Charles Spencer: Confronting the Past

We need more room to be honest about what it costs when people or institutions fail us. Today's conversation is with Lord Charles Spencer, the 9th Earl Spencer. You might also know him as Princess Diana's brother. His latest book, A Very Private School, is a courageous and beautifully written memoir about his time in an abusive English boarding school that was shrouded in secrets, abuse, and cruelty. While his circumstances may be unlike something you’ve experienced, Charles speaks so candidly and tenderly about his painful childhood and what it has cost him and others too.

In this conversation, Kate and Charles discuss:

• the challenge and catharsis of writing about personal trauma

• the casual cruelty Charles and his peers endured

• what happens when our innocence is stolen from us at a young age

• what healing looks like 50 years later

If you liked this conversation, might also like: 

• Rachel Denhollender on getting justice you deserve

• Tara Westover on how our parents’ best might still not be enough

Watch clips from this conversation, read the full transcript, and access discussion questions by clicking here or visiting katebowler.com/podcasts.

Follow Kate on Instagram, Facebook, or X (formerly known as Twitter)—@katecbowler. Links to social pages and more available at linktr.ee/katecbowler.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.