoch — the actor many first met as Dean Thomas inHarry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone — to talk about the wild journey from childhood fame to leading the Royal Shakespeare Company.
They dive into the reality of growing up inside one of the biggest film franchises in history, the surreal moment Alfred realised people saw themselves in his character, and how landing How to Get Away with Murder changed his life overnight.
It’s a funny, thoughtful conversation about identity, craft, and what it means to take your place on stage.
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- Darcus Beese: Inside the Music Industry Nobody Talks AboutMar 11, 2026 · 1 hr 8 minWhat does it take to discover a generational superstar?
In this episode, Mo Gilligan sits down with music industry legend Darcus Beese — the man behind artists like Amy Winehouse, Florence + The Machine, Mumford & Sons, Jessie J, and Sugababes.
From starting out making tea at Island Records to becoming the first Black president of a major record label, Darcus shares the real stories behind the music industry: the risks, the pressure, and the magical moments when you hear a classic record for the very first time.
He reveals what it was like hearing Amy Winehouse’s “Rehab” for the first time in the studio, why most artists fail before their first hit, and how the music industry has completely changed in the streaming era.
Darcus opens up about the cost of success, the regrets that come with chasing greatness, and the reality of balancing ambition, family, and mental health.
This is a rare look behind the curtain of the music industry—from someone who helped shape it.
If you love music, creativity, and the untold stories behind iconic careers, you’re going to love this episode.
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- Paloma Faith on Imposter Syndrome, Brits Wins & Surviving the Music IndustryMar 4, 2026 · 54 minThis week on Beginning, Middle & End, Mo sits down with the one and only Paloma Faith.
From growing up in Hackney to winning at the Brit Awards, Paloma opens up about signing a “terrible” first record deal, living in a rented flat while already famous, and why imposter syndrome never really goes away.
She talks motherhood, money, trolls, gratitude, and the surprising moment that made her album shoot to number one. There’s chaos, wisdom, and a few industry secrets along the way — including wild rider stories, after-party politics, and why Samuel L. Jackson might be her most honourable contact.
This isn’t just a music chat. It’s about resilience. It’s about recognising opportunity. It’s about staying human in an industry designed to change you.
Raw, funny and vulnerable — this is the REAL Paloma Faith.
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- Rapper Denzel Curry on Stage Diving, Fame & SurvivalFeb 25, 2026 · 43 minRapper and artist Denzel Curry joins Mo Gilligan for a deep conversation about music, ownership, and survival in the industry. From touring with rock legends to stage-diving chaos, Denzel opens up about the importance of owning his masters, dealing with loss, and building a legacy beyond hits.
They talk viral success, XXL fame, independent deals, and why hip-hop needs community again — plus wild stories from tours around the world.
This is Denzel Curry like you’ve never heard him before.
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- Marlon Davis: Finding Comedy back after his coma.Feb 18, 2026 · 54 minOn this week’s episode of Beginning, Middle & End with Mo Gilligan, Mo sits down with comedian Marlon Davis for a conversation that’s as funny as it is unexpectedly deep.
Marlon takes us right back to the beginning. His school days learning fine arts, discovering creativity before comedy, and how those early artistic influences shaped the performer he’d eventually become. It’s a side of Marlon people don’t often hear about.
From there, we get into the middle including the life-altering moment he woke up from a coma and had to piece his memory, identity and sense of self back together. What does it do to you when you can’t remember parts of your own story? And how do you rebuild your confidence when life hits reset?
And of course, the end… or at least where he is now. The graft, the growth, the laughs — and the mindset it takes to survive this industry.
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- Michelle De Swarte from Modelling to Comedy and Everything In BetweenFeb 11, 2026 · 1 hr 8 minFrom Brixton estates to New York runways, and finally to the raw, unpredictable world of stand-up comedy — Michelle doesn’t do ordinary career paths. In this episode, she joins the podcast to unpack the wild pivot from modeling to comedy, the reality of chasing success across continents, and why reinvention is sometimes the bravest move you can make.
Michelle’s journey is unpredictable, fearless, and seriously funny — and this conversation is no different.
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- Andi Osho on Creativity, Control & Letting GoFeb 4, 2026 · 59 minOn this episode of Beginning, Middle & End, Mo Gilligan sits down with trailblazing actor, author, and former stand-up Andi Osho for a rare, expansive conversation about creativity, courage, and knowing when to walk away.
