The Romesh Ranganathan Show

What’s the best way to cure a fear of flying? According to Shanthi, pray...or fly to Portsmouth.

It’s Thursday, which means Romesh’s mum Shanthi is back to answer your questions and family dilemmas on The Romesh Ranganathan Show.

There’s a lottery win dream purchase, a trigonometry refresher with a questionable acronym, a garden centre saga that Shanthi has been waiting to tell, and a flight attendant role play that goes completely off the rails.

A Ranga Bee Production.

Chapters:

00:00...

Why did Katherine Ryan fly home from Spain on her own?

In this episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh is joined by comedian, presenter and author Katherine Ryan, ahead of her new book Confessions of a Firstborn Daughter (out 22nd October).

They get into eldest daughter syndrome, juggling four kids and a career, and why Katherine thinks women should misbehave a little more.

Plus, there’s a Romesh gift with a very questionable backstory, a game of Misquoted involving maple syrup and a Bolognese, and some strong opinions on ho...

How should you react when your son offers you an all-expenses-paid holiday?

On this edition of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh tells his mum Shanthi he’s taking her to Portugal next May. Her first reaction is not what he’d hoped for, so they try again.

Before that, there’s a public plea to Next for freebies and an embarrassing underwear moment from Romesh’s teaching days.

Then it’s your questions: what to do when a child repeats the wrong line in public, how to handle friends and family tea...

What do Loki, Everest and Arsenal tea bags have in common?

In this episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh is joined by actor Tom Hiddleston to talk about his new film Tenzing the true story behind the first successful ascent of Mount Everest, and what it was like filming it for real, with no green screen.

They also get into 16 years as Loki, what Marvel gets right (and why it deserves more credit), and exactly how much Tom knows about what comes next.

A Ranga Bee Production.

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What do you say when your 8-year-old walks in on you in 'the act'?

Romesh and his mum Shanthi take on your questions and family dilemmas, even though they remain thoroughly unqualified to do so.

This week, a listener needs help after their son caught them in the middle of the night, and Romesh and Shanthi try to work out the best response. A role play that quickly goes off the rails...

Got a dilemma? Send us a voice note or email, and we...

What makes Stacey Dooley such a good documentary maker?

In this episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh is joined by broadcaster and documentary maker Stacey Dooley to reflect on her journey through documentary-making, how she approaches telling them and the stories and experiences that have stayed with her.

They also get into some very important Selling Sunset and Below Deck gossip, before Stacey explains exactly why she hates Southampton.
Plus, there's some questionable role play, a game of Misquoted and a brief detour into boxing, Little Mix and Jamie Oliver.

Can Shanthi do a better celebrity impression than Romesh?

In this Thursday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh and Shanthi are back with listener questions, family stories and a celebrity impressions challenge that quickly gets out of hand.

From Shanthi’s early morning routines to what it's like being a grandma, the pair discuss family relationships throughout including a family trip to Devil's Dyke that Romesh missed out on.

Elsewhere, the team suggest a Celebrity Impressions Challenge where Romesh is put through his paces as he attempts impressions of David Attenborough, Simon Co...

What did Eddie Murphy say to Lenny Henry?

In this Monday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh is joined by the legendary comedian, actor, and writer, Sir Lenny Henry.

The pair look back at Lenny’s incredible career, from his early stand-up and TV shows, to his latest projects. They discuss racism, realities of working in the entertainment industry, and the pressure that comes with a long career.

Lenny talks about his return to stand-up with his new tour, Lenny Henry: Still at Large, and his new BBC show,The Split Up (av...

Who does Shanthi want next on the podcast?

In this special, one-year anniversary episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh and Shanthi celebrate a whole year of the podcast with a little help from the team and a surprise message from none other than our first guest, Michael Sheen.

The pair look back at some of their favourite moments from the show, reflect on how far the podcast has come, and discuss what they’d like to do next, including a potential trip to Los Angeles and a team yacht holiday.

They also ta...

How did Stephen Graham become one of Britain's best actors?

In this Monday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh is joined by legendary actor, producer, and writer, Stephen Graham, to talk about his incredible, award-winning career, spanning over two decades.

Stephen reflects on his career, from This Is England and Boiling Point, to his latest work on Adolescence and Nocturne. He discusses method acting, the challenges of filming in one-shot, and what it takes to disappear into a character.

They also get into a discussion on their shared love of music and...

Is Romesh a bad gift-giver?

In this Thursday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh and Shanthi celebrate Apple Dumpling Day, discuss recipes, and get to work tackling your listener dilemmas, from parenting support to the art of gift-giving.

Plus, we give you a little taster of what Shanthi's cookery show, Shanthi’s Kitchen, could look like, complete with mutton rolls, some very important serving suggestions, a theme song, and a live post-show review.

