*2026 New Year's Treat* Part One with Sam Ryder

Taskmaster The People's Podcast - The Whole Hilt With a Kilt - S21, Ep.10 *GRAND FINAL*

Jun 18, 202659 minSummary

In this grand final episode of Taskmaster The People’s Podcast, the hosts dive into the events of the series twenty-one finale. The discussion opens with a lighthearted look at the contestants’ attire, noting that despite an unintentional theme, everyone appeared exceptionally sharp. A highlight of the conversation is the focus on Armando’s elegant kilt, which sparked a debate about the rules of wearing traditional Scottish attire. The hosts explore the prize task, where the contestants brought in items intended to elicit the phrase, "Oh yeah, that’s quality." The discussion covers Joel’s surprisingly personal rap song, Joanna’s classic Tom Jones record, and Armando’s crowd-pleasing tape dispenser. The hosts particularly praise Joel for his vulnerability throughout the series, noting his ability to embrace his past self and style out awkward moments. Finally, the episode transitions into a breakdown of the "lint" task and the high-stakes "paint balloon" challenge. The hosts analyze the contestants' creative—and sometimes chaotic—approaches to these tasks, marveling at how even simple activities like filling an egg cup can result in total confusion and comedy. It is a celebratory look back at a memorable series finale.

*Series 21 Winner* Series 21 Ep 10

Jun 11, 20261h 6mSummary

In this final episode of Series 21, the podcast features a lively conversation with the series winner, Joanna Page. Reflecting on her time as a competitor, Joanna shares her excitement about securing the title and recounts the intense, often chaotic experience of participating in the show. She discusses her genuine surprise at winning and provides behind-the-scenes insights into her secret-keeping efforts—specifically how she hid Greg’s trophy head in her own home for a year without her family knowing. The discussion also covers standout moments from the series, including Joanna’s memorable "bravery" task involving worms and spiders, which she describes as both terrifying and emotionally draining. The hosts delve into the episode’s prize task—items deemed "quality"—where Joanna presented a Tom Jones Country and Western record, leading to an amusing debate about masculinity and the Taskmaster’s judging style. They also analyze the lint-collecting task, highlighting the contestants' creative and often hilarious strategies. Throughout the interview, Joanna captures the spirit of the series, celebrating the camaraderie between the cast and the unpredictable, hysterical nature of the challenges that define the show.

Kumail Nanjiani - Series 21 Ep.9

Jun 4, 20261h 19mSummary

In this episode of Taskmaster The Podcast, host Ed Gamble is joined by series 21 contestant Kumail Nanjiani. The conversation dives deep into the trials and tribulations of being a Taskmaster competitor, with Nanjiani sharing his unique perspective as an American outsider navigating the show’s peculiar British sensibilities. The pair discusses Nanjiani’s approach to the challenges, addressing the infamous “gambellian” label—a term coined by fellow contestant Jason Mantzoukas to describe Nanjiani’s competitive intensity. They reflect on his frustration with the rules, his chaotic “browser history” task, and the surreal experience of filming during a time of personal grief. Nanjiani also reveals how he bonded with his fellow cast members, particularly Joanna Page and her long-winded, chocolate-focused prize task stories. The episode offers an engaging look behind the scenes, from the camaraderie in the group chat to the specific annoyances of working with Alex Horne. Throughout the discussion, the hosts touch on the importance of maintaining momentum during tasks, the art of the prize task, and the delightful absurdity of the show’s unique brand of competition.

Jason Mantzoukas - Series 21 Ep.8

May 28, 20261h 15mSummary

In this episode of Taskmaster The Podcast, host Ed Gamble is joined by series 19 alum Jason Mantzoukas for a transatlantic catch-up. Broadcasting via Zoom from the United States, Mantzoukas brings his characteristic high energy as the pair dives into the latest developments of series 21, episode 8. The conversation covers the current cast, with Mantzoukas expressing his delight at discovering newer UK talent and his genuine admiration for the contestants’ performances. He offers humorous observations on the competitive nature of Kumail Nanjiani, noting a "Gamble-esque" intensity in his quest for points. The duo also spends significant time analyzing Joanna Page’s unique storytelling style during the prize tasks, which Mantzoukas jokingly suggests should be spun off into its own series. The discussion shifts to the creative "censor yourself unnecessarily" task, leading to a breakdown of how the contestants navigated the challenge. They touch on Armando Iannucci’s tendency to overcomplicate his own work, the comedic genius of Page’s physical commitment, and the absurdity of Nanjiani’s censored antics. Full of playful banter and "behind the scenes" critiques, the episode serves as a lively celebration of the show's enduring appeal.