From growing up in East London to working behind the camera before stepping into the spotlight, Andi opens up about her rise through stand-up comedy, appearing on Live at the Apollo during its golden era, navigating fame, burnout, and depression — and why she ultimately left comedy at its peak. She also talks candidly about life in LA, returning home, embracing her identity as an artist, and finding freedom through writing.
With her new satirical novel Most Wanted on the way, Andi reflects on storytelling, success, and what it really means to follow your instincts — even when it means starting again.
Honest, funny, and deeply human, this is a conversation about reinvention, ownership, and creating on your own terms.
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- Dynamo: I Met Dave Chappelle at Banksy’s House!Jan 28, 2026 · 1 hr 16 minFrom growing up in Bradford facing bullying and racial tension, to using magic as a form of protection, Dynamo opens up about the reality behind the illusion. He speaks honestly about living with chronic illness, losing himself at the height of fame, and the moment he almost walked away from magic forever.
Dynamo also reveals incredible stories involving Dave Chappelle, Banksy, and Chris Martin — and explains why magic today isn’t about tricks, but about making people believe in themselves.
This is not just a podcast episode.
It’s a story about survival, identity, and finding purpose when everything falls apart.
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- Joanne McNally on Success, Single Life & Saying No to NormalJan 21, 2026 · 1 hr 3 minThis week on Beginning, Middle & End, Mo Gilligan sits down with comedy powerhouse Joanne McNally.
From selling out shows across the world to accidentally taking a sleeping pill before going on stage, Joanne talks touring exhaustion, dating while never being in the same country twice, and why success doesn’t always come with a blueprint.
She opens up about podcast power, creative freedom, being brutally honest on stage, and whether New York might be her next move.
Sharp, funny, and completely unfiltered — this is Joanne McNally exactly as she is.
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- Guz Khan Gets Real on Success, Culture & Not Selling OutJan 14, 2026 · 1 hr 14 minFrom viral clips to prime-time TV, Guz Khan joins Mo Gilligan to unpack the highs, lows, and realities of breaking through without losing your soul.
A must-listen on representation, resilience, and why sometimes the bravest move is walking away.
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- Naivety Is a Superpower: Timothy Armoo on Risk, Loss & ReinventionJan 7, 2026 · 1 hr 14 minThis week, Mo Gilligan is joined by entrepreneur, author, and investor Timothy Armoo, one of the most influential voices shaping modern business and Gen Z culture.
Raised between Ghana and South London, Timothy’s journey began on a fourth-floor council estate on Old Kent Road — before founding Fanbytes from his university bedroom at just 21. What followed was a meteoric rise: Forbes 30 Under 30, partnerships with global brands like Nike and McDonald’s, and the eventual sale of Fanbytes for tens of millions.
In this deeply personal conversation, Timothy opens up about identity, grief, ambition, and the realities behind success. He speaks candidly about losing his father, the pressure of leadership, mistakes made with early money, and why gratitude, not flash, is his real measure of wealth.
This is a powerful episode about purpose over perception, long-term thinking, and why believing in yourself — even before anyone else does — can change everything.
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- Chosen Roles Only: Malachi Kirby on Discipline, Risk & LongevityDec 31, 2025 · 51 minThis week, Mo Gilligan is joined by BAFTA Award-winning actor Malachi Kirby for a powerful conversation about craft, courage, and carving your own lane.
Growing up in Battersea, Malachi found acting through local drama classes before becoming part of a generation-defining wave of British talent. From portraying Kunta Kinte in Roots, to his BAFTA-winning performance in Steve McQueen’s Small Axe, to Black Mirror and now series two of A Thousand Blows on Disney+, Malachi reflects on the roles that shaped him — and the ones he turned down.
They talk about introversion, identity, trusting instinct over hype, navigating pressure after awards, and why movement — creatively and personally — has been central to Malachi’s life. Honest, reflective, and deeply grounded, this episode is about longevity over noise, truth over performance, and building something that lasts.
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- From Shakespeare to Black Ops: Hammed Animashaun on Craft, Comedy & Carving Your Own LaneDec 24, 2025 · 1 hr 15 minThis week, Mo Gilligan sits down with one of the UK’s most exciting and thoughtful actors, Hammed Animashaun.
From growing up in East London to finding his voice through performance, Hamed reflects on his journey from youth theatre to Shakespeare, blockbuster fantasy (The Wheel of Time), and his BAFTA-nominated role as the unforgettable K in BBC’s Black Ops.
They talk about discipline, identity, creative patience, and why not every success story needs a Hollywood relocation. Hamed opens up about the realities of stage vs screen, the pressure of awards season, the long waits between jobs, and the importance of staying grounded while navigating success.
