Chicken Soap for the Soul: A New Podcast Hosted by Elisabeth Dermot Walsh (BBC Doctors)
After 24 incredible years, Doctors has come to an end, and Elisabeth Dermot Walsh—known as the scheming Dr. Zara Carmichael—has hung up her stethoscope. But she’s not stepping away from storytelling. Instead, she’s inviting us to settle in with a cup of tea as she pulls back the curtain on the captivating world of soap operas with her brand-new Brum Radio podcast: Chicken Soap for the Soul.
In this warm and revealing series, Elisabeth dives into the twists and turns that shape the soap experience. Each episode features a conversation with an actor who’s experienced the unique magic of soaps—whether they started there, ended up there, or just passed through. Together, they unpack unforgettable on-screen moments, off-screen secrets and even a blooper or two.
About the Host
After 15 years and over 1,600 episodes as Dr. Zara Carmichael, Elisabeth brings a deep understanding of the joys and challenges of soap life. With awards like the RTS Midlands Best Female Acting Performance under her belt, her insights and stories promise to connect with fans with the untold stories they never knew they were missing.
Episode Schedule and Guests
The first episode, featuring Janice Connolly (Doctors’ beloved Rosie), sets the tone for the series with heart, humour, and plenty of nostalgia. Recent episodes feature guests like Kia Pegg (Scarlett Kiernan) and Lorna Laidlaw (Mrs. Tembe), who share their experiences on Doctors and offer a rare glimpse into their diverse careers beyond their iconic roles. Whether you’re a soap fanatic, a casual viewer, or just love a good story, Elisabeth’s invitation is clear: “Put the kettle on and join us!”
How to Listen
New episodes of Chicken Soap for the Soul are released every Tuesday and are available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. To listen click here.
