The Martin Talk Show

Martin Colton

The Martin Talk Show UNCUT playlist dives deep with bold voices shaping our world. From artists to activists, entrepreneurs to visionaries, we amplify changemakers who challenge the norm, spark creativity, and drive impact. No edits. No scripts. Just raw, authentic conversations that inspire action.

#AmplifyChangemakers #UncutConversations #RealTalk

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20 episodes
Updated Yesterday

Episodes20

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Yesterday · 37 min
Ben Fallaci | Aquarius Rising: Amplifying Unicorns | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Soho Theatre | Episode 558
What happens when the world outside begins to mirror the chaos inside? Ben Fallaci returns to The Martin Talk Show for his second appearance, joining host Martin Colton for a conversation recorded at Soho Theatre about his darkly hilarious new solo show, Aquarius Rising, ahead of its Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 run. Inspired by a real-life meltdown and a combustible breakup, Aquarius Rising follows Aries as he attempts to escape a toxic, codependent relationship and take control of a life hurtling towards disaster. The hour-long theatrical “fever dream” explores climate collapse, dysfunctional relationships, unbearable workplaces and the difficult decisions we make when life forces us to change direction. In this episode, Martin and Ben discuss transforming painful personal experiences into comedy, finding laughter within life’s darkest moments, the freedom that can come from letting go and the importance of amplifying the people who refuse to fit neatly into society’s boxes. Ben is a writer and performer who trained at The Groundlings Theatre in Los Angeles. He is an alumnus of Soho Theatre’s Comedy Plus programme and the Edinburgh Fringe Makers Lab, and holds an MA in Writing for Stage and Dramaturgy from Goldsmiths. His play Benedicta received a table read at Soho Theatre in 2025. Aquarius Rising marks his second Edinburgh Fringe following his four-star debut solo show, Shower Chair. Read more about Ben and the production. Written and performed by Ben Fallaci Directed by Gretchen Egolf Produced by Amy Boland AQUARIUS RISING — EDINBURGH FRINGE 2026 📍 Pickle Studio, Greenside at Riddles Court 📅 7–29 August 2026 🕙 9:50pm 🎟️ Information and tickets from the Edinburgh Festival Fringe If you enjoy conversations that celebrate creativity, honesty and people brave enough to turn their experiences into something meaningful, please like the video, subscribe and share this episode. As always, connect with Martin via: www.themartintalkshow.com #AquariusRising #EdFringe2026 #TheMartinTalkShow
Yesterday · 1 hr 40 min
Laurie Kilmartin | After Show: The Non Refundable Plane Tickets Tour | SoHo Theatre | Episode 557
In Episode 557 of The Martin Talk Show, host Martin Colton sits down with American stand-up comedian and acclaimed comedy writer Laurie Kilmartin at London’s Soho Theatre, following The Non-Refundable Plane Tickets Tour. Laurie is an Emmy-nominated and WGA Award-winning writer whose extraordinary career includes working on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, writing throughout all 11 years of CONAN and helping to create material for Conan O’Brien at the 2025 and 2026 Academy Awards. In this honest and thought-provoking after-show conversation, Martin and Laurie compare life in the United Kingdom and the United States. Although our countries share a language, entertainment, history and many cultural connections, the realities of living on opposite sides of the Atlantic can be vastly different. Together, they explore how British and American people view one another, the assumptions we make and the differences hidden beneath our similarities. They also consider how each country could look across the Atlantic for examples of a different—and perhaps better—way of living. This is a conversation about comedy, culture, national identity and the importance of remaining curious about people whose everyday experiences may be very different from our own. What do you think the United Kingdom gets right? What could Britain learn from America—and what could America learn from Britain? Join the conversation in the comments. The Martin Talk Show is dedicated to amplifying changemakers and creating honest, unscripted conversations with artists, creatives and people with something meaningful to say. As always, connect with Martin via: www.themartintalkshow.com #LaurieKilmartin #TheMartinTalkShow #SohoTheatre
July 22 · 1 hr
Awaiting Evaluation | Alex Grech & Jo Berenson | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Episode 556
