Shows
Treeforts and Mixtapes#90-Predictable Isn’t Bad… Right?We used to say yes. Order the weird thing. Take the risk. Now we read the reviews, give a show three episodes, and know exactly what we like.This week we talk about the shift from being the main characters to becoming the editors — how competence replaced some of the chaos, and whether that’s growth… or predictability.Robot competitions, Carolina Reapers, “Shrinking,” and one real question:Are we less curious… or just more experienced?
2026-03-0242 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#89-The Myth of Catching UpThis week, Bret and Josh take on one of adulthood’s biggest lies: the idea that we’ll eventually “catch up.” From inbox-zero fantasies to the promise that life will slow down after just one more thing, they unpack why being “done” no longer exists—and why that’s not a personal failure. It’s a light, funny look at modern life, endless to-do lists, and the relief that comes from realizing there was never a finish line in the first place.
2026-02-0944 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#85-You are not a loserThis week on TFMT, Bret and Josh unpack why we’re always losing and forgetting things — from keys and phones to entire trains of thought. Spoiler: it’s not aging or carelessness. It’s interruption. A funny, relatable look at how modern life quietly wrecks our memory… and why it’s not something to beat yourself up over.
2026-02-0833 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#87- Nobody Agreed to ThisThis week, Bret and Josh break down the unspoken rules of adult life that everyone follows—and no one remembers agreeing to. From workplace etiquette and social norms to travel behavior and tech expectations, they unpack why we comply, what happens when we don’t, and which rules deserve to disappear forever. Funny, relatable, and slightly therapeutic.
2026-01-0948 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#86 Holidays! Why is so dark outside? Family and Friends, Full plates, Presents, & Twinkle LightsThis week, Bret and Josh slow things down for a holiday special built for everyone celebrating this season — Christmas, Chanukah, or just the rare gift of a quieter calendar. They dig into why this time of year feels heavier and more meaningful than the rest, where our traditions come from, and why light, nostalgia, and togetherness matter so much when the days get shorter.It’s a thoughtful, funny look at the stuff we think we know about the holidays — the stuff that should go and the stuff that actually makes them meaningful.
2025-12-2344 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#85 We spilled the beans: The Weird History of Everyday SayingsWe finally stopped beating around the bush and cut to the chase. This episode digs into the origins of the idioms we use every day — from biting the bullet and pulling yourself by your own bootstraps to being saved by the bell and ending up back at square one. Along the way, we uncover the history behind deadlines, dead ringer, beyond the pale, and more. No wild goose chases here — just the whole nine yards on why these phrases stuck and how we still use them today.
2025-12-1337 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#84-Working 9-5 is absolutely bogus...This week, Bret and Josh ask the question every Gen X and Millennial has muttered under their breath since 2007: Why are we still working 9–5? They dig into how a schedule built for factories, steam engines, and men in suspenders somehow became the default for people with laptops, text messages, and carpool duty. It’s history, humor, and a gentle roast of the Industrial Revolution — and maybe the reminder that the world has changed… but our calendars haven’t caught up…and we still want to be able to take a daily nap.
2025-12-0535 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#83 All the Fs of ThanksgivingThis week, Bret and Josh break down the real story behind Thanksgiving — what actually happened, what absolutely didn’t, and why this holiday became the chaotic, heartwarming tradition we all know. From the myths we learned in school to the surprising history of turkey, parades, football, and family rituals, the guys unpack everything you should know about America’s favorite food-coma holiday.It’s history, humor, and a reminder that even if the story isn’t perfect, the togetherness still is.
2025-11-2635 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#82 Where did all the toy stores go?This week, Bret and Josh rewind to the magic of toy stores — the fluorescent glow, the smell of plastic and cardboard, the towering wall of GI Joes, the endless LEGO sets, and that childhood feeling that anything was possible if you had five bucks and time to roam the aisles.Then they dig into the mystery of what really happened to Toys “R” Us. It wasn’t a lack of kids or toys — it was something far stranger and hidden beneath the surface. The guys break down the behind-the-scenes decisions that quietly drained the magic from Jeffrey’s kingdom.
2025-11-2240 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#81 The Dad Joke: Part of the genetics and our most effective weapon to show loveThis week, Bret and Josh crack open the surprising origins of the dad joke — the most groan-worthy, eye-roll-inducing, low-effort form of humor ever invented. From ancient puns and Shakespearean wordplay to the psychology of why dads become pun machines in midlife, the guys unpack how cheesy jokes became a love language for generations.It’s equal parts history lesson, cultural anthropology, and classic TFMT foolishness — because sometimes a bad joke isn’t bad at all… it’s just how dads say “I love you.”
