Across five rounds of debate, Scott and David go head to head over overrated films, empty corporate phrases, childhood things that haven't aged well, modern life annoyances and songs that have long outstayed their welcome. As always, the arguments are passionate, the justifications are questionable and nothing gets resolved - which is entirely the point.

Key Takeaways

The Shawshank Redemption is good but not the greatest film of all time.

Scott's case was simple - a film that made 16 million dollars at the box office and got zero Oscars has no business sitting at the top of the IMDb charts for years. It is everyone's default favourite, which is precisely why it is overrated. The tunnel alone defies belief.

Teamwork makes the dream work is not even a rhyme.

David's central objection was airtight - work and work is not a rhyme, it is the same word used twice. The phrase gets printed on office walls and LinkedIn posts by people who ignored their colleagues' emails that morning.

Follow your dreams only works for about six percent of people.

Scott had done his research. Only six percent of adults land the job of their dreams, which means for the other ninety-four the advice is just noise. If everyone genuinely followed their dreams, nobody would build roads, fit boilers or look after the kids on Wednesday night.

Dry robes were invented for surfers and belong at the beach - not the school run.

David's argument was precise. A product that genuinely solves a real problem for cold water swimmers has been ruined by people wearing them to Aldi in fourteen degrees. At a hundred and sixty pounds a time, they have also become a status symbol dressed up as practicality.

Verification codes are maddening but they do actually work.

Scott's frustration was relatable - forgotten passwords, codes sent to email accounts you cannot access, and a Papa John's order that takes twenty minutes longer than it should. Matt blacklisted them anyway, against his better judgement, because the irritation outweighed the logic on the day.

Key Moments

"If everyone followed their dreams there would be no roads to drive on. Nobody dreams of tarmacking a road."

"A dry robe is a duvet with arms. And people are wearing them to Costa."

"My Way has become the national anthem for people who have not done anything their way." 

About You've Been Blacklisted

You've Been Blacklisted is the show where small annoyances get treated like they should be illegal. Hosted by Matt Black from Matte Black Marketing, each episode brings two guests together for five rounds of debate, strong opinions and absolutely no resolution.

It is the podcast where logic takes a day off and the smallest inconvenience gets dragged through the mud. If you have a grievance that deserves a hearing, this is the show for you.

How to Get in Touch

You've Been Blacklisted is brought to you by Matte Black Marketing.

Guests this episode: Scott Irving and David Robinson - WLV Plumbing and Heating

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a five-star review and come back for more righteous nitpicking.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Across five rounds of debate, the four of them go head-to-head over overrated films, overused words, nostalgia that doesn't hold up, modern life annoyances and songs that have outstayed their welcome. The arguments are strong; the justifications are questionable and absolutely nothing gets resolved - which is exactly the point.

Key Takeaways

Avatar divides opinion but probably shouldn't be blacklisted.

Cheryl couldn't see what the fuss was about and still can't. Dave thought it was genuinely brilliant. Matt sat in the middle - he enjoyed it at the time but wouldn't rush to rewatch it. The consensus was that whatever you think of the story, the technology alone earned it a pass.

Lucozade used to mean something.

For a generation, a bottle of Lucozade meant you were properly ill and being looked after. Now it means you've got a gym membership you probably don't use. Cheryl missed the orange cellophane. Ed admitted he drinks it daily. The memories survived even if the brand didn't.

Playgrounds were brilliant and terrifying in equal measure.

Dave's memories of concrete floors, witch's hat roundabouts and genuinely dangerous equipment were vivid and mostly fond. The modern version - soft surfaces, no corners, no real danger - is safer but somehow emptier. The real hazard these days is the teenagers who've taken them over.

Massive burgers with sticks in the middle have gone too far.

Cheryl's case was simple - if you need a skewer to stop it falling over, it is no longer a burger. Matt agreed. Dave did not, on the grounds that burgers are never big enough. Radio Ed, predictably, was fully in favour of more meat.