Join us as we dive into the creative journey of the play "Awaiting Evaluation"! 🎭 In this episode, we chat with writer Alex Grech and producer Jo Berenson about their experiences bringing this unique two-hander play to the Edinburgh Fringe. Discover the challenges and triumphs of independent theater, the importance of collaboration, and the powerful messages behind their work. Key takeaways: The evolution of "Awaiting Evaluation" from its inception to the stage. Insights into the collaborative process and the roles of each team member. The significance of companionship and support in the creative journey. How to navigate the pressures of performing at a major festival like Edinburgh. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:23 Overview of "Awaiting Evaluation" 01:37 The collaborative process 02:08 The importance of teamwork 03:12 The journey to Edinburgh 04:40 The evolution of the script 07:20 The significance of companionship 09:01 The dream for the festival What's your biggest challenge with bringing a creative project to life? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights into the world of theater and creativity! #Theater #EdinburghFringe #CreativeJourney
July 20 · 1 hr 1 min
PBH Free Fringe | Peter Buckley Hill | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Episode 555
Join us as we dive into the world of the Edinburgh Fringe with Peter Buckley Hill, the founder of the PBH Free Fringe! Discover how this unique platform empowers performers by eliminating the pay-to-play model, making the arts accessible to all. 🎭 In this episode, we explore: Key takeaways: The mission of the PBH Free Fringe and its impact on performers. The challenges of the Edinburgh Fringe and how to navigate them. The importance of community and peer support in the arts. Insights on managing expectations as a performer. The future of the Fringe and the need for affordable accommodation. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:34 What is the PBH Free Fringe? 01:11 The challenges of performing at the Fringe 05:14 The importance of community 10:42 How to ensure quality performances 15:25 Managing expectations as a performer 20:25 Advice for first-time performers 25:30 The future of the Fringe 30:00 Closing thoughts What's your biggest challenge with performing at festivals? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights into the world of performing arts and the Edinburgh Fringe! #EdinburghFringe #PerformingArts #TheatreCommunity
July 20 · 1 hr 4 min
Clown Fish Out Of Water | Stephen Catling | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Episode 554
Join us as we dive into the world of absurd comedy with Stephen Catling on the Martin Talk Show! 🎭 Discover his unique approach to performance and what to expect at this year's Edinburgh Fringe. Key takeaways: Stephen shares his journey of growth and collaboration in the comedy scene. Learn about his distinctive style of 'maximum world building' in comedy. Insights into the challenges and triumphs of performing at the Edinburgh Fringe. The importance of pushing boundaries and embracing vulnerability in art. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:50 Building a team and expanding in comedy 02:10 The essence of absurdism in Stephen's work 04:00 What to expect from this year's show 06:30 The impact of audience engagement on performance 08:15 Navigating the challenges of the Edinburgh Fringe 10:00 Stephen's unique comedic style and its reception 12:30 How to discover new acts at the Fringe 15:00 Final thoughts and advice for first-time attendees What's your biggest challenge with discovering new comedy? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights into the world of comedy and performance! #EdinburghFringe #Comedy #Absurdism
July 14 · 39 min
The Mothman Cometh | Richie Schiraldi | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Episode 553
Join us as we dive into the mysterious world of the Mothman! In this episode, Richie Schiraldi shares insights about his solo show, "The Mothman Cometh," and the intriguing character behind it. Discover the origins of the Mothman legend and how it connects to themes of fear, community, and self-discovery.Key takeaways:* The Mothman's origins and its connection to real-life events.* How the character has evolved through performances.* The importance of embracing darkness and vulnerability.* Insights into shadow work and its relevance in theater.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:29 The journey of the Mothman show01:32 Who is the Mothman?02:45 The Mothman's connection to tragedy05:04 Theories about the Mothman's existence10:10 The role of darkness in our lives12:51 Embracing community and connectionWhat's your biggest challenge with embracing the unknown? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more insights into the world of theater and performance!#Mothman #Theater #PerformanceArt