John Kearns - Series 21 Ep.7

May 21, 20261h 16mSummary

In this episode of Taskmaster The Podcast, host Ed Gamble is joined by comedian and former contestant John Kearns to discuss Series 21, Episode 7. Returning to the iconic caravan where he once filmed his own series, Kearns reflects on the unique nature of the show, which he describes as a social experiment that reveals contestants’ true personalities. The duo spends much of the episode analyzing the current lineup, playfully categorizing the contestants into archetypes like anchors, youth, and flair. The conversation covers the episode's prize task, where the contestants bring in "bumpy" items. Kearns and Gamble discuss the merits of a Braille menu for an Indian restaurant, a child’s craft project, and a rather confusing story involving roller coaster plans that leads to an amusing detour about medical anxieties. They also dive into the "turn on the TV" task, reminiscing about the mechanics of remote controls and debating whether younger generations would understand the technology. With their signature tangents—ranging from Robot Wars memories to printer speeds—Kearns and Gamble provide a lively, insightful, and humor-filled breakdown of the latest tasks and behind-the-scenes dynamics.

Phil Ellis - Series 21 Ep.1

Apr 9, 20261h 0mSummary

Taskmaster The Podcast returns for the highly anticipated Series 21, kicking off with an insightful conversation between host Ed Gamble and special guest Phil Ellis. As the Taskmaster Caravan welcomes a new cast of contestants, Phil reflects on his own time in the competition, expressing a touch of nostalgia as he watches the show carry on without him. The duo dives deep into a detailed breakdown of the season premiere, offering listeners a humorous and thorough critique of the latest challenges. Beyond the show, the discussion branches into lighthearted topics, including Phil’s experiences with hair implants, life in the comedy industry following a Taskmaster appearance, and his acting role in the film Eaten By Lions. Fans of the franchise can expect plenty of wit and behind-the-scenes perspective as they settle in for the start of another chaotic series.

Taskmaster The Podcast Rewind - Series 3 Ep3. With Katy Wix

Mar 26, 202653 minSummary

In this episode of Taskmaster The Podcast Rewind, host Ed Gamble welcomes the talented comedian, actor, and writer Katy Wix to revisit the third episode of Series 3. The duo takes a deep dive into the memorable tasks that defined the episode, offering behind-the-scenes insights and fresh perspectives on the contestants' performances. Listeners can expect a thorough breakdown of the iconic flag meal challenge and a spirited discussion regarding the chaotic rounds of Twister. Furthermore, Ed and Katy share some lighthearted banter as they debate the merits of glittery excrement, exploring why it might actually be a welcome addition to the Taskmaster experience. It is a nostalgic and hilarious look back at the show that highlights the unique creative choices and comedic brilliance that make Taskmaster a beloved series for fans everywhere.

Taskmaster the Podcast Rewind - Series 1 Ep.4 With Nicola Coughlan

Mar 19, 202653 minSummary

In this installment of Taskmaster The Podcast Rewind, host Ed Gamble welcomes the celebrated actress Nicola Coughlan for a delightful trip down memory lane. Known for her roles in Derry Girls and Bridgerton, Coughlan shares her personal enthusiasm for the show and reflects on her own experience competing in the Taskmaster New Year's Treat. The conversation highlights her perspective on the challenges of the tasks and her thoughts on Greg Davies’ often unpredictable judging style. Together, they provide a thorough analysis of the fourth episode of the show's inaugural series. Listeners can look forward to a breakdown of iconic moments, including the memorable ice task and the chaotic quest to reach eleven points. It is a nostalgic look back that captures the early magic of the format and celebrates the standout highlights for original contestant Josh Widdicombe.

Taskmaster Live on Stage - New York Night #2

Mar 12, 202635 minSummary

In this special installment of Taskmaster The Podcast, listeners are transported to the second night of the Taskmaster Live on Stage event in New York City. Alex Horne and Greg Davies take the stage for a lively evening of reflection and improvisation, moderated by comedian Josh Gondelman. The hosts delve into the unique energy of the American audience, sharing highlights and behind-the-scenes insights from their time in the city. Throughout the episode, Josh Gondelman guides the pair through a series of entertaining audience-submitted questions, which leads to candid anecdotes and unexpected revelations from both Alex and Greg. It is a must-listen for fans eager to capture the spirit of the live show, offering a humorous and intimate look at the dynamic between the show’s legendary creator and its iconic taskmaster away from their usual studio setting.

Taskmaster Live on Stage - New York Night #1

Mar 4, 202633 minSummary

In this installment of Taskmaster The Podcast, listeners are treated to an exclusive look at the first night of Taskmaster Live on Stage in New York City. Hosts Greg Davies and Alex Horne take the stage to bring their signature brand of chaotic comedy to an American audience. The episode features the pair reflecting on their live experience in the Big Apple, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the unique energy of the New York crowd. Joining them is comedian Josh Gondelman, who serves as the event host and curates a selection of brilliant questions from the audience. Fans can expect a lively conversation filled with the witty banter and playful antagonism that defines the show. This episode captures the essence of the Taskmaster live experience, highlighting the spontaneity and hilarious interactions that occur when the game moves from the studio to the stage.