The Apple & The Tree, dmg media’s podcast that explores the unspoken truths between parents and their grown-up children, today announces brand-new host Reverend Richard Coles.
A beloved broadcaster, bestselling author, and Britain’s most famous vicar, Coles has spent his career navigating life’s biggest questions. From 80s pop stardom to the pulpit and twelve years hosting BBC Radio 4’s Saturday Live, he’s lived many remarkable lives – each deepening his understanding of human connections.
At its heart, The Apple & The Tree creates a safe space where parents and their adult children discuss topics they’ve rarely, if ever, broached before – those intimate, revealing conversations we all wish we could have but usually don’t. With an instinct for guiding guests through personal and profound exchanges, Coles brings a fresh perspective to the series as he explores that fundamental question many of us share: “Are there things you wish you could have asked your mum or dad?” Each episode examines whether the apple ever truly falls far from the tree.
To mark his arrival as host, a special episode in partnership with charity Marie Curie is available now. In this deeply moving conversation, Reverend Richard welcomes Virgin Radio presenter, Ben Jones and his mother, Liz, as they reflect on the vital role Marie Curie played in helping them care for Ben’s late father, Brent, a dedicated headteacher who died of cancer in 2015.
The episode doesn’t shy away from the emotional complexities of end-of-life care, exploring Ben’s feelings of guilt, his mother’s determination to ensure Brent had the best possible final months, and the incredible support Marie Curie provided through every stage of Brent’s illness. Featuring intimate voice notes from Brent himself, this is a powerful reflection on what it truly means to care for a loved one at the end of their life.
Speaking about his new role as host, Reverend Richard Coles said: “There are few relationships as complex, fascinating, and formative as that between parent and child and this podcast offers a rare opportunity to hear people at their most open and unguarded. The conversation with Liz and Ben was a privilege to be a part of – raw, tender, and ultimately life-affirming. I know first-hand how rare and precious these exchanges can be, which is why I’m so thrilled to be hosting The Apple & The Tree.”