2025-11-1534 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#80 What happened to Saturday Morning cartoons?Remember when Saturday mornings meant a couch, a mixing bowl of cereal, and three solid hours of cartoons before your parents even woke up? Bret and Josh dig into the mystery of where all that went — from government rules and ad crackdowns to the rise of streaming and on-demand everything. It’s part history, part nostalgia, and a reminder that sometimes the best lessons came from a cartoon rabbit in sneakers.
2025-11-1141 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#79 The retirement of a huge piece of Gen X cultureJosh is gearing up for a hunting trip, Bret just wrapped up 75 Hard, and somehow the conversation drifts into the death of MTV. From the glory days when music videos introduced us to every new band worth knowing, to the slow fade into The Real World and endless reality reruns, Bret and Josh unpack how a generation lost its soundtrack.It’s part nostalgia, part midlife update, and all classic TFMT — a mix of real life, ridiculous tangents, and a shared wish that MTV would just play one more music video.NOTE: we h...
2025-10-2840 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#79-I want my MTVJosh is gearing up for a hunting trip, Bret just wrapped up 75 Hard, and somehow the conversation drifts into the death of MTV. From the glory days when music videos introduced us to every new band worth knowing, to the slow fade into The Real World and endless reality reruns, Bret and Josh unpack how a generation lost its soundtrack.It’s part nostalgia, part midlife update, and all classic TFMT — a mix of real life, ridiculous tangents, and a shared wish that MTV would just play one more music video.NOTE: we h...
2025-10-2440 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#78 The Dad Dilemma Game: Every Choice HurtsThis week, Bret and Josh face the impossible choices every dad knows too well. Would you rather assemble IKEA furniture or survive a family road trip? Fix the Wi-Fi or unclog the toilet? It’s a full episode of midlife dilemmas, questionable decisions, and laugh-out-loud “yep, been there” moments. Welcome to Dad Life — where the choices are tough, the stakes are low, and the laughs are real.
2025-10-2141 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#77 Back to Campus: Older, Wiser, and Definitely Needing a NapBret and Josh head back to campus — one for Parents Weekend, one for Homecoming — and catch all the feels of returning to where it all started. From old dorm memories to football games, tailgates, and watching their kids (and nieces) live the moments they once did, it’s a nostalgic, full-circle ride through school spirit and growing up. And yes… Josh stayed up way past his bedtime.
2025-10-1442 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#76 No Way, Man! Wrestling, Cartoons, and ConspiraciesThis week, Bret and Josh dive into some of the funniest “is it real or not?” debates from our childhood and beyond. From whether pro wrestling was legit to the true nature of Tom & Jerry’s friendship, we rewind to the things that had us guessing as kids. Then we crank it up with wild conspiracies: Birds Aren’t Real, Denver Airport’s Illuminati tunnels, Chuck E. Cheese’s recycled pizza, Disney’s hidden Easter eggs, and even AI taking over the world…and remember to be careful what you do when there are birds around, they are always watching and rec...
2025-09-3044 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#75 Freedom Isn’t Free: Raising Kids Tougher Than Evil and Brighter Than the DarkThe world feels darker than ever — from terror attacks and random violence to political shootings plastered across our screens. As parents, the question isn’t just how do we explain evil to our kids? It’s how do we prepare them to face it with courage?This week, Bret and Josh talk about raising kids who understand that freedom isn’t free — that evil will always hate it — and that their job is to be tougher than the darkness around them. From remembering 9/11 to unpacking the recent headlines, we reflect on how to teach our kids res...
2025-09-2437 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#74 Everything I need to know about work…I learned in kindergarten-- Nap Time, Snack Time, Sharing is Caring and Stop Crying at WorkForget corporate handbooks — the real rules of work were written on the classroom carpet back in kindergarten. This week, Bret and Josh break down how the basics still apply: share your toys (and credit), take turns (yes, even in meetings), clean up your mess (literally and figuratively), and say you’re sorry (without an HR investigation).We also hit the grown-up essentials: nap time = avoiding burnout, snack time = fueling your day (not just vending machine regret), and the hard truth that it’s not your coworker’s job to manage your emotions.
2025-09-0543 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#73 Words That Stuck: The Best Advice We Ever GotSome advice goes in one ear and out the other — but some lines stick for life. This week, Bret and Josh swap the best pieces of advice they ever got, from the timeless “nothing good happens after midnight” to the hard-won lessons about money, love, and growing up.Josh also shares how he survived dropping his son off at college — equal parts emotional, exhausting, and proud — and why moments like that remind us why the right words at the right time matter.Because sometimes the hardest goodbyes — and the simplest advice — are what last the longest
2025-08-2840 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#72 Leaving the Nest: First Taste of Freedom (for Them and Us)This week, Bret and Josh rewind to one of life’s biggest milestones — leaving home for the first time. We share our own stories of shaky launches into independence, from questionable packing decisions to those unforgettable “oh crap” reality checks.Josh is on the verge of experiencing it from the other side, as he prepares to drop his son off at college for the first time. Together, we talk about what that moment means, why it’s both exciting and gut-wrenching, and whether today’s kids get the same crash course in adulthood we did.Because leav...
