Straight from the Hot Tap: Recent Episodes
Matt Baty
This podcast is definitely unique. The concept, 4 old friends and a member of the Cheshire landed gentry discuss growing up in a town they no longer live in, really shouldn't work. Yet here we are. Join the hosts as they take a surreal, irreverent walk through modern life, the Administrative Centre of Somerset, strange animal encounters and a load more. There is even some serious content. Occasionally.
This Podcast is designed to make you laugh, reflect and see the humour in the world around you. Expect some slightly controversial content, but ultimately this podcast will feel like Eve's Dropping on a pub chat between 5 close friends.
Follow the pod on Facebook: @Straightfromthehottap / https://www.facebook.com/Straightfromthehottap / Twitter: @thehottap www.buymeacoffee.com/thehottap
*STOP PRESS*
We have now added special guest interviews to the show!
Welcome to episode 29. It's been a while!
We discuss turning 40 - what it means and doesn't mean. How it feels to be getting older.
Matt loses his mind at the achievements of others.
Taunton Matters continues to amuse.
https://linktr.ee/str8fromthehottap
Twitter: @thehottap
This is part 4 of our series of podcasts about Ukraine.
In this episode we are privileged to be joined by Pavlo who is currently in Ukraine.
Pavlo worked with Paul Biddle as an interpreter during his mysterious work there a few years ago.
Pavlo talks about the current situation, the build up and what it’s like living with the fear and stress of the Russian Army destroying your homeland. Paul gives us a unique insight into the practicalities of military operations and we discuss the way forward for both Ukraine, The West, and the hope for peace.
This is a searingly honest and powerful testimony and well, well worth a listen.
To donate to the Red Cross appeal, please visit: https://linktr.ee/str8fromthehottap to follow the link, or click here: https://donate.redcross.org.uk/appeal/ukraine-crisis-appeal?c_code=175151&c_source=google&c_name=Ukraine%20Crisis%20Appeal&adg=&c_creative=brand&c_medium=cpc&gclid=CjwKCAjw9LSSBhBsEiwAKtf0n4xZCMhOTPmBX19WJoFU3s5BzUDbfbugm-GAw_KFuIBBM4HlgFVKaxoCsjEQAvD_BwE
Every little helps.
To follow Straight from the Hot Tap:
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For previous episodes: www.linktr.ee/str8fromthehottap
Welcome to a sombre Part 2 of our Ukraine focused
series of episodes.
This is both fascinating and also sobering. As the Ukraine conflict develops, Matt, Paul and I discuss what this means for Europe, what the West can do next, and how dangerous this really is.
The conclusions are evident in the podcast – this is serious.
Please give us a rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, it really helps us grow the podcasts.
To get in touch: maff2@hotmail.com
Insta: @Str8fromthehottap
Facebook: @straightfromthehottap.
Twitter: @thehottap.
In this episode we welcome friend of the show Paul Biddle - a man who knows about Ukraine because he's been there for major events, looked into the whites of the eyes of Russian troops and Ukrainian fighters.
We recorded this episode as events were escalating and generally concluded that an invasion was unlikely to actually happen. Well, we were wrong, and part 2 will look at what that means for both the Ukraine and Europe.
This episode examines the Russian psyche to some extent; we discuss the cultural differences between east and west, the idea of autocratic leadership and how the west has massively underestimated the threat that Russia poses.
Follow us on Twitter: @thehottap
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To contact us: maff2@hotmail.com
In episode 25 of Straight from the Hot Tap we discuss the evolution of remembrance day, what it meant and what it means, war in general and we dig up some old history lessons.
We also discuss what a visit to Taunton by Nigel Farage might look like.....
Welcome to Episode 24 of Straight from the Hot Tap!
After an extremely challenging few weeks where life very much took over, we finally managed to record some content, and I guess after all the stress of work it was always going to boil over into some chaos on the podcast!
In this ‘interesting’ mélange of the topical and the ridiculous, we discuss the nefarious role of wellness influencers and business gurus, pumping out ‘motivational’ guff and end up giving millennials both barrels. So essentially we show our hand as bitter and twisted 40 year olds, blaming everything on the younger generation.
We look at plans for Taunton, and how it could host a world wellbeing summit, and Taunton Matters is the usual blend of small town life and the surreal.
If you enjoy the podcast, please, please please take a moment to like, share and give us a review on Apple
Podcasts or GoodPods.
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www.linktr.ee/str8fromthehottap
*STOP PRESS*
Now contains a special dedication from Matt G to the girl who first identified his 'problem'.
In episode 7, no-one can shoot straight, Matt works out how to use sound effects, Jonny's golf range bad behaviour and we discuss how best to engage with sponsors. We also have regular features including:
Matt's Rants
Lou's Reviews
And Taunton Matters.
Twitter: @thehottap
Facebook: @Straightfromthehottap
After a challenging summer period for the team we're delighted to welcome our listeners to episode 23.
