In an era where celebrities often diversify their careers beyond the screen, former Emmerdale stars Roxy Shahidi and Matthew Wolfenden have tapped into this trend with their engaging podcast, Celebrity Side Hustles. Following the success of their inaugural season, the duo returns with a fresh lineup of guests, offering listeners an intimate look into the lesser-known ventures of television personalities.

The Genesis of ‘Celebrity Side Hustles’
After their respective departures from Emmerdale, Shahidi and Wolfenden sought to explore the multifaceted lives of their peers. Recognizing that many actors pursue passions outside of acting, they created a platform to showcase these endeavors.
“Working in TV, you often have time on your hands whilst you’re waiting to go on set, or start a new role,” Shahidi explains. “Actors are creative with all sorts of unexpected passions.”
Season 2: A Deeper Dive into Celebrity Ventures
Launching on April 30, 2025, Season 2 promises to delve even deeper into the personal projects of celebrities. The hosts aim to highlight the diversity and depth of their guests’ side hustles, ranging from entrepreneurship to philanthropy.
Notable Guests Include:
- Adam and Katy Rickitt: Owners of Dexter & Jones, a craft beer and artisan spirits bar in Knutsford.
- Lisa Riley: Actress and advocate for body positivity.
- Ross Adams: Actor with a passion for interior design.
- Amy Walsh and Toby Alexander-Smith: Couple exploring sustainable living initiatives.
- Sian Reese-Williams: Actress involved in community theater projects.
- Laura Norton and Mark Jordan: Partners running a wellness retreat.
Episode Spotlight: Adam and Katy Rickitt
In the premiere episode, the Rickitts share their journey from the entertainment industry to entrepreneurship. Their establishment, Dexter & Jones, has become a local favorite, reflecting their commitment to quality and community.
“Dexter & Jones is basically our baby,” Adam Rickitt shares. “We found out we can’t have children, which we’re actually really cool with. The only thing we thought we were lacking was something to do, and build, together.”
The Hosts’ Continued Evolution
Beyond the podcast, both Shahidi and Wolfenden continue to evolve professionally. Shahidi has expanded her yoga business, leveraging her long-standing passion for wellness. Wolfenden, meanwhile, has taken on roles in theater productions, including Elf the Musical, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Engaging with the Audience
The podcast is available on major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and engage with the hosts through social media, where behind-the-scenes content and updates are regularly shared.
Conclusion
Celebrity Side Hustles offers a refreshing perspective on the lives of television personalities, revealing the depth and diversity of their interests beyond the screen. With Season 2, Shahidi and Wolfenden continue to provide a platform that celebrates creativity, resilience, and the pursuit of passion.