2025-08-2248 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#71: 8-Bit Morality: Life Lessons in Pixels-No Saves, No Shortcuts, Just GritBefore cheat codes and save points, there was only one rule: don’t die. This week, Bret and Josh fire up the nostalgia with a trip back to the 8-bit era — when games like Contra, Zelda, TMNT, and even Pitfall taught us the art of patience, strategy, and persistence. Josh and Bret talk about blowing on cartridges, memorizing enemy patterns, stuffing towels in the door cracks so you could play at night, teaming up on the couch with friends, and celebrating those rare victories that came after dozens of failed attempts. Along the way, we e...
2025-08-1143 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#70-Say It to My Face: Conflict, Closure, and the Lost Art of ConfrontationOnce upon a time, if you had a problem with someone, you handled it. Face-to-face. No texts. No ghosting. Just words — awkward, angry, clumsy, honest words.This week, Bret and Josh get into the gritty life school of confrontation — what it taught us growing up Gen X, and what seems to be missing in today’s conflict-avoidant, GenZ Staring, emoji-coded culture. From hallway showdowns and forced apologies to the wild rise of “ghostlighting” and dry texting, this episode explores how avoiding tension might be killing our ability to grow, forgive, and move on.We also...
2025-08-0846 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#69-We really ate that?#69 This week in the Treefort, Bret and Josh pull back the foil wrapper on the food we thought was fine — and somehow lived to talk about. From Pop-Tarts and bagel bites to ramen dinners and roller dogs that looked like wizard fingers, this is a love letter to the food crimes and the never-would-I-ever-eat-that food of our youth. The rant gets real as they tear into the scam that was the food pyramid, how nobody understood nutrition labels until their 30s, and Josh’s go-to ramen creation before a night out in college. It’s grea...
2025-07-2850 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#68-The Movies that Raised Us: Rewinding the Some of Wisdom Hidden in Our Favorite FilmsIn this new segment episode called Mixtape Rewind, we dive into the life lessons we picked up from the movies that raised us. From The Karate Kid’s reminder that the boring reps matter, to Dead Poets Society’s call to stand up even when your voice shakes, these films delivered more than entertainment — they gave us a code. We unpack timeless truths from The Sandlot, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Forrest Gump, and The NeverEnding Story, all backed by a soundtrack that hits hard with “You’re the Best” by Joe Esposito and Cyndi Lauper’s...
2025-07-1141 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#67-Freedom Requires FrictionWe used to be the remote. Now, if something takes effort, we skip it. In this episode, Bret and Josh unpack how technology—while making life more convenient—might be robbing us of something essential: our edge.Physically, we move less. Mentally, we outsource thinking. Socially, we avoid discomfort. But the truth is: we need friction. Struggle builds strength. Challenge sharpens focus. Discomfort deepens connection.So this Fourth of July, as we celebrate independence, we’re flipping the question:Is convenience making helping us stay free and meet our full potential?
2025-07-0440 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#66-Are you a fun Dad?This week, Bret and Josh wrestle with a key dad identity crisis: Are we fun dads… or just walking rulebooks with snacks? From letting your kids skip chores to realizing you sound exactly like your own father, they break down the tension between structure and spontaneity—and what “fun” even looks like in 2025 dad life.Spoiler: letting your kid stay up late while doing bedtime math in your head still counts.
2025-07-0236 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#65-Just chill, it will all work out: Troy Ita joins the Treefort...Troy Ita joins Bret and Josh in the Treefort to talk Florida roots, raising kids with patience, and embracing the Gen X art of chilling out. From sounding like his own dad when laying down life lessons, to helping his kids learn real social skills in a tech-heavy world, Troy brings laughs and laid-back wisdom. Plus, a Princess Bride moment reminds us all: parenting is mostly just trying not to lose your mind while staying mostly dead inside. Sort of.For more wisdom, laughs and awesomeness from Troy, check out his viral posts on IG...
2025-06-1941 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#64 Is It Worth It… Or Are We Just Tired?At what point did concerts, group dinners, and staying out past 9pm become a hard no? Bret and Josh explore the great midlife trade-off: doing less, and loving it.From avoiding plans that sound exhausting to skipping things we once lived for, this episode asks—are we actually getting wiser… or just chronically tired?If it doesn’t involve stretch pants, easy parking, or the ability to bail last-minute, we’re probably not interested. And honestly? That feels like growth.
2025-06-1144 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#63-Why Is Everyone in Their 20s a Life Coach?Why is every 20-something with a ring light suddenly a life coach? Bret asks the question, and Josh—bitter, skeptical, and fully Gen X—has thoughts.This episode dives into the rise of young “experts,” the influencer-to-guru pipeline, and whether social media clout has replaced actual experience. Does experience really matter? YES!!!!But here’s the twist: did we help create this? By shielding kids from failure, did we accidentally build a generation convinced they’re ready to teach life… before they’ve even lived it?It’s a mast...
2025-06-0440 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#62 I’m Not Mad, I Just Have a Face Like ThisJosh and Bret tackle the misunderstood art of Resting Dad Face—why Gen X always looks mildly annoyed, even when we’re just thinking about what to make for dinner.In a world where kids are encouraged to name every emotion, color-code their feelings, and express themselves constantly, we’re over here trying to teach emotional intelligence without turning every car ride into a therapy session.We talk about how we were raised to suppress, eye-roll, and “walk it off,” why we still flinch at the phrase “safe space,” and whether ou...
2025-05-2940 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#61 What does it even mean to be cool anymore?Josh and Bret dig into a big question: What does it even mean to be cool anymore? Is it still a leather jacket and cool-dude attitude… or is it now a curated Instagram aesthetic and hipster energy?We’re talking about how Gen X defined cool--think Starter Jackets, Grunge Dr Marten, Track Suits (were they ever cool), and not trying too hard, and how the definition has totally shifted. Is “cool” now just algorithm-approved relatability? Do dads get to be cool—or are we just here to embarrass our kids in cargo shorts?And most importantl...
2025-05-2351 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#60 Dad Mode and the Politics We Didn’t Ask ForBeing a dad in today’s world means navigating way more than just bedtime routines and forgotten science projects—it means explaining headlines, answering impossible questions, and trying not to scream during PTA meetings or political ads.In this episode, Josh, Sean and Bret dig into the wild intersection of fatherhood and politics—from the dinner table debates we never planned for to the tightrope walk of teaching values without raising little extremists. What do you say when your kid asks, “Are we Blue or Red?” We talk about what it means to be a modern dad...
2025-05-1750 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#59-Episode Title: Vinette Ice Cream and Moon Shoe Lies: What We Thought Was Fancy (and Totally Wasn’t)Josh, Sean, and Bret go full nostalgia mode, diving into the stuff we thought was high-end luxury growing up—only to realize later it was total garbage. Remember thinking Sizzler and Olive Garden were fine dining? That a fridge with an ice and water dispenser was peak sophistication? And don’t get us started on Vinette ice cream (the plastic tray presentation was elite).We also break down the most overhyped toys of our childhood—from Moon Shoes that destroyed ankles, to the Talkboy that was 90% static, to Pogo Balls that never bounced like the co...
2025-05-0248 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#58 Beignets, Ghost Tours, and Gen X Codes No One UnderstandsJosh is back from New Orleans, and let’s just say—between the beignets, ghost tours, alligator sightings, and next-level food, NOLA still knows how to blow your mind. While recapping the trip, Josh and Bret dive into a conversation about the unwritten Gen X rules that leave younger generations scratching their heads.If you have the chance to stay at one company for your whole career, would you? Why do we call instead of text, and why does face-to-face just feel better than digital everything? Oh—and let’s clear this up once and for all: no one’s...
2025-04-2546 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#57 Home Sick, Runners High, and the Playlist That Got Us Through ItJosh, Bret, and Sean kick things off with a throwback to home sick days—you know, back when staying home meant watching The Price Is Right and sipping flat 7UP. We swap stories about faking sick, the tricks that worked, the ones that totally didn’t, and how our parents basically had a built-in B.S. detector.Then Sean takes us into beast mode with the story of his first 50km ultra run—what it took to train, the wild reality of a runner’s high, and the mental game of doing something ridiculously hard. We dive into how...
2025-04-1852 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#56 Episode Title: Pills, Powders, and Pretending We’re Fine: Aging Like Gen X LegendsRemember when we could function on pizza rolls, Mountain Dew, and zero sleep? Yeah, those days are over. Now it’s all about supplements, protein powders, joint support, and forcing ourselves to “enjoy” skipping just to keep the wheels from falling off.In this episode, Josh and Bret dive into the reality of getting older—the rituals, the routines, and the weird aches that show up uninvited. From daily vitamin packs the size of a multivitamin brick to cold plunges and collagen smoothies, we ask: Are we actually optimizing our health, or just holding it toget...
2025-04-1141 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#55 Episode Title: Jet Lag, German Food, and Gen X Mischief We Totally Got Away WithBret’s back from Germany, full of schnitzel, pretzels, and stories—and fighting off jet lag like a champ. But after recapping the food and culture, the conversation takes a turn down memory lane as Josh and Bret revisit their Gen X glory days of getting into trouble: sneaking out, pulling pranks, and somehow never getting caught.From backyard fireworks to creative excuses that somehow worked, we reflect on the wild freedom we had growing up—and how our kids today? Yeah, they’d never get away with this stuff in the age of Ring cameras, iphone tracking...
