Two Mr Ps in a Pod(Cast)

Two teachers sharing funny stories from the classroom.Welcome to the Two Mr Ps in a Pod(Cast) website! A podcast which shares all the funny and hilarious stories from the classroom. Mr P (ICT_MrP) and his younger brother Mr P, both working in the classroom, share your funny stories about life in school.We want to hear your confessions, stories and experiences whether you are a teacher, teaching assistant, student or caretaker.Everyone has been to school so everyone has a special memory or story about their experience and we want to hear it!

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Thursday · 1 hr 9 min
LO: To Know Parents Evening Is Not A Boxing Ring
Lee and Adam are back for Episode 262, Season 10 Episode 5, and this week they're recording virtually for the first time this series. Lee checks in from a Premier Inn in Grimsby, there's a look back at the podcast's lockdown recording days, and the pair give an update on the upcoming Let That Be A Lesson live shows as the October run gets ever closer. The nostalgia levels are high this week as Lee and Adam take a trip back to the glory days of the British nightclub. With the UK's nightlife scene changing dramatically, they reminisce about the sticky floors, cheap drinks, questionable venues and legendary local clubs that provided a rite of passage for anyone growing up in the 90s and early 2000s. Adam then puts Lee through a slightly different challenge as they attempt to decide which everyday behaviours are the most annoying. Bad manners, a complete lack of self awareness, irritating public habits and those little things people do that instantly wind you up all go head to head as Lee tries to decide what really takes the biscuit. The conversation inevitably leads to the types of people and behaviours that drive Lee and Adam mad, including those who always have to go one better, people who dominate every conversation and the importance of sometimes being able to simply admit that you don't know something. As always, a few personal grievances manage to find their way into the discussion too. Finally, it's time for a brilliant collection of parents' evening stories from teachers and school staff. Lee and Adam work their way through the awkward conversations, unusual requests, unexpected encounters and completely surreal situations that prove parents' evening can be one of the most unpredictable nights in the school calendar. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
September 24 · 1 hr 1 min
LO: To Never Leave Any Gerbil Behind When A Science Investigation Goes South
Lee and Adam are back for Episode 261, Season 10 Episode 4, as the countdown to the October half term and the next run of live shows continues. After a quick tour update, they get straight into this week's blind ranking as Adam attempts to rank some of the nation's favourite crisp brands without knowing what's coming next. The conversation then takes an unexpected turn into food, health and some of the habits Lee has been trying to change recently. There's also time for Lee and Adam to answer some listener questions, covering everything from football and teaching abroad to career choices, classroom superpowers and the advice they've been very happy to ignore. This week's big listener thread is all about those painfully embarrassing moments that never quite leave you. Lee and Adam work their way through a brilliant collection of awkward encounters, misunderstandings, public disasters and moments that still make people cringe years after they happened. Then it's back into the classroom for some of the funniest and most unexpected things teachers have witnessed while working in schools. As ever, the stories prove that children have an incredible ability to say or do something completely unexpected at exactly the right, or wrong, moment. The second half of the episode is dedicated to ultimate teaching fails, with listeners sharing those occasions when lessons, trips, observations and everyday school life have gone spectacularly off plan. Lee and Adam discuss the moments where teachers have had to think on their feet, recover from disaster and somehow carry on as though everything is completely under control. Finally, the teaching fails continue with some truly unforgettable moments from across the profession. From the pressures of parents' evenings and inspections to classroom mishaps and unfortunate slips of the tongue, it's another reminder that however carefully you plan your day in school, there's always something waiting to completely derail it. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
September 19 · 1 hr 2 min
LO: To Know You Don't Have To Eat A Whole Packet Of Bacon
Lee and Adam are back for Episode 260, Season 10 Episode 3, with another hour of teacher stories, questionable conversations and absolute chaos. They kick things off with a reminder about the next leg of the Let That Be A Lesson live tour before discussing why teenagers seem to find absolutely everything cringe and whether growing up in a world where every embarrassing moment can be filmed has made young people more afraid of putting themselves out there. This week's blind ranking puts Adam through eight painfully awkward everyday situations. From waving back at someone who wasn't actually waving at you and going in for a hug when they offer a handshake, to accidentally liking a seven year old Instagram post and farting in a completely silent room, the pair decide which moments would make them want the ground to swallow them up. The relationship "icks" are back after last week's discussion went down a storm, and somehow they've got even more ridiculous. Things then turn to the strangest lunches people have ever witnessed their colleagues eating at work. Naturally, this also leads Lee and Adam into a detailed discussion about their own questionable eating habits and the unwritten rules about what foods are acceptable at different times of day. Teacher tired returns with yet more evidence that working in education can completely scramble your brain. That's before the episode moves into some brilliantly awkward school moments involving Ofsted, parents' evening, unfortunate typos and children saying exactly what they shouldn't at exactly the wrong moment. Finally, Lee and Adam finish with another collection of stories that perfectly capture why working in schools is unlike any other job. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
September 17 · 29 min
A chat with Bad Apples director Jonatan Etzler
We sit down with the director of Bad Apples, the dark comedy starring Saoirse Ronan, to talk classroom chaos, good intentions and some very bad decisions. From working with Saoirse and a lively cast of young actors to Ofsted pressures and the vital role of support staff, they explore the real school experiences behind the film’s outrageous premise, and ask what it would take to make education work for every child. Bad Apples is in UK cinemas September 18th. Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
September 9 · 1 hr 8 min
LO: To Know Whether The Birth Rate Crisis Is Down To People's Crazy Icks
Lee and Adam are back for Episode 259, Season 10 Episode 2, as everyone settles into the first full week of the new academic year. They kick things off by reflecting on their special screening of Bad Apples in Manchester, where more than 70 teachers and school staff joined them for the film, popcorn and a post screening Q&A. Lee also shares his rather surreal trip to Twickenham, where he found himself putting Prem rugby players through their paces with some school themed questions. The pair then dive into some of the worst INSET and staff training stories ever sent into the podcast. Lee and Adam ask what actually makes CPD useful and why so much wellbeing training completely misses the point. This week's blind ranking throws Lee and Adam straight back into the playgrounds of the 1990s. There are also some absolutely brutal pupil burns and one of the more questionable classroom Google searches we've ever heard. The conversation then turns to relationship "icks" and the best advice teachers have ever received, the pair share genuinely useful teacher tips around relationships, workload, work life balance, behaviour and some simple classroom hacks that might actually make the year a little easier. Finally, the first full week back appears to have already taken its toll as listeners share their finest examples of "teacher tired". The episode finishes on a much more wholesome note with a brilliant story about a teacher helping a nervous pupil find her confidence, reminding us all why those special teacher moments make the chaos worthwhile. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
September 3 · 55 min
LO: To wonder whether teachers will add a gas station to their classroom
Season 10 is here! Lee and Adam are back for Episode 258 with a special back to school episode, recorded for the first time from Podcast Studios Manchester - podcaststudiomanchester.uk. After catching up on their summers, the pair are ready to help everyone face the start of another school year with plenty of laughs, questionable stories and the usual teacher chaos. First up, Lee and Adam discover possibly the most ridiculous classroom idea yet: a designated farting area known as the "Gas Station". They debate whether any teacher would be brave enough to introduce one, how quickly pupils would turn it into a competition and whether it is only a matter of time before Ofsted starts inspecting schools' fart corners. The first blind ranking of Season 10 is all about those little things that come with going back to school in September. From seeing your teacher bestie and catching up on the summer gossip to fresh whiteboard pens, new exercise books, meeting new staff and that all important free lunch on INSET day, Lee has to decide what really makes the return to school worthwhile. There are plenty more back to school confessions and memories, including the niche things teachers love and hate about September, questionable INSET days and the playground rumours everyone somehow believed growing up. Lee and Adam also get onto teachers spending their own money on classroom supplies, the joy of getting back into a routine and all those strange little things that signal the start of another academic year. Things then take a surprisingly wholesome turn as Lee and Adam share some incredible "full circle" moments sent in by teachers. From former pupils becoming teachers themselves to ex students returning years later to thank the person who believed in them, the stories are a brilliant reminder that teachers often have no idea just how much of an impact they are having at the time. Some of these genuinely hit Lee and Adam right in the feels. And, of course, it wouldn't be Two Mr Ps in a Podcast without finishing with an absolute teaching disaster. One NQT feels so guilty about not marking a pupil's book that, rather than simply admitting it, she turns off the classroom lights and hides underneath her desk. Unfortunately, the pupil comes looking for her, discovers her hiding place and forces her to come up with one of the most ridiculous excuses imaginable. Welcome back to school, everyone! 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
August 27 · 1 hr 2 min
Teacher Burnout: What Needs to Change?