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- David LarbiDec 17, 2025 · 1 hr 5 minDavid Larbi joins Mo Gilligan on the Beginning, Middle & End podcast for a warm, honest conversation about creativity, purpose, and finding happiness in everyday life. David opens up about his upbringing, early love for music and football, and how writing became a way to understand himself and the world around him. He reflects on growing up with big expectations, navigating university, and learning to trust his creative instincts — even when the path didn’t look traditional or secure.
As the conversation unfolds, Mo and David dive into the realities of chasing a creative life: rejection, money pressures, vulnerability, and the emotional weight of being seen. David speaks candidly about writing Frequently Happy, the impact it’s had on readers around the world, and the responsibility that comes with sharing your inner world so openly. Thoughtful, funny, and deeply human, this episode is a reminder that happiness isn’t something you arrive at — it’s something you practise, moment by moment.
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- Rudi Lickwood: A True OG Stand Up ComedianDec 10, 2025 · 1 hr 22 minIn this powerful and hilarious episode, Mo Gilligan sits down with one of the original architects of Black British comedy — the incomparable Rudi Lickwood. From his early days as an Eddie Murphy lookalike to becoming a razor-sharp social commentator who reshaped the narrative of Black British identity on stage, Rudi shares 38 years’ worth of stories, wisdom, and war wounds.
Rudi opens up about navigating hostile classrooms, systemic biases, and rebuilding himself to become a headliner across the UK. He breaks down the birth of the Black comedy circuit and the ongoing fight with gatekeepers who shaped (and limited) British TV.
Mo and Rudi go deep on craft, legacy, timing, audience psychology, and the power of standing on each other’s shoulders. From military tours in Afghanistan to the peak Jongleurs era, this is a masterclass in comedy, survival, culture, and purpose.
A thoughtful, funny, and essential conversation with a true OG.
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- Lessons in Resilience: How Dean Forbes Transformed His Challenges into OpportunitiesDec 3, 2025 · 1 hr 23 minOn this episode of Beginning, Middle, End, Mo Gilligan sits down with one of the UK’s most dynamic tech leaders — Dean Forbes — a man who went from growing up on a South London estate, juggling responsibility at home and dreams of playing professional football, to leading companies through multi-billion euro exits and championing social mobility at scale.
Mo and Dean dive deep into the resilience, humour, and hustle that shaped Dean’s journey, unpacking how those early experiences fuelled his rise from telesales to the boardroom, and why he’s now using his platform to empower the next generation through the Forbes Family Group. It’s a powerful, inspiring conversation about identity, ambition, and breaking ceilings — all delivered with the honesty, vulnerability and laughs you’d expect when these two worlds collide.
Companies mentioned in this episode:
• Forbes
• Vodafone
• Motorola
• Oracle
• HSBC
• Morgan Stanley
• Google
• Crystal Palace
• ACLT
• Partners Group
• Andy Warhol
• Basquiat
• Jamiroquai
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- Russell Howard: Comedy, Fame & FatherhoodNov 26, 2025 · 1 hr 26 minMo Gilligan sits down with the globally loved, relentlessly funny Russell Howard for a wide-open conversation packed with belly laughs, proper honesty, and stories you won’t hear anywhere else.
From touring the world to becoming a dad, to breaking down how comedy really works, Russell brings his trademark mix of warmth, sharpness and pure silliness. We dig into Bristol life, TV fame, Mock the Week battles, global touring chaos, and his brand-new tour “Don’t Tell The Algorithm.”
If you love stand-up, creativity, or just want an hour where you feel good about the world again — this episode delivers.
🔥 Expect:
• Mo & Russell’s unfiltered chat about the grind, the glow-ups, and the gig disasters
• Finding a balance with a career and family life.
• Why laughter is STILL the best way to understand the world
Tap in, laugh hard, and share this with someone who needs a lift.
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- Footballer LEGEND, Joe ColeNov 19, 2025 · 1 hr 18 minThis week, Mo Gilligan sits down with one of England’s most naturally gifted footballers: Joe Cole. From breaking through at West Ham as a teenage prodigy, to winning Premier League titles with Chelsea, to representing England at three World Cups, Joe has lived the full spectrum of the beautiful game.
