Shows
The Stooshie: the politics podcast from DC ThomsonLabour conference preview as leadership campaign hits ScotlandLabour MP Graeme Downie talks to us about the health of the party before conference begins in Liverpool.
He was in Dunfermline with deputy leadership candidate Lucy Powell this week, after the resignation of Angela Rayner.
What do MPs think of Keir Starmer’s leadership?
How are they fighting Reform’s advance?
And what is the mood in Scottish Labour before a crucial Holyrood election next spring?
2025-09-2423 min
The Northern AgendaBridget vs Lucy: should Labour's next deputy leader be a Northern woman?Rob Parsons and Liam Thorp are back discussing the week's political news from a Northern perspective and there are some big questions to answer.As Bridget Phillipson and Lucy Powell compete to succeed Angela Rayner, does the next deputy leader of the Labour party really need to be a woman from the North? Why is Reform UK planning to axe Northern Powerhouse Rail? And what on earth is the matter with the boxer Tommy Fury?
Plus: as the national debate on immigration becomes ever more toxic, Liam tells us about his conversations with asylum seekers in Liver...
2025-09-1145 minThe Northern AgendaBridget vs Lucy: should Labour's next deputy leader be a Northern woman?Rob Parsons and Liam Thorp are back discussing the week's political news from a Northern perspective and there are some big questions to answer.As Bridget Phillipson and Lucy Powell compete to succeed Angela Rayner, does the next deputy leader of the Labour party really need to be a woman from the North? Why is Reform UK planning to axe Northern Powerhouse Rail? And what on earth is the matter with the boxer Tommy Fury?
Plus: as the national debate on immigration becomes ever more toxic, Liam tells us about his conversations with asylum seekers in Liver...
2025-09-1145 min
It's My Country Radio ShowIt's My Country Radio Show 8-8-25 (193)It's My Country Radio Show
Show 193
1. Mae Estes - Mountain Of A Man – 2.56
2. Tyler Reese Tritt - Another High – 3.59
3. Carter Faith - Sex, Drugs And Country Music – 3.37
4. Thelma & James - Canaries in a Coal Mine – 3.37
5. Ronjo V - Church Girl – 3.38
6. Emma King - Better Than It Was – 3.47
7. Amber Kenny – Lullaby – 3.30
8. Rosalie Hovencamp – Wallflower – 3.21
9. Caitlyn Shadbolt – Wildflowers – 2.43*
10. Pete Briley - Copenhagen – 2.41
11. Lauren Alaina ft. Chase Matthew - All My Exes – 2.53
12. Savannah Jade - I Don't Have Exes – 2.54
13. Charley Crockett - All Around Cowboy – 2.57
14. Colbie Caillat, Maddie...
2025-08-081h 56
David & WillBreakfast with David and Will - 1 August 2025Tom Rehn, Mitch Sariovski, Will Rayner, Lauren Rose, Angie Bell, Tim Ginever, Michael Pachi, Michael Smyth, Steve Meller, Dave Waltham, Dan Cox, Feedback Friday, Graeme Goodings and your calls. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
2025-08-011h 51
AND HE TAKES THAT CHANCEEpisode 240: Duff Guys Don't DanceThe tash has swung and after 43 games, Michael Duff departs. Matt, Killer and Kosi are joined by Reach PLC's Dom Howson, Comedian Graeme Rayner. Oli Fisher joins us towards the back end as the lads look at the decision to remove the manager in front of a live YouTube audience. Who else takes accountability? The players? The Sporting Director? The owner? Kosi is still buzzing over Castore and we eventually talk about the defeat at Bristol Rovers.Join our Patreon - www.takesthatchance.comGfx - Johnny Hildred, Tom Bradshaw...
2025-03-101h 31AND HE TAKES THAT CHANCEEpisode 240: Duff Guys Don't DanceThe tash has swung and after 43 games, Michael Duff departs. Matt, Killer and Kosi are joined by Reach PLC's Dom Howson, Comedian Graeme Rayner. Oli Fisher joins us towards the back end as the lads look at the decision to remove the manager in front of a live YouTube audience. Who else takes accountability? The players? The Sporting Director? The owner? Kosi is still buzzing over Castore and we eventually talk about the defeat at Bristol Rovers.Join our Patreon - www.takesthatchance.comGfx - Johnny Hildred, Tom Bradshaw...
