Shows
The Book PileRange, by David EpsteinSUMMARY: Do you ever make a books podcast, and start with your favorite books? But unfortunately, your first episodes are also when you’re the worst at podcasting? So years later you revisit those books to do a better job? That’s what this is! Today we cover a book about cultivating interests in a lot of different fields. It’s great.-If you want to read Range and support the podcast in a fun way, click here to buy the book!https://amzn.to/3Yi0V3i-Ge...
2024-10-1127 min
Hard Truth With David Vance & Ilana MercerWhat Next After Genocide-By-Proxy & The Murder Of Diplomacy? The Quest For Peace, Says Daniel McAdamsILANA believes that America’s open, even-energetic support for Israel’s genocide in Gaza is a defining event in the annals of American foreign policy, and that this failure is qualitatively different from blunders that went before. In its role in Gaza, Uncle Sam has finally achieved an official or formal inversion of all decent, universal values.
Former supporters of Israel, like ilana Mercer, David Vance and Daniel McAdams, Executive Director of the Ron Paul Institute for Peace and Prosperity, are aghast. Can we claw back from the precipice?
DAVID believes that US Foreign Policy in a...
2024-04-251h 06Hard Truth With David Vance & Ilana MercerIran Tries To Restore Balance; Israel Continues To Murder And Get Away With MurderHARD TRUTH’S David Vance and ilana Mercer have a heated discussion about Iran’s April 13 & 14 response to Israel’s murder of senior commanders in Damascus, April 1. Ilana details Israel’s lengthy illegal, immoral and extra-judicial assassination program https://www.ilanamercer.com/2020/01/u-s-globes-judge-jury-executioner/ against Iranian civilians and military for decades, coupled as it is with Israeli cyberterrorism ongoing against Iran’s infrastructure and state apparatus. All this occurs against the backdrop of a USA-led brutal program of sanctions and embargoes, and Israel’s US-backed barbarism in Gaza and the West Bank. https://www.ilanamercer.com/2024/03/israel-violation-gods-law-natural-justice-laws-war-customary-international-humanitarian-law/ .
Both agree that the Israel F...
2024-04-181h 03Hard Truth With David Vance & Ilana MercerHermetically Sealed Indictment Of The Jewish Taliban’s Mass Murder In GazaAs always, HARD TRUTH’S David Vance and ilana Mercer arrive together at the truth about Gaza.
Ilana says ( https://www.ilanamercer.com/2024/01/memory-indictment-todays-jewish-taliban-not-israel-grew/ )
that it is inarguable: The case against Israel’s murder spree in Gaza is ethically simple, and not within the realm of opinion. It is immutable, eternal truth that: Right and wrong are universal, not relative. There are no tribal privilege clauses: Like gentiles, Jews are prohibited from mass murder. The Sixth Commandment (“Thou shalt not murder”) is neither opinion, nor is it optional. What Israel has visited on Gazans and their little enclave is...
2024-01-251h 14Hard Truth With David Vance & Ilana MercerHow To Defeat Hamas And Stop The Carnage In GazaHARD TRUTH sees David Vance and ilana Mercer catch up with each other three weeks into the Israel/Hamas catastrophe. Has Netanyahu desecrated the memory of the Oct. 7th martyrs and created new martyrs in Gaza, via his crude response to the Hamas massacre? Has Israel’s PM isolated Israel and squandered the sympathy toward the Jewish State, following Oct. 7? Ilana argues that needed was a smarter, more effective response that targets only the culprits of Oct. 7, not innocents. She outlines such a response. David agrees that cutting off the head of the Hamas snake alone will not stop it r...
2023-11-021h 00The Book PileStart Ugly, by David DuCheminFOR TICKETS TO OUR LIVE SHOWS ON NOVEMBER 11th!Click here!Tickets for 7pm show: The Roast of the novelization of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, by Alan Dean Fosterhttps://www.improvbroadway.com/events/7-pm-improv-comedy-special-live-taping-at-the-hive-collaborative-not-the-improvbroadway-theater-2-4Tickets for 9:30pm show: The Roast of Angels and Demons, by Dan Brownhttps://www.improvbroadway.com/events/9-30-pm-improv-comedy-special-live-taping-at-the-hive-collaborative-not-the-improvbroadway-theater-1-9*JOIN OUR NEW PATREON FOR BoNuS EPISODES!https://www.patreon.com/TheBookPile*
2023-10-3115 minHard Truth With David Vance & Ilana MercerHamas, Israel And The Anatomy Of State TreasonHARD TRUTH with David Vance and ilana mercer deconstructs Hamas's low-tech invasion into southern Israel and the massacre of hundreds of its civilians. Witnessed in Israel on October 7 was the forsaking by the State of its most elementary—and only—obligations to the citizenry: Defend their natural rights to life, liberty and property.