July 14 · 55 min
You Come From a Long Line of Shallow People | Joanne Green | Episode 552
Join us for a heartfelt conversation with comedian Joanne Green as she shares her journey of healing through comedy and the challenges of motherhood. Discover how laughter can transform trauma into art and the importance of self-love in the creative process.Key takeaways:* The power of comedy in healing personal trauma.* How Joanne's relationship with her mother shaped her career.* The significance of self-love and acceptance in the creative journey.* Insights on performing at the Edinburgh Fringe and connecting with audiences.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:30 The heat wave in the UK01:00 Joanne's journey as a comedian02:00 Following in her daughter's footsteps03:00 The impact of family on creativity04:00 Writing as a form of healing05:00 The importance of self-love06:00 Performing at the Edinburgh Fringe07:00 Connecting with audiences08:00 The role of laughter in overcoming challenges09:00 Final thoughts and adviceWhat's your biggest challenge with self-love and creativity? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more inspiring conversations!#Comedy #Healing #EdinburghFringe
July 14 · 52 min
Always Sometimes Maybe | Michele Stine | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Episode 561
Join us as we dive into the world of puppetry and clowning with Michele Stine! 🎭 Discover her solo puppet clown show, "Always Sometimes Maybe," which explores the depths of loneliness and the absurdity of human connection. In this episode, we discuss: Key takeaways: The creative process behind Michele's show The impact of loneliness on mental health How puppetry can help us connect with our inner child The importance of taking risks in friendships The role of failure in the creative journey Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:20 Michele's show overview 01:00 The theme of loneliness 02:30 The creative process 04:00 The role of puppetry 06:00 Building connections through art 08:00 The importance of vulnerability 10:00 Final thoughts What's your biggest challenge with loneliness? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights on creativity and connection! #Puppetry #Clowning #Loneliness
July 14 · 50 min
Better Be Best | Elise Harris | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Episode 550
Join us on the Martin Talk Show as we dive into the world of comedy and creativity with Elise Harris! 🎭 Discover her journey to the Edinburgh Fringe and the exciting show, "Better Be Best," where she explores modern life and internet experts through humor and storytelling.Key takeaways:* Elise shares her experiences in the comedy scene and the importance of community.* Learn about the PBH Free Fringe and how it supports new artists.* Insights on managing expectations and finding joy in the creative process.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:45 Elise's journey to the Edinburgh Fringe02:30 The concept behind "Better Be Best"05:00 The role of community in the arts10:00 Tips for newcomers at the Fringe15:00 The importance of storytelling in creativity20:00 Final thoughts and advice for aspiring artistsWhat's your biggest challenge with pursuing your creative passions? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more insights into the world of comedy and creativity!#EdinburghFringe #ComedyCommunity #BetterBeBest
July 7 · 21 min
Pets' Corner Harlow 60th Anniversary | Part 3 | Episode 549
🐾 Celebrating 60 Years of Pets' Corner | Justin Hopwood & Stacey Clarke | The Martin Talk Show | Episode 549For six decades, Pets' Corner has been at the heart of Harlow, creating unforgettable memories for generations of families. Since opening on 17 May 1966, this much-loved attraction has grown from a small collection of animals into one of the town's most treasured community spaces, welcoming visitors with free entry while championing education, conservation and animal welfare.In this special episode of The Martin Talk Show, Martin Colton visits Pets' Corner to celebrate its remarkable 60th anniversary alongside two of the people helping to shape its future:🎙️ Justin Hopwood – Communities Manager🎙️ Stacey Clarke – Pets' Corner ManagerTogether, we explore the incredible history of Pets' Corner, hear stories from behind the scenes, discuss what it takes to care