2025-03-101h 31
When Football Began Again - The Premier League Years podcast#16 All-time PL 47th: Huddersfield Town with Howard Walker and Graeme RaynerHost Carl Jones is joined by two comedians and passionate Terriers, Howard Walker and Graeme Rayner, to continue the countdown of the all-time Premier League table with Huddersfield Town in 47th place. From winning a league title on goal average (all explained within) to the near misses scattered throughout their history, we jump to David Wagner's reign and a triumphant return to the top flight and survival against the odds before a "difficult" second season and a reluctant change in the dugout saw Town return to the Championship after two seasons. There's also Martin from Wakef...
2023-05-091h 25
Insane In The Men BrainGraeme RaynerRich Wilson talks to comedian Graeme Raynerhttps://twitter.com/gagnboneman ( a paltry 60 followers as a I got a ban)https://www.tiktok.com/@gag_n_bone_manhttps://www.facebook.com/GraemeRaynerComedian https://www.instagram.com/gag_n_bone_man/https://www.graemerayner.co.uk/Picture by Andy Hollingworth Get Patreon exclusives, YouTube videos, live dates, socials, contact Producer Paul and everything else at https://linktr.ee/MenBrain Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-01-2657 min
Sparks of MadnessEpisode 26 - Is there a doctor in the house? with Dr Nic HarperIn this episode Graeme chats with Dr Nic Harper, who moved from New Zealand, where he worked as a doctor, to the UK to join the NHS. He started work in the same month that COVID-19 really hit the UK, March 2020. He has since worked on the frontline during the pandemic in Covid wards, at the same time as starting a career in stand up. We hear about all of this and Nic's mental health issues, as well as his plans for the future.
2021-11-2552 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 25 - Kevin DewsburyAfter a lengthy break Graeme chats with Kevin Dewsbury, a comic who has been a professional on the circuit for well over a decade. In 2008 Kevin was about to launch a solo Edinburgh show when he had a full on mental crisis. Kevin discussed how this came about, what happened at the time and how he's used what happened to him in the years since. Other topics covered include what it's like being one half of a double act, especially one where the two members are married... to each other. Follow Kevin on Twitter here or visit h...
2021-11-011h 02
Sparks of MadnessEpisode 24 - Big G meets Big DIn this episode Graeme chats with Darren "Big D" Archer, a comic based in Hereford who is, much like Graeme, a larger than life figure with a knack for oversharing details of his personal life on stage. These two have lots in common, and they explore that in this chat.
2021-04-2146 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 23 - Vicki DeliriousIn our 23rd Episode, Graeme chats with Southampton-based comic Vicki Delirious about her mental health issue and how they have impacted her fledgling comedy career. Content Warning: Vicki's issues stem from a particularity traumatic event, and this episode includes discussions of attempted suicide. Find out more about Vicki here: https://www.facebook.com/victoriadelirious
2021-04-0753 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 22 - Leanne EasthopeIn this episode Graeme chats with Leanne Easthope about her life as a single mother, with kids who have profound special needs. As well as being a full time mum and a part time stand up, Leanne is also a studying to become a teacher. Content warning - this episode includes a discussion about a suicidal thoughts and attempted suicide. You can find out more about Leanne here: https://www.facebook.com/leanneEasthopecomedy
2021-04-0144 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 21 - Dave ChawnerDave Chawner is a number 1 best-selling author, award-winning stand up, presenter & mental health campaigner. In this episode. set to the occasional backdrop of squeaking dog's toys, Graeme and he discuss Dave's journey into stand up and how his willingness to use his mental health issues as material led to a sell out Edinburgh show, awards, TED talks and writing his bestselling book - "Weight Expectations". Naturally, we also chat Covid, lockdown and the future of comedy, including Dave's new venture running comedy course for folk with mental health conditions. Find out more about Dave hereWat...
