The Banterists

About The Banterists

The Banterists is a brand-new podcast where three friends dive into big ideas, small obsessions and everything in between. Expect lively conversations, plenty of laughs, and honest opinions on everything from books, theatre, TV and fashion to music, art, exhibitions and whatever else grabs their attention that week. Thought-provoking, entertaining and full of personality, it’s like eavesdropping on your funniest friends over a drink. Coming soon to wherever you get your podcasts — tune in, join the conversation, and become one of The Banterists.

Publisher

The Banterists

Category

leisure

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

23 Mar 2026

Latest episode

31 Jul 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   31 Jul 2026

   End of Season one message

   Summer Break Announcement and Thanks from The Banterists. Phill announces that the Banterists are taking a short summer break to recharge and thanks everyone who has listened, shared, and supported the show, hoping listeners enjoyed the first season as much as they enjoyed making it. He assures the audience they will return in the autumn with more banter, fascinating conversations, and new guests, and that Kocktail Kev will be back with more cocktail history, stories, tips, and recipes to try at home. Phill wishes everyone a wonderful and safe summer, encourages them to keep bantering, and signs off with Jo until they return for another season in the autumn.

2. 

   24 Jul 2026

   The Banterists - Kocktail Kev - Vodka Cocktails

   Vodka Cocktails: History, Production, and a Porn Star Martini The episode focuses on vodka-based cocktails, covering vodka’s origins, production methods, and a guided recipe for a Porn Star (Passion Fruit) Martini. It notes vodka’s strong association with northern Europe—especially Russia, Poland, Finland, and Sweden—along with disputed Russian and Polish claims to its invention, early medical uses, and early references in 1751 and 1405. The script describes early frozen distillation, the rise of home distilling, charcoal filtration, and the Smirnoff story from its 1864 founding through nationalization, the family’s emigration after the 1918 revolution, and U.S. expansion culminating in the Moscow Mule’s 1941 popularity. It explains modern vodka fermentation, distillation, dilution, and filtration, lists classic vodka cocktails, and gives step-by-step Porn Star Martini instructions topped with prosecco and passion fruit. Kevin enjoys his drink listening to Harry Styles busking on the street in Paxos, singing Treat People With Kindness. Kocktail Kev Music is called Velvet shadows full version by Kaazoom on Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) The Banterists music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

3. 

   17 Jul 2026

   SE01 - E17 - Kocktail Kev - Sours

   Sours Explained: History, Egg Whites, and an Amaretto Sour Recipe In this Banterists cocktail segment,  Kev explores sour cocktails—drinks balancing spirit, acidity, and sweetness with acidity taking center stage—linking them to punches and tracing origins to British naval voyages where rum was mixed with lime or lemon to prevent scurvy, creating “grog.” The first menu-listed sour appeared in Toronto in 1856, and by 1860 sours were widely documented, with the whiskey sour becoming dominant in North America using bourbon or rye. The episode discusses egg white in Jerry Thomas’s 1862 recipe, shaking methods, and aquafaba as a vegan alternative. Kev then explains amaretto’s origins and production (almonds/apricot kernels, spices, aging) and demonstrates an Amaretto Sour with amaretto, lemon juice, a reduced amount of sugar syrup, optional bitters, egg white or aquafaba, shaken with ice and strained into a coupe, listening to Jessie Ware singing Remember Where You Are on top of the Dolomites; and a tease for vodka cocktails next time. Kocktail Kev Music is called Velvet shadows full version by Kaazoom on Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) The Banterists music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

4. 

   10 Jul 2026

   Complimentary Therapies, interview with Jenny Harris

   Heatwaves, Homeopathy, and Weird Expressions: Jenny Harris on Complementary Therapies Phill, Jo, and guest Jenny Harris open with updates on a severe heatwave in France and Jo’s visit to the Fresh Air sculpture exhibition in Quenington, Cotswolds, then discuss a viral but fabricated Instagram story about a fake museum guide. They share “word of the week” terms tied to homeopathy (succussion, trituration, dynamization) and trade unusual British and French expressions. Jenny recounts growing up in Brazil where homeopathy is common, her training in reflexology, aromatherapy, reiki, and a degree in homeopathy, and her work supporting wellbeing in a cancer day center, hospice, and a UK primary-school “quiet place” project. She emphasises prevention, listening to the body, and complementary therapies alongside conventional medicine. The episode ends with light questions, recommendations (Madonna’s latest dance album, an Evonne Goolagong documentary, The Invite, a musical-theatre podcast), and closing remarks. Links Talk Musicals to me podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/talk-musicals-to-me-with-caroline-sheen/id1809880953 (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/talk-musicals-to-me-with-caroline-sheen/id1809880953) French Idioms Website https://www.theintrepidguide.com/funny-french-idioms/ (https://www.theintrepidguide.com/funny-french-idioms/) The Banterists music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

5. 

