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This week, award-winning poet, performer, and author Lemn Sissay shares his extraordinary journey — from growing up in care to finding his voice through poetry. His search for identity, faith, and forgiveness has shaped his powerful work, including the bestselling book My Name is Why. Now touring Scotland with Let the Light Pour In, he joins Cathy to reflect on the stories that have defined him.

With St. Patrick’s Day around the corner, we dive into the history behind the global celebration of all things Irish. But who was the man behind the mythology? Folklore expert, Professor Mairead Nic Craith, uncovers the real St. Patrick, his cultural significance and the traditions that keep his legacy alive.

Our Spiritual Life guest this week is none other than Barbara Dickson — an acclaimed singer and actress with a career spanning decades. With hit songs, Olivier awards, and an OBE to her name, Barbara has left an indelible mark on the world of music and theatre. But beyond the spotlight, her Catholic faith has been a profound influence. She shares how her spiritual journey has shaped her life and career.

Cathy is joined by Abdul Aziz, a member of the Muslim community in Glasgow; Martin Palmer, Founding President of Faith Invest and Senior Adviser to the World Federation of Daoists; and theologian and writer Eve Poole to discuss some of the week’s topical news from an ethical and religious perspective.

They discuss the role of faith in lending in light of actor Michael Sheen’s latest Channel 4 documentary which looks at the crippling impact of high-interest loans in his south Wales community.

Also on the agenda, a US death row inmate was recently executed by firing squad, reigniting debate around capital punishment. The panel look into the nature of our relationship with the death penalty, and what justice looks like from different faith perspectives.

And HBO series White Lotus has returned to our screens. This season a wealthy student flirts with Buddhism — echoing a wider trend. From yoga to mindfulness, our guests ponder can faith, be sampled, or does true engagement require deeper commitment?