Key Moments

"People have used it wrong so often it became right. The dictionary had to adjust." - on the word literally

"Lucozade used to mean you were dying. Now it means you've got a gym membership you don't use."

"They took all the danger away from the park and put it in the teenagers." 

"If it needs a stick, it's too big. It's not a hamburger."

About You've Been Blacklisted

You've Been Blacklisted is the show where small annoyances get treated like they should be illegal. Hosted by Matt Black from Matte Black Marketing, each episode brings two guests together for five rounds of debate, strong opinions and absolutely no resolution.

It is the podcast where logic takes a day off and the smallest inconvenience gets dragged through the mud. If you have a grievance that deserves a hearing, this is the show for you.

How to Get in Touch

You've Been Blacklisted is brought to you by Matt Black Marketing.

Guests this episode:

Cheryl Turner - Wordy Bird: www.wordybird.co.uk

Dave Hardy - 5 Computing: ask around, he'll come to you.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a five star review and come back for more righteous nitpicking.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

The Game Plan: Five rounds — Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, Black Mirror Moments, and Songs. Matt judges; no appeals.

Round 1 – Films: Jim nominates Super Size Me (a “bleeding obvious” doc later surrounded by controversy). Michael nominates Star Wars: The Phantom Menace (Jar Jar Binks, prequel regret). 

Round 2 – Quotes: Michael nominates people saying “LOL” out loud. Jim nominates the word “super” (especially on LinkedIn: “super excited” = usually not). 

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Jim targets wrestling (fake and baffling it still exists). Michael targets 70s kids’ TV presenters (nostalgia ruined by later scandals). 

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Michael nominates filmed “kindness” content (helping people for clicks). Jim nominates streaming services adding adverts (paying to avoid ads… again).

Round 5 – Songs: Jim nominates Coldplay – “Yellow” (the beginning of “bland, insipid” dominance). Michael nominates “God Save the King” being used as England’s anthem at sport. 

Best Moments

“Small annoyances get treated like full blown crimes against humanity.” — Matt’s show thesis.

Jim’s LinkedIn rage: “Super excited” is the tell that you’re not excited at all.

Michael’s ethics grenade: “stop filming yourself being kind, just be kind.”

Streaming services: we escaped adverts, paid to avoid adverts… and now pay again to avoid them.

About the guest - Michael Muir

Michael “Mickey the Mortgage” Muir is a mortgage and insurance adviser at PlanGuard Finance, with 25 years’ experience helping people buy their first home, remortgage, and protect what matters. Known for straight-talking guidance and calm problem-solving, he supports clients through lender hurdles, paperwork and options so they can make confident decisions. Michael works with homeowners and buyers across the UK, aiming to secure the right deal, reduce costs where possible, and make the process feel clear and stress-free.

About the guest - Jim Lewington

Jim Lewington is the founder of Orbits IT, supporting businesses with reliable, no-nonsense IT services for teams of around 5 to 300 users. With 16 years’ experience, he helps organisations keep systems secure, stable and running smoothly, solving issues fast, simplifying tech, and removing headaches before they become disasters. Originally built in South Wales and now based in the Midlands, Jim is known for straight-talking advice, sharp humour and a practical approach that makes IT feel clear, not complicated.

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

The Game Plan: Five rounds—Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, Black Mirror Moments, and Songs. Matt decides what gets blacklisted each round.

Round 1 – Films: Vicky nominates Wicked: Part One (too long, dragged out); Leigh nominates Dune (bleak, confusing, “sand worms”). 

Round 2 – Quotes: Leigh targets “my other half” (derogatory/you’re not “half a person”); Vicky targets “No offence, but…” (doesn’t make it less offensive). 

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Vicky nominates Barbie (unrealistic stereotypes; “Cindy was wholesome”); Leigh nominates Cabbage Patch Dolls (ugly, pointless). 

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Leigh nominates subscription overload (discount bait → email spam → money leaking); Vicky nominates quick-fix ads (fake “six weeks to Arnie” nonsense). 