2025-04-1146 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#54 Gen X Wins Beast Games: What Happens Next?You get laid off… then win a million bucks. What do you do? If you’re Gen X, you quietly pay off your mortgage, maybe upgrade your grill, and go back to work like nothing happened. In this episode, Josh and Bret unpack the story of the guy that won the money on Beast Games and what he is doing with the money now—they dive into how Gen X handles sudden wealth vs. how Millennials and Gen Z might throw a TikTok party about it.Would we splurge? Disappear? Tell no one? We both agreed, we'd keep i...
2025-03-2739 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#53 No GPS, No iPhone, No Problem?Bret’s back from the Netherlands and ready to confess: without Google Maps, he would’ve been 100% lost in the land of bikes and canals. Meanwhile, Josh spent the week living like it was 1994 after completely shattering his iPhone—no texts, no maps, no mindless scrolling. And somehow… he survived.So it got us thinking—what did we even do before smartphones? Could we go back? Would we even want to? In this episode, we question everything, from our total dependence on tech to whether being reachable 24/7 is actually ruining our lives.Also—big news—Josh and Bret...
2025-03-2248 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#52 Feeling Old, Falling Apart, and the Virtual Work TrapThe knees crack, the back aches, and suddenly, we’re stretching before playing ball like we’re in the NBA Finals. Is this what aging feels like? Today, we tackle the brutal reality of feeling old before we’re ready—debating the odds of inevitable back surgery and the struggle of staying active without falling apart. But here’s the real question: Has virtual work actually replaced face-to-face business interactions, or are we just pretending Zoom calls get the job done? Can you really build relationships, close deals, and read the room when the room is just a bunch of floatin...
2025-03-1540 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#51 MovieFone, Phone Books, and Life Before WiFi—How Did We Even Function?Josh just got an actual phone book in the mail… which means they still exist?! That got us thinking—how did we function before everything was on demand? From calling MovieFone to check movie times (without seeing trailers), flipping through giant yellow books just to find a pizza place, and actually figuring out how to build or fix stuff without YouTube, we survived an era where patience wasn’t optional. Plus, the lost art of developing pictures (and praying they turned out), building dangerous bike ramps with zero engineering knowledge, and the million-dollar question: Why are we in suc...
2025-03-1543 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#50 Night Owls, Morning Gym Bros, and Gen X Love LanguagesAre you a morning lark who loves hitting the gym at 5 AM, or a night owl who thrives in the dark and resents society’s obsession with early risers? Today, we debate the war between morning people and night people, the guilt of not being a morning gym person, and whether anyone actually enjoys waking up before the sun.And since it’s Valentine’s Day, let’s talk love languages—not the ones from the book, but the real Gen X/Millennial love languages: Sarcasm, sharing passwords, and making fun of you in public but defending you to the...
2025-03-1535 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#49 Short Shorts, Suspenders, and Gen X Memes That Hit HardJosh is broadcasting live from Texas, and we’re diving into some serious fashion nostalgia—specifically, short shorts. Back in the day, we rocked Magnum P.I.-level thigh exposure, and somehow, they’re making a comeback. Are we ready to embrace the return of dad quads, or should these stay in 1983 where they belong? We also break down the resurgence of suspenders, react to Gen X memes that hit way too hard, and relive the days of day-time TV when you were home sick and…do you remember the smell of a dodge ball? Tune in for laug...
2025-03-1544 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#48 Winter in Florida, Cold Plunges, and Beast Games- Are We Living in a Dystopian Movie?Winter in Florida is basically just mild summer—so why are people in parkas? Meanwhile, cold plunging is the new trend, and honestly… it’s awesome. We also take a moment to appreciate how easy it is to look up info on our phones because, seriously, how did we function before instant Google answers? Plus, remember waiting for new TV episodes like it was an event? (Yeah, patience was a thing back then.)Then, we go full dystopia mode—comparing classic dystopian movies to the weird reality we live in now. And speaking of brutal survival, Beast Games mi...
2025-03-1537 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#47 Stranded in Texas, Snow Driving Chaos, and Beast Games is the Real WorldBret is stuck in Dallas because Texas saw one snowflake and shut everything down. Meanwhile, rear-wheel drive trucks are skating across the ice, and we’re reminiscing about learning to drive in real snow—plus, some questionable car accident experiences from back in the day.But beyond road rage and winter survival, we’re talking how to deal with traumatic experiences—did we actually learn coping skills, or just bury everything deep and move on? Also, first reactions to Beast Games—is it just a competition, or a perfect mirror of real life? (Spoiler: It’s both.) And because...
