Sisters of Defiance

1 Min read

We’re proud to introduce Sisters of Defiance, a new podcast hosted by Anita Rani and nourished by Ancient + Brave.

Through raw conversations and brave stories, the series shines a light on women whose names you know, but whose real stories are rarely told. Their journeys have challenged expectations, reshaped culture and redefined what’s possible. Each episode explores the untold realities behind success, resilience and modern womanhood.

Each week, Anita is joined by Ancient + Brave's Dr Jenna Macciochi and Jo Woodhurst, in The Last Offering, drawing on ancestral wisdom to explore the everyday rituals and practices that can enable all of us to live a truly brave life.

Join us wherever you find your podcasts over the next 10 weeks as we introduce you to some of the most courageous, groundbreaking women of our time. Discover our Sisters of Defiance on YouTube

Introducing this week’s Sister of Defiance… Gisele Pelicot

This week, Anita sits down with Gisele Pelicot, author, advocate, and one of the defining voices of modern feminism. They talk about the long days in court facing the 51 men accused, the family and friendships that carried her through, the choice to refuse anger as a way of life, and the love she has found on the other side.

This Week’s Last Offering

A closing breath. A turning inward. This week, Dr Jenna and Jo turn to the body that has held too much. Trauma, they remind Anita, what happens when the system runs past what it can carry. The imprint stays in the nervous system long after the event itself has passed. Survival mode wears a woman down, the body inflames, and recovery is the first thing to go. Their offering is the smallest rituals: a slow breath, an early night, the soles of the feet on bare earth. Safety is built back one small return at a time.

Meet Our

Anita Rani, award winning Broadcaster, Writer and Producer

Anita Rani is an award-winning broadcaster, journalist and author. She presents BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour and BBC One's Countryfile, has written the Sunday Times bestseller The Right Sort of Girl, and serves as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador and Chancellor of the University of Bradford.

Dame Meera Syal, Actress, writer and comedian

Dame Meera Syal is an award-winning actress, writer and comedian, and a BAFTA Fellowship recipient. Best known for Goodness Gracious Me, The Kumars at No. 42 and her novel Anita and Me, she was made a Dame in the 2026 New Year Honours for services to literature, drama and charity.

Emma Grede, Entrepreneur, Investor and Businesswoman

Emma Grede is an entrepreneur, investor and businesswoman, and the first Black woman to serve as a guest investor on Shark Tank US. She is the co-founder and CEO of Good American, a founding partner of SKIMS, and the author of Start With Yourself, out now.

Gisele Pelicot, Advocate and Author

Gisele Pelicot has become one of the defining voices of modern feminism. In 2024, she waived her right to anonymity in the Pelicot trial in France, insisting the proceedings be public so that shame would change sides. Her courage led to the conviction of 51 men and reshaped the global conversation about sexual violence.