Round 5 – Songs: Vicky nominates The Smiths – “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” (pure vibe-drain); Leigh nominates The Cheeky Girls – “Touch My Bum.” 

Best Moments

Matt’s perfect description of the format: “petty complaints… treated like public service announcements.”

The brutal truth about disclaimers: “No offence, but…” basically means “brace yourself.”

Vicki’s Smiths takedown: “I’d rather not be cool. I’d rather be happy.”

About the guest - Lea Furnival

Lea Furnival is a travel consultant with Not Just Travel, helping clients plan memorable holidays with expert advice and personal service. From family escapes to once-in-a-lifetime adventures, she creates tailored itineraries, recommends trusted hotels and takes the stress out of booking by handling the details. Known for her friendly, organised approach, Lea saves clients time, avoids common travel pitfalls and helps them get the best experience for their budget, so they can travel with confidence.

About the guest - Vicki Maye

Vicki Maye is the founder of Blue Flame Design, creating bold, polished branding and graphic design that helps businesses look professional and stand out. From logos and visual identity to marketing assets and social content, she turns rough ideas into clean, on-brand design with a sharp eye for detail. Known for her straight-talking, collaborative approach, Vicki makes the creative process simple, keeps projects on track, and delivers visuals that clients feel proud to share.

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

The Game Plan: Five rounds — Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, Black Mirror Moments, and Songs. One blacklist per round; most “wins” takes Blacklister of the Week (and the T-shirt).

Round 1 – Films: Shaun goes after Forrest Gump (too much running, not enough meaning), while Claire targets Star Wars — specifically A New Hope. 

Round 2 – Quotes: Claire nominates “Don’t worry, be happy” (pointless when real problems exist), while Shaun nominates “Good vibes only” (influencer-core, patronising). 

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Shaun declares Panini sticker books a financial trap you need to remortgage to finish; Claire nominates shell suits (flammy, rustly, tragic in hindsight). 

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Claire goes after electric scooters (dangerous, abandoned everywhere, no helmet culture); Shaun targets ice baths (performative “doing it for the ‘gram”). 

Round 5 – Songs: Shaun nominates “What Does the Fox Say?” while Claire nominates Crazy Frog (the unholy ringtone era). 

Best Moments

Shaun arriving as a “beefcake” and the running gag about how many “erections” he’s responsible for.

The nostalgia fashion pitch: shell suits as a “go-to piece for a wedding… or a funeral” (apparently).

Matt’s very relatable parental pain: Panini costs “eight to nine hundred pounds every bloody tournament.”

About the guest - Claire Lloyd-Jones

Claire Lloyd-Jones is the founder of LJ Modern Bookkeeping, helping small businesses stay organised, compliant and confident with their numbers. With a friendly, no-jargon approach, she supports clients with day-to-day bookkeeping, tidy reporting and practical guidance that makes finances feel manageable. Claire prides herself on accuracy, reliability and clear communication, giving business owners more time to focus on growth while knowing their books are in safe hands.

About the guest - Shaun Gill

Shaun Gill is the founder of Concept Architectural Design, creating practical, well-designed spaces for homeowners and property developers. From initial ideas through to planning and detailed drawings, he guides clients with clear advice and a problem-solving mindset, helping projects run smoothly from concept to construction. Known for his approachable style and attention to detail, Shaun balances creative design with real-world buildability to deliver layouts that look great and work brilliantly.

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

The Game Plan: Five rounds — Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, Black Mirror Moments, and Songs. One blacklist per round; most round-wins = Blacklister of the Week.

Round 1 – Films: James targets Kill Bill (Volume 1) for being a “to be continued” wind-up with barely any Bill; Paul nominates Mamma Mia for being a nauseating ABBA film musical. 

Round 2 – Quotes: Paul nominates “Don’t wait for the storm to pass, learn to dance in the rain” for being overused, IKEA-core inspiration. James nominates “We did a thing” for cryptic attention-seeking posts that make you decipher the news. 