   3 Jul 2026

   Kocktail Kev - Spritzes

   Spritzes: From Aperol to the Hugo Spritz Kevin returns to the Banterists podcast cocktail segment,He introduces spritzes as alcoholic drinks diluted with sparkling wine or soda water, tracing the term to the German “spritzen” and the origin to Austrian soldiers in 1800s Veneto who added still water to strong wine, later evolving to sparkling water. He explains how adding bitters led to competing brands, highlighting Aperol, created by Luigi and Sylvia Barbieri and launched in 1919, with the Aperol Spritz popularised in the 1950s as the Venetian Spritz using the 3-2-1 ratio (Prosecco, Aperol, soda) plus orange. He lists spritz variations, then focuses on the Hugo Spritz (invented 2007), giving a recipe using mint, elderflower liqueur, Prosecco, soda, and citrus garnish, and closes with a Lake Iseo setting, listening to Mario Biondi singing This Is What You Are, and a teaser for sours next episode Links Mario Biondi - This Is What You Are https://open.spotify.com/track/7KPUNvu6Vvh3FBsWU2HjeD?si=e967324d240e4024 Kocktail Kev Music is called Velvet shadows full version by Kaazoom on Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) The Banterists music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

6. 

   26 Jun 2026

   History & Interview with Rachel Parton.

   Time Travel, Victorian Slang, and Medieval Reenactment with Rachel Parton Phil and Jo open The Banterists with a history theme inspired by rewatching Midnight in Paris and the idea that people romanticize other eras. They discuss a Swiss startup turning human urine into certified fertilizer approved in Switzerland and France, then share Victorian slang including “giggle mug,” “bitch the pot,” “tight as a boiled owl,” “not up to dick,” and “Cupid’s kettle drums.” Guest Rachel Parton explains moving to the Tarn-et-Garonne for the climate, rural medieval ambiance, and friendly locals, and shares childhood memories of growing up in Uganda. She describes medieval historical reenactment: authentic, hand-finished costumes, researching materials and sumptuary laws, cooking from The Forme of Cury, and the immersive break from modern life. Rachel would time travel, wants to meet Joan of Arc, and recommends Apple TV+’s Slow Horses; Phil recommends Apple TV+’s Widow’s Bay, and Jo recommends a National Theatre cinema production and M&S Emperor’s teabags. Links National Theatre Live TV https://www.ntlive.com/plays/the-playboy-of-the-western-world/ (https://www.ntlive.com/plays/the-playboy-of-the-western-world/) Apple TV Slow Horses https://tv.apple.com/gb/show/slow-horses/umc.cmc.2szz3fdt71tl1ulnbp8utgq5o (https://tv.apple.com/gb/show/slow-horses/umc.cmc.2szz3fdt71tl1ulnbp8utgq5o) Apple TV Widows Bay https://tv.apple.com/gb/show/widows-bay/umc.cmc.1zzly0vah46bnvnwf0qkrjhh2 (https://tv.apple.com/gb/show/widows-bay/umc.cmc.1zzly0vah46bnvnwf0qkrjhh2) Our podcast music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

7. 

