The Happy Pod: Running topless because I'm proud of my scars episode artwork

EPISODE · May 2, 2026 · 26 MIN

The Happy Pod: Running topless because I'm proud of my scars

from BBC · host BBC

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 a hundred 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're often associated with witchcraft. Plus: the comedian making her debut in her eighties; 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 composed by Iona Hampson. (Photo: Topless marathon runner Louise Butcher. Credit: @louisebutcher39)

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published May 2, 2026

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The Happy Pod: Running topless because I'm proud of my scars

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