The Shelley Tasker Show

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comCo-host Mr Scott sits in for Shelley and welcomes broadcaster Eric Von Essex for a wide‑ranging, good‑humoured conversation that blends personal history, media literacy, and local culture. We discuss Cornwall’s pull, smuggling lore, lost chapels in the dunes, and how pubs and parish life once anchored real community. Eric shares moving family recollections from Malta, Sicily and D‑Day, the gap between Hollywood myth and wartime reality, and why he published his father David J. Powis’s memoir, My World War Two, to set the record straight. We explore propaganda old and new, from Disraeli and Chesterton to modern “thumbscrew tightening,” phones-as-cages, staged political theatre, and the power of humour to puncture tyranny. We also trail an upcoming Christmas special on the 1914 Christmas Truce and a forthcoming mini‑series on nuclear energy myths featuring Galen Windsor—plus shout‑outs to independent artists listeners can support. Resources mentioned include Powis’s book, the warveteran.co.uk site, archive.org for Lt-Col J. Creagh Scott’s Hidden Government, and indie music from Blood Ruby, First to Eleven, Whom By Fire and Trevor John. Listeners are invited to join the conversation, share local stories, and reconnect with neighbours—because community begins on your own doorstep.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this lively episode, I’m joined by my co‑host Mr Scott and later our guest, musician “Rhinelander,” for a wide‑ranging chat that blends winter weather banter, community moments, and a deep dive into AI’s accelerating role in music. We explore an AI-generated 1950s Motown cover of Eminem’s “Without Me,” discuss UK/Russia headlines, and reflect on the human touch versus automation—from phones and social media through to art, photography, and recording. Rhinelander shares how his band experiments with AI to enhance rehearsal-room recordings, the ethics of credit and labelling, and why imperfections and live feel still matter. We compare production quality, creativity, and cost, muse on carbon footprints of data centres, and touch on the broader cultural implications of AI, from media to gaming—and even conscription talk abroad. We also celebrate small wins: launching our new one‑page links hub and Discord chat, and finding joy in local community connections and live music. Across the hour, we spin standout tracks and covers, including acoustic interpretations and AI‑aided pieces, using them to test whether listeners can hear the difference between ‘handmade’ and machine-shaped sound. The conversation lands on a simple conclusion: AI can smooth the rough edges, but soul, story, and shared experience still come from humans—preferably with a good guitar, a warm pub, and a nodding head keeping time. 

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this candid and refreshingly human episode, I’m joined by my co‑host Mallifficus Scott and his sister, Janet, for an honest conversation about perimenopause and menopause—what it really feels like, why it’s so misunderstood, and how partners can better support each other. We swap stories about brain fog, hot flushes, restless legs, incontinence, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts, and Janet shares her brilliant workplace-style analogy that makes the hormonal chaos instantly understandable. We also touch on practical support: HRT myths and benefits, diet tweaks (protein, veg, healthy fats; watch seed oils and refined sugar), strength training over high-impact cardio, the role of the vagus nerve, and why soy and palm oils are everywhere. Along the way, we chat about school attendance pressures, ‘flu vs COVID’, media trust, and a dash of BBC/Trump headline-watching—plus a few laughs at our own expense. If you’re approaching “the change”, living with someone who is, or just want a grounded, compassionate primer with humour, this one’s for you. And yes—Janet’s analogy is in the show notes so you can share it with the men in your life!Resources and references (mentioned in conversation)- Janet’s menopause analogy: “Drastic Changes to the Workforce” (included below)- Topics to explore: HRT (modern body-identical oestrogen), strength training for midlife women, vagus nerve breathing/stretching, seed oils vs olive/coconut/butter, soy as an oestrogen mimic, menopause symptoms list (NHS), perimenopause vs menopause timeline- Practical tips: lift weights 2–3x weekly, prioritise protein/veg/healthy fats, reduce refined sugar/alcohol/ultra-processed foods, consider yoga/Pilates/mobility for cortisol control, read labels for soy flour/palm oilDrastic Changes to the Workforce – by JanetTwo sisters, Susan and Janet Ovary, down tools with no handover after years prepping the reproductive suite. Enter Bob from the adrenal department—king of cortisol—who now must keep the peace with oestrogen he’s not built to make. He recruits chaotic ‘minions’ (fat cells) that stockpile everywhere, clog corridors, and build an unsightly front extension while trying to eke out oestrogen. The thermostat’s broken (hot flushes), a loo leaks (bladder changes), and the whole workforce can’t find balance. The Hazard Response Team (HRT) may stabilise things, but it’s now about damage control and adapting to the new normal. It’s messy, maddening—and strangely liberating when you finally name it.