2025-03-1537 minTreeforts and Mixtapes#46 Trophy Husbands, Binge-Watching Regrets, and Why Gen X is UntouchableJosh is proudly rocking the trophy husband mug and title while Bret is sleep-deprived from binge-watching Silo (worth it). That brings us to today’s big question—will any show actually survive another season or are we all just getting ghosted by Hollywood?We also break down why Gen X can’t be roasted (because we don’t care), why Reels and memes are peak Gen X entertainment, and how Millennials vs. Gen X react to internet memes (hint: one is way saltier). Plus, a massive W for Bret—Josh finally admits Good & Plenty’s are awesome after years...
2025-03-1542 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#45-Learning to DriveBret, Josh, and Sean dive into the chaos of learning to drive, the thrill of getting a license, and the nostalgia of first cars (even the crappy ones). Why aren’t kids today as eager to hit the road? And has modern car tech made driving too easy? Buckle up for laughs, stories, and some good old-man banter.
2025-01-0651 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#44-Playgrounds of our YouthJosh and Bret take a hilarious and nostalgic trip back to the chaotic days of childhood, where rusty monkey bars, soaring swings, and games like red rover were the ultimate tests of survival. From questionable playground equipment to the no-holds-barred games we played, they reflect on how we managed to come out (mostly) unscathed. Prepare for laughter, shudder-worthy memories, and a fresh appreciation for just how resilient kids of the past really were.
2025-01-0243 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#43-From Cursive to Conspiracies
In this episode, Bret and Josh dive into the quirky, outdated skills we all learned as kids—like mastering cursive and writing checks—that have become relics of a bygone era. But that’s just the warm-up! Things take a wild turn as they venture into the world of conspiracy theories, exploring the intriguing, bizarre, and mind-bending ideas that captivate us today. Tune in for a nostalgic trip down memory lane, peppered with some thought-provoking (and maybe a little out-there) conversations about what lies beneath the surface of everyday life.
2024-12-3044 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#42-Christmas EpisodeThe Christmas Episode.
Is Die Hard really a Christmas movie? What about Gremlins? Join us as we debate what truly counts as a holiday classic, share our favorite festive films, and unpack the traditions that make this season magical. It’s a holly jolly deep dive into Christmas cinema and traditions with Josh, Sean and Bret.
2024-12-2753 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#41-The Internet Ruined SportsComing off of the Tyson/Paul fight; Josh and Bret discuss how social media and being internet famous seems to have made sports less about being the best at the sport and more about being a good self promoter. Growing up we had super hero athletes (and musicians) that were famous because they dominated their sport/music not because they had large followings (including Mike Tyson).
2024-12-1136 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#40-Thanksgiving Episode & Mandela EffectOne part of getting old is that your memories become a bit conflated. We often ask, is your memory playing tricks on you, or did we all just slip into an alternate dimension where C3PO had a silver leg and the Monopoly man ditched his monocle? Welcome to the podcast where reality bends, memories warp, and nothing is what you swear it used to be - this is the Mandela Effect Zone! Josh and Bret chat about some of these memories that have become anchor memories...but are wrong. Trigger warning!
2024-11-2943 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#39-Why Growing Up the 80’s Wasn’t the WorstBret and Josh dissect an article put out by Buzz Feed that claimed that growing up in the 80s was the worst. Was it though? Or perhaps it was the reason we do the things we do today. GenX rules!
2024-11-2248 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#38-Helicopter Parents w/ MiekeJosh and Bret are super fans of our guest Mieke, and in this episode, they rap about the genesis of helicopter parenting, supervising children’s every move, and the wisdom of letting kids be kids.
2024-11-1937 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#37-That Halloween EpisodeJoined by friend of the show Rob for this episode ... and with a late appearance by "Seany-G". A bit hung over from the sugar high at Halloween, Josh, Bret, Sean and Rob talk about trick or treating, candy preferences, razor blades in candy, the parent tax, and the supremacy of black licorice.
2024-11-1655 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#36-Those First JobsIn this laugh-filled episode of Treeforts & Mixtapes, we rewind to the jobs that shaped us. Everything from folding brochures for a printing press to delivering newspapers, bagging groceries, and even wrangling greasy mechanics' parts. The crew shares wild first-job tales, explores the value of tough work in building character, and debates whether today's teens are missing out by skipping the grind. Expect some laughs and a few deeper reflections on why those scrappy early gigs still matter. Tune in for nostalgia, wisdom, and a dash of chaos. Hit play and relive those "first paycheck" feelings.
2024-11-0849 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#35-GenZ Struggles to Keep a JobWelcome back to Treeforts & Mixtapes. In Episode #35 we've joined by Seany-G and it's all about good vibes. We kick things off with talk of an ugly football game, dive deep into why the Kansas City Chiefs have two states repping their team, and even tackle the big question: is college really worth it? You’ll hear everything from NFL fan debates to why some recent grads struggle in the job market, with a lot of laughs (and some life advice) along the way. Grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s get into it.
2024-10-1540 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#34-Stuff that Costs too Much TodayIn Episode #34 of Treeforts & Mixtapes, we're joined once again by our good friend Colt as we dive into a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the good ol' days when things didn’t cost an arm and a leg! We chat about how going to amusement parks like Disney, catching a game, or rocking out at a concert was way more accessible back in the '80s and '90s compared to today’s sky-high prices. From tickets to food, drinks, and merch, we break down what’s changed and debate which aspects of the past need to make a...
2024-10-0833 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#33-G.I. Joe PSAsJoin us for Episode #33 of Treeforts & Mixtapes, where we're hanging out with friends of the show, Seany-G and Colt! We dive into the iconic GI Joe messages we all remember from the end of each episode. The PSAs, "Now you know, and knowing is half the battle." Some were hilariously over-the-top, while others delivered messages that still resonate today. We reminisce about these unforgettable moments, laughing at the ridiculousness but also wondering if it's time to bring some of those lessons back. Tune in and take a trip down memory lane with us!
2024-09-3041 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#32-NCAAF Talk & What We Never Anticipated As ParentsIn this episode of Treeforts and Mixtapes we're joined by friend of the show "Seany G" (Sean Galloway), and dive deep into everything from the madness of NCAA football to the questionable stuff in our food, and how social media’s creeping into our kids' lives. But the real heart of the episode? It’s all about what caught us off guard as adults and parents ... those things we never anticipated.
2024-09-2043 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: Episode #31MUSIC!!! Josh, Colt and Bret talk about what would be on their cruising around in high school mixtape.
We created it as a playlist on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0iYf8JLXTsqttDAc0YZR2m?si=149488c284484b3e
2024-09-1247 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-#30-Camping & Intro to Colt and SeanOn Episode 30 of Treeforts & Mixtapes, we’re switching things up! We've invited back two prior guests, Colt and Sean, for a roundtable filled with fresh perspectives and a dash of nostalgia. This time, we’re diving deep into the good old days of camping adventures – when being off the grid meant no phones, no distractions, just nature and whatever mischief we could find. Get ready for stories that will make you want to dust off your tent and find a forest to disappear into for a while. Tune in and enjoy the ride!
2024-08-2943 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-2.9-Not About PoliticsOn this episode of Treeforts & Mixtapes, Bret and Josh take a trip down memory lane, exploring our first encounters with politics - from the days of radio and nightly news to the constant stream of information in today's 24/7 world. We dive into how these shifts in media have changed not only the way we consume news but also how it shapes our perspectives. Join us as we reflect on the evolution of political awareness and the influence of endless content in the digital age.
2024-08-2232 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-2.8-Mary FaulknerExcited to drop the latest episode of Treeforts & Mixtapes! In Episode 2.8, we’re joined by the incredible Mary Faulkner. We take a trip down memory lane, chatting about those classic summer breaks as kids, the mischief we got into, and what it’s like growing up as a true Colorado Native. Tune in for some good vibes and great stories!
2024-08-1541 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-2.7-Mitch Lamb L9 SportsOn this episode of Treeforts & Mixtapes, we chat with Mitch Lamb, who takes us back to his mountain roots, sharing stories of outdoor adventures and finding fun as a kid in nature. Now the heart and soul of L9 Sports in Utah, Mitch continues to inspire by helping others gear up and get outside. Tune in for a conversation with a true kid at heart who’s living the dream in the great outdoors.
2024-08-0933 minTreeforts and Mixtapes2.6-Treeforts and Mixtapes-Go for the GoldJosh and Bret talk Olympics. Look out for Josh to be in the 2028 Olympics in Archery and Bret will be there to watch as he attempts curling in 2034.
2024-08-0141 minTreeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes 2.5- GenX Values save the worldJosh and Bret talk about some of the GenX values that seem to missing today and could save the crazy world we live in today.
