What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel

This week Mark continues his conversation with Ash Sarkar. If you haven't heard the first part then do go back and listen now but for the rest of you here is the second half of the interview. Want to get access to the full video interview before anyone else? why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠ For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Ash @ayocaesar Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by journalist Ash Sarkar as they discuss anti-racist activism, Ash’s political family background, building solidarity through shared struggles, Labour under Starmer - and Optimism in grassroots organising. You can hear the second part of the interview in next week's episode – but if you can't wait, why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Ash @ayocaesar Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Mark continues his conversation with Seann Walsh. If you haven't heard the first part then do go back and listen now but for the rest of you here is the second half of the interview. Want to get access to the full video interview before anyone else? why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠ For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Seann @seannwalsh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Seann Walsh as they discuss service stations, booking train tickets, the new world of comedy, Seann’s upbringing - and getting your phone stolen. You can hear the second part of the interview in next week's episode – but if you can't wait, why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Seann @seannwalsh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Mark continues his conversation with Zack Polanski . If you haven't heard the first part then do go back and listen now but for the rest of you here is the second half of the interview. Want to get access to the full video interview before anyone else? why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠ For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Zack @ZackPolanski @GreenpartyZack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by the Deputy Leader of the Green Party, Zack Polanski. Together they discuss why he joined the Green Party, working with Jeremy Corbyn, providing an alternative to Reform - plus the misconceptions about the Green Party and how he hopes to change them. You can hear the second part of the interview in next week's episode – but if you can't wait, why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Zack @ZackPolanski @GreenpartyZack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Mark continues his conversation with Matthew Norman. If you haven't heard the first part then do go back and listen now but for the rest of you here is the second half of the interview. Want to get access to the full video interview before anyone else? why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠ For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by columnist and political satirist Matthew Norman as they discuss US politics, how Trump got into power, writing for the Guardian Diary, Communism - and the modern education system. You can hear the second part of the interview in next week's episode – but if you can't wait, why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Mark continues his conversation with Michael Rosen. If you haven't heard the first part then do go back and listen now but for the rest of you here is the second half of the interview. Want to get access to the full video interview before anyone else? why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠ For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Michael on twitter/x @Michaelrosenyes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by children’s Author Michael Rosen as they discuss Jewish history, Language as a philosophy, underestimating dictators, Writing for children - and Yiddish swear words. You can hear the second part of the interview in next week's episode – but if you can't wait, why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Michael on twitter/x @Michaelrosenyes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Mark continues his conversation with Alexei Sayle. If you haven't heard the first part then do go back and listen now but for the rest of you here is the second half of the interview. I you enjoyed this episode then be sure to check out Alexei’s podcast and patreon page here: www.audioboom.com/channels/5038428-the-alexei-sayle-podcast www.patreon.com/AlexeiSaylePodcast Want to get access to the full video interview before anyone else? why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠ For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Alexei’s Podcast @alexeisaylepod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by legendary comedian Alexei Sayle as they discuss the world of comedy in the 80s, Working class comedians, The problem with Labour - and what we can do to sort it all out. You can hear the second part of the interview in next week's episode – but if you can't wait, why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod I you enjoyed this episode then be sure to check out Alexei’s podcast and patreon page here: www.audioboom.com/channels/5038428-the-alexei-sayle-podcast www.patreon.com/AlexeiSaylePodcast For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Alexei’s Podcast @alexeisaylepod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Mark continues his conversation with Jeff innocent. If you haven't heard the first part then do go back and listen now but for the rest of you here is the second half of the interview. Want to get access to the full video interview before anyone else? why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠ For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Jeff @Jeffinnocentofficial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Jeff Innocent for an insightful and deep chat, Mark and Jeff discuss the role of Instagram and social media in comedy, finding a defence to woke that isn’t “mad”, how to be inclusive through comedy – and the funny differences between upper and working class people. You can hear the second part of the interview in next week's episode – but if you can't wait, why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Jeff @Jeffinnocentofficial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Mark continues his conversation with Caitlin Moran in this very interesting discussion that covers a wide range of topics. You can hear all of Mark's interviews in full before anyone else by joining us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen or watch the whole interview before anyone else with none of those pesky ad breaks. visit https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod to sign up now! For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Caitlin Moran @mscaitlinmoran Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by journalist, broadcaster & author Caitlin Moran In a full-length, incredibly interesting interview, Mark and Caitlin discuss feminism, the differences between men and women when it comes to health, life growing up within the working class – and secret Midlanders. You can hear the second part of the interview in next week's episode – but if you can't wait, why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Caitlin Moran @mscaitlinmoran Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Mark continues his conversation with John McDonnell, ex-Shadow Chancellor and Jeremy Corbyn ally. If you haven't heard the first part then do go back and listen now but for the rest of you here is the rest of the interview. Want to get access to the full video interview before anyone else? why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠ For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow John McDonnell @johnmcdonnellMP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're back! Mark is joined by John McDonnell, ex-Shadow Chancellor and Jeremy Corbyn ally. In a full-length, outspoken, no-holds barred interview, Mark quizzes John about his political passions, the Jeremy Corbyn years, life in the Labour Party under Keir Starmer – and how we go forward from here. You can hear the second part of the interview in next week's episode – but if you can't wait, why not join us on Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen to the whole interview straight away – and you'll also be able to watch it! https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email [email protected] Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow John McDonnell @johnmcdonnellMP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We have a very exciting announcement, We are returning for an all new and improved series of What The F*** Is Going On? starting this Saturday!! We have some incredible guests lined up such as John McDonnell, Caitlin Moran, Michael Rosen, Alexei Sayle, Matthew Norman, Jeff Innocent and many more so make sure to tune in this weekend as we to try to figure out, once again .. What The F*** Is Going On? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We'll be back in just a couple of weeks with some brand new episodes, But for now, here's another classic from the archives, in which Mark was joined by comedian Scott Bennett for a special extended interview, as he tried to make sense of his ongoing cancer treatment. Mark somehow manages to see the funny side of coughing fits, industrial scale mucus production – and an assortment of drugs and paraphernalia that would put Walter White to shame! Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Scott Bennett @scottbcomedyuk and the 'Brew With The Bennetts' podcast @BWTBpod https://scottbennettcomedy.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Good news! We'll be back with some brand new episodes starting next month. But in the meantime, here's another classic episode from the archives. Mark is joined by award-winning journalist Ramita Navai for a special extended interview about the Middle East. From Israel's war crimes in Gaza, to life under the Taliban, and the 'Women, Life, Freedom' movement in Iran. Informed, entertaining and shocking, subjects range from the Iranian rapper Toomaj Salehi, whose death sentence was thankfully overturned by the regime after worldwide condemnation – to the hackers who filmed a pro-Iranian regime journalist masturbating to porn in his office. As a British-Iranian journalist, Ramita has won an Emmy and other awards for documentaries such as Afghanistan Undercover, ISIS and the Battle for Iraq, Undercover Syria, and Breaking Into Israel. If you want to understand What The F*** Is Going On in the Middle East, this is the episode for you. Follow Ramita Navai @ramitanavai Follow What The F*** Is Going On? With Mark Steel @wtfisgoingonpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're on a break from the podcast while Mark starts his new tour 'The Leopard In My House' (details here: https://marksteelinfo.com/) But in the meantime, here's another classic episode from the archives. Mark is joined by Robin Ince - comedian, writer and broadcaster - for a special extended interview, as he tries to make sense of the rise of conspiracy theories and the challenges faced by rational thought. It's a hilarious and wide-ranging conversation that covers everything from Naomi Klein and Donald Trump to Robin Askwith, star of Confessions of a Window Cleaner! Mark and Robin discuss whether it's worth arguing with anti-vaxxers and flat-Earthers, and reveal some of the tricks that psychics use to con their audiences. But the most heated argument of all revolves around a Trotskyist interpretation of the 70s American detective series