Round 3 – Nostalgia: James goes after yo-yos (three tricks, then a knotty mess). Paul nominates the decline of real bands (guitar/drums/bass) and argues we’re force-fed solo artists instead. 

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Paul blacklists AI deepfake videos (fake shark clips, “what’s real anymore?”). James blacklists self-service checkouts for “unexpected item in bagging area” stress, queues, and doing unpaid work while getting judged by the attendant. 

Round 5 – Songs: Matt’s finale comes down to James’ pick “You’re Beautiful” — James Blunt (overplayed misery), versus Paul’s pick “Trip to Trumpton” (ruined by frantic jungle/drum & bass).

Best Moments

Matt on judging: “I’ll be judging silently and unfairly.”

The password one-liners (including Matt’s infamous “not long enough” gag).

James on modern posting culture: “We did a thing… and it’s your job to decipher what they’ve done.”

The nostalgia swerve into a surprisingly sincere rant about why bands matter.

About the guest - James Cassidy

James Cassidy is the founder of Inspired Accountancy Services and Inspired Roofing Solutions, combining commercial nous with a practical, hands-on approach to helping people and businesses thrive. He supports clients with clear, no-nonsense advice, focusing on good decisions, strong foundations and long-term growth. Known for his straight talking, humour and problem-solving mindset, James brings energy and reliability to every project, whether he’s balancing the numbers or getting stuck in on-site.

About the guest - Paul Biddulph

Paul Biddulph is a technology and information specialist at Information Solutions, helping organisations use data, systems and smart thinking to work more efficiently. With a calm, practical approach, he supports clients to simplify processes, improve reporting and get the right information to the right people, without the jargon. Known for being dependable and solutions-focused, Paul bridges the gap between tech and day-to-day operations, making digital change feel clear, useful and achievable.

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

The Game Plan: Five rounds — Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, Black Mirror Moments, and Songs. One blacklist per round; most round-wins = Blacklister of the Week.

Round 1 – Films: Matt wants to wipe Fast & Furious after the third film off the planet (cars in space, submarines on ice, “Avengers with engines”). Pete controversially goes for The Shawshank Redemption (the tunnel/poster logic). 

Round 2 – Quotes: Pete nominates “If you know, you know” (lazy, exclusionary, meaningless). Matt nominates “We all have the same 24 hours” (hustle-culture nonsense that ignores real life). 

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Matt brings in incubated toy aliens (the true crime is the schoolyard rumour that they “give birth”). Pete nominates the childhood lie “Don’t sit too close to the TV — you’ll get square eyes.” 

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Pete attacks staged short-form videos with fake laughs and obvious setups. Matt goes for motion sensor bins (oversensitive, battery-hungry, and forcing you to “dance” just to throw something away). 

Round 5 – Songs: Matt nominates Mariah Carey — “All I Want for Christmas Is You” (played too early, everywhere, and always when you’re trapped shopping). Pete nominates “Sweet Caroline” (overused stadium/pubs anthem). 

Best Moments

Matt Black to Matt Richards: insurance sellers can be so dull they “use their personality as birth control.”

Pete’s Shawshank logic grenade: “How the **** did that [poster] get back on there?”

The greatest dad comeback ever: “Well, get a round telly then.”

Radio Ed’s accidental character confession: “Hi, everybody, I’m Pancake Pete…” (followed by immediate regret).

The episode’s unofficial life advice: “Dance in front of your bin and chill out.”

About the guest - Pete Tarbuck

Pete Tarbuck is the founder of Lead Magpie, helping businesses generate consistent, high-quality leads through smart marketing systems and clear messaging. Known for straight-talking advice and practical strategy, he supports companies to attract the right enquiries, improve conversion and build predictable pipelines without gimmicks. With a sharp eye for what actually works, Pete combines creativity with data-led thinking to turn attention into action and marketing into measurable growth.