In this feature length, slightly more serious than usual episode we discuss the lack of fun in our adult lives and and society as a whole. We delve into the importance of laughter and relaxation for creativity and our special guest interview is a cracker.
Gamal Fahnbullah was a colleague in Taunton and he talks about his journey from the west country to Manchester where through hard work and dedication he became a popular news anchor for ITV. In this fascinating interview we hear about the challenges, the benefit of hard work and the cultural frustrations for a black person in a white, middleclass world.
Twitter: @thehottap
Insta: @str8fromthehottap
In this episode we welcome back Paul Biddle to discuss the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Paul gives us a rich and detailed description of his work in Afghanistan, the challenges and experiences he has.
We reflect on the last 20 years of conflict and explore some of the reported information in detail.
Twitter: @thehottap
Insta: @str8fromthehottap
linktr.ee/str8fromthehottap
In Part 2 we interview the very excellent Leah from She Will Rock You, one of the best music history podcasts out there.
We discuss our love of music, and our hatred of certain songs. As usual things get silly.
Twitter: @thehottap
Facebook: @straightfromthehottap
Linktr.ee/str8fromthehottap
To listen to the brilliant She Will Rock You Podcast, look them up on Castbox, Itunes, Spotify and the usual hosting sites. Here's there website. Give them a listen:
https://shewillrockyou.com/
To sponsor Peter Wilson on his trip to Morocco, click on:
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/saharatrek2021-peterwilson
In this 2 part double header, things get a little silly with Jonny's Wrong'un of the week, Matt's Rants turns to the business world and we re-create Woodstock in Taunton.
We have another SMB update, Josh hits on Lou and we discuss strange celebrity Taunton encounters.
Definitely not for the easily offended.
Twitter: @thehottap
Facebook: @straightfromthehottap
Linktree: www.linktr.ee/str8fromthehottap
In this episode we welcome Sam Lupson, ex Taunton holiday industry guru. We discuss 18-30s holidays and the rep life alongside the usual segments.
In Josh and Jonny's absence we make a pigs ear out of a sows purse by trying to replicate the Taunton Matters format with a twist, we discuss the misery and joy of parenthood and explore the trans debate without cancelling ourselves for all eternity.
@str8fromthehottap
Paul Biddle has an MBE
Paul was also:
In the French Foreign Legion
Negotiating with separatists in the Ukraine
In one of Saddam's Palaces
Drinking Rum and Smoking Cigars with Cuban aid workers in Haiti
In charge of a prison.
He also had varicose veins and lost his wedding tie. What a loser.
This is such an amazing episode; even though the sound quality isn't amazing, it is well worth putting on some headphones for to listen in. You won't regret it!
Follow us on Twitter: @thehottap
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Facebook: @straightfromthehottap
For more episodes: linktr.ee/str8fromthehottap.
In this very special episode, Straight from the Hot Tap links up with Taunton Massachusetts to compare notes, learn all about the USA and a town founded by our ancestors.
We learn about crazy, disease-ridden presidents, how Taunton, MA deal with public urination and Matt gives us an alternative history lesson.
Oh and Josh underwhelms everyone with Taunton Matters.
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Insta: @str8fromthehottap
To appear on the show, contact: maff2@hotmail.com
Brought to you in conjunction with Fireside Society:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7SZLKr3EmrlSt2JvxaR4Gw
Ben Bowley has had a fascinating career largely in the sailing industry.
Ben has shared his passion for the seas, boats and teaching others with hundreds of people over the years.
The pinnacle of his experience was a remarkable Around the World Yacht Race as a skipper with Clipper. He took a team of inexperienced people and turned them into ocean sailors, finishing 3rd after a year at sea.
Ben now works for West Peak Partners, a training business specialising in team building, coaching and leadership development. Links to his website are below.
https://www.westpeakpartners.uk/about-us
To listen to the Straight from the Hot Tap Playlist, visit:
https://music.amazon.co.uk/user-playlists/d4485d0e948f493298a1bd00573175b2engb?ref=dm_sh_867f-7d18-8299-43db-d0ca9
Welcome to Episode 15.
In this wide-ranging episode we discuss how to make Taunton a beacon of environmental friendliness, Lou does some revolting but strangely interesting research and Matt steals other Matt’s slot to rant about the crooks and bandits running crossing to the Isle of Wight.
We discuss the environment and our impact, normal service is resumed in Taunton Matters and Matt goes missing. Then comes back in true Narcissist style.
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Facebook: Straightfromthehottap
Insta: @str8fromthehottap
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Episode 15 shout out goes to the Isle of Wight Agricultural Society: https://www.riwas.org.uk/
In this episode we interview Author Simon Michael Prior.
An old Tauntonian and avid traveler, Simon gives us a facinating walkthrough of his colourful life and writing.
We discuss pranks, the insidiousness of social media, Matt's immigration challenges and probably a bit too much about recent royal scandals.
Lou gets some stick in Lou's reviews and Josh finds yet more work for Jonny's Windows.