2024-07-2535 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes 2.4-Is new tech always better?Josh and Bret talk about advances in technology and how new tech is not always better than old tech. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-07-1738 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes 2.3-Guest Peter and what do you do on holidaysJosh and Bret welcome Peter Hancock and discuss what kinds of things you do on days off; also a question of whether we would let our kids do the same questionable risky activities we did growing up. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-06-2843 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: 2.2 Slang words through the yearsNo cap this is episode is fire! Josh and Bret rap on using lingo that has been hip through the years, and without being to sus, we use sigma slang from today, this low-key awesome, fr. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-06-2133 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes-2.1- Our Friend TJ and RebootsJosh and Bret discuss reboots of movies from growing up. Movies in the old days getting better kudos for creativity but today the tech is obviously better...but what is the better version? Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-06-1440 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes 1.20: Getting Old and Being OldJosh and Bret talk about being old and what they thought old would look like and act like they were in high school. Old guys rule, but dang it hurts sometimes. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-05-3135 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes 1.19-Guest Colt Heiden-Mascots, Coaching, Cars and GladiatorsColt Heiden joins Bret and Josh as they talk about high school mascots, coaching kids sports, first cars and driving in the snow and American GladiatorsHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-05-2244 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: 1.18 Prom, Moshing and MusicBret goes to prom, Josh learns about how moshing is done today and the both discuss music choices through the days. Music in the 80s and 90s is way better than today. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-05-1540 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: 1.17 Taking way too many picturesJosh and Bret discuss picture taking and memory making. Josh with his 1800 photos on his phone and Bret with his 18,000. Capturing moments and memories will never be the same because of smart phones. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-05-0938 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: 1.16-School, technology, kid Jobs and how to communicateJosh and Bret welcome Peter Tew; we discuss kid jobs, college, technology in the classroom, knowing when to skip school, learning communication skills, and several other topics. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-05-0241 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes 1.15 Asking Directions, Mapquest and GPSJosh and Bret discuss how did we find places through the years; from calling and asking directions, to mapquest to GPS. Technology is amazing, but perhaps hurt our sense of direction...or maybe we're just old. Stay tuned for next time we will hear about Josh's experience at the revitalized Casa Bonita. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-04-2432 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes 1.14-Comic Books and Super HerosJosh and Bret host a new friend of the program Rob who shares his love of comic books, drawing and superheroes; and they discuss some controversial topics including who played the best Batman; and it was not Team Edward. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-04-2138 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes 1.13: Video Games From Atari to Oculus and everything in betweenJosh and Bret discuss memories of playing video games through the years from pong and pitfall to the best first person shooter game of all time to getting motion sickness on the Oculus...plus everything in between. For the record, both Josh and Bret can still beat their kids in video games. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-04-1239 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: 1.12 Family Vacations and TripsJosh and Bret host their long time buddy Sean and they discuss family vacations and trips as a kid. Starring out the window, Disney, roller coasters and Josh commits to take his kids to a carnival. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-04-0535 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: 1.11- Remember the days of baseball cards and bubble gumIn this episode Josh and Bret meet a new friend Steve from Montreal who shares the love of sports cards and we reminisce about the days of riding our bikes to the corner stores to buy a pack of baseball cards, trading cards at school and how sports cards helped us become savvy fans of the games we loved to play. You can find Steve as he rips cards on Instagram under the screen name of @pullingwaxx We hope you enjoy the conversation as much as we did; and Bret even rips open a new pack of...
2024-03-2743 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: 1.10 How did you get a hold of someone to hangout?Josh and Bret talk about how we learned to use the phone, talk to adults and learn basic social skills that may our kids may be missing from kids today. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-03-2135 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: 1.9 Let's Go to the MoviesJosh and Bret talk about some of the most iconic movies of their growing up years and how different it is going to the movies today. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-03-1440 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: 1.8 Saturday Morning CartoonsThe best part of the week growing up--Saturday morning cartoons! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-03-0633 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: 1.7-How did you know about the newsJosh and Bret discuss how, as kids, we learned about current events and the news--and how different it is today. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-02-2836 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes: 1.6-Buying stuff onlineJosh and Bret discuss what it was like shopping for toys growing up and how Amazon has changed the world of shopping and instant gratification. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-02-2233 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes 1.5-Guest Juan Saavedra-What did you want to be when you grew upJosh and Bret host their first guest Juan Saavedra and they discuss 'what did you want to be when you grew up?' and hear about Juan's experience as a fire fighter and raising his kids to be resilient. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-02-1434 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes 1.4- Technology in the classroomJosh and Bret discuss the use of technology in the classroom growing up and today. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-02-0732 min
Treeforts and MixtapesEpisode 1.3-Lessons inspired from Jason Kelce and playing 500 in the streetInspired by the legend Jason Kelce, youth sports growing up and playing 500 in the street.; Josh and Bret talk about lessons learned and shared with their kids. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-01-3136 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtapes 1.2: Who are Josh and Bret; learning to ride bikesHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-01-2330 min
Treeforts and MixtapesTreeforts and Mixtape-1.1 The First OneHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
2024-01-2305 min
My Pivotal MomentsE7: My Pivotal Moments: Guest Josh BrenceBret and Sue welcome Josh Brence, recruiting strategist, to our show. Josh shares the insights he gained during his pivot of starting his own recruiting consulting business after many years living the corporate life. Josh shares the steps he took to start his own company, and what he would do differently in hindsight. Hint, leverage your network early.#Pivot #Leadership #Learning #Moments #Coaching #RecruitingWe would love to hear your stories. Reach out via our respective websites or through Linkedin.www.bretjnelson.comwww.suesteinfeldcoaching.comMy Pivotal Moments Bret...
2023-12-0122 min