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this lively Bonfire Night episode of the Shelley Tasker Show, I’m joined by my wonderfully sardonic co‑host, Mr Mallifficus Scott, for a warm, rambling catch‑up that swings from soggy UK weather and sleep‑deprived creativity to clocks changing, calendars, and the cozy comforts of autumn. We chat music-making mishaps, seaside nostalgia, wetsuit woes, the joys and perils of electric cars, and language quirks, before wading into spikier territory: remembrance parades and red tape, gender and changing‑room policies, schools and pronouns, ‘furries’ and litter boxes, and how bureaucracy and culture wars shape everyday life. We close with nods to news (Dick Cheney’s passing, prisoner release blunders), Cornwall curios, and a reflective segment on post‑WWII history that challenges received narratives—rounded off with tunes to lift the mood and see you into the week.Expect banter, honesty, a few rants, and a lot of heart—from beach walks and Blackadder to harmonies, poppies, and the peculiarities of modern Britain.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comGood evening, wonderful people! On this lively midweek show, I’m joined by my co‑host Mr Mallifficus Scott for two hours of candid chat, laughs and a fair few eyebrow‑raisers. We kick off with the tech turmoil of a global Microsoft outage and muse on how fragile our infrastructure has become, before skewering a “simple” BBC explainer on climate change and the media’s outrage machine. We dive into free speech with a jaw‑dropping real court reading on so‑called hate speech, then counterbalance it with Rowan Atkinson’s eloquent defence of robust dialogue—and a classic Steve Hughes bit on being “offended.” Along the way we wander delightfully through life updates: late‑night music jams, turning a home office into a mini‑museum of family history, the joy of decluttering lofts and cutlery drawers, shaggy rugs and scratch‑happy pets, piano practice triumphs, and an unexpectedly wholesome engagement shoot. We also touch on migration headlines, digital ID creep, and the never‑ending budget woes—asking who really benefits from manufactured outrage. Same time next week—bring your favourite beverage and your best scepticism.P.S. Next week we’ll share a brilliant resource for researching World War I veterans in your family—don’t miss it.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comThis week on the Shelley Tasker Show, I catch up with my co‑host Mr Mallificus Scott about soggy Cornish gardening, autumn nostalgia, Halloween prep, and the comedy of everyday life—from dentist phobias to rogue Facebook AI bios. We then dive into a packed agenda: the rapid creep of digital ID, including NatWest’s new in‑app carbon footprint tracker; lessons from Vietnam’s mass bank account closures tied to digital ID non‑compliance; and how to push back in practical ways with cash habits and fewer data breadcrumbs. We also tackle climate narratives and costs versus causation, NHS plans for compulsory antisemitism training and uniform guidance, and culture‑clash headlines from migration to local norms. Rounding out the hour, Mr Scott shares a ‘word of the week’—Tantalus—plus family history, records, and archival music gems, before introducing the next segment of “Other Losses.” As always, we keep sponsors out of the chat and focus on stories, sense‑checking, and a few much‑needed laughs. Tune in for thoughtful takes, practical tips, and some superb tracks from the PureOriginal archive.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this lively midweek episode of the Shelley Tasker Show, I’m joined by my co-host Mr Scott for a candid catch‑up on slowing life down, everyday mishaps, homeschooling wins, and the uneasy state of news and media trust. We weave from Lego-on-the-floor peril and DIY wallpaper triumphs to reflections on independent media, censorship, and why so many feel powerless. I also welcome activist Debbie Hicks, who delivers a compelling warning about digital ID and its potential role in enabling conscription and wider social control. Debbie connects government plans, the National Security Strategy, and timelines for digital ID rollout with the risk of war footing, arguing that resistance must start now through outreach, non-compliance, and community action.We discuss how tech normalisation (phones, apps, facial recognition) feeds a broader control grid, the realities of homeschooling and school bullying, and why marches, petitions and street-level conversations still matter. Plus: why “mobile phones” are the sleeper issue, the illusion of choice in news, and the enduring importance of cash. A thoughtful, spirited conversation with practical takeaways—and a clear call to stay alert, get informed, and get involved.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn today’s hump day edition of the show, I’m joined by the awesome Mr Scott for a lively, wide-ranging evening. We kick off with mic mishaps and life updates before diving into the joys of creativity: my long-dreamed-of piano finally arrived, I’m tackling Debussy’s Clair de Lune, and we chat about making time for music, painting, darkrooms, and the gym. From names that raise eyebrows to Christmas cake traditions, it’s a warm, humorous catch‑up that celebrates family moments, kids thriving at school, and the power of small creative rituals. We then pivot to current affairs and civil liberties: climate‑trend claims about hydrangeas, media mistrust and verifying sources, protest policing and “repeat protest” powers, plus Colin Gong’s first‑hand update from the latest Defend Our Juries action in Trafalgar Square—lower turnout after political warnings, heavy police presence (including units from Northern Ireland), and reflections on November’s planned actions and the looming judicial review. We also touch on digital ID concerns, migration debates, a GB News school RE controversy, and close with a moving listening moment: the profound beauty of Clair de Lune as a reminder to live in the now. Stay for the final segment where Scott premieres part one of “Other Losses” and signs off with next week’s plans.