In this episode, Joe opens up about:
⚽ Growing up in Paddington & Camden and learning football in London cages
⚽ Why he didn’t play academy football until age 11
⚽ The madness of Sunday League vs. stepping onto world-class pitches
⚽ The pressure of debuting in the Premier League as a teenager
⚽ Playing alongside legends like Lampard, Carrick, Rio & Wrighty
⚽ Being a flare player in an era where you got kicked for it
⚽ His new book Luxury Player and what he learned looking back on his career
Joe also reflects on how the game has changed—from grassroots culture to VAR—and what today’s young stars face on and off the pitch.
It’s honest, insightful, funny, and full of unbelievable stories.
Tap in and enjoy the conversation with the legendary Joe Cole.
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- DJ MAK10Nov 12, 2025 · 1 hr 7 minThis week, Mo Gilligan sits down with the one and only DJ Mak 10 — the original architect of the grime sound and heartbeat of the legendary N.A.S.T.Y Crew. From spinning vinyl in East London bedrooms to uniting Wiley and Dizzee Rascal two decades later, Mak 10’s story is pure UK music history.
They dive into his roots growing up with five brothers, his dad’s reggae band influence, and the wild early days of pirate radio and sidewinders. Mak 10 opens up about taking grime back to the streets — literally — with his now-iconic outdoor sets across London. Expect raw nostalgia, laughter, and serious insight into what it takes to be a pioneer who’s still pushing the culture forward.
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- Singer/ Songwriter Leigh-Anne PinnockNov 5, 2025 · 52 minFrom girl group superstardom to carving her path as a solo artist, Leigh-Anne Pinnock sits down with Mo Gilligan to talk beginnings, balance, and being boldly independent. In this candid conversation, Leigh-Anne opens up about life after Little Mix, embracing motherhood, finding her creative freedom, and the lessons behind her powerful documentary Race, Pop & Power.
They dive into her musical roots, the pressure of fame, her evolving identity, and what it really means to be an artist on her own terms. Honest, funny, and deeply human—this is Leigh-Anne Pinnock like you’ve never heard her before.
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- Kane Brown: Resilience, Real Talk, and the Art of ReinventionOct 29, 2025 · 1 hr 16 minThis week on Beginning Middle End, Mo Gilligan sits down with one of the UK’s most authentic and resilient comedians — the legendary Kane Brown. From growing up in South London and becoming a father at 22, to building a property empire and then losing it all in the 2008 crash, Kane’s story is one of grit, growth, and finding laughter through life’s hardest lessons.
He opens up about rediscovering himself through comedy, the power of self-belief, and building his own lane when the mainstream wouldn’t open its doors. Expect real talk, hilarious stories, and sharp reflections on fame, family, and what it takes to truly own your craft.
Whether you know him from Rated 18 or his viral videos this episode shows you the man behind the mic — raw, reflective, and funny as ever.
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- Tv Presenter Extraordinaire, Angellica BellOct 22, 2025 · 1 hr 23 minThis week, Mo sits down with the iconic Angellica Bell, whose 25-year career has made her one of British television’s most beloved presenters. From CBBC to The One Show, Angellica opens up about her journey from paper rounds and McDonald’s shifts to primetime success.
Mo and Angellica reflect on growing up black in British TV, breaking barriers, surviving live television, and staying grounded through it all.
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- UK Stand Up Comedy Legend, SLIMOct 15, 2025 · 1 hr 29 minComedy legend Slim joins Mo Gilligan for an unfiltered, laugh-out-loud conversation on The Beginning, The Middle & The End. From driving London buses to performing at the Hollywood Comedy Store, Slim shares 30+ years of stories, lessons, and wisdom from one of the most influential careers in British comedy. Expect hilarious tales about his early gigs, his first ever set at Hackney Empire, wild Real Deal Comedy Jam tours, and how he went from the bus depot to the London Palladium.
💬 It’s heartfelt, funny, and full of gems from one of the godfathers of UK stand-up.
#MoGilligan #Slim #Podcast #StandUpComedy #BeginningMiddleEnd
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- Comedian Scott BennettOct 8, 2025 · 1 hr 24 minne of the UK’s most loved comedians, Scott Bennett, brings his Northern charm and razor-sharp observational wit to Mo Gilligan’s Beginning, Middle & End podcast. In this episode, Scott gets real about:
🔥 From Product Designer to Comedy Star — how he quit his “safe” career to chase the stage.
❤️ Turning Family Struggle Into Strength — how his hit show Blood Sugar Baby raised awareness of his daughter’s rare genetic condition.
😂 Backstage Stories & Big Laughs — from smashing club gigs to touring with legends like Michael McIntyre & John Bishop.
A must-listen for comedy fans and dream-chasers alike — raw, funny, and full of heart.
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- From Blueprints to BAFTAs: Adjani SalmonOct 1, 2025 · 1 hr 1 minBAFTA-winning actor, writer, and director Adjani Salmon joins Mo Gilligan to share his journey from studying architecture to becoming the creative force behind Dreaming Whilst Black. Raised in Jamaica and returning to London at 18, Adjani reflects on cultural shifts, film school lessons, and the hustle of self-funding his web series that grew into one of the UK’s most acclaimed shows. He opens up about pressure, persistence, navigating the industry post-Black Lives Matter, and even making it onto Doctor Who. A conversation full of honesty, humour, and inspiration about carving your own lane in the creative world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Stand Up Comedian Rhys JamesSep 24, 2025 · 1 hr 20 minComedian Rhys James joins Mo Gilligan on Beginning Middle End to talk about his journey from Hertfordshire open mics to becoming one of the sharpest voices in UK stand-up. They dive into his awkward teenage years, disastrous romantic gestures, and how he hustled his way through comedy competitions and the Edinburgh Fringe. Rhys also opens up about finding his comic voice, surviving tough gigs, and what it’s like going from writing poetry for girls at school to writing a book, You’ll Like It When You Get There. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Nick Helm: From One-Star Reviews to Rock Star ComedySep 17, 2025 · 1 hr 13 minOn this episode of Beginning, Middle, End, Mo Gilligan sits down with comedian, musician, actor, and writer Nick Helm— a true force of nature in British comedy. From his early days battling one-star reviews in Edinburgh, to breaking out with his explosive, music-fuelled stand-up and starring in the BAFTA-winning sitcom Uncle, Nick shares the highs, lows, and lessons from his unique journey. Expect candid chat about the grind of the comedy circuit, the chaos of Edinburgh, finding his voice through stand-up, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Actor Adrian Lester - Choirboy to CBESep 10, 2025 · 1 hr 25 minFrom choirboy to CBE, Adrian Lester’s journey is the stuff of legend. On this episode of Beginning, Middle, End, Mo Gilligan sits down with the acclaimed actor to talk about growing up in Birmingham, discovering the power of performance in a church choir, and carving out a career that’s taken him from RADA to Olivier Awards, Hustle, and beyond. With stories of resilience, craft, and the lessons learned on stage and screen, Adrian reflects on legacy, longevity, and why he still loves the thrill of live theatre. Engaging, funny, and full of gems for anyone chasing their passion—this is one you won’t want to miss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Aml AmeenSep 3, 2025 · 1 hr 23 minThis week on The Beginning, Middle and End Podcast, Mo Gilligan sits down with actor, writer, and director Aml Ameen — a man whose journey is as powerful as the roles he’s played.
From bursting onto our screens in the cult-classic Kidulthood to holding his own on The Bill, Aml takes us back to those early London days and the rise of Black British culture that shaped him. He opens up about the pride of returning home, the reality of fame across the Atlantic, and the unexpected ways his work has impacted lives — including one fan who said Aml’s journey saved his own.
In this inspiring conversation, Aml shares stories of growing up in a family rooted in community leadership, navigating Hollywood, partying with Prince, and ultimately finding his voice behind the camera with projects like Boxing Day. With 20 years in the game, he reflects on his legacy — not just as an actor, but as a storyteller determined to celebrate culture, love, and the richness of Black British identity.
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- The Extraordinary Rise of Victor RayAug 27, 2025 · 1 hr 2 minFrom busking on the streets of Newcastle to selling out shows across the world, Victor Ray’s rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. On this week’s Beginning, Middle, End with Mo Gilligan, Victor opens up about his journey — from shy kid with a big voice to viral sensation, from wedding bands to international stages. He shares the grind of busking, the power of social media, the highs of touring, and his vision for the legacy he wants to leave behind. Inspiring, raw, and full of heart — this is Victor Ray like you’ve never heard him before. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- TV Stand Up Comedian Emmanuel SonubiAug 20, 2025 · 1 hr 15 minComedian Emmanuel Sonubi joins Mo Gilligan on the Beginning, Middle & End podcast for a lively and revealing conversation about his journey from West End musical theatre performer and nightclub bouncer to award-nominated stand-up comedian. In this episode, Emmanuel shares hilarious and heartfelt stories — from surviving the infamous Comedy Store Gong Show just four gigs in, to touring internationally, to how a near-death experience on stage reshaped his life goals. With Mo’s trademark banter, the pair swap tales about the hustle, the craft, and the joy of turning life’s dramas into laughter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- UK Music Icon: Wretch 32Aug 13, 2025 · 1 hr 27 minUK rap icon Wretch 32 joins Mo Gilligan for a deep and inspiring conversation on Beginning, Middle & End. From pirate radio freestyles to chart-topping hits, Wretch reflects on his journey, the hustle behind the early grime scene, staying true to his lyrical craft, and the milestones that shaped him — from selling mixtapes by hand to performing on the Olympic stage. It’s an honest, funny, and thoughtful look at the beginning, middle, and legacy of one of Britain’s most respected wordsmiths. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Laura Smyth: From Classrooms to Comedy ClubsAug 6, 2025 · 1 hr 7 minIn this episode of The Beginning, Middle & End podcast, Mo Gilligan sits down with the wildly funny and deeply relatable Laura Smyth — former East London teacher turned award-winning comedian. Laura shares her incredible journey from raising a child solo in temporary housing to lighting up comedy stages across the UK. With raw honesty and riotous humour, she opens up about teaching teens, growing up in Forest Gate, and how she found her voice in stand-up — Expect big laughs, real talk, and East London banter at its finest.