   19 Jun 2026

   Kocktail Kev - Sparkling Wine Cocktails and the Venetian Sgroppino

   Sparkling Wine Cocktails and the Venetian Sgroppino Kevin discusses sparkling wine in cocktails, explaining Champagne’s strict French production rules and suggesting less expensive alternatives such a Prosecco and Cava. He outlines how bubbles are captured and compares three main production methods—ancestral (fruit-driven), tank/charmat (used for Prosecco), and traditional (used for champagne, cava, crémant, and English sparkling wine, producing a complex biscuity flavour). He also compares perceived sweetness: champagne’s acidity masking added sugar, cava’s drier style with no added sugar, and Prosecco’s sweeter, floral profile. After noting classic champagne cocktails (Champagne Cocktail, Kir Royale, Bellini/Rossini, French 75) and spritzes, he focuses on the 16th-century Venetian sgroppino (iced lemon and Prosecco), sharing a modern version using lemon sorbet, St-Germain (or elderflower syrup), and sparkling wine, plus non-alcoholic options. He then listens to Sunday Best by Surfaces at an English summer garden party. Link to Sunday Best by Surfaces https://open.spotify.com/album/2duDpY4Uajd6AeeFK7bW77?si=7l1X6bisSFG7tQHWhc6x4w Kocktail Kev Music is called Velvet shadows full version by Kaazoom on Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) The Banterists music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

8. 

   12 Jun 2026

   Literature

   Phil and Jo host The Banterists without Lily, share a listener recommendation for Tuscany’s Tarot Garden by Niki de Saint Phalle, and discuss literature. Jo highlights spoof/parody books, including the 2014 self-published Ladybird-style Go to the Gallery that inspired Penguin’s 2015 grown-up Ladybird spoofs (over five million sold) and mentions legal action, plus Sean Lock’s The Tiger Who Came for a Pint. They share words and origins: “petrichor,” “apricity,” and “Svengali” from George du Maurier’s Trilby. Jo recommends biographies, focusing on war correspondent Martha Gellhorn and her links to Lee Miller, and they discuss actor autobiographies and adaptations. Quick-fire questions cover favorite books/authors and trivia (Shakespeare’s coined words; Guardian’s top novel Middlemarch; Lily’s favorite, Daphne du Maurier’s The House on the Strand). Recommendations include The Christopher’s, Two Weeks in August, The Playboy of the Western World, Netflix’s The Boroughs, and a Kylie documentary. Links Guardian Top 100 Novels: https://www.theguardian.com/books/ng-interactive/2026/may/12/the-100-best-novels-of-all-time (https://www.theguardian.com/books/ng-interactive/2026/may/12/the-100-best-novels-of-all-time) Great essay on Martha Gellhorn: https://granta.com/products/granta-62-what-young-men-do/ (https://granta.com/products/granta-62-what-young-men-do/) And an old article on Martha Gellhorn from the Independent: https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/a-life-less-ordinary-1168141.html (https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/a-life-less-ordinary-1168141.html) Phills Authors Patrick Gale https://galewarning.org (https://galewarning.org) Armistead Maupin https://www.armisteadmaupin.com (https://www.armisteadmaupin.com/) Jo’s books she has read and recommends Autobiography – Travels with myself and another - Martha Gellhorn Biography - Martha Gellhorn: A Life by Caroline Moorehead Lily’s favourite book: House on the Strand – Daphne Du Maurier Recomendings The Boroughs - on Netflix Two Weeks in August - BBC I Player Our podcast music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

9. 

   5 Jun 2026

   Kocktail Kev - Negronis

   Kevin thanks listeners who contacted the Banter Trust email and answers Charlotte in Boston’s question about what music and places he associates with each cocktail, pairing a whisky mac with a Scottish ceilidh and Wolfstone, and a margarita with an elegant oceanfront bar in Tijuana and Catrell and Paco Amoroso. This week’s drink is the Negroni, which he describes as a balanced sweet-bitter cocktail made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, sharing a favored origin story involving Count Camillo Negroni and the evolution from the Milano-Torino to the Americano. He explains Campari and vermouth backgrounds, then gives his recipe (2 gin, 2 Campari, 1 sweet vermouth, stirring and serving over a large ice cube with orange peel), plus variations like Americano, sbagliato, or using Aperol. He would enjoy the Negroni in a dim, velvet underground New York bar with trumpet jazz, previews champagne and Prosecco cocktails next, credits “Guilford’s Guide,” and shares contact and rating details. 00:00 Welcome and Listener Question 00:46 Cocktail Vibes Whiskey Mac 01:12 Margarita Travel Daydream 01:40 Meet the Negroni 02:08 Negroni Origin Story 03:07 Ingredients Deep Dive 04:41 Mixing the Classic Recipe 05:18 Garnish Tips and Variations 06:12 Where to Drink It 06:31 Wrap Up and Next Episode 06:49 Podcast Outro and Contact Kevs music recomending Ibrahim maalouf playing True Sorry https://open.spotify.com/track/5EzGOkUwkRUXYAyvjlEHah?si=ecbd8a49028a4946 (https://open.spotify.com/track/5EzGOkUwkRUXYAyvjlEHah?si=ecbd8a49028a4946) Kocktail Kev Music is called Velvet shadows full version by Kaazoom on Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) The Banterists music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

10. 