About the guest - Matt Richards

Matt Richards is a financial adviser at Family Shield Financial, supporting individuals, families and business owners with clear, practical guidance on protection, mortgages and long-term financial planning. Known for a down-to-earth approach, he helps clients understand their options, make confident decisions and put safeguards in place for the things that matter most. Matt focuses on building lasting relationships, tailoring solutions to real life and ensuring people feel informed, supported and properly protected.

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

The Game Plan: Five rounds—Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, Black Mirror (modern life), and Songs. One blacklist per round; most wins takes Blacklister of the Week (and the T-shirt).

Round 1 – Films: Cath targets Pearl Harbour (clichés, love triangle, inaccuracies); Rebecca goes for Grease (the flying-car ending). 

Round 2 – Quotes: Rebecca blacklists the classic parental line “You can’t have them… you’ll only eat them”; Cath picks “You can’t teach a granny to suck eggs.” 

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Cath attacks the Etch A Sketch (two knobs, zero artistry); Rebecca chooses cat’s cradle (string misery). 

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Rebecca goes after people using loudspeakers in public; Cath targets filming gigs on phones. 

Round 5 – Songs: Cath nominates Elbow – “One Day Like This”; Rebecca chooses “Happy Birthday.” 

Best Moments

The Enid letter to Matt: “He’s the only reason some of us tune in… that soothing monotone does things to me.” (Enid, 94½).

Rebecca on nicknames: “I’m not a Becky… I see a little Labrador walking along.”

Rebecca’s childhood injustice: “You can’t have them… you’ll only eat them.” (Yes… that’s the point.)

Cath’s Etch A Sketch verdict: “Two knobs… and if you’re skilfully turning them you could do a very wiggly angle.”

Rebecca’s birthday mission: “Happy Birthday is supposed to be joyous… please can we change the tune?”

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

The Game Plan: Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, Black Mirror (modern life), Songs. Most blacklisted picks wins.

Round 1 – Films: Kellie: High School Musical 2; Hannah: The Greasy Strangler 

Round 2 – Quotes: “It is what it is” (Hannah) vs “Money can’t buy happiness” (Kellie) 

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Chip-shop wooden forks (Kellie) vs Shag bands (Hannah) 

Round 4 – Black Mirror: Smartwatches (Hannah) vs Crocs (Kellie) 

Round 5 – Songs: “Cotton Eye Joe” (Kellie) vs “Barbra Streisand” (Hannah)

Best Moments

“If it hadn’t been for that… you know… I’d be married” — Kellie’s unprintable Cotton Eye Joe theory.

“Crocs are a cry for help… the holes are escape routes for your dignity.” — Kellie.

“It’s the human equivalent of turning your computer off and on again.” — Matt on “It is what it is.”

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

About the guest - Kellie Jonson

Kellie Johnson is the founder of My Midlands, a platform celebrating the people, places and independent businesses that give the region its character. With a background in community storytelling and digital marketing, she shines a light on local success stories, hidden gems and can’t-miss events, connecting audiences with what’s on their doorstep. Warm, curious and relentlessly positive, Kellie champions collaboration across towns and cities, partnering with creators, venues and charities to boost visibility, footfall and pride in the Midlands region.

Find out more: https://mymidlands.co.uk

About the guest - Hannah Green

Hannah Green is the founder of Tipples & Tonics, a Midlands cocktail studio and mobile bar known for playful, polished drinks. A seasoned mixologist and event host, she designs bespoke menus, tastings and cocktail classes for weddings, launches and team socials, blending classic technique with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Warm, organised and unflappable, Hannah handles everything from glassware to garnish, creating memorable, hospitality-led experiences that get people talking and brands noticed, one perfectly balanced drink at a time.

Find out more: https://tipplesandtonics.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

The Game Plan: Five rounds—Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, Black Mirror (modern life), and Songs. Most blacklisted picks = Blacklister of the Week.

Round 1 – Films: Dan rants at Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (mainly Frodo); Andy targets Dolittle (2020).