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this lively midweek edition of The Shelley Tasker Show, I’m joined by my ever-game co-host, Mr Mallificus Scott, and special guest Jo Wood for a freewheeling conversation that swings from time perception and fly lifespans to bamboo flood defences, gaming habits, and the practical magic of supermarket hacks. We dive into the hot topic of digital IDs, exploring public pushback, civil liberties concerns, and how everyday systems—from passports to telemetric car insurance—quietly shape compliance. We also reflect on cultural shifts, from postcard humour and Carry On films to the resonance of Bill Hicks’ comedy, before discussing the grassroots power of local community, independent media, and the Light newspaper. We touch on sobering developments: the review of Hunter S. Thompson’s death, headlines linking vaccines to increased cancer risk, and how fear shaped choices during the COVID era. Jo brings a powerful field report from the Trailer of Truth tour—farmers and veterans uniting across the UK to deliver public messages to the Labour Party conference—while we celebrate Cornwall’s annual Martin Jennings memorial run and the joy of a perfect wave before chilli with friends. Music, memories, and mischief included—plus a cracking five-person-one-guitar cover of Somebody That I Used to Know.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comTonight on the Shelley Tasker Show, I welcomed co-host Mallificus Scott and guest Sean Surplus for a fast-moving, no-holds-barred conversation that spanned social media pile-ons, chemtrails vs contrails, online “keyboard warriors,” and the week’s biggest flashpoints. I opened up about a TikTok clip involving my granddaughter that was amplified and attacked online, and we explored the psychology of pile-ons, responsible speech, and where cloud seeding, geoengineering and contrails get mixed up. We also dug into the Charlie Kirk shooting—media narratives, on-the-ground footage analysis, the spectacle of memorial pageantry, and what events like these are used to justify—before turning to an ongoing Australian manhunt update, the viral “rapture” prediction that didn’t happen, and a UK parliamentary debate on banning first-cousin marriage, including its ethical and NHS impacts. We rounded out with family, school confidence, and a few laughs, plus independent music selections and live radio hiccups—just another lively night on Radio Soapbox and Clear Air FM.Note: We do not endorse harassment or the targeting of individuals; please keep debates respectful and safe for all involved.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this lively midweek episode of The Shelley Tasker Show on RadioSoapbox, I’m joined by my co‑host, Mallificus Scott, for a wide‑ranging conversation that swings from personal updates and British weather to media manipulation, MK Ultra, Operation CHAOS, and how culture has shifted from the 1950s to today. We discuss Barnum World and the mechanics of persuasion, identity confusion, and propaganda, touching on the trans debate as framed in contemporary media. We also explore historical mind‑control programmes, including LSD experiments, the Tusko the elephant case, and links to the Manson story via Tom O’Neill’s research. Closer to home, we cover the shocking case of a Cornwall surgeon jailed after deliberately disabling himself amid a fetish subculture, and we unpack the spectacle and strategy behind mass protests and media figures. Amid the heavy topics, we share grounded, human moments—family life, fitness wins, garden projects, and why local community and dinner‑table conversations matter now more than ever.Expect sharp takes, a few laughs, and an unapologetically candid look at how narratives are shaped—and how to keep your wits about you in the noise.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this episode of the Shelley Tasker Show, Shelley and her co-host, Mallificus Scott, engage in a lively discussion about their personal experiences and challenges, from unexpected fines and car mishaps to the unpredictable British weather. Shelley shares a stressful day involving a school fine, a car incident, and a broken cooker, while Mallificus recounts a humorous yet frustrating encounter with a fallen branch damaging his van. The conversation takes a reflective turn as they discuss past driving experiences and the lessons learned from youthful recklessness.The episode also features a compelling segment with guest Colin Gong, who shares his experience of participating in a protest in London. Colin describes the atmosphere, the police presence, and the strategic dynamics of the protest, highlighting the importance of freedom of speech and the right to protest. The discussion touches on broader themes of civil liberties, government actions, and the role of law enforcement, providing listeners with an insightful look into the complexities of modern-day activism. The episode concludes with a historical anecdote about a miraculous escape during World War II, adding a touch of historical intrigue to the show.