2021-03-221h 00Sparks of MadnessEpisode 20 - Tom EvansTom Evans is a Welsh comedian who also works at Hot Water, one of the country's leading comedy venues. In this episode we discuss eating disorders, the impact of covid, the future of comedy and Tom's desire for an industry with fewer cliques and a more supportive approach. Find out more about Tom at https://www.facebook.com/Tomecomedy/
2021-03-1557 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 19 - Ian PeskettIan Peskett is far from your everyday stand up. A former heroin addict who has spent several spells behind bars at Her Majesty's pleasure, he has been clean for 8 years. By day, he works with addicts. By night he entertains audiences with true tales of his colourful past. In this episode, host Graeme Rayner tries to understand Ian's path into stand up, and understand exactly what he gets from it. We also chat about Covid, entering comedy later in life and the power of words.
2021-03-0852 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 18 - Anthony WilliamsIn this episode host Graeme Rayner chats with Anthony Williams, a comic and promoter from Derbyshire, about the impostor syndrome, anxiety and impact of COVID19 on comedians and their mental health. Anthony heads up RockCentral Promotions, a relatively new comedy club/promotions company who managed to put on some cracking outdoor shows last summer .
2021-03-0147 min
It's Always UsHuddersfield Town - Empty Chairs, Paddy Power & Almost Being LiverpoolWe're Back!Huddersfield once surprised the world and their own fans by reaching the Premier League and surviving against all odds, only to crash back to reality. From poorly thought-out publicity stunts, to rookie managers and ballsed up transfers, the Terriers have often been the architects of their own downfall. Throw in a Martin Atkinson refereeing horror show and a dodgy handball hundreds of miles away to seal relegation, and you've got the recipe for some classic It's Always Us moments.Matt Shaw runs the And He Takes That Chance podcast - @takesthatchance...
2020-09-1800 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 17 - AJ HillIn this episode host Graeme Rayner chats with AJ Hill, a pro comic from Manchester, about the impact of COVID19 on comedians and their mental health, the potentially high risk habits acts can fall into with travelling to gigs alone and relying on alcohol to "self-medicate" and the need for the industry to take better care of comics' mental health.
2020-09-101h 13Sparks of MadnessEpisode 16 - Jed SalisburyIn this episode Graeme chats with Hull based comic Jed Salisbury about how lockdown has had a significant impact on both his career and his mental health – examining the practical impact of the profession rather than the emotional highs and lows of performance. We also chat about his experiences of appearing on TV – he has previously appeared on the BBC’s “The Naked Truth” and also in the documentary mini-series “Who are you calling fat?”.Jed’s lovely, this is a really nice chat and I recommend looking him up now that comedy is (finally) coming back. You can watch...
2020-08-3155 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 15 - Ginny Allende from Headspace BoltonIn Episode 15, Graeme chats with Ginny Allende from Headspace Bolton, a comedy collective with a difference. Ginny, as well as bing a comic herself, is a therapist and facilitator at Headspace Bolton. Headspace offers an exciting and creative outlet for people with Mental Health issues through a programme of creative activities, including stand-up comedy and musical theatre workshops. It is a forum where people can freely express their unique traits and individuality by focusing on positive personal, social and professional achievement.Graeme and Ginny chat about how Headspace became a comedy collective, running stand-up courses a...
2020-08-2452 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 14 - Kat Kasisopa aka PussyKatBangkokIn this episode Graeme chats with Kat Kasisopa, aka PussyKatBangkok, a comedian from Thailand who may be better known to some as a contestant in series 9 of Big Brother in 2008. Kat has recently joined the world of stand up and her infectious energy and optimism shine through in this conversation. Graeme and Kat talk about the need comics have to please and entertain, as well as her high levels of pre-show anxiety that often lead to physical sickness. Kat talks about her Buddhism and how mediation helps her centre herself before she explodes on to stage, and she promises...