for hundreds of animals, and look ahead to the next 60 years.From donkeys, llamas and goats to meerkats and many more fascinating residents, Pets' Corner has become a place where families learn, explore and build lifelong memories. The anniversary celebrations brought together staff, volunteers, local residents and visitors to reflect on six decades of community spirit and the special role Pets' Corner continues to play in Harlow.In this episode you'll discover:🐾 The story behind 60 years of Pets' Corner🎉 How the anniversary celebrations came together🦙 What happens behind the scenes every day🌱 The importance of education, conservation and community engagement❤️ Why Pets' Corner continues to be one of Harlow's favourite free family attractionsA huge thank you to everyone at Pets' Corner and Harlow Council for welcoming The Martin Talk Show as part of this landmark celebration.If you enjoyed this conversation, please:👍 Like the video💬 Leave a comment with your favourite Pets' Corner memory🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations with changemakers making a difference in their communities.🌐 Connect with Martin:https://www.themartintalkshow.com#MartinTalkShow #PetsCorner #Harlow #HarlowEssex #Community #AnimalCare #Conservation #Education #Podcast #JustinHopwood #StaceyClarke #HarlowCouncil #TownPark #FamilyDaysOut #Essex #Wildlife #Animals #CommunityStories #Changemakers #AmplifyingChangemakers #YouTubePodcast #PodcastInterview #Celebrating60Years #History #LocalHistory #BehindTheScenes #FreeFamilyFun #BritishPodcast #InspiringConversations #Episode549
July 7 · 10 min
Jake Enters The Meerkats Den | 60th Anniversary of Pets Corner | Part 2 | Episode 547
Celebrating 60 Years of Pets' Corner! 🦝🎉 | Stacey Clarke & The Meerkats | Episode 548 | The Martin Talk Show For six decades, Pets' Corner in Harlow has inspired generations of families to discover, appreciate and care for animals. In this special anniversary episode of The Martin Talk Show, Martin and co-host Jake head behind the scenes to celebrate this remarkable milestone. Joining us is Stacey Clarke, who shares the story behind one of Harlow's most treasured attractions. From conservation and education to unforgettable family memories, we explore what has made Pets' Corner such an important part of the local community for the past 60 years. And of course... the meerkats steal the spotlight! 🦝 Expect plenty of fascinating facts, behind-the-scenes insights, and some wonderfully entertaining moments as Jake gets up close with some of Pets' Corner's most popular residents. Whether you grew up visiting Pets' Corner or are discovering it for the first time, this episode is a celebration of community, wildlife, and the dedicated people who have helped keep this much-loved attraction thriving. In this episode: • Celebrating 60 Years of Pets' Corner • Meet Stacey Clarke • Behind the scenes at Pets' Corner • Amazing meerkat facts and behaviour • Conservation and education • Why Pets' Corner continues to inspire generations • Jake's unforgettable animal encounters 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please: • Like the video • Subscribe to the channel • Leave a comment with your favourite Pets' Corner memory • Share this episode with friends and family Every conversation has the power to inspire. Thank you for helping us continue Amplifying Changemakers. 🌐 Connect with The Martin Talk Show: https://www.themartintalkshow.com #MartinTalkShow #PetsCorner #Harlow #HarlowCouncil #Meerkats #Wildlife #Animals #Conservation #FamilyDaysOut #Essex #Community #Podcast #VideoPodcast #BehindTheScenes #Nature #Education #JakeTheCohost #StaceyClarke #AnimalLovers #VisitHarlow #Celebrating60Years #LocalHistory #BritishWildlife #YouTubePodcast #AmplifyingChangemakers
July 7 · 16 min
60th Anniversary of Pets Corner | Part 1 | Episode 547
In this very special episode of The Martin Talk Show, Jake heads to one of Harlow’s most loved places: Pets’ Corner in Harlow Town Park. Celebrating 60 years since opening in 1966, Pets’ Corner has become part of Harlow’s heart. For generations, families have visited to meet the animals, make memories and enjoy a free community space that brings people closer to nature, learning and each other. In Part 1, Jake speaks with Communities Manager Justin Hopwood and Pets’ Corner Manager Stacey Clarke about what makes Pets’ Corner so special, the work that goes on behind the scenes, and why this much-loved farm continues to mean so much to the people of Harlow. From traditional farm animals to rare breeds, animal experiences, volunteering, education, conservation and community events, Pets’ Corner is far more than a place to visit. It is a living piece of Harlow’s story. This episode celebrates the staff, volunteers, supporters, families and animals that have helped make Pets’ Corner a treasured part of the town for six decades. The Martin Talk Show: Amplifying Changemakers. As always, connect with Martin via: www.themartintalkshow.com #TheMartinTalkShow #PetsCornerHarlow #Harlow #HarlowTownPark #JakeThePuppet #CommunityStories #AmplifyingChangemakers #Episode547 #HarlowCommunity #Essex #FamilyDayOut #AnimalLovers #LocalStories #CommunityVoices #Podcast #VideoPodcast #MartinColton #PetsCorner60 #FreeThingsToDo #HarlowCouncil