Columbo! Follow Robin Ince @robinince.bsky.social Follow What The F*** Is Going On? With Mark Steel @wtfisgoingonpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're on a break from the podcast while Mark starts his new tour 'The Leopard In My House' (details here: https://marksteelinfo.com/) But in the meantime, here's another classic episode from the archives. Mark is joined by the comedian and actor Miles Jupp for a special Coronation edition of the podcast. In an extended interview, Mark and Miles discuss the big ideas of monarchy, religion – and whether David Attenborough secretly likes to go fly-tipping. Plus, there's Mark's take on what the Coronation ceremony itself will involve, including the Wolverhampton Dragoon Guards of the Prussian battalions of the Noble Emissaries of Mansfield. Oh – and masturbating hedgehogs. Follow What The F*** Is Going On? With Mark Steel @wtfisgoingonpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're on a break from the podcast while Mark starts his new tour 'The Leopard In My House' (details here: https://marksteelinfo.com/) But in the meantime, here's another classic episode from the archives. In this extended interview, Mark talks about his 'cancer journey' – as they would no doubt call it on Britain's Got Talent - to Dr Phil Hammond. As a comedian, author and retired doctor, no one is better placed than Phil to give some informed and highly entertaining expert opinion on Mark's experiences, advances in medical science, and the state of the NHS. The conversation covers everything from King Charles to East Grinstead – and whether arsenic is really used as a cancer treatment. It's a frank, no-holds barred discussion that contains graphic sexual references and other grown up stuff that needs to be talked about more! Follow @drphilhammond Follow What The F*** Is Going On? With Mark Steel @wtfisgoingonpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're on a break from the podcast while Mark starts his new tour 'The Leopard In My House' (details here: https://marksteelinfo.com/) But in the meantime, here's another classic episode from the archives. In this special extended interview, Mark talks to Dr Phil Hammond about the state of the NHS. As a comedian, journalist, whistle-blower and newly retired NHS doctor, no one is better equipped to try to answer the questions that people are asking about healthcare today. The conversation is fascinating, informed – and darkly funny! Follow @drphilhammond Follow What The F*** Is Going On? With Mark Steel @wtfisgoingonpod Go to proton.me/wtfisgoingon to receive a 38% discount on Proton Mail Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're on a break from the podcast while Mark starts his new tour 'The Leopard In My House' (details here: https://marksteelinfo.com/) But in the meantime, here's another classic episode from the archives. Mark is joined by former Green Party MP Caroline Lucas for a special extended interview, covering everything from climate change to Jeremy Corbyn; from Progressive Alliances and PR to Labour Party tribalism – and how the f*** she managed to keep her temper when Boris Johnson was lying his head off in Parliament! Follow Caroline Lucas @CarolineLucas Follow What The F*** Is Going On? With Mark Steel @wtfisgoingonpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're taking a break from the podcast while Mark starts his new tour 'The Leopard In My House' (details here: https://marksteelinfo.com/) We'll keep you posted, but in the meantime, here's another classic episode. Mark is joined by Tom Walker (aka Jonathan Pie) for a special extended interview, covering everything from 'cancel culture' and causing offence, to the attitudes of the left (and the right) to humour and 'free speech'. Follow Jonathan Pie @JonathanPieNews Follow What The F*** Is Going On? With Mark Steel @wtfisgoingonpod Go to proton.me/wtfisgoingon to receive a 38% discount on Proton Mail Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark has been extremely busy preparing for his tour, which starts next week (details here: https://marksteelinfo.com/) so unfortunately he wasn't able to record a new episode. In the meantime, here's a classic episode in which Mark is joined by Dr Benji Waterhouse – NHS psychiatrist, comedian and best-selling author – for a special extended interview about mental health. Benji's book 'You Don't Have To Be Mad To Work Here' is a darkly funny account of life as a front-line NHS doctor specialising in psychiatry. In it, he talks about the patients he has encountered, from the 45 year-old man with psychosis who believed he was a werewolf, to the woman who arrived at his hospital in a wedding dress insisting she was getting married to Harry Styles. His conversation with Mark covers our changing attitudes to mental health – and asks how patients can get the care they need when psychiatry is so desperately lacking in staff and hospital beds. It's a must-hear interview! Go to proton.me/wtfisgoingon to receive a 38% discount on Proton Mail Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Mark is busy doing some very important business in France but we have a very special classic episode from the early days of the podcast in which Mark is joined by Louis Theroux and Elliot Steel as he tries er…forgive me… forgive me… forgive me… tries to make sense of Boris Johnson incompetence, Black Friday and the link between Dr Who and youth crime. Follow Louis Theroux on Twitter @louistheroux Follow What The F*** Is Going On? With Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Get bonus content on Patreon Go to proton.me/wtfisgoingon to receive a 38% discount on Proton Mail Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Rosie Holt as he tries to make sense of Elon Musk’s interesting inauguration speech, a new Donald Trump era – and Labour’s uninspiring government. Plus we hear from