2020-08-1738 min
All-New Doctor Who Book ClubShort Trips and Side StepsAugust 2020 Book Club: Matt & Chris dust off the TARDIS Timer to bring you a review of "Short Trips and Side Steps," which was the third & final book in the original "Short Trips" anthology range. This collection was published by BBC Books in March 2000 and features 21 short stories - or 24 depending on how you count them - and was edited by Stephen Cole & Jacqueline Rayner. You can find Graeme Burk hosting the Doctor Who Reality Bomb Podcast and some of his non-fiction work here. Please help other fans find our show by leav...
2020-08-152h 00Sparks of MadnessEpisode 13 - Kerry RobinsonIn this weeks episode, Graeme chats with one of his oldest friends in comedy - Kerry Robinson. Not only did they start comedy at the same time but they also work together in their day jobs. They chat anxiety, depression, disordered eating and various other issues including the impact of reviews, the #MeToo movement and the importance of a good support network. Look Kerry up on Facbook - https://www.facebook.com/kegster12002
2020-08-101h 07Sparks of MadnessEpisode 12 - Graeme Rayner plus bonus Q and AIn episode 12, we don't actually have a guest due to some scheduling issues. Rather than not put an episode out, Graeme has recorded a special episode. In the first half, he describes his route into comedy, his own mental health issues including his MH crisis, which was ten years ago this month. He then talks about how the two issues coexist and his aims for the future. In the second half, Graeme answers questions (some serious, some frivolous, some debauched) from listeners, friends and peers in the industry. Let us know what you think. You can...
2020-08-031h 10Sparks of MadnessEpisode 11 - Paul DennisIn Episode 11 Graeme chats with Paul Dennis, a comic who has been in the industry (on and off) for over 2 decades. Paul has had a recent diagnosis of ADHD, which (as a man in his 50s) has caused him to look back on past life events through a new lens. ADHD has, naturally had an impact on his mental health, and while he has not sought a diagnosis for anxiety or depression it's clear from this conversation these issues have become intrinsically linked. Graeme and Paul chat about gigging in London, New York and Swansea, as well a...
2020-07-271h 12Sparks of MadnessEpisode 10 - SJ CookeIn this episode, Graeme talks to SJ Cooke, a young open mic level comic who is at the start of his mental health treatment, having only recently sought help. SJ and Graeme started out in comedy at the same time, but their trajectories and experiences have been quite different, as have their lives during lockdown. We will check in again with SJ at some point soon to see how he is doing. Remember, please like, subscribe, share etc and feel free to fire a few questions Graeme's way for future episodes.
2020-07-2045 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 9 - Alex StringerIn our ninth episode, Graeme speaks with Alex Stringer about her recent competition success (Alex is the runner up at the 2020 New Act of the Year competition at the West Didsbury Comedy Festival), her mental health history (which includes suicidal thoughts and alcohol addiction) and her willingness to be open about her issues on stage, Trigger warning: Discussions of suicide and addictionFollow Alex on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Alex-Stringer-Comedian-407151883418058Follow her on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/alexstringer5
2020-07-131h 00Sparks of MadnessEpisode 8 - Jem StuartIn episode 8, Graeme chats with old friend Jem Stuart. Poet, comic and recovering alcoholic turned addiction counsellor, Jem and Graeme have a friendship that predates their time in comedy (they made their debuts together) and they join the dots between substance addiction, mental health and performance. They also discuss sobriety without a reliance upon the 12 Step programme espoused by Alcoholics Anonymous, and managing recovery when your work as a comic will often mean being surrounded by drink and drinkers.
2020-07-0650 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 7 - Elizabeth Vantaa BlackThis week's episode is a little longer than usual, as our host Graeme Rayner and guest Elizabeth Vantaa Black discuss the recent revelations within the UK comedy industry, which has been having something of a #MeToo moment. They also then discuss Liz's PTSD, which stems from two horrifying events in her life (to be heard to be believed) and how she took up comedy as a direct result of trying to face her fears and lay some ghosts to rest. Also covered are Liz;s comedy car crash moment (not a metaphor) the benefits and pitfalls of h...
