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

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

Transcribed - Published: 17 May 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 3 May 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 19 April 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 5 April 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 22 March 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 15 March 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 8 March 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 1 March 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 22 February 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 15 February 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 1 February 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 25 January 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 18 January 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 11 January 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 21 December 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 14 December 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 7 December 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 30 November 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 23 November 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 16 November 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 6 November 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 26 October 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 19 October 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 12 October 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 5 October 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 28 September 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 21 September 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 14 September 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 7 September 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 31 August 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 24 August 2024

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

Transcribed - Published: 17 August 2024

Mark is joined by comedian Paul Mccaffrey, as he tries to make sense of this weeks far-right rioting, the cost of watching Judo at the olympics & annoying the anti-trans community on Twitter/X. This week Elliot Steel is busy performing his new show in Edinburgh but we have Nigel Boulevard at the end of his tether with two tier policing – and a woman that Mark heard on a phone-in show who is sick of all these immigrants at the olympics. 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 Paul Mccaffrey @paulmccaffreycomedian Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 August 2024

This week we are revisiting this classic episode with Seann Walsh, Covering everything from getting PTSD after going on a dance show, to what it's like growing up with a father who's a heroin addict – and whether it's a suitable subject for comedy. Plus, why Mark would argue that (whether he thinks he is or not) Seann is actually a political comedian – and a disturbingly accurate impression of Stewart Lee doing a Michael McIntyre routine. It's a fascinating and very funny full-length interview – not to be missed! 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 August 2024

Mark is joined by columnist and political commentator Matthew Norman, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of the Presidential soap opera unfolding in America; Labour suspensions over the two child benefit cap – and Elliot being asked to help a magician at the Edinburgh Festival.   Plus, broadcasting legend Mike Concrete interviews a sports fan who's off to Paris for the Olympics – and a woman who Mark overheard in a cafe is unhappy with the new Labour government.   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 @MatthewJNorman   Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 July 2024

Mark is joined by comedian Kai Humphries, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of Donald Trump surviving an assassination attempt; England fans surviving defeat in the Euro 2024 final – and humanity surviving the evils of boil-in-the-bag rice!   Plus, Nigel Boulevard MP explains to the people of Clacton why it's his patriotic duty to fly to America – and a woman that Mark heard on a phone-in show is sick of all these people trying to shoot Donald Trump.   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 Kai Humphries @kaihumphries   Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 July 2024

Mark is joined by comedian Christine Berrou, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of the French election results, the fallout from Britain's election result – and people on the left who refuse to celebrate the end of Tory rule.   Plus, Liz Truss explains how she lost her seat – and broadcasting legend Mike Concrete interviews a French woman about the Tour de France.   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 Christine Berrou @ChristineBerrou   Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 July 2024

Mark is joined by comedians Sooz Kempner, Nick Revell and Andy Zaltzman for a special election episode, as he tries to make sense of Labour's landslide election win; the demise of the Tory Party – and the rise of Nigel Boulevard.   Plus, our very own George Galloway shares his opinions on his own election result – and Lieutenant Colonel Sir Ambrose Chislehurst-Taramaslata reveals what really happens when the monarch asks a new Prime Minister to form a Government.   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 Sooz Kempner @SoozUK   Follow Nick Revell @TheNickRevell   Follow Andy Zaltzman @ZaltzCricket   Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 July 2024

Mark is joined by Rosie Holt (comedian and ultra-loyal Tory MP!) along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of Rosie's book “Why We Were Right”; Tory MPs betting on the date of the election; and how Mark and Elliot got on in Germany when they went there for the Euros.   Plus, the Liz Truss Guide To Football – and Russia'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 Rosie Holt @RosieisaHolt   Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 29 June 2024

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 also 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!   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 Dr Benji Waterhouse @doctor_benji   And visit our website www.whatthefisgoingonpodcast.co.uk for more information.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 June 2024

Mark is joined by comedian and writer Nick Revell, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of the impending Tory wipeout; Rishi Sunak's deprived childhood without Sky – and what really happened when he left the D-Day veterans in Normandy.   Plus, our very own George Galloway live from the campaign trail; Britain's most patriotic man Nigel Boulevard on why he's always loved Clacton - and a woman who Mark heard on a phone-in show who's sick of the lot of them, Jeremy!   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 Nick Revell @TheNickRevell   Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 June 2024

Mark is joined by comedian Lucy Porter, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of Rishi Sunak's £2,000 lie, comedians being asked to go on Question Time – and how The Vixen managed to beat Mark (and Cheryl Baker) on The Chase.   Plus, Britain's most patriotic man Nigel Boulevard on why he's standing for election, more money saving tips from Martin Sunak – and a woman who Mark overheard in a cafe is fed up with the election already. 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 Lucy Porter @lucyportercomic and her podcast @FingersBuzzers   Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 June 2024

Mark is joined by comedian Mark Nelson, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of Rishi Sunak's disastrous election campaign, National Service for 18 year olds – and why politicians should own up to watching llama porn!   Plus, the Liz Truss Guide To Winning Elections, a heartfelt pledge from Keir Starmer – and Mike Concrete talks to an Army man about Rishi Sunak’s plans to bring back National Service. 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 Nelson @marknelsoncomic   Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 June 2024

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, currently sentenced to death by the regime – 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.    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 Ramita Navai @ramitanavai   And visit our website www.whatthefisgoingonpodcast.co.uk for more information.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2024

Mark is joined by comedian Fred MacAulay, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of the SNP falling out with the Scottish Greens; Drake falling out with Kendrick Lamar – and why better technology makes things more complicated than ever before!    Plus, Nadine Boris joins us live from The Grapes, more money-saving tips from Martin Sunak – and our very own George Galloway gives his thoughts on Bear Grylls baptising Russell Brand.   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 Fred MacAulay @fredmacaulay   Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2024

Mark is joined by Dr Phil Hammond for a special extended interview about Mark's 'cancer journey' – as they would no doubt call it on Britain's Got Talent!  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 current 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!   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 Dr Phil Hammond @drphilhammond   And visit our website www.whatthefisgoingonpodcast.co.uk for more information.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2024

Mark is joined by comedian and writer Brenda Gilhooly, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of being given the all-clear from cancer, Labour's plans if they win the next election - and whether he should give Elliot a lift to the polling station!   Plus, our very own George Galloway gives his thoughts on Mark's cancer journey – and broadcasting legend Mike Concrete interviews a member of Pop Bang Whizz!   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 Brenda Gilhooly @BrendaGilhooly1   Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 May 2024

Mark is joined by Rachel Fairburn, comedian and co-host of the All Killa No Filla podcast, along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of the Rwanda bill passing, the cost of renting in London - and upmarket graffiti in Hampstead!   Plus, a woman that Mark heard on a phone-in show shares her thoughts on Rishi Sunak's Rwanda scheme – and deceased Yorkshire cricketer Fred Trueman gives his views on the plans to scrap F.A. Cup replays.   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 Rachel Fairburn @RachelFairburn and her podcast @killnofillpod Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom and his podcast @BtecPhilosoph   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2024

Mark is joined by actress, presenter and agony aunt Maria McErlane along with Elliot Steel, as he tries to make sense of Iran v Israel; New York v Donald Trump; Rishi Sunak v Smoking – and Liz Truss v Reality!   Plus, Nigel Boulevard, Britain's most patriotic man, goes to Belgium for a conference – and there's an exclusive extract from Liz Truss's book “50 Days To Crash The Economy...”   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 Maria McErlane @mariamcerlane Follow Elliot Steel @elliotsteelcom and his podcast @BtecPhilosoph   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2024