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comhttps://serve.podhome.fm/the-shelley-tasker-showhttps://serve.podhome.fm/the-shelley-tasker-showhttps://serve.podhome.fm/episodepage/the-shelley-tasker-show/weathering-the-storm-embracing-change-and-challenging-normshttps://serve.podhome.fm/the-shelley-tasker-showhttps://serve.podhome.fm/episodepage/the-shelley-tasker-show/weathering-the-storm-embracing-change-and-challenging-normshttps://serve.podhome.fm/the-shelley-tasker-showhttps://serve.podhome.fm/episodepage/the-shelley-tasker-show/weathering-the-storm-embracing-change-and-challenging-normsIn this episode of the Shelley Tasker Show, Shelley and her co-host Mallificus Scott engage in a lively discussion about the unpredictable British weather, the joys and challenges of outdoor activities, and the nostalgia of simpler times. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with the changing seasons and the unexpected surprises that come with them. The conversation takes a reflective turn as they discuss the importance of embracing life's unpredictability and the lessons learned from nature.The episode also delves into the recent surge of patriotic flag displays across the UK, exploring the motivations behind this movement and its potential political implications. Shelley shares her research into the origins of the flag movement, revealing connections to political think tanks and questioning the authenticity of its grassroots nature. The show features a guest appearance by Colin, who discusses his upcoming participation in a protest against the UK's stance on free speech and the labeling of peaceful protesters as terrorists. The episode is interspersed with music, including a nostalgic tune by Nick Parker that evokes memories of the 1980s.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this episode of the Shelley Tasker Show, Shelley returns after a hiatus, bringing her lively spirit back to the airwaves. Joined by co-host Mr. Scott, they discuss the joys and challenges of summer, the transition to autumn, and the excitement of being back on the show. Shelley shares her recent adventures,  and a controversial fine for taking her child out of school for a holiday. The conversation delves into the intricacies of school fines, homeschooling, and the broader implications of government regulations on personal freedoms.Later in the episode, the discussion shifts to a more serious tone as Sean Surplus joins the show to provide a firsthand account of a recent police shooting incident in Australia. Sean shares the tense atmosphere in his area, the media's portrayal of the event, and the community's response. The episode also touches on historical family connections, the importance of mindset and personal convictions, and a variety of musical interludes from the Pure Original Archive, offering listeners a blend of lightheartedness and serious reflection.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this lively and candid episode of the Shelley Tasker Show, host Mr. Scott, standing in for Shelley Tasker, is joined by his long-time radio partner Sean Surplus. The duo dives into a wide range of topics, from the intricacies of free speech and the impact of political correctness on comedy, to the controversial policies surrounding immigration and environmental issues. They share personal anecdotes and insights, reflecting on their years of experience in broadcasting and their observations on societal changes. The conversation is peppered with humour and nostalgia, as they reminisce about past shows and discuss the challenges of maintaining integrity in media. The episode also features a discussion on the geopolitical landscape, particularly focusing on the ongoing conflict involving Russia and Ukraine, and the role of global powers in shaping narratives. Mr. Scott and Sean Surplus explore the implications of media control and the hidden influences behind governmental decisions. With a mix of music, humour, and thought-provoking dialogue, this episode offers listeners a unique perspective on current events and the state of the world today.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this episode of Blackbird Nine's Saturday Snack Shack, host Frederick C. Blackburn welcomes back Shelley Tasker, a notable figure from Cornwall, UK, known for her activism during the COVID pandemic. The episode dives into a myriad of topics, including the challenges of noticing patterns in society, the influence of media, and the importance of supporting independent broadcasting like RBN. Shelley shares insights on the current socio-political climate in the UK, particularly focusing on the controversial arrests related to Palestine action groups and the broader implications of governmental control over free speech.Frederick and Shelley engage in a lively discussion about the shifting dynamics of public protests, the role of police in enforcing new laws, and the cultural shifts happening in both the UK and the US. They explore the impact of immigration policies, the rise of alternative media, and the importance of community support in challenging mainstream narratives. The episode also touches on the personal experiences of both hosts, highlighting the importance of staying informed and engaged in these rapidly changing times.