    29 May 2026

    Kocktail Kev - Margueritas

    Margarita Origins, Tequila vs. Mezcal, and a Chilli-Ginger Syrup Twist Kev recounts discovering a chilli and ginger margarita about eight years ago in a Worcester, UK restaurant whose manager later emailed cocktail recipes, and uses it to introduce this week’s drink: the margarita. They trace its roots to Northern Mexico around US Prohibition and explain the “daisy cocktail” template of spirit, citrus, and sweetener, noting margarita means daisy in Spanish. The episode compares tequila (steamed blue agave from regulated Mexican regions) with mezcal (any Mexican agave, often roasted underground for smokiness) and suggests splitting tequila with mezcal for a smoky margarita. They cover limes and Triple Sec, then give a classic ratio (2 tequila : 1 lime : 1 Triple Sec) and instructions to shake on ice and strain. Finally, they show how to make chilli-ginger syrup (sugar, water, ginger, chilli flakes) and suggest a chilli-salt rim, teasing next week’s trip to Italy for a “Negroni” origin story. 00:00 Welcome and Setup 00:28 Margarita Origin Story 01:15 Tequila vs Mezcal 02:02 Lime and Triple Sec 02:58 How to Mix It 03:21 Chilli Ginger Syrup 04:30 Chilli Salt Rim 04:45 Serve and Next Week Kocktail Kev Music is called Velvet shadows full version by Kaazoom on Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) The Banterists music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

11. 

    22 May 2026

    SE01 E8 Kocktail Kev - Whisky Mac

    Phill, Lilly and Jo are taking a break this week but Kocktail Kev is with you and introduces a new weekly short segment on Banterists about cocktails, including their stories, how to make them, and tasting along with readily available ingredients and straightforward proportions using a 25 ml/50 ml measure. He defines a cocktail as a combination of two or more drinks with at least one alcoholic, and notes mixed drinks like gin and tonic also qualify though are often distinguished from more complex bar cocktails. He shares two 19th-century origin theories for the word “cocktail,” including New Orleans egg cups and docked horse tails indicating mixed breed. He then presents his first featured drink, the Whisky Mac, named for Colonel Hector McDonald (“Fighting Mac”) in India in 1899, made from Scotch whisky and ginger wine; he prefers a 2:1 whisky-to-ginger-wine ratio over the pub-standard 1:2 and gives a simple mixing method. He previews next episode on margaritas and making syrups. 00:00 Welcome to Cocktails 01:42 What Is a Cocktail 02:04 Cocktail Name Origins 02:40 Meet the Whiskey Mac 03:04 History Behind the Drink 03:17 Ingredients and Ginger Wine 04:06 Finding the Right Ratio 04:46 How to Make One 04:56 Next Episode and Goodbye Our podcast music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) Kocktail Kev Music is called Velvet shadows full version by Kaazoom on Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

12. 

    15 May 2026

    Sounds of our lives

    Music Memories, Teen Slang, and Lightsaber Dueling Phil and Jo host The Banterists without Lily, who is directing a play, and introduce an episode focused on music alongside their usual recommendations and a teased new segment. They discuss a Guardian article about Sébastien Bérard and France recognizing lightsaber dueling as an official sport, then share “word of the week” (pandiculation) and teen slang including “tea,” “yassify,” and “delulu.” The main conversation explores formative music memories (first singles, record shops, vinyl, tapes, Walkman/Discman/iPod), the power of distinctive voices, and how music evokes memory, including road-trip playlists. They highlight favorite artists, film soundtracks (The Piano, Garden State, The Mission), live music experiences, and recommend Pink Martini and Postmodern Jukebox, plus BBC iPlayer’s Outrageous about the Mitford sisters and Amanda Land; Jo does not recommend Al Pacino’s autobiography. They announce upcoming midweek bonus episodes featuring “Kocktail Kev,” sharing cocktail history, recipes, and music pairings. 00:00 Welcome and agenda 01:08 Lightsaber dueling fact 03:06 Word of the week pandiculation 03:46 Teen slang roundup 06:00 Music chat begins first buys 07:01 Record shops and vinyl comeback 10:35 Iconic voices and music memories 12:09 Portable music evolution 15:55 80s 90s bands and scenes 19:03 Music TV and live shows 21:01 Eclectic tastes and soundtracks 23:04 Piano Score Praise 23:26 Garden State Gems 24:42 Morricone Masterpieces 26:09 Brat Pack Soundtracks 27:17 Film Music Impact 28:31 Road Trip Playlists 30:02 Rufus And Martha 31:35 Radio 6 Discoveries 32:42 Union Chapel Magic 34:30 Festival Live Highlights 36:42 Jamie Cullum Breakthrough 38:03 Pink Martini Spotlight 39:14 Postmodern Jukebox Night 41:11 Mitford Sisters Series 43:29 More Recs And Avoids 45:12 Cocktail Kev Teaser 46:07 Farewell And Wrap Our podcast music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

13. 

    8 May 2026

    Interview with Simon Clark

    Phil and Lily host The Banters without Joe and welcome guest Simon Clark, president of the non-profit cultural association Atelier des Art du Noble Val (founded 2022 in Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val) promoting music and the arts across the region. Simon describes moving to France after buying a property at 50, drawn by the area’s scenery and a barn he converted into a concert/rehearsal space, plus gîtes that help fund retirement. He shares his musical beginnings in a high-standard church boys’ choir, his career path from university singing to overseas travel operations (including Thomas Cook), then retraining as a language teacher and later running language courses. Simon explains forming the association to avoid local politics, outlines year-round programming, and previews upcoming events: a May 10 sacred Italian music concert in Vieux with 60 singers, organ, soloists, and conductor Mark Opstad; Shakespeare productions (Twelfth Night, then The Winter’s Tale); and a July 24 Albi concert by Gérald Toto with live ikebana. The episode ends with “word of the week” and recommendations. Recommending’s Phill recommended a programme called HOME which can be found on Apple TV+ Lilly recommended the 2019 version of Upstairs Downstairs starring Keeley Hawes which is on Amazon Prime in France Simon recommended a singer/guitarist called Gerald Toto https://www.geraldtoto.net/about-gerald-toto/ (https://www.geraldtoto.net/about-gerald-toto/) Our podcast music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

14. 

    1 May 2026

    Favourite Artists, Word of the week & More

    Phill, Jo, and Lily are back for another wide-ranging conversation covering listener mail, cringe-worthy memories, the origin of a surprising word, and a deep dive into their favourite artists and artworks. In this episode: 📬 Listener Mail Ian from France writes in about Episode 1 (favourite films) — correcting the group on Wuthering Heights in French cinemas, Bob Hope's Road Movies co-star (Bing Crosby), and sharing his views on The Singers and French Exit. Joe from London recommends I Swear (Netflix) — a BAFTA-winning film about a man with Tourette's — and the Channel 4 documentary Dirty Business, a hard-hitting look at how UK water companies are polluting waterways and beaches. 😳 Cringe Moments Joe: Attempting mouth-to-mouth resuscitation on her dead guinea pig, Giles, before wrapping him in tinfoil for burial. Lily: Using phrases taught by a "friend" at a racecourse abroad… which turned out to be extremely offensive suggestions directed at a stranger's entire family. Phil: Singing Memory from Cats at a charity fashion show — brilliantly, until "that big note." 🔤 Word of the Episode: Heckle Joe traces the word back to 14th-century Middle Dutch textile workers, through Scottish political agitators, to the comedy clubs of today. Highlights include a sharp comeback from Jo Brand, a misguided Glastonbury request for Oasis to play "Parklife" (a Blur song), and a possibly apocryphal Churchill quip from the lavatory. 🎨 Favourite Artists Lily's picks: Jan van Eyck – The Virgin with the Chancellor Rolin (c. 14th century): rich iconography, royal colours, and a hidden Paddington Bear. Vermeer – Lady Reading a Letter at an Open Window (1657–59): evocative, luminous, and possibly aided by a camera obscura. The Scottish Colourists – Ferguson, Hunter, Peploe, and Cadell: vibrant, impressionistic works with a particular focus on the Isle of Iona. Jo's picks: Picasso – From deconstructed bull sketches to Child with a Dove; a celebration of cubism, colour, and artistic evolution. David Hockney – His Polaroid works, animated sunrise at Piccadilly Circus, and intimate still-life scenes. Vanessa Bell – Sister of Virginia Woolf, co-founder of the Omega Workshops, and painter of the Fifty Famous Women dinner service at Charleston House. Honourable mention: the Pre-Raphaelites, the Impressionists, and William Morris (appreciated, not loved). Phill’s picks: Dante Gabriel Rossetti & the Pre-Raphaelites – Introduced through the Athena poster shop; captivated by the lush colours, dramatic hair, and androgynous beauty. Edward Hopper – Nighthawks and beyond; foreboding urban scenes full of unspoken tension and narrative. Paul Klee – Cubist, surrealist layering and extraordinary colour depth. Toulouse-Lautrec – Born nearby in Albi; pioneer of the lithograph, prolific creator despite dying at 36. Photography as art – A plea for more recognition, including immersive art exhibitions (Monet currently touring). 🎬 Recommendations Lily: Fool Me Once (Prime Video) – directed by Guy Ritchie, starring Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan & Tom Hardy. Surprisingly great. Joe: Seeking listener tips for visits to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, the Henry Moore Foundation, Elizabeth Frink sites, and Charleston House. Also vowing to finally see Picasso's Guernica in Madrid within six months. Phil: Fault Lines by Family Stereo – Blake Watt (son of Everything But the Girl's Tracey Thorn & Ben Watt) has a new single out, with album The Thread due in July. Find him at familystereo.net. Got an unusual word for the group? Send it in! And if you've visited the Yorkshire Sculpture Park or Henry Moore Foundation, Joe would love to hear your tips. Our podcast music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) #TheBanterists #Podcast #Workaway #FilmReview #TravelStories #SoloEpisode #NewEpisode

15. 

    24 Apr 2026

    Memorable Moments In Our Lives

    This week, Phill, Jo and Lilly take a trip down memory lane as they share some of their most unforgettable life moments… but not before a bit of classic Banterists chat about zombie filler. From magical weddings in Italy 🇮🇹 to camel riding adventures in Morocco 🐪, the gang swap stories that will make you laugh, reminisce, and maybe even feel a little nostalgic. They also dive into incredible cultural moments – from catching the very first matinee of Les Misérables, to seeing Catherine Zeta-Jones light up the stage in 42nd Street, and the pure joy of live music with Black Pumas in Paris. Recommending’s Books ‘Love Lane’ and  ‘A place called winter’ by Patrick Gale Horse by Geraldine Brooks Film Jo is off to see the film ‘The Drama’ Staring Zendaya, Robert Pattinson and Alana Haim

16. 

    17 Apr 2026

    Workaway and Film Reviews

    In this episode, Phill takes the hosting reins solo while Lilly and Jo are off on other adventures—but he’s not alone for long! Joining him is special guest Banterist Tori, all the way from New York, currently exploring life abroad through Workaway. 🌍 Main Topic: Workaway Life Phill and Tori dive into the world of Workaway—what it is, how it works, and why it’s becoming such a popular way to travel. Tori shares her first-hand experience of doing Workaway for the first time, including: What inspired her to try it The benefits of cultural exchange and travel on a budget The realities (and surprises!) of living and working abroad Tips for anyone thinking of giving it a go 🎬 Film Reviews As always, there’s time for a bit of movie banter! Phill and Tori chat about three films they’ve recently watched: 28 Years Later – Does this long-awaited follow-up live up to the hype? https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10548174/ The Ballad of Wallis Island – A quirky watch with plenty to unpack https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27674982/?ref_=fn_t_1 Eternity – A deeper, more reflective film—did it hit the mark? https://www.imdb.com/title/tt24950660/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_in_0_q_eternity Expect honest opinions, a few laughs, and maybe a disagreement or two! Workaway Website link https://www.workaway.info/en/hostlist/europe/gb Join Phill and Tori for a relaxed, funny, and insightful episode full of travel stories and film chat. 📩 Got thoughts on Workaway or seen any of the films? Get in touch—we’d love to hear from you! Please email us thebanteristspodcast@gmail.com (mailto:thebanteristspodcast@gmail.com) or send us a message via our social sites you can find us by searching for The Banterists Our podcast music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) #TheBanterists #Podcast #Workaway #FilmReview #TravelStories #SoloEpisode #NewEpisode

17. 