Alicia Allegretto of Squirrel News on the inauguration - and George Galloway on The Traitors. This episode was sponsored by Proton Mail If you would like to take back control of your inbox and stop your data being harvested through your emails sign up to Proton mail using this link to receive a whopping 38% discount: proton.me/wtfisgoingon Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Follow Rosie @rosieisaholt Go to proton.me/wtfisgoingon to receive a 38% discount on Proton Mail Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What The F*** Is Going On? With Mark Steel - Ep 155 Mark is joined by comedian and writer Nick Revell, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of the politicisation of the California wildfires, stealing from Woolworths – and Elliot shares a story about his recent trip to Newcastle. Plus Mike Concrete interviews a lady who runs a paranormal website and we hear from Britain’s most patriotic man, Nigel Boulevard on putting America before Britain. Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Follow Nick @thenickrevell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Seann Walsh, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of Elon Musk’s comments on grooming gangs , middle class comedians – and Elliot shares his opinion on a select few of Mark’s fans. Plus we hear a woman on a phone in who’s not happy with New Year celebration and Mark overhears a woman in a cafe complaining about the weather. Check out Seann’s new special “Back From The Bed” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_y74khsPvY AND do check out Elliot’s new special “Carrying The Boats” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTtvceb5A80&t=178s Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Follow Seann @seannwalsh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by writer and journalist Margaret Renn in this special extended episode. Together, they discuss Margaret’s new book “Paul Foot: A Life in Politics” and the life of Paul Foot, one of Britain's most outstanding journalists and socialist campaigners. If you enjoyed this interview then please buy a copy of Margaret’s new book, it’s well worth a read so head down to your local book shop and buy a copy, but if you really must use amazon then you can buy it here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Paul-Foot-Politics-Margaret-Renn/dp/1804291900 Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? Bluesky/X @wtfisgoingonpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by scientist, writer, and broadcaster Adam Rutherford in this special extended episode. Together, they discuss eugenics, Charles Darwin, Francis Galton, nature versus nurture, how right wing Americans influenced Hitler and many other fascinating topics. If you enjoyed this interview then please buy a copy of Adam’s book “Control: The Dark History and Troubling Present of Eugenics”, It would make an excellent Christmas gift and can be ordered on amazon right now using this link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Control-History-Troubling-Present-Eugenics-ebook/dp/B08WC6493L Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Bluesky/X @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Follow Adam @AdamRutherford Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Arthur Smith in this special extended episode, as they discuss his 1991 stage play “An Evening With Gary Lineker”, Arthur’s time teaching in France & many more fascinating stories from Arthur’s life. Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Bluesky @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Follow Arthur on bluesky @arfursmith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week we revisit this special episode recorded in front of a live audience at Leicester Square Theatre. Mark is joined by Seann Walsh, Angela Barnes and Elliot Steel as he tries to make sense of the current mess that we're in. Plus there's Mike Concrete being forced to make an apology to an Irish farmer – and a woman that Mark heard on a phone-in show complaining about all the boats that are coming here... Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Seann Walsh @seannwalsh Follow Angela Barnes @AngelaBarnes Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Andy Zaltzman, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of the threat of nuclear war , Farmers inheritance tax – and Elliot tells us about his recent altercation at a bus stop. Plus we hear an exclusive extract from the late John Prescott and Mike Concrete speaks to a climate change activist Go to https://www.andyzaltzman.co.uk to get tour tickets and more from Andy. Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Follow Andy @zalzcricket Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by author John O'Farrell, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of why the left keeps seeming to lose, The resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury – and Elliot explains the recent controversy over referee David Coote. Plus Britains most patriotic man Nigel boulevard shares his thoughts on good old fashioned British fireworks and Mark overhears a woman on a phone in who is not happy about the Archbishop of Canterbury’s resignation. If you want to buy John’s new paperback you can grab a copy here: https://www.waterstones.com/author/john-ofarrell/53371 Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Follow John O’Farrel @mrjohnofarrell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by writer Matthew Norman, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of everything that’s happened in the last few days in this US election special. Plus we hear from a woman on a phone in who Is especially shocked and astounded at the re-election of Donald Trump. Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Scott Bennett, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of Trump’s accusations of The Labour Party’s “Foreign Interference”, Celebrities putting themselves on islands – and Elliot makes an interesting link between this podcast and socialism. Marks new tour show “The Leopard In My House” is on sale now so head over to www.marksteel.info for tickets. Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Go to www.ScottBennett.co.uk for Scott’s tour tickets and more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Rosie Holt, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of the removal of hereditary peers in the House of Lords, How the new government has effected everybody – and Elliot shares his thoughts on deleting Twitter/X. Plus, We hear from George Galloway giving his views on Keir Starmer’s “gift” tickets to Taylor Swift and Mike Concrete talks to the winner of the Warehouseman of the Year Award. Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Follow Rosie @rosieisaholt Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by screenwriter and novelist Frank Cottrell-Boyce, to discuss being the UK Children's Laureate , His role in the London 2012 Olympic opening ceremony, Working with Tony Wilson on 24 hour party people – and growing up in Liverpool. Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Frank on twitter @@frankcottrell_b Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by cartoonist and writer Martin Rowson, as he tries to make sense of the history of visual satire & print making , Drawing Tony Blair’s degeneration over the years – and his new book "A Dead Cat On Your Table" with Peter York. If you want to get your hands on a copy of Martin's book "A Dead Cat On Your Table" with Peter York you can order it here: https://subscribe.bylinetimes.com/product/a-dead-cat-on-your-table/?mc_cid=8f2cc3598c&mc_eid=27707f12ef Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Martin on Twitter/x @MartinRowson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Phil Ellis, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of Kier Starmer’s use of a corporate box at the Emirates Stadium , Phil Ellis’ disaster gig at Blackpool Pleasure beach – and Elliot shares his views on the reality television this country needs. Plus, We hear from deceased Yorkshire cricketer Fred Trueman about the new series of Strictly Come Dancing. Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Follow Phil @ThePhilEllis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Sally-Anne Hayward, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of how men sound to women, using Stoicism to learn to not get annoyed at people – and Elliot shares his views on stupid people that use twitter. Plus, Mark hears a woman on a phone in show who is angered by immigrants eating cats and dogs – and ex-MP George Galloway shares his thoughts on Tupperware’s bankruptcy Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Follow Sally @sallyannecomedy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Esther Manito, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of the 40 minute mark – spending cuts for the elderly and Elliot’s views on why Mark gets overwhelmed choosing soap. Plus, Mark overhears a woman in a cafe who is concerned about the scrapping of the winter fuel allowance – and an exclusive Bible reading from Russell Brandiloquent. Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Follow Esther Manito @esthermanito Plus, Please do what you can to support Esther’s half marathon for Palestine by following this link: https://www.justgiving.com/page/esther-manito-1724402429607?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Festher-manito-1724402429607&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Miles Jupp, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of wether Mary Poppins was a radical left wing film – coping with scary medical surgeries and Elliot’s views on people with ADHD. Plus, broadcasting legend Mike Concrete interviews Tony Pardew who is starting scheme to help kids get fit – and an interview with Nadine Boris about Angela Rayner dancing in Ibiza with a DJ. Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian and singer Lloyd Griffith, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of hitchhiking in Grimsby; hair transplants – and Elliot’s take on Andrew Tate. Plus, George Galloway gives his thoughts on the reunion of the Gallagher brothers – and we hear from Britain's most patriotic man Nigel Boulevard. Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Lloyd Griffith @lloydgriffith Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by Shappi Khorsandi for a special extended interview all about ADHD. Join us this week as we discuss everything from what it’s like living with ADHD, how to recognise symptoms and self diagnosis. Shappi’s new book “Scatter Brain: How I finally got off the ADHD rollercoaster and became the owner of a very tidy sock drawer” will be out on paperback on September 5th. PLUS Shappi is on tour with her brand new show Scatter Brain tickets can be found at:https://shappi.co.uk/comedian/live-dates/ Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Shappi Khorsandi @shappikhorsandi And visit our website www.whatthefisgoingonpodcast.co.uk for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark is joined by comedian Gráinne Maguire, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of lead and Zinc mining in Navan; Support for Sinn Féin in Ireland – and Elliot’s housing situation at The Edinburgh Festival. Plus, broadcasting legend Mike Concrete interviews the political editor for The Irish Times – and a woman who Mark overheard in a cafe is unhappy about the fires in Greece. Get ad-free extended episodes, early access and exclusive content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod Follow Matthew Norman @GrainneMaguire Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices