Simon Donald: Co-Founder of Viz Talks Legacy, Stand-Up, and the Power of Swearing

Sikisa: From Courtroom to Comedy, No Nonsense AllowedIn this bold and unfiltered episode, Steve Otis Gunn chats with the multitalented comedian, lawyer, and wrestling superfan Sikisa. From her law-school nickname to her unapologetic admiration for Peggy Mitchell, Sikisa delivers quick wit and honest reflection in a lively chat about hustle culture, the outrageous cost of Edinburgh Fringe, and the quiet chaos of birthdays. Sikisa dives into everything from Caribbean rivalries and the gentrification of Brixton to the exhausting loop of content creation that pressures comedians to “do it all” in the digital age.Highlights include:Growing up between Stockwell and BarbadosWrestling: not fake, carefully scripted, and undeniably dangerousWhy “You’re the Problem” was the show title that never wasOnlyFans, burnout, and headphones that are too cleverWhy performers deserve affordable housing during festivalsThis episode will appeal to comedy lovers, wrestling fans, and anyone craving a peaceful night's sleep in a Premier Inn🎤 About SikisaSikisa is a comedian, writer, and immigration lawyer known for her laugh-out-loud sets, thoughtful storytelling, and social commentary. A regular on the UK comedy circuit, she’s also a wrestling aficionado, pub veteran, and proud South Londoner.🔗 Connect with SikisaInstagramTikTokWebsite📢 Follow the PodcastStay updated with the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content:InstagramTikTokYouTubeBlueskyPodcast: Television Times with Steve Otis GunnHost: Steve Otis GunnGuest: Sikisa – Comedian, Writer & ProducerDuration: 48 minutesRelease Date: June 29, 2025Season: 4, Episode 7All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis GunnPlease buy my book You Shot My Dog and I Love You, available in all good bookshops and online. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Megan Lockhurst: An Analogue Soul in a Digital WorldIn this vibrant, freewheeling episode, Steve Otis Gunn reconnects with actress and all-round creative Megan Lockhurst for a wide-ranging chat that celebrates movies, nostalgia, and roller skates. After a tech-glitched first attempt, the duo dive back in with even more energy—covering everything from Tom Cruise and Jurassic Park to slushies, pickles, and the tactile joy of Blu-rays. Megan shares behind-the-scenes stories from working on Havoc with Tom Hardy and Forrest Whitaker, the charm of 4DX cinema, and how her Canadian childhood played out like a scene from Stand By Me. This episode also explores the evolving landscape of entertainment—what AI might take from cinema, and what it can never replace.Highlights include:Growing up in an analogue world in Canada before smartphonesUnexpected production twists while filming, including a broken camera crane on HavocPractical effects and why Jurassic Park is still impressiveRoller skating as therapy, rebellion, and a return to joyWhy Cinemas, DVDs, and fresh air still matter in the streaming eraThis episode is a must-listen for movie lovers, nostalgic Gen Xers and Millennials, and anyone who thinks the 90s might be the last great decade🎭 About Megan LockhurstMegan Lockhurst is an actress and singer-songwriter whose work spans screen, stage, and microphone. Known for her grounded presence and playful perspective, she brings humour, heart, and honesty to every performance—whether it's on set or waxing nostalgic about dill pickles.🔗 Connect with Megan LockhurstInstagramTikTokWebsite📢 Follow the PodcastStay updated with the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content:InstagramTikTokYouTubeBlueskyPodcast: Television Times with Steve Otis GunnHost: Steve Otis GunnGuest: Megan Lockhurst – Actress, Singer & SongwriterDuration: 59 minutesRelease Date: June 22, 2025Season: 4, Episode 6All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis GunnExcept 'Aspects of Love Megamix' (Featuring David Essex, Shona Lindsay, Poppy Tierney & Matt Rawle)Written by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Don Black, and Charles Hart.Recorded & Produced by Steve Otis GunnPlease buy my book, 'You Shot My Dog and I Love You,' available in all good bookstores and online. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sam Nicoresti: Self-Expression, Identity & the Hunt for the Perfect Skirt SuitIn this introspective and fun-filled episode, Steve Otis Gunn sits down with comedian and writer Sam Nicoresti for a conversation that winds its way through comedy, culture, and surreal nostalgia. Known for their clever, genre-bending comedy and a flair for philosophical riffs, Sam brings nuance and wit to everything from trans politics to the demise of Blockbuster, weaving personal experience with cultural critique in a way that’s as thought-provoking as it is hilarious. From probing selfhood and societal labels to skewering podcast culture, Sam shows how comedy is the sharpest tool for exploring—and exploding—identity.Subjects include:What makes a “special” specialHow HMV pivoted away from physical media and adapted to the digital ageWhy true crime is the new voyeurism, and podcasts might well be to blameThe constraints of class and the claustrophobic architecture of social housingWhy something as simple as needing the loo can become a gendered battlegroundAn amusing and surprising listen, this episode is a must for fans of stand-up comedy, social commentary, and anyone curious about how comedy reflects the oddities of modern life.🎭 About Sam NicorestiSam Nicoresti is a British comedian, writer, and performer blending surrealism, satire, and political commentary in their stand-up and filmed work. With a background in live performance and a sharp lens on contemporary culture, Sam's work is equal parts funny, strange, and profound. Their recent filmed special draws from their Edinburgh Fringe show and has been hailed as a smart, subversive take on gender, media, and millennial weirdness.🔗 Connect with Sam NicorestiInstagramTikTokYouTube Special📢 Follow the PodcastStay updated with the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content:InstagramTikTokYouTubeBlueskyPodcast: Television Times with Steve Otis GunnHost: Steve Otis GunnGuest: Sam Nicoresti – Writer & ComedianDuration: 59 minutesRelease Date: June 15, 2025Season: 4, Episode 5All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis GunnPlease buy my book You Shot My Dog and I Love You, available in all good bookshops and online. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Fleischman: Cinema, Scorsese & the Art of the MixIn this immersive episode, Steve Otis Gunn chats with Oscar-winning re-recording mixer Tom Fleischman to uncover the nuanced, behind-the-scenes craft of cinematic sound. With decades of experience, Tom offers a rare glimpse into the audio side of filmmaking, where emotion is built not just through visuals, but through every carefully chosen sound.From his early days splicing tape by ear to mixing iconic films like Goodfellas, School of Rock, and The Irishman, Tom shares personal stories and surprising insights from his legendary collaborations, especially with Martin Scorsese. The conversation spans the evolution of sound editing, the intuition behind great mixes, and why sometimes the hardest thing to get right is a single vowel.Highlights include:The challenges and creativity behind mixing films such as Hugo and Gangs of New YorkWhat a re-recording mixer actually does—and why it’s more grit than glamourThe mystery and magic of cataloguing forgotten sound effectsBehind-the-scenes tales from awards season, including rejection and red carpet dramaThe art of “invisible” mixing and why audio is the ultimate cinematic illusionPacked with anecdotes—like Daniel Day-Lewis bringing intensity and precision even to his ADR sessions, and Jack Nicholson’s Oscar-night wisdom—this episode is a must-listen for filmmakers, sound enthusiasts, or anyone curious about how the soul of a film is often found in what we hear.🏆 About Tom FleischmanTom Fleischman is an Academy Award-winning re-recording mixer with a career spanning over four decades. Known for his collaborations with directors like Martin Scorsese, Jonathan Demme, and Robert Redford, Tom’s fingerprints are on countless classic films, from Silence of the Lambs to The Devil Wears Prada. His craft—equal parts science and intuition—has shaped the soundtrack of modern cinema.🔗 Connect with Tom FleischmanBlueskyIMDb📢 Follow the PodcastStay updated with the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content:InstagramTikTokYouTubeBlueskyPodcast: Television Times with Steve Otis GunnHost: Steve Otis GunnGuest: Tom Fleischman – Oscar-winning Re-recording MixerDuration: 49 minutesRelease Date: June 8, 2025Season: 4, Episode 4All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis GunnPlease buy my book You Shot My Dog and I Love You, available in all good bookshops and online. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chelsea Birkby: Magic, Milton Keynes & the Comedy of Not KnowingIn this wonderfully winding episode, Steve Otis Gunn is joined by comedian Chelsea Birkby for a conversation brimming with insight, whimsy, and philosophical detours. Renowned for her thoughtful humour, Chelsea offers a fresh perspective on everything from the rooftops of Milton Keynes to the existential undertones of reality TV. Together, they navigate the intriguing intersections of comedy, illusion, and the comfort of not always knowing. From the overlooked genius of The Simple Life to the moment a mentalist made her question the nature of free will, Chelsea reflects on the inspirations behind her latest show. Topics touched on include:Skater energy, angular architecture, and the symbolism of Milton KeynesMagic, mind games, and the card trick that broke her brainThe urgency of watching The Traitors and The Kardashians close to transmissionCreating comedy before the spark fadesBrainrot, generational slang, and why Googling ruins everythingWhether you're deep into stand-up, reality TV, or the kind of person who still doesn’t understand how vinyl records work—and prefers it that way—this one’s for you.🏆 About Chelsea BirkbyChelsea Birkby is an award-nominated comedian known for her smart, sensitive, and sneakily philosophical comedy. Her debut show No More Mr Nice Chelsea was met with critical acclaim at the Edinburgh Fringe, and she continues to tour the UK, support major acts, and develop a new show that blends mentalism, stand-up, and existential dread. She’s also very good at horse impressions.🔗 Connect with Chelsea BirkbyInstagramTikTokYouTube📢 Follow the PodcastStay updated with the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content:InstagramTikTokYouTubeBlueskyPodcast: Television Times with Steve Otis GunnHost: Steve Otis GunnGuest: Chelsea Birkby – Comedian and WriterDuration: 58 minutesRelease Date: June 1, 2025Season: 4, Episode 3All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis GunnPlease buy my book 'You Shot My Dog and I Love You', available in all good bookshops and online Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cat Miller: Building the Immersive World of 'Severance' - The Art of Precision and Subconscious Unease🎙️Episode OverviewIn this deep dive, Steve Otis Gunn chats to Cat Miller, the property master behind Apple TV+'s critically acclaimed Severance. From meticulously designed props rich with hidden meanings to carefully altering vehicles to appear timeless, Cat reveals the artistry behind bringing the surreal workplace to life, one perfectly placed vending token and trackball at a time. From a family rooted in the film industry, Cat shares her journey from professional dancer to on-set visionary, discussing the high-stakes world of propping for modern television and how her dance discipline informed her meticulous creative eye. Whether she's building retro-future computer terminals or choreographing the visual language of control and claustrophobia, Cat’s work shapes the tone of Severance in ways most viewers don’t even realise.Topics include:Creating the unsettling retro-futurism of SeveranceWhy comedies are more difficult to prop than other genresHow props can tell the story when words are forbiddenFabrications, fake IDs, and Lumon mugs on EtsyThe ethics of realism: When accuracy in props becomes a form of invisible integrityThis episode is a must-listen for design enthusiasts, Severance superfans, and anyone fascinated by the invisible magic of world-building in television.🏆 About Cat MillerCat Miller is a seasoned property master whose credits include Severance, Russian Doll, The Affair, Uncut Gems, Confess Fletch, and many more. With a background in professional dance and a deep-rooted family history in the film industry, Cat brings rigour, creativity, and storytelling to every project. Her props don’t merely adorn the background—they shape the very world they inhabit.