You can listen to Laura's brilliant new podcast, Shouldn't Laugh But...here
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- TV & RADIO LEGEND: Melvin OdoomJul 30, 2025 · 1 hr 20 minOn this episode of Beginning, Middle & End, Mo Gilligan is joined by the ever-charismatic Melvin Odoom — presenter, DJ, and all-round entertainer. From rave flyers in Lewisham to fronting national radio and TV, Melvin reflects on his come-up through community, culture, and a hustle that never quit. The pair talk pirate radio, the importance of friendship and representation, and how a Ghanaian household and the South London streets shaped a media career that’s spanned MTV to Strictly Come Dancing. Full of laughs, love, and deep reflections — this is Melvin like you’ve never heard him before. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Tinie (Tempah): From Peckham to PlatinumJul 23, 2025 · 1 hr 19 minIn this powerful episode of Beginning, Middle & End, Mo Gilligan sits down with British music pioneer Tinie Tempah for an unfiltered journey through fame, legacy, and cultural impact. From growing up in Peckham to topping charts with "Pass Out," Tinie opens up about trailblazing through fashion, music, and business while carrying the hopes of a generation. The pair reflect on shared Southeast London roots, the overlooked sacrifices behind success, and why Tinie’s influence on Black British culture runs far deeper than the hits. It's honest, uplifting, and full of gems. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Comedian and Actor: Tom DavisJul 16, 2025 · 1 hr 4 minThis week on Beginning, Middle & End, Mo Gilligan sits down with the brilliant Tom Davis — the BAFTA-winning creator, writer, and star of Murder in Successville and King Gary. From his early days as a scaffolder and market stall hustler to commanding the screen in Wonka and working alongside Steven Graham in gripping dramas, Tom shares the graft, grit, and growth behind his rise. Expect deep laughs, raw stories from the building site, reflections on comedy, class, and creativity — plus tales from the set of Soccer Aid, selling outrageous T-shirts at festivals, and his unforgettable audition stories. It’s a rich, honest, and hilarious ride with one of South London’s finest. Don’t miss it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Estelle!Jul 9, 2025 · 1 hr 17 minIn this soulful episode of Beginning Middle End, Mo Gilligan is joined by the incomparable Estelle, who takes us on a journey from her vibrant childhood in West London to global stardom. With humour, grace, and candour, Estelle shares stories about growing up in a big Grenadian-Senegalese family, navigating the early days of the UK rap and R&B scene, and the magic behind creating her Grammy-winning hit “American Boy.” From faith and family to fashion and fame, Estelle opens up about her resilience, reinvention, and the power of staying authentic. This episode is a celebration of culture, music, and everything in between. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- TV Favourite, STEPH MCGOVERN!Jul 2, 2025 · 1 hr 10 minFrom a council estate in Middlesbrough to the forefront of British broadcasting, Steph McGovern sits down with Mo Gilligan to unpack her journey through the lens of beginnings, middles, and endings. In this refreshingly honest episode, Steph talks about growing up working-class, breaking into journalism via science and engineering, and carving out a space for her authentic self on-screen.
They dive into the challenges of motherhood, imposter syndrome, and the unexpected pressures that come with being a role model. Steph reflects on handling public scrutiny, staying grounded in fame, and learning to let go of guilt—whether at home or live on air.
Expect plenty of laughs, candid truths, and that unmistakable Northern grit.
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