This week, Lee and Adam are joined by Charlie Burley, better known as the Teachers Health Coach, for an honest and practical conversation about teacher wellbeing, burnout and what schools can do to better support their staff. Charlie shares the personal story that led him from primary teaching into coaching, following his own experience of chronic stress, anxiety and a panic attack in the classroom. The discussion explores why wellbeing has become such a major issue across education, looking at the biggest contributing factors including workload, increasing pupil needs, funding pressures, parental expectations and the growing demands placed on schools. Charlie also shares the latest findings from his wellbeing white paper and explains why, despite small signs of progress, there is still a long way to go. Lee and Charlie debate why many school wellbeing initiatives miss the mark, discussing everything from compulsory team-building activities to token gestures such as cakes and "hug in a mug" style initiatives. Instead, they argue that meaningful wellbeing comes from long term cultural change rather than one off events or tick box exercises. Charlie introduces his practical "Six Cs" framework for improving wellbeing in schools, covering connection, care, capacity, clarity, competency and contribution. They discuss how school leaders can make realistic improvements even within the constraints of funding, staffing and accountability, while also recognising that creating a healthy culture is everyone's responsibility. The conversation also tackles Ofsted, accountability and the wider education system. Lee and Charlie discuss whether the current inspection model is fundamentally damaging staff wellbeing, why so much teacher workload feels disconnected from improving learning, and what lessons England could learn from education systems around the world. Finally, Charlie shares practical advice for teachers looking after their own wellbeing outside school. From rebuilding an identity beyond teaching and setting healthier boundaries, to managing social media, slowing down in everyday life and making time for hobbies again, this episode is packed with realistic, actionable ideas for anyone working in education. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
August 24 · 1 hr 10 min
From Classroom to Commons with Dave Robertson MP
*This week, Lee and Adam are joined by Dave Robertson MP, a former physics teacher, trade union activist and now Member of Parliament. Dave shares his journey from the classroom to Westminster, explaining how a career in teaching, followed by years supporting teachers through the union movement, ultimately led him into politics and why he believes more teachers should have a voice in Parliament.* *The conversation explores what life as an MP is really like*, from the realities of working in Westminster and representing constituents to how the skills developed in teaching have proved invaluable in politics. Dave also explains why teachers often make excellent politicians, thanks to their ability to communicate, adapt quickly and solve problems under pressure. *Education quickly takes centre stage*, as Lee, Adam and Dave discuss funding pressures, academy trusts and why he believes stronger accountability is needed for multi academy trusts. They debate leadership pay, school budgets, teacher workload and why supporting teachers should remain at the heart of any education reform. *The trio also tackle some of the biggest challenges facing schools today*, including SEND reform, inclusion, Education, Health and Care Plans, and the ongoing struggle to secure sufficient funding. Dave shares his thoughts on the government's proposed reforms, why inclusion benefits every child, and the importance of ensuring ambition is matched with investment. *Ofsted and school accountability come under the spotlight*, with an honest discussion about the impact inspections have on teachers, whether the current system is fit for purpose and what meaningful reform could look like. Lee, Adam and Dave debate the balance between supporting school improvement and providing parents with useful information, while reflecting on why so many teachers have lost confidence in the inspection process. *Finally, the conversation broadens to politics, public debate and the challenges of modern democracy.* Dave reflects on navigating social media, dealing with online abuse, listening to opposing viewpoints and why respectful disagreement is becoming increasingly difficult. He also shares insights into the parliamentary petitions process and why better conversations, rather than louder arguments, are essential if politics is to rebuild trust with the public. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
August 17 · 1 hr 27 min
Horrible Histories, Hollywood Myths and Forgotten Heroes with Greg Jenner
*This week, Lee and Adam are joined by Greg Jenner, public historian, bestselling author and creator of the hit podcast *You're Dead to Me. Greg reflects on his fascinating career, from working behind the scenes on Horrible Histories to becoming one of the UK's best known history communicators, sharing why humour is often the key to helping people genuinely fall in love with history.** *The trio explore the making of *You're Dead to Me and Horrible Histories,* with Greg revealing just how much research goes into every episode, how comedians are used to bring history to life, and the incredible lengths the team went to ensure every joke was historically accurate while still being genuinely funny. He also shares the story of how he landed his dream job after boldly asking to work on *Horrible Histories. *Lee, Adam and Greg also dive into the relationship between history and Hollywood.* From Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey and Oppenheimer to Braveheart, Gladiator, Troy and A Knight's Tale, they discuss where filmmakers take creative licence, why historical accuracy isn't always the most important thing, and how great storytelling can inspire audiences to learn more about the past. *The conversation turns to forgotten figures from history and the stories still waiting to be told.* Greg shares the remarkable life of Bill Richmond, a formerly enslaved man who became one of Britain's first sporting celebrities, and explains why history is full of extraordinary lives that deserve far more attention on our screens than endless remakes and sequels. *There's also a fascinating discussion about teaching history, as Greg explains why *Horrible Histories has remained so popular with both children and adults. The trio discuss how the team developed an entirely new style of educational television, balancing comedy with rigorous historical accuracy and creating a format that continues to inspire classrooms across the country. *Finally, Lee, Adam and Greg reflect on why history matters more than ever today.* From helping us understand the present to encouraging curiosity, critical thinking and empathy, Greg explains why great history isn't simply about remembering dates and facts, but about telling compelling human stories that help us better understand ourselves and the world around us. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
August 8 · 1 hr
Why Bans Aren’t the Only Answer: Zoe Kalar on Fixing Social Media
*This week, Lee and Adam are joined by Zoe Kalar, founder of We Are 8, for a fascinating conversation about the future of social media and why she believes the internet can be redesigned to put people before profit. Zoe explains the vision behind the platform, why she spent a decade building it, and how its unique model aims to inspire people to spend less time scrolling and more time living.* *The discussion explores the darker side of today's social media platforms*, from addictive algorithms and online abuse to sextortion, mental health and the impact endless scrolling is having on children and young people. Zoe shares why she believes many of the problems we see online today were avoidable and explains how We Are 8 has been designed with safety at its core through its AI Shield technology. *Lee and Zoe also discuss the economics of social media*, questioning why billions of pounds generated through advertising end up in the hands of a small number of tech companies rather than being shared with the people who create the value. Zoe explains We Are 8's unique revenue sharing model, where users can earn money by engaging with advertising, while also supporting charities and community projects. *Teachers are a major focus of the conversation*, with Zoe outlining plans for a dedicated Teachers Fund, creator opportunities for educators and why she believes teachers deserve far greater recognition for the role they play in society. The pair discuss the constant negativity teachers face online and how healthier algorithms could help amplify positive voices instead of outrage and division. *The interview also tackles anonymity, AI moderation and the future of online conversations.* Zoe explains how We Are 8 aims to encourage honest discussion without tolerating abuse, why accountability matters online and how AI can be used to create safer digital spaces without removing genuine debate. *Finally, Zoe shares her vision for the future of social media*, discussing whether bans for young people are the answer, how governments could better regulate online platforms, and why she believes technology should inspire connection, creativity and community rather than division. She also explains how listeners can get involved with We Are 8 and help shape a more positive online future. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
August 1 · 1 hr 14 min
Daniel Kebede - General Secretary of the National Education Union
*This week, Lee is joined by Daniel Kebede, General Secretary of the National Education Union, for a wide ranging and honest conversation about the biggest challenges facing education today.* They discuss why every teacher and support staff member should be in a union, the benefits that go far beyond workplace protection, and Daniel shares his own journey from primary teacher and PRU maths teacher to leading Europe's largest education union. *The conversation tackles the growing funding crisis in schools*, with Daniel explaining why partially funded pay rises are leaving schools facing impossible choices. They debate teacher and support staff pay, redundancies, falling pupil numbers, class sizes and why investment in education should be viewed as an investment in the country's future rather than a cost. *Lee and Daniel also take a deep dive into Ofsted*, discussing why so many teachers have lost confidence in the inspection system. They explore the impact inspections have on workload, wellbeing and school culture, why reform has failed to win over the profession and what a more supportive accountability system could look like. *The pair reflect on the first year of the Labour government*, discussing Bridget Phillipson's time as Education Secretary, whether teachers have seen the change they hoped for, and why there remains a growing disconnect between government messaging and the reality experienced by staff working in schools every day. *Behaviour, SEND and teacher workload are all firmly under the spotlight.* Lee and Daniel share their views on the causes of worsening behaviour, the impact of social media, unmet needs, SEND funding, curriculum pressures and why improving teacher retention starts with making the profession manageable again. *Finally, Daniel outlines his vision for the future of education*, including smaller class sizes, better funding, greater professional autonomy, more creativity in the curriculum and a profession that once again feels valued. He also explains why union reps remain at the heart of improving schools and encourages more teachers and support staff to get involved in shaping the future of education. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
July 23 · 1 hr 18 min
LO: To know what happens on the staff night out, stays on the night out unless you’re sharing it anonymously on the pod!
This week, the lads wrap up the final full episode of the school year by reflecting on another academic year in education, thanking listeners for their support and debating the annual calls to shorten the six week summer holidays. They discuss why children and staff desperately need the break, the pressures on working parents and why better holiday provision, rather than less time off, is the real answer. There's a passionate discussion about Ofsted after schools are still being inspected during the final week of term. Lee shares his frustrations with the inspection system, why he believes it continues to drive teachers out of the profession and explains why meaningful reform will only happen if the culture around inspection changes completely. The conversation also turns to politics following Bridget Phillipson's departure as Education Secretary. Lee reflects on interviewing her at the Department for Education, responds to criticism he received online and explains the balancing act between holding decision makers to account while still being able to keep teachers' voices in the room. The lads can't avoid reliving England's heartbreaking World Cup exit either. They analyse where it all went wrong against Argentina, question Thomas Tuchel's tactics, reflect on the emotional rollercoaster of tournament football and discuss the darker side of the game, including the rise in domestic abuse following England defeats. Away from football, Lee shares some proud family news after attending his children's end of year awards, including one of the triplets being appointed Head Girl. The blind ranking also returns for one last time this season, with the pair deciding the perfect ways for teachers to spend their summer holidays. Finally, the listener stories provide the perfect end to another school year. There are hilarious tales of bizarre hospital visits, unforgettable end of year gifts, awkward staff celebrations and chaotic nights out featuring everything from giant bags of Hula Hoops and Yorkshire puddings to skinny dipping, karaoke disasters, nightclub encounters with parents and enough staff party confessions to remind everyone why schools are never short of unbelievable stories. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
July 17 · 31 min
Mr P puts your questions to the Education Secretary
n this special episode, Mr P sits down with the Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson. A few weeks ago I asked you one simple question: if you could ask the Education Secretary anything, what would it be? Over 1000 of you replied. Teachers, TAs, SENCOs, SEND parents, school leaders, the response was overwhelming. So I took your most liked questions directly to Bridget Phillipson. From the vital role of support staff to the ongoing SEND crisis and the recent SATs marking debacle, we tried to cover as many topics in the short time available and reflect on the two years she’s been in the role. Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
July 17 · 54 min
LO: To Not Be on Capabilities in The Bedroom
This week, the lads are counting down the final days until the summer holidays, with another hot week in school and England's World Cup semi final dominating absolutely everything. Adam admits the tournament has been the perfect distraction from a difficult few months at home, while both share their hopes, nerves and excitement ahead of England's biggest match in years. The conversation also turns to Jude Bellingham, with Lee sharing a message from one of Jude's former primary school teachers that perfectly sums up why he's become such a respected figure on and off the pitch. There's plenty of light hearted discussion too, including a thread celebrating the tiny everyday moments that somehow make life better. The blind ranking returns with a debate over the best ways to celebrate the end of the school year. From quiz nights and bottomless brunches to Jacob's Tables, themed evenings and simply heading to the pub after school, the lads reveal how they'd rank the perfect staff celebration. As always, the listener stories don't disappoint. There are tales of disastrous staff parties, drunken mishaps, medieval tunnels, embarrassing job interviews, parents' evening confessions that leave teachers speechless, and enough awkward school moments to make every listener grateful they weren't involved. Finally, the episode finishes with another collection of wonderfully ridiculous anonymous confessions. From Ofsted style bedroom performance reviews and bizarre acts of revenge over school attendance rewards, to fake DVDs being exposed by the police during a classroom visit, it's another reminder that teachers really do experience situations you simply couldn't make up. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
July 13 · 1 hr 21 min
LO: To know school staff are far more appreciated than they think.
This week, the lads return still battling the heat as another sweltering week hits schools across the country. The episode features a fascinating behind the scenes look at Lee's visit to the Department for Education, where he took four pupils to Westminster and the DfE for a day they'll never forget. From private tours of the Houses of Parliament to interviewing the Education Secretary and seeing the famous red ministerial box up close, it's a brilliant reminder of what young people can achieve when given incredible opportunities. Lee reflects on just how proud he was of the children and why experiences like these restore your faith in education. There's also discussion around a new national survey highlighting how much the public values teachers, why appreciation means more than expensive gifts and how a simple thank you can make all the difference as another busy school year draws to a close. Football fans are in for a treat too, as the lads relive England's dramatic victory and discuss why this squad feels different. They celebrate the resilience, passion and togetherness shown by the team before taking on a brand new blind ranking challenge, deciding which England legends would make the best pupils in the classroom. Elsewhere, the thread of the week looks back at things that happened in schools years ago that simply wouldn't be allowed today. From blackboard dusters flying across classrooms and teachers publicly humiliating pupils, to smoking demonstrations, terrifying swimming lessons and some truly unbelievable stories from the 1980s and 1990s, it's equal parts hilarious and horrifying. Finally, the Sports Day stories continue with another collection of wonderfully chaotic tales. Expect over competitive parents, broken bones, collapsing gazebos, wardrobe malfunctions, beer hidden in backpacks, bribery attempts, cocaine discoveries, parents arriving in full athletics gear and enough sporting disasters to make any PE coordinator question why they ever agreed to organise Sports Day in the first place. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
July 3 · 1 hr 10 min
LO - To know the parents race at sports day might not be worth the risk
This week, the lads look back on one of the hottest teaching weeks in recent memory and the media backlash that followed as schools across the country battled impossible classroom temperatures. Lee shares his frustration with the criticism aimed at teachers, discusses why schools are constantly expected to solve society's problems and explains why the real conversation should be about supporting working families rather than blaming schools. There's also plenty of discussion about misinformation online, viral parenting influencers, social media outrage and why so many education stories are designed to stir up anger rather than reflect the reality of life in schools. Elsewhere, Adam suffers another brutal celebrity lookalike comparison, while Lee receives perhaps the greatest introduction of his career at a teacher conference. The conversation also revisits one of their old classroom resources, leading to one of the funniest pupil comments they've heard in years. The blind ranking returns with a trip through television's most famous fictional teachers, sparking plenty of debate over who deserves top spot and who would be an absolute nightmare to work alongside. As always, the listener stories are packed with glorious second hand embarrassment. Expect accidental public humiliation, unfortunate misunderstandings, awkward supermarket moments, train disasters, unfortunate autocorrects and enough cringe to leave you hiding behind your hands. Back in school, the lads also share some unforgettable sex education moments, featuring innocent misconceptions, brilliantly timed pupil comments and the sort of questions no teacher is ever truly prepared to answer. Finally, sports day season is in full swing, bringing with it some of the funniest parent stories imaginable. From over competitive dads, ambitious mums, broken bones and prosthetic legs, to drunken spectators, police call outs and enough sporting chaos to convince anyone that parents' races might not be worth the risk after all. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
June 25 · 1 hr 11 min
LO: To wonder how anyone is supposed to teach in this weather!
LO: To wonder how anyone is supposed to teach in this weather! This week, the lads are recording in the middle of a sweltering heatwave and wondering how on earth anyone is expected to teach thirty children in classrooms that feel more like greenhouses. With temperatures soaring, an England World Cup campaign underway and the ever-present threat of an Ofsted call, it's a survival guide for teachers trying to make it to the end of term with their sanity intact. The conversation then takes an unexpected turn into politics as Lee shares his frustrations about the current state of government, leadership and public discourse. It's a passionate discussion about patience, accountability, social media, the pressures facing modern politicians and why meaningful change often feels impossible in a world that demands instant results. Elsewhere, Mr P reports back from seeing Take That live, prompting a nostalgic trip through the glory days of boy bands. Naturally, this leads to a blind ranking packed with questionable decisions, strong opinions and the sort of debate that could end friendships. There's also a discussion about one school's decision to remove teachers' desks and chairs entirely, sparking a wider conversation about trust, workload, classroom expectations and some of the stranger leadership decisions schools make in the name of improving teaching. As always, the listener stories steal the show. Expect tales of public embarrassment, disastrous train journeys, awkward encounters with strangers, unfortunate wardrobe malfunctions and enough second-hand cringe to make you hide behind a cushion. Back in school, there are plenty more classic pupil moments too, including accidental oversharing, spectacular misunderstandings, brutally honest children and the sort of comments that leave teachers desperately trying not to laugh. The episode finishes with a look at the strange habits that instantly give away anyone over thirty, from keeping boxes for everything and printing photos, to making phone calls, using proper punctuation and committing the ultimate Gen Z crime: sitting quietly with your own thoughts. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
June 17 · 1 hr 5 min
LO: To Know A Better Name For A Bag Of Quavers
This week, the lads are back with a big chat about the proposed under-16 social media ban and whether it actually solves the problem or just shifts it somewhere else. Lee and Adam talk through phones, attention spans, online safety, loneliness, youth clubs, boredom and why children need better alternatives than just being told to “go outside” like it’s 1998 and Snake on a Nokia is the height of entertainment. There’s also a look at the wider impact of social media on schools, from behaviour and friendships to the way trends, language and online drama somehow always end up landing in classrooms by 9:05am. As always, it becomes less “education policy discussion” and more “how are schools expected to fix absolutely everything?” The episode then takes a very strange turn with a bizarre education story involving hypnosis in a school, because apparently the job description wasn’t already weird enough. There’s also a blind ranking of end-of-year traditions, with the usual mix of strong opinions, questionable logic and Adam trying to keep some sort of order. Finally, the listener stories bring the usual chaos. Expect tales of pupil madness, staff exhaustion, end-of-term survival mode and the sort of classroom moments that make you laugh, wince and immediately think: “That’s going straight on CPOMS.” 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
June 12 · 1 hr 9 min
LO: To know students will stick anything in places they shouldn't stick things.