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this episode of the Shelley Tasker Show,  host Mr. Scott takes the reins while Shelley enjoys a well-deserved break. Broadcasting live from Radio Soapbox, Mr. Scott delves into a variety of topics, including a nostalgic journey through music, revisiting the first Lenny Kravitz album, and reflecting on its impact. He also shares personal anecdotes from recent camping trips in Cornwall, highlighting the beauty of the region and the joy of rediscovering old tunes. The episode is peppered with discussions on current events, including laughable UK headlines and the intricacies of the banking system, as explored in a chapter from his grandfather's book, "Hidden Government."Listeners are treated to a diverse selection of music from the archives of pureoriginal.com, featuring artists who collaborated with Mr. Scott in the past. The show also touches on geopolitical issues, such as the UK's investment in drone deliveries to Ukraine and the implications of steel tariffs. Mr. Scott encourages listeners to engage with the content, offering insights into the historical and current socio-political landscape, while maintaining a light-hearted and engaging tone throughout the broadcast.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this episode of the Shelley Tasker Show, hosted by Mr. Scott in Shelley's absence, we delve into a controversial topic sparked by an article from Cornwall Live. The discussion centres around a British Democrat Councillor's comments on the Holocaust, which have been deemed offensive by many. Mr. Scott attempts to provide context to the Councillor's statements, referencing historical events and figures such as Benjamin Freedman and the Treaty of Versailles. The conversation touches on the influence of mainstream media and the importance of independent research, encouraging listeners to question the narratives presented by traditional news outlets.Following the heavy discussion, the episode transitions into a music show, revisiting tracks from Mr. Scott's old website, pureoriginal.com. Listeners are treated to a variety of tunes from independent artists, ranging from chill beats to more lively tracks. The show highlights the diversity and talent of unsung musicians, offering a nostalgic trip through music that once featured on the now-archived site. Mr. Scott shares personal anecdotes about the artists and his experiences in the music scene, providing a light-hearted end to the episode.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this episode of The Shelley Tasker Show, hosted by Mr. Scott, we delve into a variety of pressing topics from the latest news headlines to historical insights. The episode kicks off with a discussion on the UK-EU trade deal and its potential impact on the economy, followed by a critical analysis of the UK's inflation rate and changes to visa and settlement rules. Mr. Scott also touches on the UK's adoption of a historic pandemic agreement, raising questions about sovereignty and international cooperation. The episode features a reflective segment on the lyrics of "The Road to Hell," drawing parallels with the current economic climate and the burden of debt on future generations.In the second half, Mr. Scott explores the themes of state control and the hidden government, referencing the protocols of the learned elders of Zion and their implications on modern governance. The episode also includes a thought-provoking speech by Benjamin Freedman, discussing historical events and their influence on contemporary politics. As the show progresses, Mr. Scott shares insights from his grandfather's book, "Hidden Government," highlighting the dangers of excessive state control and the importance of personal initiative. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to stay informed and engaged in political discourse, emphasizing the power of knowledge and community action.

Broadcasts live every Wednesday at 7:00p.m. uk time on Radio Soapbox: http://radiosoapbox.comIn this episode of the Shelley Tasker Radio Show, our co-host steps in for Shelley Tasker amidst the stunning Cornwall weather, bringing a lively discussion on the digital age and its societal impacts. The show kicks off with reflections on the influence of the Atlantic Ocean on Cornwall's climate, segueing into a critique of modern digital dependencies, particularly mobile phones. The host shares anecdotes about automated services in Korea and recent cyberattacks on UK stores, highlighting concerns about digital vulnerabilities and the potential for societal control through technology.The episode delves into the world of gaming, exploring its dual role as both a social connector and a potential tool for military training. The host and guest, Mr. Ryan, discuss the immersive nature of video games, their impact on hand-eye coordination, and the controversial inclusion of political themes in modern games. They reflect on personal experiences with gaming, the balance between escapism and addiction, and the broader implications of digital entertainment on societal norms and behaviors. The conversation is interspersed with nostalgic references to early gaming experiences and the evolution of gaming technology.