Another classic Thursday episode with Shanthi.

A Ranga Bee Production in partnership with Platform Me...

What really happened with Jamie Oliver's school dinners?

In this Monday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh is joined by one of the UK’s best-known chefs, Jamie Oliver.

Jamie talks about life after 50, his career in the kitchen and what keeps him motivated after decades in the food industry. He also reveals what it’s really like to work in a high-pressure kitchen, whether restaurant food has ruined the experience of eating out and the truth behind kitchen hazing.

Elsewhere, Jamie critiques Shanthi's best dishes, we get into the neuroscience of food...

Should children be allowed at weddings?

We're back with another Thursday Shanthi special, and in this episode, Romesh and Shanthi tackle your listener dilemmas and butt heads about one in particular - should children be allowed at weddings?

They also discuss the pressure to always be productive, how to be kinder to yourself, and whether you can really retrain the negative voice in your head.

Finally, they answer a question on unusual habits, and Romesh reveals some of Shanthi’s worst ones before addressing his bizarre shower routine.

From wedding drama an...

Could Romesh make a convincing gangster?

In this week's episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh is joined by legendary, British actor, Ray Winstone, to discuss his role as Bobby Glass in the second season of Guy Ritchie's hit Netflix series, The Gentlemen. But what does he make of the rumours Meghan Markle is joining the cast?

Ray, famous for his career playing tough guys and hardened criminals in films such as, Sexy Beast and Nil By Mouth, talks to Romesh about his acting career over the last 50 years. Plus, there's a masterclass lesson in...

Should Shanthi get her £35,000 garden room?

In this Thursday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh and Shanthi are back with your questions and dilemmas — and things get out of hand fast. Shanthi campaigns hard for a garden room fit for a footballer, tries to track down her mystery American bank account, and receives an unexpected apology voice note from a stranger.

Elsewhere, Romesh and Shanthi role play as a conspiracy-theorist Dad and his sensible daughter after a listener's TikTok-obsessed father-in-law starts spouting theories about the government and shampoo, and the pair tackle the...

In this episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh is joined by comedian and podcaster Rick Glassman to talk about stand-up, podcasting and the art of saying exactly what you're thinking.

Rick discusses the success of Take Your Shoes Off, and reveals that Ricky Gervais would be one of his dream guests, which leads to the pair composing a carefully crafted text message invite. Will he respond? Plus, Rick addresses the catastrophic Paul Rudd incident on his podcast.

Elsewhere, Rick opens up about his autism diagnosis, dealing with criticism, and the pros and...

Are Romesh and Shanthi gifted artists?

In this Thursday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh and Shanthi get in touch with their artistic side - welcome to The Art Special!

From discussing buying art (aka poster prints), to the seductive wallpaper that Romesh couldn't ignore, Romesh and Shanthi discuss their favourite artists and try their hand at drawing each other, with surprising results.

Elsewhere, Romesh considers whether he needs to take legal action on a birthday card situation and reflects on the talent that led him to be a four-time champion (a...

Why Is Everyone Talking About Oh, Mary!?

In this episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh is joined by theatre and TV actor, Michael Urie, to talk about the award-winning Apple TV series Shrinking and West End hit Oh, Mary!

Michael talks all about his character Brian, working alongside Harrison Ford and Brett Goldstein, and what makes the show's writing so special. He also discusses bringing the hit Broadway comedy Oh, Mary! to London, the magic of performing live, and why theatre creates such a unique relationship between an actor and an audience. Plus, the...

Should you stay in a situationship?

In this Thursday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh and Shanthi tackle your problems, from forgetting your neighbours’ names to dealing with the annoying aspects of parenthood.

We also discuss Diane Morgan’s new show Ann Droid, and get into a debate on robots and their possibilities from household help to sex robots.

Elsewhere, Romesh recommends Modern Family as a must-watch show and Shanthi gives her opinion on secret situationships, plus we visit a good old family memory of when Romesh and Dinesh set the sofa on f...

How did Philomena Cunk come about?

In this episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh is joined by Diane Morgan to talk about her new hit BBC iPlayer sitcom, Ann Droid and her journey into comedy, from working with Charlie Brooker, developing the iconic Philomena Cunk, to working on Ricky Gervais' new series, Alley Cats.

Diane reveals how working in a factory pushed her towards her goals and discusses her early comedy influences. The pair talk early career moves, the experience of attending drama school, all the way to working together on Last One Laughing...

What is Romesh like in drag? And what would Shanthi's drag king name be?

In this Thursday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh and Shanthi answer your listener dilemmas, from dealing with pressure to drink, to an awkward case of mistaken identity.

Plus, Romesh tells us all about the 'Rob & Romesh Vs Drag' episode and what he learnt about 'tucking' and Shanthi decides on her drag king alter ego.

