Shows
Hugging And LearningThank You For Making Me Feel Wanted ("The Paul Lynde Halloween Special")Like a mummy, or a vampire, or a ghost, or any number of monsters that rise from the dead at Halloween — WE'RE BACK!!! It's Chelsea and Andy's favorite time of year, and we couldn't resist getting together for an impromptu surprise episode, specially for those of you who forgot to unsubscribe. Join us as we deep-dive into the cursed nonsense that is The Paul Lynde Halloween Special variety show. We've got witches, we've got truckers, we've got disco, we've got special guest appearances from everybody from Betty White to KISS. It's bananapants and we wish it had never happened, bu...
2021-10-312h 04
Hugging And LearningThe Most Special Episode, Part 1 ("Diff'rent Strokes" S5E16)The time has finally come. In this most cursed year of this darkest timeline, we must re-watch and re-evaluate one of the most cursed VSEs of all time. The one that started it all — which is apt, because after 100 episodes, we have nearly come to the end of the Hugging & Learning rainbow. Join Chelsea, Andrew, and Miles for the penultimate episode of our podcast, as we evaluate what, if anything, we have to learn from this bone-chilling tv artifact today. Show: DIFF'RENT STROKES \\ "The Bicycle Man," Season 5, Episode 16 Air Date: February 5, 1983 Find it: Hul...
2020-11-2759 min
Hugging And LearningMomchiatrist and the Conference of Secrets ("The Day My Kid Went Punk")Won't someone please hug Terry? The boy moves like a ghost through his own life; in the words of his own sister, "he's just kinda there." When Terry goes punk, it's not so much a rebellion as an inevitability. But, wait! What does this mean for Mom's big anti-punker conference?! Is this actually an afterschool special FOR MOMS?? Join Chelsea, Andrew, long-suffering Terry, some of The Weirz, and the psychiatrist from Space Jam as we try to decipher what, if anything, we can learn from an afterschool special about the waning days of punk. Show: ABC Afterschool S...
2020-08-211h 22
Hugging And LearningMurder, She Twote ("Whodunnit?" S01E01)What's the only thing more fun that a lighthearted came of Clue with friends? Only a high-stakes reality TV version of the game that strangers take way too seriously! Come with us on a journey back to 2013, when ABC turned a half-built mansion into CSI: Beverly Hills, at almost unfathomable cost and with mediocre results. The game… is murder! But somehow, as always, it all comes back to Melora Hardin. Show: WHODUNNIT? \\ "High Voltage," Season 1, Episode 1 Air Date: June 23, 2013 Find it: on ABC.com Snack: Jampler! (jam sampler) from Trade Street Jam Co...
2020-08-141h 14
Hugging And LearningSaved By the Cowbell ("Hey Dude" S3E11)It's a little wild and a little strange that this is our first HEY DUDE episode. And it's a doozy of a debut — this is the LOST episode of the beloved Nickelodeon show. "Lost," you say? Imagine if Sam Shepard wrote most of an episode of this light teen comedy, and you'll soon figure out why. Join us for a deep dive into the fraught interpersonal relationships of the adult children of alcoholics, and also stinky feet jokes. Show: HEY DUDE \\ "Melody's Brother" Season 3, Episode 11 Air Date: June 15, 1990 Find it: Good luck finding th...
2020-08-0758 min
Hugging And LearningJesus Koala ("The Gospel Bill Show" S01E21)Have you ever heard of Gospel Bill? If not, let's close that #blessed chapter of your life. Join Andrew, Chelsea, and the rest of the Dry Gulch Gang as we attempt to keep the devil out of our thoughts from way down deep inside God's pouch. Confused? Don't worry. We are, too. Show: THE GOSPEL BILL SHOW \\ "Control Your Thoughts," Season 1, Episode 21 Air Date: sometime around 1982? Find it: on YouTube Snack: Oh Mazing Granola Snack Further Reading: The Gospel Bill Show | Wikipedia
2020-07-311h 03
Hugging And LearningGolden Wonka ("The Golden Girls" S2E24)What could be better than an episode of THE GOLDEN GIRLS in These Troubling Times™? How about an episode TGG that's also THE WIRE, a rom/com, and a George Clooney vehicle all at once?! This week, we explore the twists and turns of a singular episode of sitcom television, and also launch our GoFundMe campaign to raise the $3MIL we need to purchase the Golden Girls house, which has just come on the LA real estate market. We're doing important work over here. Join us. Show: THE GOLDEN GIRLS \\ "To Catch a Neighbor," Season 2, Episode 24 ...
2020-07-241h 03
Hugging And LearningAlan Thicke Cinematic Universe ("The Facts of Life" S9E16)The first time you do anything is complex — the first time you have sex, the first time you learn your boyfriend's real name, the first time you're low-key slut-shamed by the boarding school friends you are too old to still be living with in your 20s. Will Natalie navigate the choppy waters of this new life phase with grace and strength? Will Jo voice a value judgement on her friend's decisions? Will the origins of this random Australian child ever be made known to us? Tune in to find out! Show: THE FACTS OF LIFE \\ "The First Ti...
2020-07-1055 min
Hugging And LearningI Am The Fright Zone ("She-Ra and the Princesses of Power" S1E09)Y'all… did you know the Netflix SHE-RA reboot is like, really really awesome?! This week, we're back on Etheria for a way more nuanced plot and character discussion than we've ever had about this world. It's almost like this show isn't a half-hour commercial for toys! Join Chelsea, Andrew, Adora, and the other Princesses of Power (one of whom is Friend of the Pod Vella Lovell) as we do some actual learning in this time of virtual hugging. Show: SHE-RA AND THE PRINCESSES OF POWER \\ "No Princess Left Behind," Season 1, Episode 9 Air Date: November 13, 2018 Fin...
2020-07-0352 min
Hugging And LearningDid I Hear Calculus? ("Diffrent Strokes" S7E24)Figuring out if most VSEs of DIFF'RENT STROKES did more harm or more good, requires a degree in advanced mathematics. This one is no exception. Did we learn something about street buskers with epilepsy? Sure. But at what societal cost? All this and more will be pondered at length. Show: DIFF'RENT STROKES \\ "A Special Friend" Season 7, Episode 24 Air Date: May 4, 1985 Find it: good luck! Snack: Butter Rum LifeSavers Health Discovery Super Food Nutrient Crackers Further Reading: Myths About Epilepsy | Epilepsy-Ohio.org Epilepsy Myths | Epilepsy Society
2020-06-261h 00
Hugging And LearningMiloš! ("The Office" S01E02)Ah, THE OFFICE. So lovable. So quotable. So still finding its footing in this episode (but that's a great thing!). Come along with three perennial OFFICE re-watchers as we join the ultimate fan of hugging and foe of learning — Michael Scott — and the rest of our heart's coworkers on Diversity Training Day. Buckle up. Show: THE OFFICE \\ "Diversity Day," Season 1, Episode 2 Air Date: March 29, 2005 Special Guest Star: Larry Wilmore Find it: on Netflix Snack: Trader Joe's Almond Croissants Further Reading: Diversity Day (The Office) | Wikipedia The Offi...
2020-06-191h 12
Hugging And LearningEmmy for Child Endangerment ("Kid Nation" S01E01)Welcome to Bonanza City, where a group of 40 children will be allowed to form their own society — as long as it adheres exactly to the parameters the producers have laid out for them. In the early days of reality TV, it was quite literally the Wild Welcome to Bonanza City, where a group of 40 children will be allowed to form their own society — as long as it adheres exactly to the parameters laid out by the producers. In the early days of reality TV, it was quite literally the Wild West, and no one knows that better than the pare...
2020-06-121h 35
Hugging And LearningEp 087: Melanate Your Feed (Black Lives Matter)If you were going to spend an hour this week listening to Hugging and Learning, we'd like to encourage you to listen/subscribe to one of the following comedy/pop culture podcasts instead: Still Processing Minority Korner Why Won't You Date Me? The Nod So Here's What Happened Introverted Black Girl FruitLoops: Serial Killers of Color 2 Dope Queens Code Switch The Read Be well. Raise hell. Black Lives Matter.
