Anita Rani is launching a new podcast, Sisters of Defiance, through her production company Illuminaunty Productions. The first episode will be available from Tuesday, May 26.
The series features conversations with women who have pushed beyond conventional limits, including Gisèle Pelicot, who waived her anonymity in a landmark rape case to support fellow victims. Other guests include musician Anoushka Shankar, entrepreneur Emma Grede, actress Meera Syal and comedian Fatiha El-Ghorri.
Recorded at Rani's home studio, the podcast explores acts of rebellion – from small moments of defiance to world-changing decisions. It is produced in partnership with the female-founded wellness company Ancient + Brave.
Rani, who hosts BBC Radio 4's Women's Hour and BBC One's Countryfile, said the podcast is an act of personal defiance. 'I am building community for the people who want to belong. It has purpose, to fuel and recharge and inspire,' she said. 'To lead with integrity and to listen to the voices of powerful women with stories to share.'
Rani has presented Countryfile for more than a decade, alongside credits including My Life at Christmas and The Bröntes for Sky Arts. She also competed in Race Across the World and has written two books.