A Ranga Bee Production in partnership with Platform Media.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

03:29...

What did Matt Damon say to Himesh after they finished filming The Odyssey?

In this week's episode, Romesh is joined by Emmy and Screen Actors Guild Award-nominated actor, Himesh Patel. You may know him as Tamwar Masood from EastEnders, but Himesh has since appeared in Danny Boyle’s Yesterday and Christopher Nolan’s Tenet, and now he’s in one of this year’s biggest films - The Odyssey.

Himesh shares what it’s like working on a Christopher Nolan movie and what the challenges are of shooting in IMAX.

Plus, we talk BAFTA part...

Has Shanthi finally forgiven Idris Elba?

In this Thursday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Shanthi reacts to an unexpected peace offering from Idris Elba after their long-running, one-sided "feud."

Elsewhere, Romesh recommends one of his favourite TV shows, we try an improvised jingle and Romesh and Shanthi answer your listener questions on ageing, plastic surgery, dating apps and whether you should use celebrity selfies on them.

Plus the team celebrates a huge podcast milestone on the podcast!

A Ranga Bee Production in partnership with Platform Media.

How Did Max Fosh Become The World's Richest Man?

In this episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Romesh is joined by YouTuber, comedian and viral mastermind, Max Fosh, to discuss the outrageous stunts and videos that have made him one of the internet's biggest creators.

From sneaking into London Fashion Week, to legally becoming the world's richest man (very briefly), Max reveals the creative process behind his biggest videos, and how he keeps coming up with ideas that millions of people can't help but click on.

The pair discuss the realities of life...

Can Romesh win the Chili Oil Mastermind quiz?

We're back with another Thursday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show and Shanthi puts Romesh's chilli knowledge to the test in a fiery Mastermind-style quiz, before they share their thoughts on some tantalizing listener dilemmas from inappropriate chat-up lines to spicing up relationships.

Elsewhere, the pair discuss Shanthi's story and Romesh opens up about why he's protective of his family and the past.

From chili oil to the secret of a successful, long-lasting marriage, it's another classic Thursday episode with Shanthi and Rom.

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What is it really like presenting Match of the Day?

In this episode, Romesh is joined by sports broadcaster Kelly Cates to talk about her remarkable career in football journalism, from becoming one of the original faces of Sky Sports News to stepping into the Match of the Day studio.

Kelly opens up about growing up surrounded by football, how sports broadcasting has changed over the last three decades and why she deliberately avoids reading comments (good and bad) about her work.

They discuss the modern pressures that face footballers today and what...

What is the weirdest thing Shanthi has ever Googled?

In this Thursday episode, Romesh and mum Shanthi reveal their most embarrassing Google searches, discuss holiday disasters and give their advice on finding the love of your life at university.

Shanthi shares her theories about a suspicious fan encounter on a train and reacts to the production team's suggestions for her new stage name.

Plus, we answer your listener dilemmas, from monkey bites to dating advice and weirdly, ducks' anatomy.

From bizarre internet searches to relationship wisdom, it's another classic Thursday episode...

How does Judi Love do it all?

In this episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, comedian, actor and writer, Judi Love joins Romesh to discuss her remarkable career, from becoming the first Black British woman to headline the London Palladium to starring in upcoming projects including Girl Group and and Channel 4's Schooled.

Judi opens up about comedy as a coping mechanism for undiagnosed dyslexia, the importance of self-care, and why she's learnt to fiercely protect her peace. She also reveals her dream of studying for a PhD exploring the impact of joy and laughter...

How would Shanthi take on a thousand seagulls?

We're back with another Thursday episode, answering your important listener questions like, would you rather take on a dog sized spider or a pack of seagulls?

The pair discuss Parents Evening and advise your latest listener dilemmas, from a curry-addicted dog, to Shanthi's weaponised use of cake. Plus, Shanthi and the team give some feedback on Romesh's interviewing technique and discuss what would we do if Shanthi quit?

A Ranga Bee Production in partnership with Platform.

Chapter <...

How does Gabby Logan handle online trolls?

In this episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, award-winning broadcaster Gabby Logan joins Romesh to discuss life presenting Match of the Day, handling criticism online and the pressure of live television.

Gabby opens up about balancing family life with her long-standing broadcasting career, why she stopped paying attention to online comments and what it really takes to deliver a great live interview. She also speaks candidly about her husband Kenny's prostate cancer diagnosis and why sharing his story has helped break the stigma around men's health.

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What is Shanthi's beef with Idris Elba?

In this Thursday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Shanthi and Romesh revisit Shanthi's ongoing vendetta against actor Idris Elba. We also tackle your listener dilemmas and Shanthi opens up about what helped her rebuild her life after losing her husband.

