Last year the Difficult Women team went to darkest Gloucestershire to record the one and only Dame Jilly Cooper, whose death, aged 88, was announced this week. We went to the Chantry, her house near Stroud, which is as bonkers and beautiful and brilliant as its owner. Jilly gave us an incredible, breathless interview full of jokes and laughter and then an even more liquid lunch in her kitchen. In honour of the imperishable genius that was Jilly Cooper, we are ripping up the schedule so that her grief-stricken fans around the world can hear her voice and jokes again.

In this episode Rachel speaks to a woman who has been thrust into unimaginably difficult circumstances. Hanan Khashoggi is the widow of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, the Washington Post journalist assassinated after being critical about the Saudi Arabian regime. She joins us from the US, where she has found a level of safety, but still fears assassination every day. She tells Rachel about the terrible day she learned that her husband had been killed and how her life has since fallen apart. Separated from her family across three continents and speaking to us from a dingy flat, Hanan remains full of passion and determination in her quest to get justice for her husband. This is a powerful account of love, loss, and the fight for truth against a backdrop of international corruption and oppression.

Rachel sits down with Baroness Fall, former Deputy Chief of Staff to Prime Minister David Cameron, for an intimate and insightful conversation. She delves into Kate's unique journey from the heart of British politics to the House of Lords, exploring what it's really like behind the doors of Number 10. They discuss the pressures of power, the nuances of political loyalty, and the personal sacrifices that come with life in Westminster. Kate opens up about her time navigating historic events, managing high-stakes decision-making, and her reflections on leadership in turbulent times.

Rachel sits down with chef, author, and food campaigner Thomasina Miers. Best known as the winner of MasterChef and co-founder of the Mexican-inspired restaurant chain Wahaca, Thomasina shares her journey from passionate home cook to successful restaurateur and sustainability advocate. They discuss the challenges of running a food business in today’s climate, how the government can get Britain eating healthily, and how food can be a powerful force for cultural connection and environmental change.

This week on Difficult Women, Rachel Johnson is joined by Michal Herzog, First Lady of Israel, in a rare and timely interview recorded during her official visit to London. With unflinching honesty and emotional depth, Herzog reflects on the profound trauma that Israel has endured since the October 7th attacks - an event she describes as a national wound that has yet to begin healing. Speaking as both a public figure and a mother, Herzog opens up about her and President Isaac Herzog’s ongoing efforts to meet with over 1,300 bereaved families, the humanitarian toll of war, and the need to address trauma and mental health in the shadow of conflict. She also shares her belief in the power of women’s leadership and expresses hope for a future peace - one that prioritises security, dignity, and the next generation on both sides of the conflict.

Rachel sits down with renowned shirt maker Emma Willis for an inspiring and insightful conversation. From crafting bespoke shirts for royalty and film stars to founding a charitable initiative supporting injured veterans, Emma shares her journey from starting out on London’s Jermyn Street to building an internationally respected brand rooted in craftsmanship, style, and purpose. Rachel delves into Emma’s passion for British manufacturing, the importance of quality over quantity, and how she’s stayed true to her values in an ever-changing fashion industry. They also explore the stories behind Emma’s philanthropic work, including her work with Style for Soldiers, and the power of clothing to restore confidence and dignity.

Rachel sits down with Polly Toynbee, one of The Guardian’s most respected columnists, for a wide-ranging conversation about politics, society, and the role of the press. Rachel draws out Toynbee’s reflections on her decades at the heart of political journalism, exploring how her upbringing, values, and career have shaped her perspective. Toynbee speaks candidly about inequality, social mobility, and the challenges facing modern Britain, while offering a sharp critique of those in power.

Rachel sits down with Helen Whately MP, Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary. They explore the challenges facing the NHS and social care sector, delve into the realities of policy-making, and discuss Helen’s journey through politics - from balancing motherhood with ministerial duties to navigating turbulent times in Westminster. A must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of politics, leadership, and social impact in today’s Britain.