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What The F Is Going On? with Mark Steel

What The F Is Going On? with Mark Steel

Carousel Studios

News, Society & Culture, Comedy, Politics

4.7888 Ratings

Overview

The world’s a mess, politics is ridiculous, and nobody seems to know what’s going on. Join Mark Steel as he sets out to make sense of the chaos — and maybe even figure out how we can fix it. Each week, Mark sits down with brilliant guests from comedy, politics and culture for funny, honest and occasionally furious conversations about modern life. Featuring guests including Miles Jupp, Jeremy Corbyn, Caitlin Moran, Zack Polanski, Alan Davies, Matt Forde, Ash Sarkar and many more, all helping Mark answer one big question… WHAT THE F IS GOING ON?

230 Episodes

Ep 184 with Alan Davies Pt 2: I Spent Years Pretending I Was Fine

This week Mark continues his conversation with Alan Davies. 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  We're currently sponsored by BT - behind brilliant things!  Search 'Why BT' to find out more or click on the following link: https://www.bt.com/broadband/why-bt For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Alan @alandaviescomic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 June 2026

Ep 184 with Alan Davies Pt 1: Comedy Became My Family

This week Mark is joined by comedian, actor, cricket obsessive and national treasure Alan Davies for a conversation that covers childhood trauma, football VAR, council bureaucracy, working-class warehouses, stand-up comedy in the 80s, Peter Snow in a BBC toilet, and why comedians instinctively know when someone is “not really a comic”. Alan talks candidly about the deeply personal experiences behind his memoirs Just Ignore Him and White Male Stand-Up, including grief, abuse, anger and the strange way comedy became both an escape and a substitute family. Along the way there are stories about Barry Manilow on the motorway, being buried under coat hangers in a van, fights in comedy clubs, the glory days of the circuit, and why every workplace secretly survives because everyone is covering for each other. We're currently sponsored by BT - behind brilliant things!  Search 'Why BT' to find out more or click on the following link: https://www.bt.com/broadband/why-bt 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 or watch the whole interview straight away. www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Instagram @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Alan @alandaviescomic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2026

Ep 183 with Rachel Millward Pt 2: We Are Sleepwalking Into Disaster!

This week Mark continues his conversation with Rachel Millward. 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  We're currently sponsored by BT - behind brilliant things!  Search 'Why BT' to find out more or click on the following link: https://www.bt.com/broadband/why-bt For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Rachel @millward_rachel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2026

Ep 183 with Rachel Millward Pt 1: Labour Came FOURTH!

The morning after the local elections, Mark is joined by Green Party deputy leader Rachel Millward to ask the only question anyone in British politics can answer right now: what the f**k is going on? As Labour and the Conservatives collapse into third and fourth place, Rachel explains why the Greens believe they’re becoming the real opposition — and why the political establishment seems terrified of it. From housing developers and billionaire wealth to Reform, immigration, rent controls and whether Keir Starmer has completely lost the plot, this is a conversation about a country that feels like it’s breaking apart in real time. We're currently sponsored by BT - behind brilliant things!  Search 'Why BT' to find out more or click on the following link: https://www.bt.com/broadband/why-bt 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 or watch the whole interview straight away. www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Instagram @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Rachel @millward_rachel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2026

Ep 182: What The F Is Going On With Peter Mandelson?

Mark is joined by journalist and columnist Matthew Norman as they discuss the rise and influence of Peter Mandelson, New Labour’s ruthless relationship with the media, how political standards have collapsed over the past 30 years, Mandelson’s reputation for power, spin and survival, the blurred lines between journalism and politics, and why modern British politics now feels closer to oligarchy than democracy. They also get into the psychology of political operators, media manipulation, Reform’s growing influence, and why things may still get worse before they get better. Also we are pleased to announce the return of George Galloway, Nigel Boulevard and the phone in woman.  For Ad-free episodes, Extended cuts, Early access & bonus content go to: ⁠www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠ For media, press & guest enquiries please email ⁠mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk⁠ 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

