In this week’s list of unmissable news brand content, the Newsworks Speakeasy returned to MAD//Fest even bigger in 2024, with a three-day celebration of the very best of cultural journalism. See some of the highlights from across the three days below…
1. “We crave men to speak but we train them to be silent”
Dr Alex George spoke to Daily Mail journalist and author Bryony Gordon about wellbeing and mental health, touching on the loss of his brother and the struggles of the pandemic.
Diving into awareness of men’s mental health, he touched upon how he looks after himself, particularly with the understanding of his ADHD diagnosis that allowed him to adapt to change. He also discussed being two years sober, improving his fitness and how being outside in nature and connecting with people can really help his mental state.
Talking about his podcast ‘StompCast’, he commented: “What’s interesting when you go for a walk, a drive or even a walk along the seaside looking out to the distance [is that] you often feel more relaxed, more open and have deeper conversations.”
2. “I think we’ve shown there’s space for both men and women in sport.”
In an inspiring session, SunSport’s Sandra Brobbey hosted an inspirational exclusive interview with Lionesses Bethany England and Rachel Daly. The footballing stars discussed the highs and lows of their careers, role models, the challenges of women’s football as well as predictions for the men’s team currently at Euro 2024.
Daly on her recently announced retirement: “I left everything I had out on the pitch for England and it’s the greatest honour playing for your country and representing them on any level. To say I did that around 84 times is something I will hold dearly to me. It’s time to give back to the people who gave to me and allowed me to do that.”
Bethany England was asked about what brands can do to better support women’s football, talking about the importance of long-term investment instead of short-term gains.
3. “In any mood I like chicken wings… it’s that comfort food thing”
Our food and drink experts Grace Dent, Rob Buckhaven, Gizzi Erskine and Jimi Famurewa were interviewed by Claire Eaton-Rutter, giving Speakeasy guests an hour of tasty tips from chicken wings and ‘sticky meats’ to comfort foods to cook. Buckhaven followed up with his amazing wine recommendations (all under £10) and Gizzi’s tasty appetisers.
Grace Dent on her favourite food “my happiest things are about clawing the calories back, so it’s vegan Indian food.” As Gizzi shared “it’s all about comfort. I want sticky meat.”
On the subject of home cooking, Jimi shared how “men who are older are now learning to cook because they didn’t really have to before”. Meanwhile, Buckhaven shared insight on when people wanted comfort and when they wanted to go bold: “Home is where people get comforting wines they know they will like. Going out is for experimenting.”
4. “All these really affordable high street brands have really upped their game”
Sonia Haria, author and The Telegraph’s beauty director, spoke to TV make-up artist Bryony Blake about all things beauty while giving a live makeover. She gave the audience tips on favourite cosmetic products such as Bobbi Brown cream shadows for eyes, as well as ideas for skin prep and upcoming trends to look out for.
Blake discussed how makeup can help build confidence — from no makeup to subtle blush and a red lip, makeup can be a fun experiment for all individuals. “I’m all about what makes you feel your very best”, she said.
The pair also spoke about reviving products you already have instead of going out and buying lots of new products along with the increasing quality of more affordable brands. Haria said: “All these really affordable high street brands have really upped their game”.
5. “Good sex doesn’t equate to a good relationship”
Online dating, awkward sex situations and meet cutes brought Thursday’s sex and relationships session to life, with panellists Anna Williamson, Pete Wicks, Katie Strick, Sally Land and host Emma Louise Boyton.
The panel started the conversation off with boundaries and the pressures of relationships. Williamson spoke on the importance of knowing who you are, what you can offer and what you as an individual can bring to the table, especially the acknowledgement of it being a two-way street in dating: “Be intentional and know what you’re looking for.”
Relationship advice was next on the agenda, from the link between sex and shame to the discussion of having a “post sex debrief” from Boynton to which Wicks made a witty remark: “It’s like using TripAdvisor after sex.”
The panel ended on how passion and intimacy is an important element to any relationship. However, relationships that are compatible can have intimacy in other ways — the value of checking in with your partner and having a good friendship has great power.