2020-06-291h 10Sparks of MadnessEpisode 6 - Maxine WadeIn Episode 6, host Graeme Rayner talks to Maxine Wade about her experiences of being diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, and later with Borderline Personality Disorder. We also discuss how the COVID19 lockdown is affecting Maxine (she's a frontline NHS worker) and her time under more intensive care for mental health issues, after she was sectioned. Please listen, like, subscribe, share and let us know what you think. We've had some great feedback about our first 5 episodes and would love to hear your comments or suggestions for future episodes. If you want to find ou...
2020-06-2254 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 5 - Matt ReedIn this episode our host Graeme Rayner chats with Matt Reed, a highly successful comic from the North East., about loads of issues - the Black Lives Matter movement, social media (and how it can be toxic when dealing with a mental health condition), deep depression leading to considering suicide and crippling panic attacks caused by the prolonged behaviour of a very disturbed stalker. Matt later turned this into a successful show, "Stalked" which you can enjoy here: https://watch.hotwatercomedy.co.uk/videos/matt-reed-stalkedSomehow, the conversation is very lighthearted and there is even th...
2020-06-1559 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 4 - Sam SerranoIn this episode, host Graeme Rayner chats with Sam Serrano about life with Kabuki Syndrome, learning difficulties and mental health issues, and how starting out as a comic at the tender age of 17 helped Sam face life with all 3. They also discuss the impact of the COVID19 lockdown and why flatulence is not necessarily a reason to end a relationship. Follow Sam on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/samuelserranocomedian/
2020-06-0849 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 3 - James BayesThis week's episode sees regular host Graeme Rayner chatting with James Bayes, who has been something of a mentor for Graeme since he started out in comedy. James talks openly about his attempted suicide, the Edinburgh fringe show that resulted and his own robust views on the way people talk about and manage their own mental health.
2020-06-0146 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 2 - Jonny Brook - The Sat Down Stand UpIn Episode 2, Graeme chats with kindred spirit (and often times road trip buddy) Jonny Brook.Jonny is a gentle soul with an ability to weave words together eloquently when discussing the darkest of topics. Jonny discusses life with a physical disability, how this informs but does not define his act and how having been forced to cope with long term isolation has meant that the COVID-19 lockdown's only impact has been his inability to get out and gig.This episode contains some strong language and excellent humour some may find offensive.
2020-05-2550 minSparks of MadnessEpisode 1 - Keith WildIn our first episode Graeme talks to one of his best friends in the business - Keith Wild. Winner of King Gong at the Manchester Comedy Store, Beat the Frog at the Frog and Bucket and the Shoecake Gong show in Stockton, Keith is a rude, lewd and hilarious musical comedian, singing original songs (he thinks parodies are "hack").This episode contains strong language and discussions of drug use, suicidal thoughts and mental health issues, as well as songs of a sexual nature.
2020-05-1850 minSparks of MadnessTrailerIn this very brief trailer, host Graeme Rayner explains what Sparks of Madness is about.
2020-05-1802 min
The Just Checking In PodcastJCIP #35 - Graeme RaynerIn the thirty-fifth episode of the Just Checking In Podcast, we spoke to Vent Champion and stand-up comedian Graeme Rayner.
Graeme has been one of Vent's biggest supporters since we started this platform and his mental health journey is an inspiration to so many in his local community and beyond.
In this pod we discussed his stand-up career so far, the first ever performance he did, comedy idols, his own event series 'Live From The Cellar Bar' which he runs in his West Yorkshire community and his hopes and dreams for his comedy career in the future.
We also discussed...
2020-05-031h 27
The Lord's Cricket PodcastOllie Rayner and Jo Harman preview MCC v RoW clashMiddlesex and England Lions all-rounder Ollie Rayner and All Out Cricket journalist Jo Harman guest-host March's edition of the Lord's Podcast.Ahead of the MCC v Rest of the World match on Saturday 5 July, we speak to Australia legend and Rest of the World captain Shane Warne, and find out his opinion on which of Mitchell Johnson or Dale Steyn has edged ahead in world cricket's pace race.We also hear from former England captain Michael Vaughan, who discusses players who England may turn to for the Sri Lanka and India Test series in the...
2014-03-1444 min