Transcribed - Published: 4 May 2026

Ep 181 with Mothin Ali (Part 2): We’re Here to Replace Labour

This week Mark continues his conversation with Mothin Ali. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Mothin @mothin.ali Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2026

Ep 181 with Mothin Ali (Part 1): They Tried To Brand Me A Terrorist

Mark is joined by Green Party deputy leader Mothin Ali as they discuss the Greens’ breakthrough in Gorton and Denton, Labour’s increasingly desperate attacks, anti-war politics, media smears, why Reform voters aren’t the enemy, the case for rent caps and public ownership, and whether the Green Party can genuinely replace Labour as Britain’s main opposition. They also get into Mothin’s political roots, community organising, and why politics only works when people feel hope again. 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 or watch the whole interview straight away. www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Mothin @mothin.ali Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2026

Ep 180 with Emma Warren (Part 2): We've Abandoned A Whole Generation!

This week Mark continues his conversation with Emma Warren. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Emma @_emmalwarren_  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2026

Ep 180 with Emma Warren Pt 1: This is what happens when you take away youth services!

Mark is joined by writer and youth worker Emma Warren as they discuss the importance of youth clubs in shaping communities, growing up around grassroots music and culture, how youth services have been systematically dismantled, what happens to young people when those spaces disappear, and why rebuilding youth infrastructure is essential to fixing deeper social problems – and you can buy Emma’s book Up The Youth Club online here: https://amzn.eu/d/0i1SmgQ9 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 or watch the whole interview straight away. www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Emma @_emmalwarren_  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 April 2026

Ep 179 with Dr Julia Grace Patterson

Mark is joined by Dr Julia Grace Patterson as they discuss the collapse of NHS working conditions, corridor care and patients dying in hospital hallways, the government’s handling of staffing and funding, the role of privatisation in reshaping the health service, why politicians pit patients against doctors, and how growing public anger could reshape British politics. For Ad-free episodes, Extended cuts, Early access & bonus content go to: www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Julia @everydoctor_UK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 March 2026

What the F is going on in Iran? 🇮🇷 With Ali Milani

Mark is joined by writer and political commentator Ali Milani as they break down the war in Iran, Trump’s lack of a clear strategy, whether the conflict is really about nuclear weapons, the role of Israel in shaping US policy, the history of Western intervention in Iran, why regime change from the air doesn’t work, and how this war could actually strengthen the very regime it claims to weaken. For ad-free episodes, early access and bonus content go to: www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Ali  @Alimilani_UK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2026

Ep 178 with Miles Jupp (Part 2): We haven’t mentioned the news once

This week Mark continues his conversation with Miles. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Miles @MilesJuppOfficially Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 March 2026

Ep 178 with Miles Jupp (Part 1): This was without a doubt my worst gig!

Mark is joined by comedian Miles Jupp as they discuss the weird thrill of shoplifting supermarket bags and charity-auction bidding, the rise and collapse of the Scottish Socialist Party, Tommy Sheridan’s extraordinary charisma, bombing at Glastonbury and in West Belfast, the old circuit’s strangest characters, awkward encounters with heroes from Paul Weller to John Gordon Sinclair, and why comedians never quite stop reliving the gigs that went catastrophically wrong. 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 or watch the whole interview straight away. www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Miles @Milesjuppofficially Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 March 2026

Ep 177 with Laura Smyth (Part 2) : We're Being Told To Hate Each other

This week Mark continues his conversation with Laura. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Laura @thatlaurasmyth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 March 2026

Ep 177 with Laura Smyth (Part 1) : Gigging is so real, we are very lucky

Mark is joined by comedian Laura Smyth as they discuss surviving cancer, stoicism and hypnotherapy, body neutrality after mastectomy, social media outrage and “narrative construction”, the loss of real-world connection in the age of smartphones, stand-up as communal therapy, raising daughters and sons differently, and why facing your mortality can make you finally stop carrying the shit you don’t need. 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 or watch the whole interview straight away. www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Laura @thatlaurasmyth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 March 2026

Ep 176 with Dawn Butler (Part 2) : Now Is The Time For A Revolution

This week Mark continues his conversation with Dawn. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Dawn @dawnbutlerbrent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 February 2026

