In 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.

From 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.

Award-winning actor, writer, and all-around powerhouse Gbemisola Ikumelo joins Mo Gilligan for a wide-ranging and heartfelt conversation about her creative journey. From growing up in East London to studying in Edinburgh, founding a youth drama company, and earning multiple BAFTAs, Gbemisola reflects on the triumphs and challenges that shaped her. She opens up about facing racism, starting out in sketch comedy with Famalam, starring in A League of Their Own and Black Ops, and the importance of building spaces for underrepresented talent. Funny, vulnerable, and sharply insightful — this episode is a celebration of grit, growth, and purpose.