Follow us on Facebook: @straightfromthehottap
Twitter: @thehottap
Insta: @str8fromthehottap or just click:
www.linktr.ee/str8fromthehottap
To purchase Simon's excellent and acclaimed books: The Coconut Wireless:
smarturl.it/thecoconutwireless
An Englishman in New York:
smarturl.it/anenglishmannewyork
In this very special episode 13, we welcome Jonny Manners, an old friend and survivor of the Taunton Experience. Jonny gives us a fascinating walkthrough of his career and route through life from his Taunton beginnings, in addition to some interesting anecdotes from his public and private life.
We have an important business discussion about sponsorship options sparked by a request for a collaboration and Lou finds some of the more ridiculous reviews to date.
Jonny invents the Ocular Scrub, Matt throws his sister under a bus and Taunton Matters asks for a vetinary miracle.
Please leave us a review on Podchaser
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Welcome to Episode 12 of Straight from the Hot Tap.
In this very regal episode, we discuss the Duke of Edinburgh's death, his legacy, Empire and how to honour him, Taunton style. We diss dogs, revisit the Hungry Horse and enjoy a particularly ridiculous Taunton Matters.
This episode's business shout out goes to www.berryscoaches.co.uk
As we can't play songs in Traffic Island Discs, we have created a special 'Straight from the Hot Tap' Playlist that will be added to as we go along. Find it here:
https://music.amazon.co.uk/user-playlists/d4485d0e948f493298a1bd00573175b2engb?ref=dm_sh_2df3-5047-dea6-7ff2-e6673
Find us on Twitter: @thehottap
Instagram: @str8fromthehottap
In this episode, we explore the terrible reality of adulthood, what drives us (or otherwise), how not to dispose of dead pets and why medieval castle builders would be horrified by modern Britain.
We discuss Van Morrison, Snoop D.O.G.G. and Taunton Matters throws up yet more surprises.
This episode's shout out is Staggs Farm - the best flavoured milk in the UK - https://www.facebook.com/staggsfarmmilk/
Produced in partnership with www.duppymedia.co.uk
Follow us now on instagram: @str8fromthehottap
Episode 10 discusses the quirks and joys of British pubs. We also take aim at the misery of the all you can eat carvery, Matt's TripAdvisor artistry and our experiences of receiving, and giving some pretty shoddy customer services.
Episode 10 shout-out to Taunton Ladies Rugby Club (www.tauntonrfc.co.uk)
Produced in partnership with Duppy Media (www.duppymedia.co.uk)
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Twitter: @thehottap
and Facebook.
In this special edition of Straight from the Hot Tap, we tackle a very challenging subject.
This is not our usual light nonsense, but a serious take on a difficult subject.
This may make uncomfortable listening. It was challenging to talk about and put together, but we all felt it was necessary to use our growing platform to say something, anything about a subject that has been dominating the news recently.
Please note that none of us are trained experts in this area. This is putting words to our experiences.
The shout out was for Somerset Survivors, a charity dedicated to supporting the victims of domestic violence.
Follow the link: http://somersetsurvivors.org.uk/
This is a special episode as we welcome some old friends to the podcast. Sarah and Laura give us their take on Taunton.
We get an update on the Garbage Truck Killer, discuss workplace pranks and give important recommendations about Taunton fast food.
This podcast is produced in partnership with DUPPY MEDIA. For more information, please visit:
www.duppymedia.co.uk.
In this special 'wildlife' edition, the team recount their random encounters with vermin.
Super-Fan Lou digs up some reviews from some new listeners (and some familar names) and Josh takes method acting a step too far. We also introduce a new section; The Airing of Grievances.
In this episode we introduce a brand new section, Lou's Reviews. Super Fan Louise trawls the internet for show reviews, we discuss what Taunton did for us, the benefits of a a good Golf Swing Thought and a range of other weird and wonderful things.
In Episode 4, Josh speculates about the risks of vaccinating pensioners, more animal stories and how to invest £24m of regeneration money.
Matt's plans for Taunton take a ridiculous turn, things get political and we learn why there are no red chairs at Essex County Council.
In this shorter episode, the team discuss learning Latin, Matt's terrible diary management and why fundraisers are rant-worthy.
Those of a nervous or sensitive disposition should exercise caution when listening to this episode!
In episode 2, we discuss place that really should be better than Taunton, but for some reason aren't.
Jonny updates us on the ongoing fox wars, Josh updates us with the current affairs of Taunton and Matt regales us with the unfortunate tale of Dennis, the next door neighbour's cat.
This is the first episode of a brand new podcast. (RE-MASTERED)
Join Matt B, Matt G, Josh and Jonny as they stumble their way through their first ever podcast.
In this episode, the hosts discuss their childhoods, reflect on their friendship and growing up and look at new and interesting ways to promote Taunton; a typically average market town in England.
Matt gives his views on Star Wars in is own, inimitable style.