Ep 176 with Dawn Butler (Part 1) : I Got Kicked Out Of Parliament For Telling The Truth

Mark is joined by Labour MP Dawn Butler as they discuss being thrown out of Parliament for calling Boris Johnson a liar, racism inside Westminster, the rise of the far right, the Epstein files and political accountability, Peter Mandelson and Labour’s direction under Keir Starmer, wealth and power in British politics, trade union roots, growing up in East London, and why she refuses to walk on the other side of the road when something’s wrong. 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 or watch the whole interview straight away. www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Dawn @dawnbutlerbrent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 February 2026

Ep 175 with Robin Ince (Part 2)

This week Mark continues his conversation with Robin. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Robin @Robinince1969 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 February 2026

Ep 175 with Robin Ince (Part 1)

Mark is joined by comedian, writer and broadcaster Robin Ince as they discuss neurodivergence, anxiety and ADHD, feeling weird in a world built for “normal” people, how shame and admin can become overwhelming, why school and work systems fail so many minds, the value of kindness and curiosity, and learning to stop fighting how your brain actually works. 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 the higher tier of Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen or watch the whole interview straight away. For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Robin @Robinince1969 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 February 2026

Ep 174 with Matt Forde (Part 2)

This week Mark continues his conversation with Matt. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Matt @Mattfordecomedy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 January 2026

Ep 174 with Matt Forde (Part 1)

Mark is joined by comedian, impressionist and political podcaster Matt Forde as they discuss surviving cancer together, how impressions really work, the psychology of politicians, Labour from Blair to Starmer, door-knocking and grassroots politics, media interviews that shut people down, and why humanising political opponents matters more than shouting at them. For tickets to Matt's upcoming shows go to www.mattforde.com 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 the higher tier of Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen or watch the whole interview straight away. For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Matt @Mattfordecomedy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 19 January 2026

Ep 173 with Johann Hari (Part 2)

This week Mark continues his conversation with Johann. 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. If you enjoyed the subjects doscussed today why not purchase “Stolen Focus” and “Lost connections” at www.Johannhari.com  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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Johann @johann.hari Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 January 2026

What The F Is Going On In Venezuela? 🇻🇪

Mark is joined by writer and broadcaster Nick Revell as they discuss the US kidnapping of Venezuela’s president, Trump’s brazen use of power, Britain’s silence, the collapse of international law, historical imperialism from Latin America to Greenland, and what it means when the most powerful country in the world decides it can do whatever it wants. For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Nick @thenickrevell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 January 2026

Ep 173 with Johann Hari (Part 1)

Mark is joined by journalist and author Johann Hari as they discuss loneliness and disconnection, why depression and addiction are rising, the limits of individual self-help, how social media and modern capitalism shape our mental health, the politics of attention, rebuilding community, and what it would actually take to fix what the fuck is going on in our heads. If you enjoyed the subjects doscussed today why not purchase “Stolen Focus” and “Lost connections” at www.Johannhari.com  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 the higher tier of Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen or watch the whole interview straight away. For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Johann @johann.hari Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 January 2026

Ep 172 with Caroline Biggs

Mark is joined by historian and author Caroline Biggs as they discuss Cambridge University’s forgotten history of imprisoning women, the extraordinary story behind The Spinning House, class privilege and power, how suspicion became guilt, and why the legacy of control and misogyny still echoes today. Order your copy of “The Spinning House” here: https://thehistorypress.co.uk/publication/the-spinning-house/ 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 the higher tier of Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen or watch the whole interview straight away. For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 15 December 2025

Ep 171 with Marcus Brigstocke (Part 2)

This week Mark continues his conversation with Marcus Brigstocke. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Marcus @Marcusbrigstocke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 December 2025

Ep 171 with Marcus Brigstocke (Part 1)

Mark is joined by comedian Marcus Brigstocke as they discuss growing up in privilege, being expelled from boarding school, addiction and recovery, how comedy shaped his politics, class and inequality in Britain – and what it means to stay hopeful while everything feels absurd. 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 the higher tier of Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen or watch the whole interview straight away. For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Marcus @Marcusbrigstocke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 December 2025

