In this inspiring episode of Extraordinary Life Stories, host John Reynolds sits down with Maxine Laceby, co-founder and CEO of the hugely successful wellness brand Absolute Collagen.

Starting her entrepreneurial journey later in life, Maxine turned a kitchen-table experiment into one of the UK’s fastest-growing beauty supplement companies, all without any prior business experience.

She opens up candidly about her winding path: rediscovering herself at 50, combining creativity with science alongside her daughter Darcy, and harnessing the power of curiosity, resilience and bold decision-making. From navigating ADHD to building a multi-million-pound brand that empowers women worldwide, this conversation offers raw insights into passion, reinvention and redefining success on your own terms.

In this episode of Extraordinary Life Stories, John Reynolds talks with Ruby Wax.

Ruby is an American-British actress, comedian, writer, television presenter, and mental health campaigner. A classically-trained actress, Wax came to prominence as a comic interviewer, playing up to British perceptions of the strident American style on television shows including The Full Wax. She was a script editor for the BBC sitcom Absolutely Fabulous.

In 2013, Ruby gained a master's degree in mindfulness based cognitive therapy from Kellogg College, Oxford. In 2015, she was appointed a Visiting Professor in Mental Health Nursing at the University of Surrey.

Wax was appointed an Honorary Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2015 Special Honours for services to mental health.

In this episode of Extraordinary Life Stories, host John Reynolds is joined by Robert Walton MBE, affectionately known as “The Godfather of Hospitality”.

A legendary figure in the hospitality world, Robert has spent a lifetime shaping British hospitality from the kitchen to the boardroom.

Robert’s journey began in hospitality as a trainee manager and trainee chef, training at Ealing College before working in top London kitchens and eventually opening his first restaurant at just 24. He went on to build a remarkable career as an entrepreneur, restaurateur, and leader, including serving as President of the Restaurant Association of Great Britain, one of the longest‑serving presidents in its history. In recognition of his exceptional service to the industry, he was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s New Year honours.

Along the way Robert founded The Nth Degree Club, a prestigious fine‑dining and networking initiative for hospitality leaders, champions the next generation of talent through the World Young Chef Young Waiter competition, and has become a trusted ambassador for UK hospitality internationally.

In this wide‑ranging conversation, Robert reflects on his roots in kitchens and venues, his philosophy of hospitality, and the ways industry and people have shaped his extraordinary life. A story of passion, leadership, and a lifetime dedicated to great food and unforgettable experiences.

In this episode of Extraordinary Life Stories, host John Reynolds is joined by Darragh Ennis, best known to millions as The Menace on ITV’s hit quiz show The Chase.

Away from the studio lights, Darragh is a scientist and neuroscientist at the University of Oxford, where he has worked as a laboratory manager researching insect brains. With a PhD in ecology and experience as a biomedical researcher, his life in science laid the foundation for the calm, analytical mind viewers see on screen.

Darragh first appeared on The Chase as a contestant in 2017 with a simple goal — to win enough money to pay for a new back door. That practical decision unexpectedly changed his life, eventually leading him to become one of the show’s Chasers.

In this candid conversation, Darragh talks science, curiosity, opportunity, and how an ordinary problem led to an extraordinary turn of events. A fascinating look at the person behind The Menace.

In this episode of Extraordinary Life Stories, John Reynolds talks with Damon Hill.

Damon is an English former racing driver and broadcaster, who competed in Formula One from 1992 to 1999. Hill won the Formula One World Drivers' Championship in 1996 with Williams, and won 22 Grands Prix across eight seasons.

In this episode of Extraordinary Life Stories, John Reynolds talks with Rory Sutherland.

Rory is a British advertising executive. He is the vice chairman of the Ogilvy & Mather group of companies and social media sensation.

Sutherland writes a fortnightly column in The Spectator and has written several books, including Alchemy: The Power of Ideas That Don't Make Sense.

In this episode of Extraordinary Life Stories, host John Reynolds is joined by Sir Iain Duncan Smith for an open and reflective conversation about a life shaped by service, conviction and a deep concern for social justice.

Sir Iain shares stories from his journey through politics and public life, but the heart of the discussion focuses on the work that has defined his mission beyond Westminster — the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ). As founder and Chairman of the CSJ, Sir Iain explains why he believes tackling the root causes of poverty matters more than treating the symptoms, and how dignity, work and strong communities play a crucial role in helping people flourish.

Drawing on his experience as former Leader of the Conservative Party and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Sir Iain reflects on what he has learned about leadership, resilience and the responsibility that comes with influence. The conversation is thoughtful, honest and grounded in real-world experience, offering listeners insight into both the man and the ideas that continue to shape national debate.

A compelling episode about purpose, persistence and the challenge of creating lasting social change.

In this inspiring episode of Extraordinary Life Stories, John Reynolds sits down with Dr Anna Persaud, a scientist, visionary entrepreneur, and the dynamic CEO behind the science-first wellness brand This Works.

Dr Persaud’s journey defies expectations. With a PhD in biochemistry, Anna began her career immersed in science and research, but soon discovered her passion for translating complex science into products that genuinely improve people’s everyday wellbeing. Today, she leads a global brand renowned for its award-winning formulations rooted in clinical trials, neuroscience and real-world efficacy.

Whether you’re curious about science-driven entrepreneurship, the evolving wellness landscape, or the human story behind transformative brands, this conversation with Dr Anna Persaud offers a rare look at how passion, persistence, and empathy can create extraordinary impact.