Round 2 – Quotes: Andy swings at Shakespeare’s “To be, or not to be.” Dan picks the teen meme “Six Seven.”

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Dan nukes the teacher classic “You won’t always have a calculator.” Andy goes after Beanie Babies.

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Andy tries to bin the mobile phone (signal rage); Dan targets “doing it for the ’Gram.”

Round 5 – Songs: Dan: Central Cee – “Good Times.” Andy: Drake – “One Dance.”

Best Moments

Dan’s net worth sets up Matt’s “I don’t own a net” gag.

Italian brain-rot: a classroom chorus to “Six Seven.”

Andy’s mobile-phone tirade: “Don’t call it a mobile, there’s no signal!”

Dan on Central Cee’s lyric: “Bragging about ‘good wood’ isn’t romance.”

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

About the guest - Andrew Downing-Booth

Andrew entered estate agency in 2007, became a sales negotiator in 2009 after graduating from the University of Birmingham, and helped two start-ups reach market-leader status, rising to assistant manager, branch manager and later sales manager. He now runs Andrew Downing-Booth Estate Agents. Away from work he plays six-a-side in goal, supports Wolves, and enjoys family days and walks with Milo the spaniel.

Find out more: https://andrewdowningbooth.co.uk/

About the guest - Dan Chadwick

He is a Financial Adviser with over eight years’ experience, proud to serve at Mercian Wealth Management, where clients’ best interests come first. Inspired by seeing family and friends struggle without guidance, he helps people make sound choices on wealth management, protection and retirement planning. Outside work, he enjoys the gym, boxing, yoga and golf, is learning Bachata, and, formerly a part-time PT, supports others’ confidence. A recent Birmingham resident, he loves hikes with his dog and family.

Find out more: https://www.mercianwm.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

The Game Plan: Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, Black Mirror (modern life), Songs. Most blacklisted picks = Blacklister of the Week.

Round 1 – Films: Scott targets the Jurassic Park sequels; Ian swings at Mamma Mia.

Round 2 – Quotes: Ian: “Everything happens for a reason.” Scott: “It is what it is.”

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Scott fondly nominates Space/Pop Rocks; Ian slams Wall Walkers (the sticky “sticky men”).

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Ian rants about speakerphones in public; Scott goes after reaction reels.

Round 5 – Songs: Scott: Coldplay – “Fix You.” Ian: The Stranglers – “Golden Brown.”

Best Moments

“I’m Matt Black, like the paint, only thicker.”

Matt on speakerphone culture: psychologists call it “forced intimacy.”

Scott on reaction reels: “The laziest way to get engagement.”

Ian on Wall Walkers vs anaglypta wallpaper: “Absolutely pointless.”

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

About the guest - Scott Milligan

Scott has spent much of his career working in marketing and has run agencies since 2005, specialising in beauty, insurance, and law. As voluntary Strategic Director at Burton Radio, he rebranded the station, introduced breakfast and lunchtime shows, set record live listeners and grew monthly listeners from 3,000 to 12,000 with turnover up eightfold. He now steers the Burton Echo and co-launched Lichfield Radio with Ruth Redgate (launch 19 Jan 2026). Through Milligan Advocates and Origin Media Group, he funds community media. He’s also released three acclaimed albums.

Find out more: https://lichfieldradio.org/

About the guest - Ian Bowley

Alongside family members, Ian established the Stan Bowley Trust in 2008, gaining charitable status in 2011. After a steep learning curve, the team built a sustainable local charity that has helped save countless people affected by cancer. They remain committed to making CyberKnife widely available across the UK and are currently in discussion with Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham to fund a “Home from Home” for CyberKnife patients.

Find out more: https://stan-bowley-trust.odoo.com/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

Round 1 – Films: Deb torpedoes Face/Off; Matt swings at Dirty Dancing.

Round 2 – Quotes: Matt: “Live every day like it’s your last.” Deb: “If you know, you know (IYKYK).”