🔗 Connect with Cat MillerInstagramIMDb📢 Follow the PodcastStay updated with the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content:InstagramTikTokYouTubeBlueskyPodcast: Television Times with Steve Otis GunnHost: Steve Otis GunnGuest: Cat Miller – Property MasterDuration: 52 minutesRelease Date: May 25, 2025Season: 4, Episode 2All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis GunnPlease buy my book 'You Shot My Dog and I Love You', available in all good bookshops and online Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Thomas: From 'The Inbetweeners' to 'Taskmaster' and the Worried Face of Stand-Up 🎙️Episode OverviewIn the Season 4 opener, Steve Otis Gunn sits down with actor, writer, and comedian Joe Thomas—best known as the permanently flustered face of The Inbetweeners. From breakout fame as Simon to the unpredictable antics of Taskmaster, Joe discusses his move into stand-up, the realities of fame, and what it’s like to be constantly mistaken for someone on the verge of a meltdown. He reflects on his Cambridge Footlights beginnings, the bizarre nature of early success, and the creative transition from tightly scripted comedy to the raw immediacy of live performance. With trademark dry wit, Joe shares behind-the-scenes stories and explains why the terrifying nature of stand-up is exactly what draws him to it. Topics include:Growing up with a worried face—and owning itFrom selling dodgy store cards to comedy stardomBalancing writing and performing – and the freedom of owning your voiceNavigating fame, discomfort, and creative identityThis episode will appeal to fans of British comedy, awkward coming-of-age tales, and anyone curious about the realities of fame, creative identity, and the leap from sitcoms to stand-up.🏆 About Joe ThomasJoe Thomas is an English actor, comedian, and writer. He’s best known for his iconic role as Simon Cooper in The Inbetweeners, as well as his work in Fresh Meat, White Gold, and The Festival. Joe is also a former Taskmaster contestant and Cambridge Footlights alum, Joe is now forging a new path in stand-up comedy with a mix of anxious energy and sharp storytelling.🔗 Connect with Joe ThomasInstagramIMDb📢 Follow the PodcastStay updated with the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content:InstagramTikTokYouTubeBlueskyPodcast: Television Times with Steve Otis GunnHost: Steve Otis GunnGuest: Joe Thomas – Actor and ComedianDuration: 57 minutesRelease Date: May 18, 2025Season: 4, Episode 1All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis GunnPlease buy my book 'You Shot My Dog and I Love You', available in all good bookshops and online Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Curley: Oscar & BAFTA-Winning Sound Mixer Talks 'Whiplash', 'Yellowstone', and Wild Set Stories🎙️Episode OverviewIn this episode, Steve Otis Gunn chats to Tom Curley, the Oscar and BAFTA-winning sound mixer renowned for his work on Whiplash, Yellowstone, Documentary Now!, and CSI Vegas. Tom shares captivating behind-the-scenes stories, including:Guerrilla Filming in Seoul: Insights from working with a renowned Korean film director.Wild Donkeys in Nevada: A humorous tale of being chased from a set by wild donkeys.Misleading Actors: The surprise of discovering overseas actors weren't American after filming has wrapped.BAFTA Encounter: A close call with Harvey Weinstein at the BAFTAs.J.K. Simmons on 'Whiplash': The challenge of convincing the actor to wear a microphone.Laughter on Set: Struggling to maintain composure during comedic moments on Documentary Now!AI & Obesity: Discussing the impact of television on societal issues.This episode will appeal to anyone interested in how sound is captured on a film set and the trials and tribulations of such an endeavour.🏆 About Tom CurleyTom Curley is an esteemed production sound mixer with over two decades of experience in the film and television industry. He gained international acclaim for his work on Whiplash (2014), earning both an Academy Award and a BAFTA Film Award for Best Sound. His extensive filmography includes:Whiplash Yellowstone Documentary Now! CSI Vegas Queenpins The Gray Man For more information, visit his IMDb profile 🔗 Connect with Tom CurleyInstagramFacebookBluesky📢 Follow the PodcastStay updated with the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content:InstagramTikTokYouTubeBlueskyPodcast: Television Times with Steve Otis GunnHost: Steve Otis GunnGuest: Tom Curley, CAS – Academy Award & BAFTA-winning Production Sound MixerDuration: 53 minutesRelease Date: February 4, 2025Season: 3, Episode 25All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis GunnPlease buy my book 'You Shot My Dog and I Love You', available in all good bookshops and online Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Donald: Co-Founder of Viz Talks Legacy, Stand-Up, and the Power of Swearing🎧 Episode OverviewIn this candid conversation, Steve Otis Gunn sits down with Simon Donald, co-founder of the iconic British comic magazine Viz to delve into his journey from creating the satirical publication to his current stand-up comedy career. Topics include:Origins of Viz: The inception of Viz in a Newcastle bedroom in 1979 with his brother Chris.Iconic Characters: The creation of characters like Sid the Sexist and the development of Roger's Profanasaurus.Television Adaptations: Insights into the Fat Slags movie and the challenges of adapting Viz characters for the screen.Cultural Commentary: Discussions on the evolution of swear words in the English language and their societal implications.Personal Reflections: Simon's move to North London and his experiences in the comedy scene.This episode offers humour, insight, and personal anecdotes from Simon's career as a cartoonist and comedian.🖋️ About Simon DonaldSimon Donald is a British comedian and the co-founder of Viz, a satirical comic magazine that gained immense popularity in the late 20th century. Born in 1964 in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Simon and his brother Chris launched Viz in 1979. Simon's creations, including Sid the Sexist, became central to the magazine's success. After leaving Viz in 2003, Simon transitioned to stand-up comedy, performing at the Edinburgh Fringe and various comedy clubs. He continues to entertain audiences with his unique blend of observational and satirical humor.🔗 Connect with Simon DonaldYouTubeFacebook📢 Follow the PodcastStay updated with the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content:InstagramTikTokYouTubeFacebookBlueskyPodcast: Television Times with Steve Otis GunnHost: Steve Otis GunnGuest: Simon Donald – Co-Founder of Viz Magazine & Stand-Up ComedianDuration: 58 minutesRelease Date: January 23, 2025Season: 3, Episode 24All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis GunnPlease buy my book 'You Shot My Dog and I Love You', available in all good bookshops and online Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Graham Fellows: From 'Top of the Pops' to Broken Keyboards and Endless Bounty Bars🎙️ Episode OverviewIn this engaging conversation, Steve Otis Gunn chats to Graham Fellows, the creative mind behind the iconic characters Jilted John and John Shuttleworth, sharing insights into his multifaceted career in music, television, and comedy. Topics include:Origins of Jilted John: The creation of the character and his rise to fame with the hit single "Jilted John."Birth of John Shuttleworth: How a publishing deal led to the accidental creation of another beloved character.Television Appearances: Graham's experiences on shows like Top of the Pops, The Paradise Club, and Saturday Night Zoo.Musical Collaborations: Insights into his work with Count Arthur and the challenges of performing with temperamental keyboards.Personal Anecdotes: Stories about his childhood admiration for The Monkees and humorous on-stage mishaps.This episode offers a blend of humour, music, and industry insights, including personal anecdotes from Graham's extensive career in comedy.🖋️ About Graham FellowsGraham Fellows is a British actor, comedian, and musician, best known for creating the characters Jilted John and John Shuttleworth. As Jilted John, he gained fame in the late 1970s with the satirical song "Jilted John," which humorously addressed teenage heartbreak. Later, he developed John Shuttleworth, a middle-aged, suburban character known for his dry wit and love of music technology. Graham's work spans music, television, and live performances, earning him a dedicated following.🔗 Connect with Graham FellowsInstagramFacebookYouTube📢 Follow the PodcastStay updated with the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content:InstagramTikTokYouTubeFacebookBlueskyPodcast: Television Times with Steve Otis GunnHost: Steve Otis GunnGuest: Graham Fellows – Creator of Jilted John & John ShuttleworthDuration: 54 minutesRelease Date: January 16, 2025Season: 3, Episode 23All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis Gunn*Except 'My Wife Died in 1970' written by Graham FellowsPlease buy my book 'You Shot My Dog and I Love You', available in all good bookshops and online Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.