Mark Steel Articles Feed

Ep 195 with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall Pt 2: The dark truth behind pig farming

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 09 Nov 2026 07:43:24 +0000

Ep 195 with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall Pt 2: The dark truth behind pig farming

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Part 2 kicks off with Mark Steel eating Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall's homemade slow-cooked beef brisket directly off a spoon while they record. Hugh dives into the hard truths of modern agriculture, explaining the dark reality of factory pig farming and why every cheap supermarket purchase is a political vote for animal cruelty.

Hugh defends his history of eating roadkill venison, reveals the five wild plants you need to forage right now, and rants against the toxic, hyper-stressful perfectionism of TV cooking competitions.

For Ad-free episodes, Extended cuts, Early access & bonus content go to:

⁠www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠

If you enjoyed this episode make sure to order a copy of Hugh’s book “High Fibre Heroes’ which can be purchased here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/high-fibre-heroes-9781526639004/

For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk

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What The F Is Going on? Donald Trump Special

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Wed, 04 Nov 2026 19:43:10 +0000

What The F Is Going on? Donald Trump Special

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In this emergency, sleep-deprived special episode of What The F Is Going On?*, Mark Steel is joined by journalist and political commentator Matthew Norman to dissect the fallout of the US midterm elections. Broadcasting on zero sleep, the pair analyze the significant electoral defeats for Donald Trump's endorsed candidates, the shifting political center of gravity, and historic wins for minority candidates across America.

Along the way, Mark and Matthew discuss the global ripple effects on right-wing populism, debate what an unpredictable Trump might do with his remaining time in office, and share hilarious anecdotes about Keir Starmer's invisible party appearances and George Galloway's conference chaos.

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? @wtfisgoingonpod

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Ep 195 with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall Pt 1: How Supermarkets control our farmlands

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 07:43:18 +0000

Ep 195 with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall Pt 1: How Supermarkets control our farmlands

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In Part 1, Mark Steel sits down with the legendary man behind River Cottage, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, to figure out what the f*** is going on with our food systems.

Hugh explains how his "cliché" rural life—complete with a private water well and canceling holidays just to plant garlic—connects to a much deeper truth about our hunter-gatherer brains. They explore the catastrophic rise of ultra-processed foods, the supermarkets' refusal to cut sugar, and why teaching cooking in schools is the ultimate form of national healthcare.

Plus, Mark recounts the brutal, warring factions of a small Devon town violently divided over a herd of feral goats.

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

If you enjoyed this episode make sure to order a copy of Hugh’s book “High Fibre Heroes’ which can be purchased here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/high-fibre-heroes-9781526639004/

For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk

Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Instagram @wtfisgoingonpod

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Ep 194 with Isy Suttie pt 2 : My favourite Peep Show Episode ..

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 26 Oct 2026 07:43:06 +0000

Ep 194 with Isy Suttie pt 2 : My favourite Peep Show Episode ..

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The conversation continues with Isy Suttie sharing the brutal story of her worst Edinburgh Fringe gig—a 2005 set where an audience member successfully paid her a £20 note passed through the crowd to stop performing. Mark recounts a disastrously misunderstood joke about the Epstein files at a village library, while Isy reflects on her time playing Dobby on Peep Show, from getting her iconic fringe cut to the thrill of throwing a real photocopier down the stairs.

Finally, Isy explains how she wrote a song rhyming "human" with "cumin" in 20 minutes for Taskmaster and delivers her final verdict on why social media is ruining society.

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 Instagram @wtfisgoingonpod

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Ep 194 with Isy Suttie Pt 1: My Airbnb asked for my CV !!

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 07:43:18 +0000

Ep 194 with Isy Suttie Pt 1: My Airbnb asked for my CV !!

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Comedian and actor Isy Suttie joins Mark Steel to figure out what the f*** is going on, promising to solve the world's problems in a single sentence. The duo explore the pride of local South London history, the nuances of the Matlock accent, and how a Spanish tapas menu mistranslated a pigeon as "dumbfounded sky bacon".

Isy also dives into stories from her book The Actual One, unpacking the bizarre reality of having to submit a CV to stay in a New York Airbnb, her attempt to kiss men alphabetically, and the societal pressures placed on unmarried women.

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

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Classic episode with Zack Polanski

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 07:43:07 +0000

Classic episode with Zack Polanski

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Last week we had some technical difficulties in the studio so we apologise for the lack of episodes over these couple of weeks.

To help bridge the gap between episodes please enjoy this conversation between Mark and Zack Polanski that was recorded just a few weeks before he was elected leader of the Green Party.

