Nicky Campbell, the presenter for BBC 5 Live, is returning with the third instalment of his acclaimed podcast, Different.
Produced by Audio Always, the podcast, set to release weekly starting from Wednesday, 22 November, will showcase interviews with a diverse array of captivating guests, delving into what sets them apart in extraordinary ways.
The inaugural episode kicks off with Robert Mazur, a former undercover federal agent who navigated the depths of the criminal underworld. Mazur recounts his experiences as a high-level money launderer for members of the Colombian drug cartels.
Adapted into the 2016 film ‘The Infiltrator,’ starring Bryan Cranston, Mazur reflects on the impact of his actions, stating, “I changed the course of many people’s lives. I ruined many people’s lives. It was a knock-on effect. If I was one of them, I’d want to kill me. They did want to kill me. They still do. I’m not very popular.”
Mazur also shares his longing for a ‘normal’ life, expressing, “I may just decide to come out. It’s really kind of stressful. What can I say? ‘I’m sorry about that? Let’s get on with our lives.’ I’d just like to not have to live the way we presently do. I’d like to live the way my neighbors live.”
The upcoming series will feature other notable guests, including Katy Morgan-Davies, the daughter of a cult leader imprisoned for 30 years, Zac Ebrahim, the son of one of the individuals charged in the 1993 World Trade Centre bombing, and Joseph Parris, a New York barber and wig maker with astonishing stories, including being Frank Sinatra’s long-standing barber.
Different secured Gold in the Interview category at this year’s British Podcast Awards for Nicky’s conversation with Jenny Pearson, the daughter of his abuser during his time at Edinburgh Academy.
On the return of the new series, Nicky Campbell says: “I am so delighted to be bringing back another series of our award-winning podcast, Different. Loyal listeners should know by now that I love talking to people from all walks of life and listening to their remarkable stories. From Frank Sinatra’s long standing barber, to an undercover agent who laundered money for Pablo Escobar’s infamous cartel, a daughter born into her Father’s cult and a son to one of the men who planned the World Trade Centre bombing in 1993, this series is full of ear catching real-life stories and I can’t wait for you to hear them.”
BBC Radio 5 Live’s Lead Commissioning Editor, Richard Maddock, says: “To win the gold in this year’s British Podcast Awards illustrates just how unique and impactful ‘Different’ is. Nicky is a master of his craft and one of the country’s best interviewers. In ‘Different’, he takes us on a journey to understand the lives of extraordinary people. We are really proud of this podcast, it not only entertains the audience, but has changed people’s lives. We’re really excited for this brand new series which will once again introduce you to some incredible individuals who have some fascinating stories to tell.”
The series is set to launch on BBC Sounds on Wednesday, 22 November.