This week, the lads are back after half term and counting down the final few weeks until the summer holidays. Adam opens up about leaving his latest role and finding himself in that strange in-between stage of weighing up new opportunities, signing up for supply work and figuring out what comes next. Two new features this week. First - THE BIG QUESTION from a listener focuses around the Department for Education's controversial collaboration with Gemma Collins. Lee shares his experiences of working with the DfE, meeting Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson and explains the challenge of trying to represent teachers' concerns while still maintaining access to decision makers. The conversation dives into SEND reforms, teacher workload, government communication and why so many teachers and parents felt frustrated by the timing of the campaign. The there's IN THIS WEEK'S NEWS... There's also a look at two bizarre education news stories making headlines. One involves a teacher who called in sick before being spotted on a stag do in Portugal, while the other features a headteacher accused of some very questionable spending decisions involving school funds, cruises and karaoke machines. Elsewhere, there's a discussion about the latest playground obsession with Michael Jackson, memories of legendary school productions, and whether social media trends are any stranger than the things pupils were obsessed with in the 1990s. The blind ranking returns with a fiercely contested list of classic school dinner desserts. Expect strong opinions on Arctic Roll, Cornflake Tart, Sprinkle Cake, Jelly and Ice Cream, Rice Pudding and the iconic Chocolate Cake with Pink Custard. Some of the rankings may cause outrage. Finally, the listener stories are back and they might be some of the funniest yet. From children calling teachers "King of Crying", to pupils wiping tables with ham, swinging dead moles around the playground and attempting prison-style escapes via manholes, it's another reminder that no workplace produces stories quite like schools. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
S9 · E31
June 6 · 59 min
A chinwag with Rev Richard Coles
This week’s special guest is the brilliant Richard Coles, joining the lads for a wide-ranging chat that somehow manages to cover children’s books, pop stardom, religion, reality TV, school life, funeral disasters and losing a speedboat in Ibiza. Richard talks about releasing his very first children’s book - https://amzn.to/3S51Q6j after already writing more than a dozen books for adults. He explains why he wanted to write stories about people whose adventures go spectacularly wrong, and why getting children hooked on reading feels more important than ever in a world battling for their attention. There’s a brilliant conversation about school visits, children’s honesty and the way young people see the world. Richard reflects on how empathetic and accepting children are today, while also sharing some hilarious moments from his recent school tour, including an unforgettable question about “having the nerve” to stand up and speak in front of people. The lads then head right back to the 1980s as Richard opens up about life in The Communards, having the biggest selling single of 1986 and the surreal experience of going from signing on at the dole office to flying on Concorde and dining with Andy Warhol and John Lydon in New York. There’s also a really thoughtful discussion around growing up gay in the 1970s, the challenges Richard faced at school and why finally being able to live honestly changed everything for him. It’s honest, reflective and full of perspective without ever losing the warmth and humour. The conversation then moves into Richard’s life as a vicar, including what people misunderstand most about religion and why being part of the church was never about escaping reality but facing it head-on. Naturally, this quickly descends into absolute chaos as the lads ask about disastrous weddings, awkward confessions and the unforgettable moment a bride catastrophically misjudged a nervous fart during the ceremony. There’s plenty of chat about TV too, including Strictly Come Dancing, I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!, Celebrity MasterChef and Richard’s love of being thrown into bizarre situations with complete strangers. He also reveals the most disgusting thing he had to eat in the jungle and teases a reality show he’d still secretly love to do. As always, the episode finishes with the classic final question: what advice would Richard give to his ten-year-old self? His answer is simple, honest and genuinely lovely. A fascinating, funny and surprisingly moving episode with one of the most interesting guests the podcast has had. 📬 Want your story featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 May 2026 22nd May - Salford, Lowry 🎨 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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