It's an excellent interview and we are giving you the full episode all in one so no need to wait for part 2. It is one of our favourites so please enjoy and we will be back with a brand new episode next Monday!

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Ep 193 with Paul Holden Pt 2: Keir Starmer, Dark Money and Russian Spy Smears

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 06:43:18 +0000

Ep 193 with Paul Holden Pt 2: Keir Starmer, Dark Money and Russian Spy Smears

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In the second half of our conversation with Paul Holden, we dive into Keir Starmer's downfall, his unprecedented acceptance of freebies, and the dark money that funded his rise to Prime Minister. Paul brings his 20 years of experience investigating grand corruption—which famously included exposing South Africa's Jacob Zuma and facing death threats—to unpack the Labour Party's secret slush funds.

We discuss Starmer's fragile political project, his approach to politics as a barrister defending a daily brief, and the absurd smear campaign that attempted to frame Paul as a Russian spy to kill his reporting. Grab your copy of Paul’s book here: https://orbooks.com/catalog/the-fraud/.

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 Instagram @wtfisgoingonpod

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Ep 193 with Paul Holden Pt 1: The McSweeney Project and the Labour Purge

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 06:43:22 +0000

Ep 193 with Paul Holden Pt 1: The McSweeney Project and the Labour Purge

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This week, investigative journalist Paul Holden joins the show to discuss his explosive book, The Fraud, detailing the ruthless internal campaign to capture the Labour Party. Paul has spent 20 years investigating grand corruption worldwide, including exposing former South African President Jacob Zuma, which forced him to leave the country due to death threats.

In part one, we explore how a right-wing faction led by Morgan McSweeney worked with the media to undermine Jeremy Corbyn's leadership. We discuss the cynical weaponization of antisemitism, the creation of fake online identities to target Jewish activists, and the fabricated story of a brick thrown through Angela Eagle's window. Pick up Paul’s book here: https://orbooks.com/catalog/the-fraud/.

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

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Ep 192 with Russell Warfield Pt 2: The future of the Green Party is this..

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 06:43:20 +0000

Ep 192 with Russell Warfield Pt 2: The future of the Green Party is this..

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In the second half of our conversation with Russell Warfield, we look at the future of the Green Party as a mass political movement and what it actually takes to challenge entrenched wealth. Russell draws on his extensive background—having worked for the Greens for five years, run the comms for the London 2021 elections where Zack became an AM, and played a central role in Zack's 2025 leadership campaign—to answer listener questions.

We dive into Keir Starmer's resignation, whether Zack Polanski should run in the upcoming by-election, and the tension between local community action and electoral discipline. We also debunk the myth of Green NIMBYism and take a quick detour into the muddy, bizarre reality of "Faragefest." Grab your copy of Russell's book here: https://www.plutobooks.com/product/the-green-socialist/

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 Instagram @wtfisgoingonpod

Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel

Follow Russell @Rmwarfield

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Ep 192 with Russell Warfield Pt 1: The Green Threat and the Rise of Polanski

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 06:43:22 +0000

Ep 192 with Russell Warfield Pt 1: The Green Threat and the Rise of Polanski

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This week, communications strategist Russell Warfield joins the show to discuss the shifting landscape of UK politics and the dramatic rise of the Green Party. Russell worked for the Greens for five years, ran the comms for the London 2021 elections where Zack Polanski became an Assembly Member, and played a central role in his 2025 leadership campaign.

In part one, we explore how the Green Party's enduring anti-capitalist principles and recent surge in membership directly influenced the Labour Party, arguably paving the way for Andy Burnham’s premiership. We also unpack the intense, coordinated media backlash the Greens faced and what it signals about their growing threat to the political establishment. Pick up Russell’s new book here: https://www.plutobooks.com/product/the-green-socialist/

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 Russell @Rmwarfield

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Classic Episode with Adam Rutherford

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 18:43:33 +0000

Classic Episode with Adam Rutherford

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We're taking a small break this week as Mark recovers from the Edinburgh Fringe and we transition into our exciting new format starting next week.

In the mean time please enjoy this classic episode with the fantastic Adam Rutherford.

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 instagram @wtfisgoingonpod

Follow Adam @AdamRutherford

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Ep 191: Ask Me Anything with Mark Steel

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 06:43:36 +0000

Ep 191: Ask Me Anything with Mark Steel

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In this special episode, Mark sets out to answer some questions from his patreon supporters and rant about the state of the world. From harrowing festival flashbacks to the sheer madness of modern politics, Mark covers it all before his laptop battery inevitably gives out.

