What The F*** Is Going On...? With Mark Steel
PodMonkey / Consec Industries
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?
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?
Ep 195 with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall Pt 1: How Supermarkets control our farmlands
Episodes
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 Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Hugh @HughFearnleyWhittingstall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Isy @isysuttie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Isy @isysuttie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Rosie @josieRones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Sophie @Sophiewillan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Join us this Wednesday 29th for a live recording of the podcast at our studios in West London. Mark will be joined by actress Sophie Willan for a live streamed interview in front of a small audience for this special live event. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/westdigitalstudios/2303628 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 Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Andy @mrandyparsons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Follow Mark Steel @mrmarksteel Follow Andy @mrandyparsons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Follow Susie @susiemccabecomic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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