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Clackers vs MiniDiscs.

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Pickleball vs Self-appointed online “experts” (IBEs).

Round 5 – Songs: “Bat Out of Hell” (Deb) vs “Cha Cha Slide” (Matt).

Best Moments

Deb on clackers: “Absolutely lethal… how were they even allowed?”

Matt on “live every day like it’s your last”: “It’s impossible, who would work?”

Deb on IBEs (Instant Bloody Experts): “Opinion stated as fact… algorithms feed the echo chambers.”

Radio Ed on “Cha Cha Slide”: “I’d like to poo on the actual CD it was played on.”

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

About the guest - Deb Lee

Deb Lee is the owner of Aldridge Mortgage & Protection, a family-run business focused on helping clients achieve their property goals. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, Deb offers tailored advice on purchasing, refinancing, and borrowing. Based in the West Midlands but serving clients nationwide, she provides flexible support through remote or face-to-face consultations. With a client-first approach and a passion for making the mortgage process simple and stress-free, Deb ensures her clients' property dreams become reality.

Find out more: https://aldridgemp.co.uk/

About the guest - Matt Morgan

Matt Morgan is a passionate travel specialist committed to turning your dream holidays into reality. Offering expert, impartial advice and 24/7 support, Matt ensures every step of your journey is stress-free. From crafting itineraries across all continents to arranging weddings, honeymoons, cruises, and city breaks, he handles every detail, including visas and check-ins. With strong industry relationships and ATOL protection, Matt delivers personalised, worry-free travel experiences tailored to your needs.

Find out more: https://luxurytravelexperts.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

Round 1 – Films: Sarah slams Benjamin Button for false advertising (“no actual button”); Pete targets The Nightmare Before Christmas, pumpkins at Christmas?

Round 2 – Quotes: “Where did you have it last?” (Pete) vs “Me on a plate” (Sarah).

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Slap bands (metal and menacing) vs Jim’ll Fix It.

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Man bags (Pete) vs Face filters (Sarah).

Round 5 – Songs: “Piano Man” – Billy Joel (Sarah) vs “Ain’t No Sunshine” – Bill Withers (Pete).

Best Moments

“I was expecting him to turn into a button.” – Sarah on Benjamin Button.

“Arnold Schwarzenegger has shares in pest control… he’s an ex-Terminator.” – Matt to Pete.

“Slap bands: joy in a band… that could cut your arm off.” – Sarah.

“Filters make it harder to believe anything.” – Matt, weighing up the modern world.

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

About the guest - Peter Chatham

Peter Chatham is a specialist at AIM Environmental, helping businesses and homeowners keep sites safe, compliant and pest-free. Known for clear advice and rapid response, he plans and delivers tailored treatments, prioritising prevention, discreet service and humane, environmentally responsible methods. Peter works across residential and commercial settings, from one-off callouts to ongoing maintenance, focusing on long-term protection, minimal disruption and measurable results.

Find out more: https://aim-environmental.com/

About the guest - Sarah Butt

Sarah Butt is an independent Skincare specialist, helping clients build simple, effective routines with vegan, cruelty-free products. She offers friendly consultations, from quick skin check-ins to pamper evenings, tailoring recommendations to individual goals, sensitivities and budgets. Known for clear advice and genuine care, Sarah focuses on healthy, glowing skin and sustainable choices, supporting customers before and after purchase with tips, testimonials and easy-to-follow routines.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

The Game Plan: Five rounds—Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, “Black Mirror” (modern life tech/trends), and Songs. Most blacklisted picks = Blacklister of the Week.

Round 1 – Films: Coops swings at Rocky; David targets The Perfect Storm.

Round 2 – Quotes: David debunks the Einstein-attributed “fish climbing a tree” line; Coops nominates “Cheer up, it might never happen.”

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Coops (while eating one live) turns on Scotch eggs; David picks Rolf’s Cartoon Club.

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Coops goes after five-minute voice notes (the dreaded “just a quick one”); David targets mainstream media.