2020-06-0510 min
Hugging And LearningBooksack: Child Noir ("EERIE, INDIANA" S1E06)It's 1991, PSA and VSEs are all the rage, but one show dares to be different: EERIE, INDIANA — TWIN PEAKS for TWEENS. If you remember this show (which ran for a single season and was a nearly-perfect ratings bomb), you probably remember it fondly. Join Chelsea, Andrew, and Very Special Guest Allie Fireel as we plumb the depths of this smart, layered show to arrive at a unanimous conclusion: NBC was not ready. Show: EERIE, INDIANA \\ "Just Say No Fun," Season 1, Episode 6 Air Date: October 27, 1991 Very Special Guest: Allie Fireel (Artistic Director of Louisville Fr...
2020-05-291h 21
Hugging And LearningNo. Problem!! ("ALF" S1E04)We hate to break it to you, but if your childhood recollections of Gordon Shumway include character traits like "loveable," "caring," or "friendly," you might want to rewatch ALF. Preferably with a good snack or a stiff drink close at hand. Join your hosts, Ronald Reagan (not really), Harry Shearer (yes really) and a very callus and unfeeling extraterrestrial as we debate nuclear disarmament and the addition of a second phone line as equally-weighted issues in the life of the Tanner family. Show: ALF \\ "Pennsylvania 6-5000," Season 1, Episode 4 Air Date: October 13, 1986 Special Guest...
2020-05-221h 06
Hugging And LearningMiseri Bears ("Gummi Bears" S01E11a)Can mythical anthropomorphic bears have sensitive, consent-filled filled relationships with the visually impaired? Don't get your hopes up. Join Chelsea, Andrew, Miles, Tummi Gummi, Duke Igthorn, and (Ka)Trina the shepherdess on an adventure where we learn a lot about self-sufficiency and nothing at all about sensitivity. Show: GUMMI BEARS \\ "What You See is Me," Season 1, Episode 11a Air Date: December 7, 1985 Find it: on Disney+ Snack: Lolli and Pop's Gourmet Gummy Bears Further Reading: Disney's Adventures of the Gummi Bears | Wikipedia 9 Furry Facts About Disney's Adventures of the G...
2020-05-1545 min
Hugging And LearningDick Van Dyke Move ("The Dick Van Dyke Show" S4E10)This episode has it all: accidental wife-punching, a small drug overdose, thirty-five glorious seconds of verbal gymnastics, the Mary Tyler More Physical Comedy Spetacular — and that's BEFORE we get to the special message about prescription drug abuse! They don't make 'em like this anymore, folks. Come on in (and look out for that ottoman)! Show: The Dick Van Dyke Show \\ "Pink Pills and Purple Parents," Season 4, Episode 10 Air Date: November 25, 1964 Find it: on Hulu Snack: Kellogg's Peeps Marshmallow Cereal Lay's Baked Chips Cheddar & Sour Cream Further Reading: 6 Little-Known Facts...
2020-05-081h 02
Hugging And LearningJust An Old Plant ("Thundercats" S1E09)Would you like to be on drugs right now, but you've run out, and your dealer won't come within six feet of you? We have the solution: THUNDERCATS. Join Chelsea, Andrew, Miles, and all fourteen citizens of Third Earth as we test the drug tolerance of cat/human hybrids (very low) and our own ability to drag a moral kicking and screaming out of a cartoon (top-notch). Show: THUNDERCATS \\ "The Garden of Delights," Season 1, Episode 9 Air Date: September 19, 1985 Find it: on Amazon Prime Video ($1.99) Snack: Hello Panda Chocolate Cookies ...
2020-05-0159 min
Hugging And LearningA Johnny Dakota Joint ("Saved By the Bell" S3E21)The hypocrisy really stacks up like a layer cake in this meta anti-anti-drug-PSA episode of SAVED BY THE BELL. Let us break it all down for you: the unsubstantiated rumors, the real-life relationships, the bizarre writing choices, and that head-scratcher of an ending. After we delve into this, you'll be saying, "Thanks, Guy." And you'll really mean it. Show: SAVED BY THE BELL \\ "No Hope With Dope," Season 3, Episode 21 Air Date: November 30, 1991 Find it: on HULU Snack: La Croix HI-Biscus! Sparkling Water Further Reading: 7 Bits of Behind-the-Scenes Dirt...
2020-04-241h 14
Hugging And LearningKids, Emancipated ("Kids, Incorporated" S6E15)It's a world of song, dance, wonder, and a conspicuous absence of parents and child labor laws. It's the world of KIDS, INC! But there is trouble in paradise — tiny new kid Robin is facing bullying by some local toughs. What can the other kids do to help? Why is Billy Blanks here? Who wrote this weird song we can't find anywhere on the internet? All these questions, and many more, will be given their due. Show: KIDS, INCORPORATED \\ "Karate Kids," Season 6, Episode 15 Air Date: 1989 Special Guest Star: Billy Blanks Find it...
2020-04-171h 01
Hugging And Learninga-POD-calypse ("Parks and Recreation" S3E02)It's the end times, and all bets are off! Welcome to Season 4 of Hugging & Learning — the gas leak season. We're kicking off this free-for-all with a discussion of a show near and dear to our hearts, and a premise that just hits a little different these days. Join Chelsea, Andrew, Miles, Leslie Knope, Anne Perkins, and the disease-ridden citizens of Pawnee as we discuss things that now ring nostalgic (gathering in large groups) and horrifying (kissing a person with the flu). Show: PARKS AND RECREATION \\ "Flu Season," Season 3, Episode 2 Air Date: January 27, 2011 Find it...
2020-04-101h 04
Hugging And LearningEp 078: Sick Sugarburn ("Designing Women" S3E22)Julia Sugarbaker takes on her most formidable opponent yet: the U.S. Constitution! Is pornography protected under free speech? Is it obscenity, or capitalism, or both? And what does TROOP BEVERLY HILLS have to do with any of this? Join your hosts, the women of Sugarbaker and Associates, Anthony, and a very aggrieved newsman in our Season 3 finale to find out! Show: DESIGNING WOMEN \\ "Julia Drives Over the First Amendment," Season 3, Episode 22 Air Date: May 22, 1989 Find it: on Hulu Snack: Trader Joe's Peanut Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets Further Reading:
2020-03-131h 12
Hugging And LearningEp 077: Fully Buggin' ("Saved by the Bell" S4E01)Very Special Guest Vella Lovell joins us this week to dive deep into the most shocking travesty of the 90s: the breakup of Zack Morris and Kelly Kapowski. We get into it: Is Zack a possessive creep? Who's responsible for HR at the The Max? How does live singing in a TV show work? And what's the thing about Jeff? Spoiler: the questions are myriad and the answers are few. Show: SAVED BY THE BELL \\ "The Last Dance" Season 4, Episode 1 Air Date: September 14, 1991 Special Guest Star: Baby Scott Wolf Find it...
2020-03-061h 15
Hugging And LearningStep by Step Off! ("Step By Step" S4E18)It's a race against time, as this episodes tries to identify, diagnose, and provide study solutions to a character with a learning disorder, while making sure we get full B and C plots about uppity preschool teachers and nerds in love. Does it sound like too much for one episode? You wish! This is the 90s — nothing is impossible! Join us for perhaps our first episode of Hugging and Learning that's actually about LEARNING! Show: STEP BY STEP \\ "Back to School," Season 4, Episode 18 Air Date: March 3, 1995 Find it: on Hulu Snack: M...
2020-02-2855 min
Hugging And LearningAll the Way Awful ("Diff'rent Strokes" S5E08)Many of the very special episodes we've watched thus far have been misguided, off-putting, and tone-deaf — but never has one outright assaulted us before today! Back in 1982, child stars were just disposable puppets and consent was a foreign concept. Give this a listen if you dare, but be forewarned: you'll become an accessory to this mess as well. Show: DIFF'RENT STROKES \\ "A Case of Overexposure," Season 5, Episode 8 Air Date: November 20, 1982 Find it: on Hulu +Starz or Amazon Prime +Starz Snack: Brami Italian Snacking Beans Further Reading: Citizen's Guide to US...