Elsewhere, Romesh and Shanthi debate manifestation, test their Wimbledon knowledge, and reveal their celebrity crushes.

From self-care and self-belief to country music and comedy, it's another classic Thursday episode with Shanthi with plentry of Ranganthan roasting in between.

A Ranga...

How do you keep performing after losing your voice?

Country music icon Shania Twain joins Romesh to talk about her most personal album yet, Little Miss Twain, the vocal surgery that saved her career and why she's embraced singing with a completely different voice.

We discuss everything from early beginnings and singing in bars as a kid, to breaking into Nashville, writing hit songs and becoming a pop star. Plus we get into performing live at Coachella and her upcoming Wembley residency as Harry Styles' special guest.

Shania reflects on...

Can Shanthi solve your life problems... and give you the perfect masala dosa recipe?

Shanthi's back answering your questions, but not before revealing the mantras she lives by, how she rebuilt her happiness and why staying busy is the secret to a good life.

Elsewhere, Romesh shares the advice he'd give his younger self, Shanthi teaches us how to make her famous masala dosa, and the listener dilemmas spiral from awkward parenting moments to one of the strangest vegan questions we've ever received.

A Ranga Bee Production in partnership with Platform.

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How awkward can filming a British comedy get? Jemaine Clement joins Romesh to discuss everything from New Zealand, comedy and touring. From starting at the Edinburgh Fringe, to creating one of the most loved series, Flight of the Conchords and working alongside Taika Waititi. They chat about Jemaine's new Disney+ comedy Alice and Steve, filming the upcoming Rogue Trooper movie with Matt Berry and the reality of life on set. Plus, there's a UK vs New Zealand Marmite taste test, a question from Shanthi, a game of Misquoted and the best Leonard Cohen impression you've ever heard. A Ranga...

Would you drink Marmite? Shanthi does.

In this Thursday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Shanthi reveals her unusual homemade drink, shares her hot takes on summer fashion and the pair team up to answer your listener dilemmas.

Debating everything from shirtless men, bucket hats and giant sunglasses to barbecues, iced coffee and whether fruit belongs in a salad, Shanthi voices her opinion on all of it.

We also answer your problems, including a debate about personal hygiene habits and how to deal with family members whose views belong in another century.

Double-Grammy winning rapper, actress and Emmy-host Eve shares the story of how she got into music, from early choir singing, to battle rapping and becoming one of the most iconic female rappers, working with Dr Dre, collaborating with Gwen Stefani and touring with Ja Rule and Nelly.
She also talks about her journey into acting, working with Vin Diesel and being told off by Samuel L Jackson for swearing on set.
Celebrating 25th years of her debut album Let There Be Eve...Ruff Ryders' First Lady, Eve also tells us about her plans for touring and the...

Who are Shanthi’s favourite Australians? And why didn’t she move to Australia?
This Thursday’s episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show is an Australian special, celebrating all our listeners from down under - we’ve got a boomerang, flags, a kangaroo and hats - we’re not here to f*ck spiders!
Shanthi reveals some secret stories, including how Romesh could’ve been born in Australia, plus she plays a game of guess the Australian phrase and even attempts the accents.
We also answer questions from our Australian listeners on swearing in front of parents, if...

How did ShxtsNGigs become one of the biggest podcasts in the world?

James and Fuhad join Romesh to talk about taking ShxtsNGigs from a side project to a global phenomenon, selling out arenas, building a loyal audience of millions and navigating the pressures that come with success.

They discuss imposter syndrome, awkward fan encounters, life before podcasting and the challenges of balancing friendship with business. They open up about mental health, finding purpose in work and why positive male friendships matter more than ever in times of the manosphere.

Plus, a classic question...

Would Shanthi date Harry Kane?

In this Thursday episode of The Romesh Ranganathan Show, Shanthi puts some of football's biggest names under the microscope as she decides which World Cup stars she'd date, which she'd avoid and why Cristiano Ronaldo could be her son.

Romesh attempts to teach Shanthi some football phrases ahead of the World Cup, Shanthi shares the story of the time she crashed into Romesh's gate, and there's a heated debate about whether Lionel Messi is actually as nice as everyone thinks he is.

Plus, we answer your listener dilemmas...

Does Emily Atack wish she didn’t have to still talk about The Inbetweeners? And how does she cope with strangers shouting ‘Big Tits' at her?
Actor, comedian and TV personality Emily Atack joins us on this week’s and discusses everything from how she landed the role of Charlotte Hinchcliffe in The Inbetweeners, to selling out tickets to her first ever show, before she’d even written it. We also talk about her documentary, Am I Asking For It?, tennis scenes in Rivals and her latest show Nobody’s Fool with Danny Dyer.
Emily also talks about how...