July 5 · 56 min
Improbotics Presents: Artificial Reality | Piotr Mirowski | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Episode 546
Join us on the Martin Talk Show as we dive into the fascinating world of improvisation and AI with Piotr Mirowski! Discover how the show "Improbiotics" blends human creativity with technology, challenging the boundaries of performance art.Key takeaways:* Explore the unique blend of improvisation and AI in live performances.* Learn how audience participation shapes the experience.* Understand the importance of human oversight in AI applications.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:12 What is Improbiotics?00:51 The role of AI in improvisation01:57 Audience engagement in improv03:08 The impact of technology on creativity04:35 Personal stories in performance06:00 The future of AI and creativityWhat's your biggest challenge with AI in creative fields? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more insights on creativity and technology!#Improvisation #AI #Theatre
July 3 · 37 min
Lizzy Sunshine | Liz Coin | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Episode 545
Join us for an insightful conversation with Liz Coin as she shares her journey in the world of comedy and performance! Discover how her show, Lizzy Sunshine, has evolved and what exciting new elements she’s added to engage her audience.
July 3 · 42 min
Bottom's Dream & The Meeples | Tara Steele | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Ep 544
Join us as we dive into the creative process behind two exciting shows at the Edinburgh Fringe: Bottom's Dream and The Meeples! 🎭 In this episode, Tara Lynn Steele shares her journey with the Artist Workshop, bringing together a diverse group of artists from around the globe. Discover how they create a safe space for storytelling and the importance of play in the creative process. Key takeaways: The significance of community-rooted stories in theater. How to foster a welcoming environment for newcomers. The role of movement and choreography in storytelling. Insights into the immersive experience of Bottom's Dream. The irreverent humor and creativity behind The Meeples. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:30 Tara's background and the Artist Workshop 02:00 Creating a safe space for artists 04:00 The importance of play in theater 06:00 Choreography and movement in Bottom's Dream 08:00 The immersive experience of the shows 10:00 The Meeples: a burlesque puppet show What's your biggest challenge with storytelling in theater? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights into the world of theater and creativity! #EdinburghFringe #Theater #CreativeProcess
July 3 · 58 min
Humdinger Words | Ben Dali | Edinburgh fringe Preview | Episode 543
Join us on the Martin Talk Show as we dive into the fascinating world of performance and education with Ben Dali! 🎤 Discover how Ben's shows, "Humdinger Words for Lolligaggers and Fuddy Doddies" and "Humdinger Words for Whippersnappers and Guttersnipes," empower audiences of all ages, especially those with dyslexia.Key takeaways:* The importance of oracy in education and its impact on children's confidence.* How Ben's unique background shapes his performances and connects with diverse audiences.* Insights into the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the evolving landscape of live performance.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:30 Ben's journey and shows05:00 The role of oracy in education10:00 Insights on the Edinburgh Fringe15:00 The importance of community in the arts20:00 Future aspirations and advice for young performersWhat's your biggest challenge with public speaking or performance? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more inspiring conversations and insights into the world of performance and education!#HumdingerWords #Oracy #EdinburghFringe
July 2 · 53 min
Danced Confessional: Daddy | Joel Bray | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Episode 542