For your chance to ask Mark questions in his next Ask Me Anything session PLUS 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? @wtfisgoingonpod

Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel

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Ep 190 with Rosie Jones Pt 2: I’m Underestimated Every Day

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 06:43:35 +0000

Ep 190 with Rosie Jones Pt 2: I’m Underestimated Every Day

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The hilarity and hard truths continue in Part 2 as Mark Steel and Rosie Jones dissect everything from music legends to British political absurdity. Mark recounts the agonizing heartbreak of missing Dolly Parton at Glastonbury to perform for 30 people, while Rosie shares her love for Carry On films and pitches a modern, queer reboot featuring Hannah Waddingham.

Things take a serious yet furious-turned-hilarious turn as Rosie recalls her encounter on Question Time with Matt Hancock, who tried to equate his dyslexia with physical disability. To wrap up, Rosie gives an eye-opening, jaw-dropping account of her real-life disability benefits assessment that inspired her Channel 4 sitcom Disability Benefits.

For Ad-free episodes, Extended cuts, Early access & bonus content go to:

⁠www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠

For tickets to Rosie’s Edinburgh show go to : https://rosiejonescomedy.com

Support Rosie’s charity here: https://www.rosiejonesfoundation.com/take-action

For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk

Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Instagram @wtfisgoingonpod

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Ep 190 with Rosie Jones Pt 1: My Disability Is Not The Most interesting Thing About Me!

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 06:43:26 +0000

Ep 190 with Rosie Jones Pt 1: My Disability Is Not The Most interesting Thing About Me!

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In Part 1 of this episode of What The F Is Going On?*, Mark Steel sits down with the brilliant comedian, author, and force of nature Rosie Jones. Ahead of their respective Edinburgh Fringe shows, the pair dive into early-afternoon gigging schedules, surviving Bridlington seaside life, and the absurd fallout from Rosie’s infamous Greta Thunberg joke on The Last Leg.

Rosie reflects on her ten-year evolution in stand-up—from tackling the "disabled elephant in the room" on stage to navigating the heavy burden of disability representation in media. Plus, a sharp look at societal attitudes, daily microaggressions, and why people need to start listening to disabled people when they offer help.

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 tickets to Mark’s Edinburgh Fringe shows go to: https://marksteelinfo.com

For tickets to Rosie’s Edinburgh show go to : https://rosiejonescomedy.com

Support Rosie’s charity here: https://www.rosiejonesfoundation.com/take-action

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 Rosie @josieRones

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Ep 189 with Sophie Willan (Live in London)

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 05:43:11 +0000

Ep 189 with Sophie Willan (Live in London)

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In this special Live episode of What The F Is Going On?, Mark is joined by BAFTA-winning writer, comedian and creator of Alma's Not Normal, Sophie Willan.

From growing up in Bolton to breaking into television, Sophie tells the extraordinary story of how Alma's Not Normalfinally made it to the BBC, why working-class voices are still fighting to be heard, and how comedy can reveal more truth than drama ever could.

Along the way, Mark and Sophie discuss community, class, mental health, social mobility, Margaret Thatcher's legacy, Andy Burnham, and why understanding people's lives is impossible without understanding the communities they come from. There are also brilliant stories about eccentric locals, unforgettable family members, comedy, swearing, Taskmaster, and why Paul Hollywood's bread shows make Sophie irrationally angry.

A funny, thoughtful and passionate conversation about class, compassion and the stories we choose to tell.

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? @wtfisgoingonpod

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Ep 188 with Andy Parsons Pt 2: Mock The Week Changed Comedy

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 05:43:35 +0000

Ep 188 with Andy Parsons Pt 2: Mock The Week Changed Comedy

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In Part Two, Mark and Andy explore the history of political satire, from Peter Cook and Spitting Image to Mock The Week and modern comedy. They discuss whether satire still has the power it once did, how politicians become caricatures, the fallout from the Russell Brand and Jonathan Ross controversy, Boris Johnson, censorship, comedy audiences, and what happens when culture becomes afraid to take risks.

For Ad-free episodes, Extended cuts, Early access & bonus content go to:

⁠www.patreon.com/wtfisgoingonpod⁠

For tickets to see Andy on tour go to : https://www.andyparsons.co.uk/

For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk

Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Instagram @wtfisgoingonpod

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Ep 188 with Andy Parsons Pt 1: Sport Is Never Just Sport

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 05:43:10 +0000

Ep 188 with Andy Parsons Pt 1: Sport Is Never Just Sport

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Mark is joined by comedian Andy Parsons for a conversation that starts with Ben Stokes, cricket curfews and Gareth Southgate, before expanding into a much bigger question: why Britain seems permanently disappointed with itself. They discuss entitlement, national identity, satire, Mock The Week, the changing media landscape, Andy Burnham, football, and whether politicians are now too managed to ever become cultural figures in the way they once did.

