Reasons to cheer, as Paloma Faith cosies up to Mel B and Alan Carr, while comedians Fin Taylor and Horatio Gould have a laugh at Chairman Mao’s expense. Plus, a terrifying case of cyber-stalking with Carole Cadwalladr

The BBC host is a touch too eager to please in his new dream job, while Gok Wan is a breakfast show natural on Magic. Plus, a refreshing look at the Troubles, and a grippingly immersive mountaineering story

A chart-topping podcast about psychic communication makes for a troubling listen. Elsewhere, more excellent mental health musings from Scottee, and in praise of the adventure playground

Miquita Oliver and Lily Allen’s intimate chats, Jake Shears’s deep dive into queer music and the ongoing mystery of Lord Lucan were among the standouts

The UK musicians who came to prominence in the mid-90s were more diverse and thrilling than is often acknowledged. In her new book, Miranda Sawyer, who was writing for the music press at the time, looks back through 20 songs

Brand’s strange journey from darling of the left to cancelled crank makes for an informed podcast, while a power imbalance impairs rock groupies’ tales. Plus, writer Katherine Rundell on the power of children’s fiction