Join us on the Martin Talk Show as we dive into the world of dance with Joel, the creator of the captivating dance confessional show, Daddy, premiering at the Edinburgh Fringe! Discover how Joel's unique movement style, influenced by his Aboriginal heritage and queer identity, challenges traditional dance norms. Key takeaways: Joel's journey from law student to dance artist The significance of reconnecting with Aboriginal culture Exploring the intersection of queerness and cultural identity in dance The importance of community and participation in performance Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:25 Joel's unique dance style 01:00 Finding ease in movement 02:30 The journey of self-discovery through dance 04:14 Connecting with Aboriginal culture 07:27 The role of family in creative work 10:00 The impact of colonization on queer identities 12:39 The importance of art in society What's your biggest challenge with embracing your identity through art? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more inspiring conversations about creativity and culture! #Dance #EdinburghFringe #CulturalIdentity
July 2 · 48 min
The Lady Doth Protest | Melle Powers & Nealy Glenn | Edinburgh Fringe Preview Episode 541
Join us as we dive into the creative journey behind "The Lady Doth Protest," a powerful new play exploring women's voices in Shakespeare. 🎭In this episode, we chat with Nealy Glenn and Melle Powers about their experiences at NYU, the inspiration behind their show, and the importance of storytelling in today's world. Discover how they crafted this unique piece for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and what they hope audiences will take away from it.Key takeaways:* The journey of creating a play from concept to performance* The significance of women's voices in theater* Insights on the Edinburgh Fringe experience* The role of art in societal changeTimestamps:00:00 Introduction00:39 About the show and its inspiration02:22 The emotional impact of the play03:55 The importance of storytelling05:40 The role of art in today's societyWhat's your biggest challenge with expressing your voice in art? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more insights into the world of theater and creativity!#TheLadyDothProtest #EdinburghFringe #Theater
June 29 · 1 hr 3 min
A Haunted House | David Hoskin | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Episode 540
Join us for a thrilling journey into the world of comedy horror with David Hoskin's one-man show, A Haunted House! 🎭In this unique performance, the audience is invited into a spooky mansion where laughter meets chills. Experience a blend of comedy, horror, and mime as David takes you on an unforgettable adventure.Key takeaways:* Discover the art of blending genres in performance.* Explore the immersive experience of audience participation.* Enjoy a night filled with laughter and unexpected twists.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:00 What is A Haunted House?02:30 The creative process behind the show04:00 Audience engagement and participation06:00 The importance of humor in horror08:00 Final thoughts and what to expectWhat's your favorite horror-comedy moment? Drop it in the comments!Subscribe for more exciting content and updates on upcoming shows!#ComedyHorror #EdinburghFringe #AHauntedHouse
June 29 · 42 min
Next To Normal | Edinburgh Fringe Preview | Episode 539
Join us for an emotional journey in our Edinburgh Fringe preview of "Next to Normal"! 🎭 In this episode, we chat with the talented cast members Kelsey, Greg, and Ollie about their roles and the powerful themes of grief and mental health in the show. Discover how they connect with their characters and the importance of empathy in storytelling. Key takeaways: Kelsey shares her experience playing Natalie, a character navigating a family’s grief. Greg discusses the challenges of portraying Dan, a father trying to keep his family together. Ollie explains Henry's role as the boyfriend and the audience's perspective. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:27 Meet Kelsey, Greg, and Ollie 01:44 Overview of "Next to Normal" 02:40 Emotional impact and humor in the show 04:49 Kelsey’s journey with the character 08:00 The importance of support in emotional acting 10:38 Engaging with charity partners for authenticity 12:57 The rehearsal process and character development 15:36 How to connect with the audience 24:37 Looking forward to the Fringe 36:04 Where to find the show What’s your biggest challenge with understanding grief? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights into the world of theatre and mental health. #NextToNormal #EdinburghFringe #Theatre