Ep 170 with Marina Purkiss & Jemma Forte (Part 2)

This week Mark continues his conversation with Marina Purkiss and Jemma Forte. 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. Please do check out Marina and Jemma’s podcast “the trawl” available on all platforms! 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 24 November 2025

Ep 170 with Marina Purkiss & Jemma Forte (Part 1)

Mark is joined by Marina Purkiss and Jemma Forte — the outspoken hosts of The Trawl — to talk about the state of British politics, why humour is a vital weapon against despair, and how compassion got lost in the shouting. They discuss Labour’s moral drift, the Green Party’s rise, and what it means to stay human in a political landscape fuelled by fear. Expect sharp wit, rage, and even a baked potato scandal involving Prince Andrew. Please do check out Marina and Jemma’s podcast “the trawl” available on all platforms! 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 the higher tier of Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen or watch the whole interview straight away. For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 17 November 2025

Ep 169 with Andrew Fisher (Part 2)

This week Mark continues his conversation with Andrew Fisher. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 10 November 2025

EP 169 with Andrew Fisher (Part 1)

Mark is joined by writer and former Labour policy chief Andrew Fisher as they discuss life after Westminster, the realities of drafting a manifesto, Labour’s internal battles, the legacy of Corbynism, the future of the left under Starmer, and why real political change begins in communities — not committee rooms 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 the higher tier of Patreon? For £4 a month you can listen or watch the whole interview straight away. For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 3 November 2025

EP 168 with Jeremy Corbyn (Part 2)

This week Mark continues his conversation with Jeremy Corbyn. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Jeremy @jeremycorbyn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 October 2025

Ep 168 with Jeremy Corbyn (Part 1)

Mark is joined by Jeremy Corbyn as they discuss the state of British democracy, the cost of living crisis, media power and misinformation, Palestine and global solidarity, grassroots activism, and finding hope through community organising and kindness. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Jeremy @jeremycorbyn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 October 2025

Ep 167 with Rob Evans (Part 2)

This week Mark continues his conversation with Rob Evans. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 13 October 2025

Ep 167 with Rob Evans (Part 1)

Mark is joined by journalist Rob Evans as they discuss the shocking world of undercover policing, the unmasking of “Mark Stone,” officers who fathered children while undercover, surveillance of the Stephen Lawrence campaign, how activists exposed the spies — and the absurdities that came out at the public inquiry.  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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 6 October 2025

Ep 166 with Rosie Holt (Part 2)

This week Mark continues his conversation with Rosie Holt. 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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Rosie @rosieisaholt Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 29 September 2025

Ep 166 with Rosie Holt (Part 1)

Mark is joined by comedian and satirist Rosie Holt as they discuss her viral lockdown sketches, the absurdity of political spin, Partygate, why people fell for her fake MP, the blurred line between satire and reality, and whether comedy can really change anything  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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Twitter @wtfisgoingonpod  Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel   Follow Rosie @rosieisaholt Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 September 2025

Ep 165 with Ash Sarkar (Part 2)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 14 September 2025

EP 165 with Ash Sarkar (Part 1)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 8 September 2025

Ep 164 with Seann Walsh (Part 2)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 30 August 2025

Ep 164 with Seann Walsh (Part 1)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 23 August 2025

Ep 163 with Zack Polanski (Part 2)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 16 August 2025

Ep 163 with Zack Polanski (Part 1)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 9 August 2025

Ep 162 with Matthew Norman (Part 2)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 2 August 2025

Ep 162 with Matthew Norman (Part 1)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 26 July 2025

Ep 161 with Michael Rosen (Part 2)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 19 July 2025

Ep 161 with Michael Rosen (Part 1)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 12 July 2025

Ep 160 with Alexei Sayle (Part 2)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 5 July 2025

Ep 160 with Alexei Sayle (Part 1)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 28 June 2025

Ep 159 with Jeff Innocent (Part 2)

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 mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk 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

Transcribed - Published: 21 June 2025

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