Episode details

World Service,02 May 2026,26 mins
The Happy Pod: Running topless because I'm proud of my scars
Happy NewsAvailable for over a year
We meet a woman who started running marathons topless after having both her breasts removed because of cancer. Louise Butcher tells us she wanted to display her mastectomy scars with pride. She says she wants to empower other women and show that surviving the disease is about power not pity. Also, preserving voice notes from almost 100 years ago. The so called 'speaking letters' were recorded on small discs and sent through the post. Do chips from someone else's plate really taste better? Scientists put the common belief to the test. A project to save bats in Nigeria, where they are often associated with witchcraft. Plus, the comedian making her debut in her 80s; and the choir helping people get their voices back after a stroke or brain injury. Our weekly collection of inspiring, uplifting and happy news from around the world. Presenter: Holly Gibbs. Music: Iona Hampson (Photo: Topless marathon runner Louise Butcher. Credit: @louisebutcher39)
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