Round 5 – Songs: David: “Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini”; Coops: “Baby Shark.” Baby

Best Moments

Coops, mid-snack strategy: “I’m proving a point” (while catching the Scotch-egg meat sweats).

“Voice notes that start with ‘Just a quick one’…” (Coops’ case for the blacklist.)

“Baby Shark isn’t a song; it’s a psychological weapon.” (Coops seals the finale.)

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

About the guest - David Whitehouse

David Whitehouse develops effective web and mobile solutions for clients of all sizes, with credits including Danny John-Jules, Channel 4, One Stop, Universal, Take That, FIFA, VIBE, Fast Car Magazine and Twycross Zoo. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Computing Science from Staffordshire University, where he later worked as a Web Designer. A regular SEO speaker to Chambers of Commerce, he has contributed to .NET magazine and authored the international bestseller “SEO for SMEs”.

Find out more: https://inlife.co.uk/

About the guest - James Cooper

James Cooper runs JCFX Media, a Staffordshire-based video production company with a decade of experience creating films for businesses large and small. From web video to graphics and animation, he shapes clients’ visions into eye-catching, high-quality, cost-effective content. Whether using the studio’s green screen or filming on site, JCFX provides the kit and expertise to make brands stand out.

Find out more: https://jcfxmedia.co.uk

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Takeaways

The Game Plan: Five rounds—Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, “Black Mirror” (modern life tech/trends), and Songs. Only one pick is blacklisted per round; most wins = Blacklister of the Week (plus the T-shirt).

Round 1 – Films: Karen swings at Titanic (that door debate…), while Ricky brands Love Actually predictable.

Round 2 – Quotes: Karen’s pick “Pissing myself laughing” Vs Ricky’s “Keep Calm and Carry On.”

Round 3 – Nostalgia: Pogo stick take on Tech Deck fingerboards (which Matt still finds “pretty cool”).

Round 4 – Black Mirror Moments: Ricky’s lip filler goes up against Karen’s smartphones.

Round 5 – Songs: Against Karen’s “Birdie Song,” Vs Ricky’s “Justin Bieber – Baby”

Best Moments

“Like the paint, only thicker.” – Matt on being Matt Black.

“If your door is sticky, call Ricky.” – Ricky’s tagline that absolutely sticks.

“White pants… there’s just no second chances.” – Matt, on the perils of laundry-visible risk.

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

About the guest - Karen Eyke

Karen is the driving force and Director of Recruit123. With experience from managing high street retail stores to serving at one of the UK’s largest Welfare to Work providers, she knows recruitment from both sides. As director of an independent agency, Karen has successfully matched hundreds of businesses, SMEs, to multinationals with people who move their organisations forward.

Find out more: https://recruit-123.co.uk/

About the guest - Ricky Frith

Ricky is the founder of Locksmith Frith Ltd. Beyond general locksmith work and uPVC repairs, the company delivers smart access control using market-leading products certified to the highest BSI Kitemark for IoT (Enhanced Level). They provide flexible, secure, convenient solutions for diverse properties. Ricky focuses on helping property managers run secure, controlled access from anywhere, with features such as remote locking/unlocking, timed access, and live audit trails.

Find out more: https://www.locksmithfrithltd.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How it works

• Five rounds: Films, Quotes, Nostalgia, Black Mirror (modern life/tech), and Songs.
• Head-to-head picks: Each guest nominates one thing per round to “blacklist.”
• Host’s verdict: Matt chooses one winner per round.
• Tally time: Most round wins = Blacklister of the Week.
• Prize: The coveted “You’ve Been Blacklisted” T-shirt.
• Expect quick wit, playful arguments, and standout one-liners.

About the host - Matt Black

Raised in sunny Shrewsbury, he moved to the Black Country in 1999, living in Cannock and now Walsall. Married, divorced and remarried, he has four children, making family life busy and joyful. Matt is a charity trustee and seasoned sales professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.