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 tickets to see Andy on tour go to : https://www.andyparsons.co.uk/

For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk

Follow What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel on Instagram @wtfisgoingonpod

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Follow Andy @mrandyparsons

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Ep 187 with Gary Younge Pt 2: History Isn’t What You Think

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 05:43:34 +0000

Ep 187 with Gary Younge Pt 2: History Isn’t What You Think

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In Part Two, Gary Younge reflects on growing up black in Britain, covering Nelson Mandela's election in South Africa, interviewing some of the world's biggest figures, and why identity politics is so often misunderstood.

Mark and Gary discuss racism, history, statues, representation, Maya Angelou, teaching children about race, and why asking better questions matters far more than finding easy answers.

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? @wtfisgoingonpod

Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel

Follow Gary @garyounge

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Ep 187 with Gary Younge Pt 1: Immigration was never the problem!

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:43:26 +0000

Ep 187 with Gary Younge Pt 1: Immigration was never the problem!

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Gary Younge joins Mark for a conversation about what has gone wrong with British politics. They discuss Andy Burnham's leadership, Labour's collapse, the rise of the Greens, Gaza, immigration, the media's failure to ask difficult questions, and whether politicians have become more interested in protecting institutions than changing people's lives.

Along the way they ask who really holds power, why politicians seem terrified of the bond markets, and whether the biggest problems in Britain are being blamed on entirely the wrong 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 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 Gary @garyounge

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Ep 186 with Susie Mccabe Pt 2 : Scottish People Can’t Relate To Posh Etonians

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 05:43:41 +0000

Ep 186 with Susie Mccabe Pt 2 : Scottish People Can’t Relate To Posh Etonians

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This week Mark continues his conversation with Susie Mccabe

In part two, Susie McCabe talks openly about growing up gay in Glasgow, coming out in the 90s and the realities of working-class family life in Britain. Alongside deeply personal stories about being thrown out after coming out and living with her gran, Susie and Mark also tear into David Cameron, class politics, Scottish identity and the absurdity of Westminster attitudes towards Scotland. Funny, raw and brilliantly honest.

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

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Ep 186 with Susie Mccabe Pt 1: I am unapologetically Glaswegian!

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 05:43:17 +0000

Ep 186 with Susie Mccabe Pt 1: I am unapologetically Glaswegian!

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Mark is joined by brilliant Glaswegian comic Susie McCabe for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation about Glasgow pubs, estate boozers, working-class culture and the strange beauty of chaos. From naked men singing Dexys Midnight Runners in Birkenhead pubs to old women confronting police officers outside Glasgow bars, this episode is packed with incredible stories, brilliant observations and a huge amount of affection for the people and places that shaped them.

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 Susie @susiemccabecomic

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Ep 185 with Nick Hancock Pt 2 : Football Now Feels Manufactured

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 04:43:33 +0000

Ep 185 with Nick Hancock Pt 2 : Football Now Feels Manufactured

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This week Mark continues his conversation with Nick Hancock.

In part two, Mark Steel and Nick Hancock continue their brilliant conversation about football, corruption and the strange way sport reflects society itself. From FIFA’s greed to Simon Cowell manufacturing pop stars, the pair explore what happens when money takes over the things people genuinely love. There’s also chat about podcasts, nostalgia, modern sport becoming spectacle over substance and Nick’s gloriously furious thoughts on Gianni Infantino. Funny, furious and full of football philosophy.

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

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Ep 185 with Nick Hancock Pt 1: The World Cup Is Going To Be A F***ing Circus!

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 07:43:33 +0000

Ep 185 with Nick Hancock Pt 1: The World Cup Is Going To Be A F***ing Circus!

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Mark is joined by legendary broadcaster and comedy icon Nick Hancock for a furious, funny and gloriously nostalgic deep dive into the World Cup. From crying over England’s defeat in 1970 to the magic of crackly late-night commentary, Nick and Mark relive the tournaments that shaped their lives before turning their attention to what modern football has become. FIFA, Trump, halftime shows, dynamic pricing, water breaks for adverts and football losing its soul – nothing escapes Hancock’s wrath in an episode packed with football nostalgia, anger and brilliant one-liners.

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

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? with Mark Steel on Instagram @wtfisgoingonpod

Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel

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

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:43:20 +0000

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

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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.

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

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

noreply@blogger.com (The Moon) — Mon, 25 May 2026 07:43:10 +0000

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

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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.

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Search 'Why BT' to find out more or click on the following link: https://www.bt.com/broadband/why-bt

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For media, press & guest enquiries please email mikey@carouselstudios.co.uk

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Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel

Follow Alan @alandaviescomic

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