2020-02-2155 min
Hugging And LearningBoob-Hinge ("Blossom" S01E06)Did you even know that boobs have hinges? Or that cotton "gin" is short for cotton "engine"? Or that one is supposed to wear turtlenecks to Make Out Parties, no matter how insane the final outfit result may be? For a half-hour sitcom, BLOSSOM is very heavy on the learning this week. Join us for an exceptionally educational episode, and don't worry if you've never been to a Make Out Party. Andy hasn't either. Show: BLOSSOM \\ "Sex, Lies, and Teenagers," Season 1, Episode 5 Air Date: Feb 4, 1991 Special Guest Stars: Phil Donahue, Tobey Maguire, Johnny...
2020-02-141h 01
Hugging And LearningTime Capsule of Bad Ideas ("Diff'rent Strokes" S5E01)Is it possible to love video games TOO MUCH? This is question we ask ourselves daily, and now we'll attempt to answer it with the help of a bunch of sitcom writers who seem never to have played one. Join Chelsea, Andy, Miles, Willis, Arnold, and the rest of the Space Suckers as we plumb the depths of arcade-based addiction and platitude-based parenting. Show: DIFF'RENT STROKES \\ "Shootout at the OK Arcade," Season 5, Episode 1 Air Date: October 2, 1982 Find it: Hulu +Starz or Amazon Prime +Starz Snack: Russell Stover Sugar Free Dark Cho...
2020-02-071h 04
Hugging And LearningJust An Old Woman ("He-Man" S01E10)In this episode we meet Jarvan! He throws flash balls, he apparates and disapparates, he can change his appearance at will — but are all these powers any match for the mopey low-self esteem of a scantily-clad blond? That's right, we're back on this bullshit. Let's see if Mattel handles this thorny issue any better than Hasbro did last week. Spoiler alert: even on Eternia, you can be not good enough to be good for nothing. Show: He-Man and The Masters of the Universe \\ "A Friend in Need," Season 1, Episode 10 Air Date: October 17, 1983 Special Gues...
2020-01-3155 min
Hugging And LearningThe Jemini Paradox ("Jem" S02E13)What's it like to be a foster kid in the 80s? How do teenagers deal with sudden traumatic loss? Are older redheaded men preying on impressionable teen girls? None of these questions will be answered in this episode, which instead tackles the real scourge of teen girldom — low self-esteem. Want to see something truly outrageous? Join Chelsea, Andrew, Miles, Jem, The Holograms, A Salty Social Worker, but sadly NOT Rio or the Misfits, as we travel down the quickest drug spiral known to medical science, with the wettest blanket known to television. Show: Jem (And the Holograms) \\ "Alo...
2020-01-241h 04
Hugging And LearningEp 070: High School Arms Dealer ("Family Matters" S6E15)Remember the "Squash It" campaign to end teen violence? Remember Chicago's infamous Vanderbilt High School? Remember how much Andy hates magic? No? Well, you're about to! Join us as we journey with the Winslow family through the world's smallest, most dangerous parking lot. Show: FAMILY MATTERS \\ "The Gun," Season 5, Episode 16 Air Date: February 10, 1995 Special Guest Star: Freddy Prinze, Jr. Find it: on Hulu Snack: Kind Whole Fruit Bars Further Reading: 20 Years After the Shooting on the Playground by Mary Hollis Inboden | NY Times LA Gun Buyback progr...
2020-01-171h 00
Hugging And LearningEp 069: Boy Meets West ("Boy Meets World" S05E18)Teen drinking in sitcoms has drastic effects. It turns Corey cool, Shawn violent, and somehow… Angela pays the price? Between "absolutely no effect" and "Mad-Men-level functionality" lies the truth about teens and alcohol. Will we reach it in this episode? Join us and find out! Show: BOY MEETS WORLD \\ "If You Can't Be With the One You Love…" Season 5, Episode 18 Air Date: March 6, 1998 Find it: on Disney+ Snack: Murray's Sugar Free Vanilla Wafers Further Reading: Is 18 the new 15? Today's teens drink and date less than in the 70s, study sa...
2020-01-1056 min
Hugging And LearningThat's Kickin' It! ("The KNOTB Animated Christmas Special")This holiday special has it all: a megafamous boy band, bad Boston accents, insane transitions, a ghost kid, live concert footage, and an almost-impossible-to-comprehend narrative style. It's KNOTB: The Edge of Reason. Join Chelsea, Andrew, Miles, Miles's personal friend Joey McIntyre, and the rest of the Bean Town Posse for a cool ride through the Yuletide. Show: The New Kids on the Block Animated Christmas Special Air Date: December 14, 1990 Special Guest Star: All the New Kids! (kinda) Find it: at the Paley Center or on YouTube Snack: Trader Joe's Ginge...
2019-12-271h 19
Hugging And LearningThe Fellowship of the Claus ("The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus" TV Movie)'Tis the season to be re-watching our favorite holiday movies. You know, the ones we remember so fondly from childhood about Santa and his pet immortal lioness, his abduction by fairies, his tangles Gandalf, etc. No? Not ringing a (jingle) bell? Join Chelsea and Andrew as we make our merry way through the last (and best!) of the Rankin/Bass stop-motion animation Christmas specials. Show: "The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus" Rankin/Bass Animagic Christmas Special Air Date: December 17,1985 Find it: on AMC Snack: Oreo Cookie Holiday House ...
2019-12-201h 12
Hugging And LearningStoney Baloney ("Roseanne" S6E04)When Roseanne finds the alleged pot stash of her daughter's-live-in-boyfriend-except-her-daughter-moved-out, Chelsea and Andrew have more questions than just "what is this relationship even?" Do we inevitably turn into our parents, or were we never as cool as we remember being? Just how potent is 20-year-old toilet pot? Join us for an exploration of all these topics, and a whole lot of Laurie Metcalf fangirling. Show: SHOW NAME \\ "ep name," Season #, Episode # Air Date: October 5, 1993 Special Guest Star: Paul Feig Find it: on Amazon Prime Video (included) Snack: Milk Chocolate Caramel...
2019-12-1357 min
Hugging And LearningWhat Has Occurred?? ("What's Happening!!" S02E18)What happens if you join a cult, and then find out that it's a scam? Do you turn the con artists into the authorities? Expose them as frauds? Try to get compensation for all their past victims? HEY HEY HEY — NO! You enact some sitcom justice with the help of a Broadway Star and a lot of what we sure hope isn't pesticide. Join us as we probe the dark corners of a nature-based cult and the giant curves of a 70s bald cap. Show: WHAT'S HAPPENING!! \\ "Rerun Sees the Light," Season 2, Episode 18 Air Date: Fe...
2019-12-061h 04
Hugging And LearningHate Club ("Friends" S08E09)Must-See TV? We'll be the judges of that. The Thanksgiving episodes of FRIENDS are legendary, and this is one of the most memorable of them all. But… does it have anything to teach us today? Besides the fact that we never deserved Phoebe Buffay? Put on your turkey-eating pants and let's dive into this smorgasbord together. *clap*clap*clap*clap* Show: FRIENDS \\ "The One With the Rumor," Season 8, Episode 9 Air Date: November 22, 2001 Special Guest Star: Brad Pitt Find it: on Netflix Snack: Trader Joe's Apple Cranberry Tart Further...
2019-11-2858 min
Hugging And LearningTyphoid Mary Ann ("Good Times" S03E21)Feeling a little too cocky in 1970s Chicago? There's nothing like an STI scare and a lecture on sexual health from Jay Leno to put you in your place. Join Chelsea, Andy, and the cast of GOOD TIMES as we confront the stigma around STI testing and treatment, in as much detail as Standards & Practices will allow. Show: GOOD TIMES \\ "JJ In Trouble" Season 3, Episode 21 Air Date: February 3, 1976 Special Guest Star: Jay Leno Find it: on Starz, or Hulu + Starz Snack: Butterfinger Peanut Butter Cups Further Reading:...
2019-11-2259 min
Hugging And LearningGroup Toot ("Growing Pains" S02E15)What are the Seaver kids up to this week? Why, a good old-fashioned 80s cocaine party! Join Chelsea, Andrew, Miles, Mike, Boner, and Michael Caine (in spirit) as we dive into what to do when you're at a party and your dad's much-younger fiancé dangles a vial of blow in your face. Show: GROWING PAINS \\ "Thank God It's Friday," Season 2 Episode 15 Air Date: February 10, 1987 Find it: on Amazon Prime Video Snack: Jelly Belly Holiday Favorites Further Reading: From Cringeworthy to Scary: A History of Anti-Drug PSAs | Marketplace Just Say N...
2019-11-1554 min
Hugging And LearningCaptain Corelli's Mandalorian ("Hannah Montana" S02E30)Well this is a first — Chelsea and Andrew unwittingly watched two different episodes of Hannah Montana! Both of them are about Type 1 Diabetes. Join us on a sugar-fueled adventure through a world of secrets, soul patches, and Disney-Trained Child Actors (TM), where felonies are punchlines, twenty-somethings are tweens, and everyone has an extensive wig collection. Show: HANNAH MONTANA \\ "No Sugar, Sugar," Season 2, Episode 30 (originally) Air Date: November 2, 2008 (originally) Find it: on Amazon Prime Video Snack: Kinder Joy Egg Further Reading: The Truth About the 'Hannah Montana' Diabetes Episode | Pa...
2019-11-081h 01
Hugging And LearningPur-itan And Simple ("The Brady Bunch" S02E04)The Brady Bunch are in the (sanitized, Euro-American) Thanksgiving spirit! Join Chelsea and Andrew as they wade through a swamp of insensitivity, problematic nomenclature, revisionist history, and groovy slang to get to the heart of the Thanksgiving holiday itself: sight gags. Ad-libbing abounds on this trip down memory lane to an older, less-inclusive time. Happy Native American Heritage Month! *facepalm* Show: THE BRADY BUNCH \\ "The Un-Underground Movie," Season 2, Episode 04 Air Date: October 16, 1970 Find it: on Hulu or CBS All Access Snack: 365 Organic Dark Chocolate Quinoa Bark Further Reading: M...
2019-11-0150 min
Hugging And Learning80s, very special episode, family, sitcom, comedy, tv, television, writing, hero, journey, snacks, halloween, spooky, ghost, spirit, cave, demon, haunted, punky, brewster, kids, fight, shelobHow scary is TOO scary for children? It's a question seemingly no one on the set of this infamous episode ever asked. Join Andrew, Chelsea, Miles, Mr. Pieces, Punky, Brandon (for your Emmy consideration) and the rest of the gang as we literally and figuratively fight our way out of a demon-haunted cave in definitely somewhere close to Chicago and not the coast of California. Show: Punky Brewster \\ "The Perils of Punky, Parts 1&2," Season 2, Episodes 6 & 7 Air Date: October 20, 1985 Find it: on Amazon Prime Video ($1.99 for each episode) Snacks: Homemade: Trader...
2019-10-251h 03
Hugging And LearningHalloween Hypocrisy ("My So-Called Life" S01E09)Like an angst-seeking missile, Angela Chase has gone from trailing after living phantom Jordan Catalano to actual phantom Nicky Driscoll in this Halloweeniest of episodes. We promise this is not a backdoor pilot for Chelsea's spinoff MSCL podcast. Probably. Show: MY SO-CALLED LIFE \\ "Halloween," Season 1, Episode 9 Air Date: October 27, 1994 Find it: on Amazon Prime Video ($0.99 to buy episode) Snacks: Handmade: donuts from Blue Star Donuts Spooky: Brach's Classic Candy Corn, M&Ms White Chocolate Candy Corn, Kraft Jet-Puffed Candy Corn Mallows Sweet: M&Ms Creepy Cocoa Crisp Further Reading:
2019-10-181h 24
Hugging And LearningDouglas Howser, Plumber ("Doogie Howser, M.D." S04E01)Doogie Howser may be the youngest practicing surgeon in greater Los Angeles, but when the 1992 LA riots come rolling through his ER, he engages his black patients and colleagues with the moralizing and head-patting of a much older man. Will he learn to confront his white privilege in the face of a city on fire? Or just misquote MLK and call it a day? There are a lot of sides to this story, and we're gonna try to cover them ALL in one short episode (just like the writers on this sitcom did). Show: Doogie Howser, M.D...
2019-10-111h 06
Hugging And LearningThanks, Satan! ("Salute Your Shorts" S01E13)Landfills are overflowing, the ice caps are melting, and the oceans are dying. What's a 90s kid to do? The bare minimum, as it turns out. Join Chelsea and Andrew as we head back to Camp Ananwanna for litter, lectures, and one truly lame Environmental Party. Show: Salute Your Shorts \\ "ZZ Saves the Planet," Season 1, Episode 13 Air Date: July 1, 1991 Find it: some episodes on Amazon Prime Video (but not this one) Snack: Nestle's Coffee Crisp Candy Bar Further Reading: 'Salute Your Shorts' Turns 25: Where Are They Now? '90s kid...
2019-10-0452 min
Hugging And LearningTootie Finds a Bong ("The Facts of Life" S01E13)The title of this episode is a bit misleading, because Tootie actually finds FOUR BONGS over the course of 24 minutes. What is going on here? And who will take these wayward children firmly in hand? You can bet it won't be Mrs. Garrett, so come along with us and Oscar-Winner Helen Hunt to plumb the depths of Eastland School — hotbed of crime. Show: THE FACTS OF LIFE \\ "Dope," Season 1, Episode 13 Air Date: June 11, 1980 Special Guest Star: Helen Hunt Find it: at the Paley Center Snack: Trader Joe's Milk Chocolate & Honey T...
2019-09-2758 min
Hugging And LearningConvicted DraculaWelcome back for Season 3! It's time to confront the convicted rapist elephant in the room — Bill Cosby. Can we still watch THE COSBY SHOW and feel okay with ourselves? We've been avoiding it for two seasons, but it's time to face this dracula head-on. Join Andrew, Chelsea, Miles, and Sammy Davis Jr. as we grapple with whether or not it's ever possible to separate the artist from the art, and what happens when a VSE raises more questions about illiteracy than it answers. Show: THE COSBY SHOW \\ "No Way, Baby" Season 5, Episode 16 Air Dat...
2019-09-2056 min
Hugging And LearningBonusode #2Do you miss us?? Andrew, Chelsea, and Miles are here for a Season 2 recap and Q&A to tide you over until Season 3 drops! We're ranking the eps (both awesome and awful), reminiscing about the guests, and answering your listener questions. Plus, we look ahead to ponder the deepest issue of this program — how do we up our snack game for Season 3? Snack: Vosges Peanut Butter BonBons (sent by Jeff Noble — thanks!)
2019-09-1348 min
Hugging And LearningAugust, Bayside County ("Saved by the Bell" S02E09)Here it is: the granddaddy of them all. If you remember only one VSE from the 90s, it's probably this one. WE'RE SO EXCITED because tonight we're gonna make it happen — with the help of our Very Special Guest, writer and culture vulture Brian Otaño. Join us for our Season 2 Finale as we talk all things Hot Sundae, Camp, Valley of the Dolls, The Max, Speed, and Zack Morris being the worst friend/band manager on the planet. Show: SAVED BY THE BELL \\ "Jessie's Song," Season 2, Episode 9 Air Date: November 30, 1990 Very Special Guest...
2019-08-161h 02
Hugging And LearningCosmic Slides ("Dragnet 67" S01E01)There's something happening here — what it is ain't exactly clear. Because the actors are reading off teleprompters, so there's no emotional journey to track. Welcome to the baffling world of DRAGNET 67, the (first) reboot of the un-self-aware police procedural that will not quit! Join Andy, Chelsea, and Blue Boy as we learn about the terrifying dangers of LSD (overstated), the Sunset Strip Curfew Riots (fascinating) and actor/writer Jack Webb's relationship with real LAPD cops (very chummy). Plus, we pitch our idea for a promising further reboot: RuPaul's Dragnet! Show: DRAGNET 67 \\ "The LSD Story," Season 1, Episode 1 ...
2019-08-091h 12
Hugging And LearningTerrorist Vanity ProjectChelsea and Andy continue our in-depth and serious exploration of the depiction of punk and rock music in popular media — with a cartoon created to sell action figures. Joined by Very Special Guests Garrett and Lane Nobriga of the LA-based metal band Altered Revelations, we tackle the tough questions: Is there really only one terrorist org in the whole world? What is the third girl's name? And how does 50 Cent factor into all this? And we're finally able to utter that immortal phrase: Yo, Jo(seph Campbell)! Show: GI JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO \\ "Cold Slither," Season 1, Epis...
2019-08-021h 10
Hugging And LearningSnack on This!This is a VERY SPECIAL very special episode of Hugging and Learning! Miles steps out from the control-room booth with beats-a-plenty as Andy and Chelsea take a brief and well deserved sabbatical. Enjoy 30 minutes of uninterrupted mashups and mixes followed by a little bit of hugs and learns for good measure. For more of Miles's mixes visit https://soundcloud.com/miles_polaski
2019-07-2640 min
Hugging And LearningBrad Smash ("Home Improvement" S07E16) Tim and Jill The Tool Parents Taylor face a conundrum when they catch one of their sons with a bag of pot: is it better to be honest with your kids and hope they learn from your mistakes, or lie to them and treat them as potential felons? That's an important question, probably worth its own episode of exploration, but we have to devote at least 50% of this episode to wondering about JTT's current whereabouts, and discussing the irony of Tim Allen's whole career. Sorry not sorry. Show: HOME IMPROVEMENT \\ "What a Drag,"...
2019-07-1956 min
Hugging And LearningThe Diary of Moesha Keys ("Moesha" S04E08)Moesha is seventeen and she knows what she wants! Maybe. She thinks. Maybe not. For sure. Perhaps she should talk to a handful of people about it, all of whom have contradictory opinions. Join us as we delve into the Moesha-verse and update you on the Norwood/Vaughn split (as of 2015). Just try not to get tonal whiplash. Show: MOESHA \\ "Birth Control," Season 4, Episode 8 Air Date: November 24, 1998 Find it: at the Paley Center Snack: Green Tea flavored Pumpkin Seeds, Lemon Pink Salt flavored Pea Crackers, and HOM Corn Cheese Flavored Banana Chips ...
2019-07-121h 01
Hugging And LearningSquick Out ("CHiPs" S05E16)In this episode, we revisit one of our favorite topics — TV shows using "punkers" as escape goats! Join Andrew, Chelsea, Very Special Guest Kylie Michel, and Erik Estrada's extremely tight pants as we cruise around LA (in seconds!) pursuing stolen guitars, sparkly shirts, flat tires, and anti-feminist blond jugglers. Just watch out for stick fights! Show: CHiPs \\ "Battle of the Bands," Season 5, Episode 16 Air Date: January 31, 1982 Very Special Guest: Kylie Michel Guest Star: William Forsythe Find it: on Amazon Prime Video ($2.99 to buy) Snack: Ralph's Banana Nut/Ch...
2019-07-051h 24
Hugging And LearningHumble Trucker Superstar ("The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" S04E24)Here it is -- THAT episode of FRESH PRINCE. The one that makes you tear up, even now, in adulthood. The one that taught you that parents aren't perfect, that it's healthy to express anger, and that Geoffrey walks a real fine line between comic relief and unemployment. Join us for a walk down memory lane. Never have we hugged harder or learned more. Show: THE FRESH PRINCE OF BEL-AIR \\ "Papa's Got a Brand New Excuse," Season 4, Episode 24 Air Date: May 9, 1994 Guest Star: Broadway Legend Ben Vereen Find it: on Amazon Prime...
2019-06-281h 00
Hugging And LearningEp 044: Deus ex Bartokomous ("Perfect Strangers" S03E03)Balki doesn't understand lots of things about America, but he has to admit that being forcibly kissed by one's boss doesn't seem like a normal workday occurrence — even in 1987! Do the Dance of Formal HR Complaint with Chelsea, Andrew, their memories of years lived in Chicago, and a Blanche Archetype drunk on power. What could be more American? Show: PERFECT STRANGERS \\ "Sexual Harassment in Chicago," Season 3, Episode 3 Air Date: October 7, 1987 Find it: on Hulu Snack: Rocky Road Trip Oreos!!! Further Reading: Men account for nearly 1 in 5 complaints of wo...
2019-06-211h 04
Hugging And LearningNaughty ("Courage the Cowardly Dog" S01E03)Have you ever wondered what would happen if some animators threw Dr. Seuss, Edgar Allan Poe, and Sweeny Todd into a blender, and then figured out exactly how much they could scar children in 15 minutes? Well, wonder no longer. We'd like to (re)introduce you to this insane episode. Join Chelsea, Andrew, Miles, Freaky Fred, and Courage the Cowardly dog, as we wade through what would happen if a nightmare left a bad taste in your mouth and called it cartoons. Show: COURAGE THE COWARDLY DOG \\ "Freaky Fred," Season 1, Episode 3, Segment 2 Air Date: December 3, 1999 ...
2019-06-1446 min
Hugging And LearningThat's What Blanche Said ("The Golden Girls" S02E05)Thank you for being a friend to LGBTQ+ folx since the 1980s, "The Golden Girls"! Andy and Chelsea jump feels-first into the world of smutty cowboy movies, crappy clown sundaes, and romantic widow bonding. Join us for a deep-dive into all these topics — plus a discussion a few ways FRIENDS could have dealt with shit better (it's related, we promise). Show: THE GOLDEN GIRLS \\ "Isn't It Romantic," Season 2, Episode 5 Air Date: November 8, 1986 Find it: on Hulu Snack: Nabisco Chewy Chips Ahoy! Made With Reese's Peanut Butter Cups Further Reading: 1...
2019-06-0749 min
Hugging And LearningHunky Buns ("Family Matters" S09E01)What's better than one Jaleel White in an episode of TV? How about THREE? It's season 9 of FAMILY MATTERS, and this is basically a sci-fi show now — but date auctions still bring out the worst in everyone. Join Andy and Chelsea as we navigate the turbulent, confusing, and sometimes infuriating waters of this sitcom, desperate to find a safe port from the shitstorm. Show: FAMILY MATTERS \\ "Out With The Old," Season 9, Episode 1 Air Date: September 19, 1997 Find it: on Hulu Snack: Goldfish Epic Crunch Ranch and Honey BBQ flavors Further Re...
2019-05-3153 min
Hugging And LearningA-Scared Straight ("Leave It To Beaver" S03E20)The Beave is at it again: repeating things verbatim to the wrong people, messing around in the yard with Larry, and befriending creepy drunks he meets on the sidewalk. But he's not the only one with "troubles" — Wally's imaginary girlfriend is mad at him, and The Parents Cleaver are locked in a silent, vague battle of wills. There's a lot going on under the surface of "Leave It To Beaver." Luckily Andrew and Chelsea are here to dig it all up and scrutinize it mercilessly. Show: LEAVE IT TO BEAVER \\ "Beaver and Andy," Season 3, Episode 20 Ai...
2019-05-241h 04
Hugging And LearningThe Dead Mom Card ("Full House" S08E10)It's time for DJ and Kimmy to attend their first frat party — at the only frat in the world that kicks you out for drinking beer. Whose remembrance of the evening is correct? Which of the girls was actually beset with hunks, and which ended up on reject row? Alcohol clouds the memory, so we're here to break it all down for you. How will these BFFs (best friends forever) survive becoming BFFs (bitter fucking foes)? And how on earth could Kimmy have forgotten the entire inciting incident of this show? You'll have to listen to find out. ...
2019-05-1751 min
Hugging And LearningHoping to Find a Butt ("Happy Days" S06E17)It's All Dudes On Deck when baby sister Joanie Cunningham starts *gasp* smoking cigarettes on HAPPY DAYS. Now that she's a member of The Magnets, nothing is too grown up for this sixteen-year-old. Join Andrew, Chelsea, and literally every man in Joanie's life as they try to tempt her back to the side of health in the 1950s, using 1970s logic. It's a *cough* smoooooth ride. Show: HAPPY DAYS \\ "Smokin' Ain't Cool," Season 6, Episode 17 Air Date: January 16, 1979 Find it: At the Paley Center Snack: Haribo Fizzy Cola Gummi Candy Furt...
2019-05-1057 min
Hugging And LearningUnder-Promising, Over-Delivering ("Hey, Arnold!" S01E11)It's Christmas in May at Hugging and Learning! We dive deep into the charmingly ambiguous world of Arnold et all as they discover the true spirit of the holidays through a gut-wrenching story of war and family separation. Cartoons are fun! Our Very Special Guest Jonathan House joins us for the maximum twists and and turns and emotional payoff that Nickelodeon ever packed into a 24-minute show about nine-year-olds. Join us, won't you? Show: HEY, ARNOLD! \\ "Arnold's Christmas," Season 1, Episode 11 Air Date: December 11, 1996 Very Special Guest: Jonathan House Find it: on...
2019-05-0357 min
Hugging And LearningSelf-Proclaimed Punkers ("Quincy, ME" S08E08)Are the teens of the 80s legitmately concerned about the state of the world they're inheriting, or are they being brainwashed into angry zombies by this "silly fad" of punk music? You think you know, but you have no idea, man. Join Chelsea and Andrew as they follow the adventures of a rogue medical examiner and his reactionary girlfriend into a world of outrage, slamdancing, murder, and good old 'ludes. When they're around, every room is an emergency room. Show: QUINCY, ME \\ "Next Stop, Nowhere," Season 8, Episode 8 Air Date: December 1, 1982 Special Guest Star: 14...
2019-04-261h 18
Hugging And LearningEp 035: Feminist Kimpossible Agenda : Part 2! We're back again! Call us, beep us, if you wanna discuss Kim Possible with us (some more)! Join Chelsea, Andrew, and our Very Special Guest Mary Chieffo to discuss the Kim Possible TV movie that taught us many valuable lessons: don't trust good-looking men, dating is harder than saving the world, and all robots will eventually turn on us. Whether you ship Kim/Ron, desperately want to know Dad Possible's first name, or don't actually know what any of this means — you'll love this episode and our chat with Mary. Show: KIM POSSIBLE \\ "So The Dra...
2019-04-191h 00
Hugging And LearningFeminist Kimpossible Agenda : Part 1! ("Kim Possible: So the Drama" TV Movie)Call us, beep us, if you wanna discuss Kim Possible with us! Join Chelsea, Andrew, and our Very Special Guest Mary Chieffo to discuss the Kim Possible TV movie that taught us many valuable lessons: don't trust good-looking men, dating is harder than saving the world, and all robots will eventually turn on us. Whether you ship Kim/Ron, desperately want to know Dad Possible's first name, or don't actually know what any of this means — you'll love this episode and our chat with Mary. Show: KIM POSSIBLE \\ "So The Drama," TV Movie Air Date: Ap...
2019-04-121h 03
Hugging And LearningGift of the Toni ("Who's The Boss?" S0E11)Growing up is hard on everyone, especially a young girl whose dad hasn't figured out a reasonable set of boundaries with his boss. Join us for our first WTB? episode, as we play catch, bra shop, throw yet another sad TV birthday party, discuss Alyssa Milano's graceful transition from child actor/activist to adult actor/activist, and finally discover the perfect application of Andrew's "vaguely Italian guy" impression. Show: WHO'S THE BOSS \\ "Samantha's Growing Up," Season 1, Episode 11 Air Date: January 8, 1985 Find it: at the Paley Center Snack: Palmer Double Crisp Chocolate Bunn...
2019-04-0555 min
Hugging And LearningThe International Episode ("ER" S09E01)ER was a 331-episode-long action movie where the stakes were always life or death, the romances were slow-burners, and the crash cart was never where you needed it to be, dammit. Join Chelsea, Andrew, Miles, and Very Special Guest Mary Hollis Inboden as we dive deep into the Season 9 opener of the medical drama, complete with amputation, outbreaks, trauma, and sexy quarantine times. Show: ER \\ "Chaos Theory," Season 9, Episode 1 Air Date: September 26, 2002 Special Guest Star: Mary Hollis Inboden Find it: on Hulu Snack: Strawberry Jubes Further Reading: 1...
2019-03-291h 11
Hugging And LearningCaptain Platitude ("Captain Planet and the Planeteers" S02E01)Way back in the 90s, media mogul Ted Turner had a dream: cartoons should teach kids things! Captain Planet premiered, and thus began the greenwashing of the youth. Join Andrew, Chelsea, Miles, Earth, Wind, Fire, Water, Heart, Tidiness, Recycling, White Guilt, Equal Pay, and all the other Planeteers in our quest to stop an evil LeproRat from poisoning the minds of the population with glowing pills and pocket cheese. Show: CAPTAIN PLANET AND THE PLANETEERS \\ "Mind Pollution," Season 2, Episode 1 Air Date: September 14, 1991 Find it: on Amazon Prime Video ($1.99) Snack: Poptarts Crisps...
2019-03-2255 min
Hugging And LearningIt's Horrifying ("Punky Brewster" S02E16)It's the episode you've all been waiting for — Chelsea, Andrew, Miles, and Very Special Guest Chris Yule (from the Finish It! Podcast) get trapped in a huge refrigerator. Luckily, they've all previously learned, and forgotten, CPR. Will Cherie be okay? Should Allen start therapy immediately? Is Jeremy Reams disappointed in the creative license taken with his original vision for this episode? All this will be tackled, and much, much more. Show: PUNKY BREWSTER \\ "Cherie Lifesaver," Season 2, Episode 16 Air Date: January 19, 1986 Very Special Guest Star: Chris Yule from the Finish It! Podcast Fi...
2019-03-151h 01
Hugging And LearningSun-Preparedness Class ("All Summer In A Day" PBS)We're back for Season 2 of the podcast, and kicking it off with a PBS movie that scarred child Andrew for reasons that will quickly become apparent. From the mind of science fiction master Ray Bradbury comes a tale that some (intelligent) people would argue is too bleak for children. Do you agree? Strap on your green poker visor and some sunscreen, and join the gang on Venus for five minutes of sun followed by a lifetime of regret. Show: ALL SUMMER IN A DAY \\ TV Movie aired on PBS Air Date: 1985 Suggest by Li...
2019-03-0855 min
Hugging And LearningEp 028: The Bonusode! (A Very Special Hugging & Learning)Did you think we'd disappeared? We would never! We're never gonna give you up, let you down, run around, OR desert you! Instead, we're gonna answer your burning questions, rank our favorite snacks, and much, much, more to tide you over until Season 2 starts next week! Cowabunga!
2019-02-011h 05
Hugging And LearningEpisode 027: That's So Paradoxical ("That's So Raven" S03E02) Okay, here's the problem with Daryyyl: he's part of the Bad Influence Crew. Join Chelsea, Andrew, Raven, other Chelsea, Eddie, brother Cory, friend of the pod Rich Correll, and The Ghost of Monkey Thievery Present, as they navigate a world in which one teenage girl is psychic and everyone already knows. Oh snap! Show: THAT'S SO RAVEN \\ "Five Finger Discount," Season 3, Episode 2 Air Date: December 3, 2004 Find it: on Amazon Prime Video ($1.99) Snack: O Organics Vanilla Animal Crackers Further Reading: 15 Things You Never Knew About That's So Raven | Screenrant Sh...
2019-01-2550 min
Hugging And LearningPhylicia Rashadaissance ("Blossom" S01E01)It's time to end period stigma! Starting with the men of the Russo household. "Blossom" was a master class in the Very Special Episode, and this pilot is no exception. Come along with Andrew and Chelsea as they meet the Russo family on this, the day of Blossom's first period. In my opinionation, you'll surely laugh and learn. Show: BLOSSOM \\ "Blossom Blossoms" Season 1, Episode 1 Air Date: January 3, 1991 Find it: on Hulu Special Guest Star: Phylicia Rashad Snack: Pepperidge Farm Brussels cookies Further Reading: 17 Facts About Blossom T...
2019-01-1847 min
Hugging And LearningA Cheatcode to Love ("Dinosaurs" S03E15)High school can be rough, even in prehistory. Luckily, teenagers can always be counted on to make horrible decisions — even if they're teen puppet dinosaurs! Join Andrew and Chelsea for a crash course in dinosaur sexual and gender relations as they grapple with body dysmorphia, steroid abuse, and Spike's accent. Show: DINOSAURS \\ "Steroids To Heaven," Season 3, Episode 15 Air Date: February 12, 1993 Find it: on Hulu Snack: Ruffles Mozzarella 'N Marinara Flavored Potato Chips Further Reading: The Taylor Hooten Foundation 15 Things You Gotta Love About Dinosaurs | Mental Floss Deadly Cost of a...
2019-01-1152 min
Hugging And Learning"Nothing Feels Special" ("Sabrina, The Teenage Witch" S04E01)Sometimes, Very Special Episodes are not about drugs, or bigotry, or teen sex. Sometimes, they're about cross-promotion and visits from Very Special Guests. It's important that you know which kind of VSE you're going into when you sit down to watch. Otherwise, you might end up waiting constantly for something bad to happen in your own one-man production of "Waiting for Soleil (Moon Frye)." Join a very nostalgic Chelsea and a much-less nostalgic Andrew as they plunge deep into the secret world of a teen witch and her mortal friends and hostages. Thunderclap! Show: SABRINA, THE TEENAGE W...
2019-01-0451 min
Hugging And LearningHo- Ho- Holy Shit: The Christmas Megasode ("He-Man and She-Ra: A Christmas Special")There are 125 toys in the extant He-Man/She-Ra universe, and dammit if almost every one of them isn't on some nonsense in this very special Christmas episode. Strap in, folks, it's going to be a long and delirious ride as Chelsea and Andrew jingle all the way through Christmas in Etheria. How does one explain Santa to a Trollan-Etherian immigrant? Exactly whom are we keeping He-Man's secret identity secret FROM? Who lives in Castle Greyskull besides 8 action figures? We wish the answers to these questions were simply distilled, but they just aren't, so let's hop on our Battlecats and...
2018-12-281h 23
Hugging And LearningThe 90s are What's Wrong with YouIs My So-Called Life the definitive voice of its generation, a mopey soap for teens, or something else entirely? Chelsea and Andrew have very different opinions. Join our two intrepid hosts, Miles, the luminous Claire Danes, and The Ghost of Female Pop Vocalists Past as they discover if there's really no place like home for the holidays. Do the Chases believe in God? Why is Brian Krackow so pissy at the holidays? Won't someone feed Rickie — he looks so cold! I don't know, I wasn't even, like, there, LEAVE ME ALONE I CAN'T TALK TO YOU ABOUT THIS, MOM....
2018-12-211h 07
Hugging And LearningEpisode 021: Comes With a Rap Sheet ("The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" S03E19)Now this is a story all about how Carlton ended up going from the world's most low-rent prom to the substance abuse ward in the blink of his tweaked-out eye. Intrigued? Join Chelsea and Andrew as they examine why even CONSIDERING using drugs will put your entire family in grave danger. Uncle Phil will be extremely disappointed if you don't. Show: THE FRESH PRINCE OF BEL-AIR \\ "Just Say Yo," Season 3, Episode 19 Air Date: February 15, 1993 Find it: Amazon Prime Video ($2.99) Snack: Cupcakes from Butter Cake Shop in Los Feliz F...
2018-12-1447 min
Hugging And LearningTorkelsons of Anarchy ("The Torkelsons" S01E14)The stakes are high and the sentences are long here in Pyramid Corners, Oklahoma. Join Chelsea, Andrew, and first-ever podcast guest Noel, as they ride the roller coaster of a teenage heartbreak-induced makeover. Will Dorothy Jane find love easier to navigate as a blond? How long has Callie Kimbrough actually been in high school? And what could Ruth Ann and Steven Floyd have done in season 1 to avoid getting written off for season 2? When the sun comes up, we will discuss all. Show: THE TORKELSONS \\ "Ice Princess," Season 1, Episode 14 Air Date: January 12, 1992 P...
2018-12-0750 min
Hugging And LearningClassy Move, Pedophile ("Mr. Belvedere" S04E20)If you drop-kick your jacket when you come through the door, does no one "care," "stare," or "glare"? This is just one of the many delicious mysteries of MR. BELVEDERE, the classic show Chelsea and Andy are tackling in this episode. Is little Wesley really the manipulative sociopath the family makes him out to be? How many famous people has Mr. Belvedere actually worked for? And did Heather ever manage to pass her summer school class?? The answers to some of these questions will be answered; others are lost to time. Join us, won't you? We promise not to...
2018-11-3050 min
Hugging And LearningPur-itan And Simple ("The Brady Bunch" S02E04)The Brady Bunch are in the (sanitized, Euro-American) Thanksgiving spirit! Join Chelsea and Andrew as they wade through a swamp of insensitivity, problematic nomenclature, revisionist history, and groovy slang to get to the heart of the Thanksgiving holiday itself: sight gags. Ad-libbing abounds on this trip down memory lane to an older, less-inclusive time. Happy Native American Heritage Month! *facepalm* Show: THE BRADY BUNCH \\ "The Un-Underground Movie," Season 2, Episode 04 Air Date: October 16, 1970 Find it: on Hulu or CBS All Access Snack: 365 Organic Dark Chocolate Quinoa Bark Further Reading:...
2018-11-2349 min
Hugging And LearningVery Special Action Hero ("MacGyver" S05E08)In their first foray into the world of action drama and mullets, Chelsea and Andrew follow Angus MacGyver as he tries to single-handedly save his young friend, stop black rhino poaching in its abominable tracks, AND enjoy his trip to stock footage of Africa. Jeepin' ain't easy, but MacGyver's mullet makes it look good. Adopt a rhino! Name it MacGyver! Learn science and then use it to come up with waterslide-based plans of action! The exhortations are seemingly endless. ***AND we draw the winner of the Click-or-Treat Very Special Prize Package!!*** Show: MACGYVER \\ "ep name," Season...
2018-11-1650 min
Hugging And LearningEpisode 016 : Pocket Square in a Coffee Shop ("The Facts of Life" S03E18)It's hard out there for a pimp, especially when his name is "Mike" and he's working out of a coffee shop in Times Square. Join Chelsea, Andrew, Miles, and the "The Facts of Life" gals as they leave the ordinary world of boarding school behind and head into the seedy, unpredicable special world of 80s New York City. Will Tootie be recruited into underage sex work: braces, bowl-cut, and all? Or will Mrs. Garrett's impeccable phone acting skills somehow save the day? There's only one way to find out. Show: THE FACTS OF LIFE \\ "Runaway," Season 3...
2018-11-0950 min
Hugging And LearningThe Destructive Power of Sick Burns ("Full House" S03E04)Any 90s kid knows from TV that the best way to end bullying is with... more bullying? Join Chelsea and Andrew as they plumb the depths of the child-to-child "cruel to be kind" de-escalation method, front-line toddler reportage, and fat-shaming a capella songs. There may be some learning, and there's a 100% chance that a "hug therapist" will show up. Show: FULL HOUSE \\ "Nerd for a Day," Season 3, Episode 4 Air Date: October 13, 1989 Find it: on Hulu Snack: Hershey's Chocolate Donut Bites Further Reading: Why Every 80s S...
2018-11-0245 min
Hugging And LearningTurn Snacks for What?! ("Family Matters" S09E07) Stevil is back, and he's more off-putting than the last time! And this time, as the title clearly states, he is not alone! Join Chelsea, Andrew, Miles, Steve, Stevil, Carl and Carlsbad (everyone else is out trick-or-treating) as we journey to the center of the uncanny valley to see… if there's any good reason they made another Stevil episode. Is it spooky? Sure. Funny? You betcha. Over-snacked? 100%. #ClickorTreat, y'all! Show: Family Matters \\ "Stevil II: This Time He's Not Alone," Season 9, Episode 7 Air Date: October 31, 1997 Find it: on Hulu Snack:...