    10 Apr 2026

    Our Favourite Films

    Episode Summary: Jo, Lily, and Phill dive into the always-contentious topic of favourite films - with Phill’s self-described "highbrow" choices raising a few eyebrows. Before getting into other films, the episode opens with a chat about Oscar-winning short films, including A Friend of Dorothy's (starring Miriam Margolyes) and the intriguing French film Two People Exchanging Saliva, joint winners of the Best Live Action Short Film Oscar alongside Singers. Films Discussed: Carry On Films (Phil) Rebecca (1940) (Lily) The Age of Innocence (1993) (Jo) Gosford Park (2001) (Jo & Phill) Howard's End (1992) (Jo) Torch Song Trilogy (1988) (Phil) Jane Eyre (2011) (Lily) The Birdcage (1996) (Lily) A Fish Called Wanda (1988) (Lily) Some Like It Hot (1959) (Phill) Sinners (2025) (all hosts) Chinatown (1974) (Jo) Hamnet (2026) (Jo) The Wuthering Heights Anticipation: All three are eager to see Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights (with Margot Robbie), though it hasn't arrived in their local cinemas yet. Recommendations: Lilly: Is recomending all her films Jo: Parasite (Korean Oscar winner), A Friend of Dorothy's (YouTube), and Sinners Jo: A History of the World in 100 Objects – BBC Radio 4 / British Museum podcast series presented by Neil MacGregor (available on most podcast platforms, ~15 min episodes) Phil: The Green Roasting Tin by Rukmini Iyer – a vegan/vegetarian one-tray cookbook, part of a series including the Red, Pink, and Yellow Roasting Tins Drag Name Game: Phil → Mary Patch Joe → JJ Fitzneal Lily → Oliver Nursery Have a question? or would like to suggest a topic? We would love to hear from you please email us thebanteristspodcast@gmail.com (mailto:thebanteristspodcast@gmail.com) or send us a message via our social sites you can find us by searching for The Banterists Our podcast music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

18. 

    3 Apr 2026

    Small Prophets, Yves Klein Blue, and Oscars Red Carpet Highlights

    In the first episode of The Banterists, hosts Phill, Jo, and Lilly introduce the podcast and discuss TV, color, and the Oscars. Phill recommends the TV series Small Prophets, written and directed by Mackenzie Crook, set in Manchester and centered on Michael searching for his vanished girlfriend using homunculi prophecies; they praise its observational humor, set design, and cast including Pierce Quigley, Crook, Michael Palin, Paul Kaye, Sophie Willan, and Shola Adewusi. Jo explores International Klein Blue, its patenting in 1961, Yves Klein’s use of nude models as “living brushes,” and related blue references from denim and Picasso’s Blue Period. They review Oscars history and red-carpet fashion trends, note winners including Best Picture One Battle After Another, and end with recommendations: the Wes Anderson exhibition at London’s Design Museum, BBC’s The Other Bennet Girl, Pat Barker’s Troy trilogy, and the short film A Friend of Dorothy’s on YouTube. 00:00 Introduction 00:48 Small Profits (TV Pick) 08:28 Yves Klein Blue 12:15 The Oscars 12:47 Oscar Fashion 22:36 Oscar Winners 27:55 Recommendings Books mentioned this podcast are The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker My Life in Design by Terence Conran Conran on Colour by Terence Conran Our podcast music is called  ‘The best jazz club in New Orleans’ Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

19. 

    23 Mar 2026

    Welcome to The Banterists

    The Banterists is a brand-new podcast where three friends dive into big ideas, small obsessions and everything in between. Expect lively conversations, plenty of laughs, and honest opinions on everything from books, theatre, TV and fashion to music, art, exhibitions and whatever else grabs their attention. Thought-provoking, entertaining and full of personality, it’s like eavesdropping on your friends conversations over a drink. Coming soon to wherever you get your podcasts — tune in, join the conversation, and become one of The Banterists. Our theme tune is The best jazz club in New Orleans Music by Paolo Argento (https://pixabay.com/users/paoloargento-38603296/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472) from Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=164472)

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Spotify

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.