In celebration of International Women’s Day, Hits Radio Breakfast Show presenter Fleur East hosts a compelling documentary podcast, available exclusively on the Rayo app. The documentary delves into the real-life struggles and triumphs of women in different fields, highlighting their personal and professional journeys.
Partnering with The King’s Trust campaign, Change a Girl’s Life, the documentary aims to empower young women in the UK, providing them with better opportunities for a brighter future. Joining Fleur East for this special episode are:
- Frankie Bridge, former member of The Saturdays and mental health advocate
- Lydia Athey, executive producer
- Melissa Helmsley, renowned food writer
Each of these influential women shares their experiences, shedding light on the challenges they’ve faced and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
Frankie Bridge Opens Up: Mental Health, Motherhood & Gender Bias
The Reality of Being in The Saturdays
Frankie Bridge recalls the intense pressure of being in the girl group The Saturdays. She reveals how the relentless schedule and industry demands took a toll on her mental health:
- Long 17-hour workdays
- Being told that eating was not a priority
- Hitting a breaking point just before a tour
“At 21, I had a complete breakdown,” Frankie shares. “But when I was in the hospital, I actually felt the safest I ever had. It was a turning point that forced me to be honest—with myself and with the public.”
She further explains how media speculation led to assumptions about her hospitalization being linked to addiction or an eating disorder, when in reality, it was due to overwhelming stress and exhaustion.
Double Standards in Parenting: A Mother’s Perspective
As a mother, Frankie touches on the stark contrast in how society perceives men and women in parenting roles. She recalls a recent holiday with a friend when people questioned how their husbands felt about them being away from their kids.
“I asked Wayne, ‘When you went snowboarding, did anyone ask you about the kids or how I felt about you being away?’ He said, ‘No, not once.’”
She further highlights how her husband, Wayne Bridge, who is now retired, is often praised for his parenting efforts:
- Doing school drop-offs
- Organizing playdates
- Managing household tasks
“And he is great,” Frankie admits. “But I’m still doing all the admin—knowing they have PE, packing their lunch, getting presents for birthdays. Why is he applauded for doing what I do every single day?”
Her words resonate with many working mothers who experience similar societal biases.
The King’s Trust: Supporting Young Women for a Better Future
The documentary is part of The King’s Trust campaign, Change a Girl’s Life, an initiative that focuses on helping young women in the UK achieve professional success. The campaign provides support in areas such as:
- Career development programs
- Mental health awareness
- Financial independence training
This collaboration aligns perfectly with the themes of the documentary, as each woman shares insights on overcoming adversity and carving out a successful path in life.
Fleur East on the Importance of Amplifying Women’s Voices
As the host, Fleur East emphasizes the importance of giving women a platform to share their stories. She believes that candid discussions like these help break down stigmas and inspire the next generation.
“This documentary is about real stories, real struggles, and real victories,” she says. “Hearing these experiences firsthand reminds us why International Women’s Day is so important.”
Listeners can stream the full documentary exclusively on the Rayo app.