2018-10-2651 min
2018-10-1954 min
Hugging And LearningToxic Masculinity Coffee Hour ("Designing Women" S03E06)DESIGNING WOMEN: Great show, or greatest show ever set in an interior design firm in the South? Chelsea and Andrew answer the cat-call to adventure and dive deep into a world where douchey men are disrespectful of women, and women are sick of their shit -- a world not unlike our own. An extremely topical discussion ensues, about a Very Special Episode that aired thirty years ago. Show: DESIGNING WOMEN \\ "Hard Hats and Lovers," Season 3, Episode 6 Air Date: December 19, 1988 Find it: at the Paley Center Snack: Hershey's Chocolate Donut Bites...
2018-10-1245 min
Hugging And LearningTBA GROWING PAINS ("Growing Pains" S01E06)What would you do if the neighborhood Madonna (™) showed up on your doorstep, looking to seduce your teenage son? Twist: you're a modern, liberal sitcom mom without the framework of religion on which to hang your arguments! Join Chelsea and Andrew as they navigate the murky waters of teen sexuality and plant murder with the Seaver family on GROWING PAINS. Show: GROWING PAINS \\ "Mike's Madonna Story," Season 1, Episode 6 Air Date: November 5, 1985 Find it: Amazon Prime Video ($2.99 rental) Guest Star: Dana Plato (from "Diff'rent Strokes") Snack: Limited Edit...
2018-10-0547 min
Hugging And LearningNancy Reagan Ex Machina ("Diff'rent Strokes" S05E22)Never on this podcast has a Very Special Episode had such nefarious and far-reaching consequences. Andrew and Chelsea dip a toe into the miasma that is the War on Drugs, with an assist from adorable, ill-fated child actors and a former First Lady who used to be an actress herself. Show: DIFF'RENT STROKES \\ "The Reporter," Season 05, Episode 22 Air Date: March 19, 1983 Find it: at the Paley Center (not online) Snack: Oreo Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Cookies Further Reading: Just Say No (History.com) 'Just Say No': How Na...
2018-09-2852 min
Hugging And LearningAlf With A Robot ("Small Wonder" S02E01) Andrew and Chelsea put their own sanity on the line to dissect for you an episode of SMALL WONDER -- possibly the worst sitcom in sitcom history. Is mother Joan a budding psycho killer? What sport does tragic Peter Watson even play? And why doesn't anyone think to change VICI's clothing? All these questions and many more will remain completely unanswered. Show: SMALL WONDER \\ "Chewed Out," Season 02, Episode 01 Air Date: September 13, 1986 Find it: at the Paley Center Further Reading: Does Smoking on TV Influence You? (Teens.DrugAbuse.gov)...
2018-09-2146 min
Hugging And LearningHome Run ("Family Ties" S01E06)Chelsea and Andrew discuss what is a seriously thoughtful, considerate, and uncompromising look at the sexual harrassment of a young girl by a family friend she trusts. Probably the most eloquent Very Special Episode we have yet explored, the writing really holds up, even 40 years after it originally aired."}" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":9025,"3":[null,0],"9":1,"11":4,"12":0,"16":12}"> Chelsea and Andrew discuss a seriously thoughtful, considerate, and uncompromising look at the sexual harassment of a young girl by a family friend she trusts. Probably the most eloquent Very Special Episode we have yet explored, the writing really holds up, even 40 years after it originally aired.
2018-09-1442 min
Hugging And LearningPlaying Impossible to Get ("Saved By The Bell" S03E15)Bayside High decides to put a price on the humanity of its male students with a date auction, in order to buy the cheerleaders new uniforms. Unsurprisingly, this horrifying idea brings out the worst in everyone! Join Chelsea and Andrew as they try to parse out whether or not there are any heroes to be found in this, Bayside's most misguided escapade yet. Show: SAVED BY THE BELL \\ "Date Auction," Season 3, Episode 15 Air Date: November 9, 1991 Find it: on Hulu Further Reading: The Evolution of Fat Women on TV (Vult...
2018-09-071h 01
Hugging And LearningMemorize a Horse ("The Golden Girls" S05E24)How many St. Olaf jokes is too many? Is Dorothy's gambling problem a failure of willpower, or a disease? Why is there no cheesecake AT ALL in this episode? To find out, please join Chelsea and Andrew in the pastel world of 90s Florida. Show: THE GOLDEN GIRLS \\ "All Bets Off," Season 5, Episode 24 Air Date: April 28,1990 Find it: on Hulu Snack: Smartfood Delight Sea Salt Popcorn Further Reading: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration -- Find Help 20 Fun Facts about "The Golden Girls" (Mental Floss) Compulsive G...
2018-08-3146 min
Hugging And LearningDoobie Fair ("What's Happening!!" S02E16/17)In this episode, Andrew and Chelsea discuss a double Very Special Episode so famous it spawned its own Facebook Group! Come with us as we explore the moral gray area of concert bootlegging, discuss which of us is a "real Dee," and discover one of the truths of the universe: if you see something, tell Michael McDonald. This one's a Doobie!! (and it includes an unconscionable number of puns...) Show: WHAT'S HAPPENING!! \\ "Doobie Or Not Doobie," Season 2, Episode 16 and 17 Air Date: Jan 28, 1978 Find it: at the Paley Center (not on...
2018-08-2448 min
Hugging And LearningGood Luck, Space Dog ("Punky Brewster" S02E22)Chelsea and Andy work through their feelings about the Challenger Explosion alongside Punky, her friends, and a very special guest star. Show: PUNKY BREWSTER \\ "Accidents Happen," Season 2, Episode 22 Air Date: 9 March 1986 Find it: Amazon Prime Video ($1.99 to rent) Further Reading: Episode To Air : 'Punky' Deals With Shuttle Tragedy (LA Times) Snack: York Peppermint Pattie
2018-08-1743 min
Hugging And LearningMackSputin ("Boy Meets World" S04E21)Chelsea and Andrew explore the nebulous world of teen cults, true friendship, and "judging" when they tackle the episode of BOY MEETS WORLD in which Shawn Hunter joins a cult. Show: BOY MEETS WORLD \\ "Cult Fiction," Season 4, Episode 21 Air Date: 25 April, 1997 Find it: on Hulu Further Reading: How Cults Work (CultWatch.com) This is How Cults Work (Vice UK) Snack: Japanese Peanuts
2018-08-1045 min
Hugging And LearningUrkel on a Hot Tin Roof ("Family Matters" S02E18)Chelsea and Andrew take on teen drinking, rooftop parties, and the Blanche Archetype in this discussion of a FAMILY MATTERS episode, in which Steve Urkel gets dosed by bullies at a rooftop party and nearly falls to his death. Show: FAMILY MATTERS \\ "Life of the Party" Season 2, Episode 18 Air Date: Feb 8, 1991 Find it: on Hulu Snack: Hulapeño Hawaiian Kettle Chips
2018-08-0146 min
Hugging And LearningSeries ThesisWelcome to Hugging and Learning! This podcast explores "very special episodes" of TV from the 80s and 90s. Join us weekly for a nostalgic and often iconic look back at TV history.
2018-07-2703 min
CHQ&AJill Vialet, Chelsea Marcantel/Matt "Airistotle" BurnsOn today's episode we feature two conversations: First is a discussion with Jill Vialet, founder and CEO of Playworks, who opened Chautauqua's week of lectures on "The Art of Play" on July 9. Then, Chautauqua Theater Company Artistic Director Andrew Borba sits with playwright Chelsea Marcantel and champion air guitarist Matt "Airistotle" Burns. Chelsea's newest play, Airness, is about air guitar competitions — CTC's production of Airness runs July 14 to 29 on the Bratton Theater stage.
Jill Vialet is founder and CEO of Playworks, a nonprofit that operates on a belief “in the power of play to b...
2018-07-1300 min