In a perspective like no other; HARD TRUTH examines the complete failure of the Israeli State apparatus, the IDF and intelligence community being the face of the State. We anatomize the backdrop to Hamas’ pogrom, including the geopolitical and domestic forces at play, as...
2023-10-1153 minThe Book PileTuesday, by David WiesnerIf you're scared of frogs, you're going to HATE this book! Because--to you--the only thing worse than a frog would be a FLYING FROG. On this mostly solo episode, Kellen discusses one of his favorite picture books, (but he calls them "illustrations" to feel more like an adult), which has 6 total words (but many beautiful illustrations). *To buy the book, Tuesday, and support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3Kgxk2P*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central...
2023-07-1720 minHard Truth With David Vance & Ilana MercerKing Tuck’s Transformational. DeSantis Cows to Israel. Roger Waters Refuses.That Tucker was/is transformational is what David and ilana argued on the April 25, live, “Hard Truth” podcast
(https://rumble.com/v2kbeyc-tucker-removed-by-fox.-robert-kennedy-jr-against-the-deep-warfare-woke-indu.html), recorded a day after Tucker Carlson’s dismissal. We got it right. Tucker, like Trump, we contended, is transformational. Fox was finished. Our forecast proved predictive. We discuss developments since.
HARD TRUTH had given Governor DeSantis top marks. https://rumble.com/v1th20q-trump-trashes-a-triumphant-desantis-gloves-coming-off.-climate-conference-i.html But has the governor been a bad boy? Flying to Israel to sign legislation for America? Legislation that may impact speech? What’s that all about?...
2023-06-011h 11Hard Truth With David Vance & Ilana MercerOh What Wonderful Wars: The West’s Lying Warlordsilana questions US belligerence against China whilst being buoyed by African resistance to US foreign policy diktats. David exposes Covid lies and distractions peddled by the spineless media.
DAVID VANCE is one of the most outspoken, fearless political commentators in the UK and bears the scars for it. Having been in front-line politics as Deputy Leader of the UK Unionist Party for some years, he was delighted to oppose the anti-democratic Belfast Agreement and the Clintonian-Blair forces behind that. He even wrote a book about it all called “Unionism Decayed” (2008). David has been a successful businessman for deca...
2023-03-0955 minHard Truth With David Vance & Ilana MercerSteamrolled By The Abrams: Republican Cretins Swallow Classified-Doc BaitThe Stupid Party has swallowed the bait Democrats laid. Republicans are orgiastic over the Democrat-orchestrated ouster of Biden over classified documents mishandled. Where along the continuum of cretinism is the GOP currently perched? “Trump did it right” but “Biden did it wrong”. They make ILANA sick. David offers daggers to the media-military-congressional-industrial-complex sending their latest to Ukraine to bait the Russian bear.
DAVID VANCE is one of the most outspoken, fearless political commentators in the UK and bears the scars for it. Having been in front-line politics as Deputy Leader of the UK Unionist Party for some years, h...
2023-02-0253 minThe Book PileThe Starlings, Episode 1: Airborne, by David Vance, Fabián Cobos, and art teamToday we cover a book written by Dave! (You can currently buy it by searching Kickstarter for “The Starlings Adventure Box”, starting January 10! Or if you’re not the reading type, you can just come to Dave’s house and kill him. Either one solves his career problems.) Plus, Kellen reads the book to his two sons, who immediately outsmart Dave. Check it out!*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's America's Got Talent, and the Amazon Original Series Inside Jokes. He has garnered over 100...
2023-01-0929 minHard Truth With David Vance & Ilana MercerThe D-Bomb Has Dropped & Why ‘Mixed-Race’ Is Really BlackILANA refuses to dish anything but reality about the future of the United States from the vantage point immigration. She explains why the DEMOGRAPHIC tipping point has been reached, with reference to the exponential nature of America’s annual intake of legal and illegal immigrants, and immigration law, for which the Uniparty is responsible. Broadly speaking, anyone (other than white South Africans) can claim “credible fear” at the US south-western border, and must by law be given safe passage. That, combined with family unification policies—one legal immigrant brings in a tribe—and birthright citizenship, a legal aberration practiced by no seri...
2022-12-211h 12The Book PileWriting Movies for Fun and Profit – with guest Danny Mac! – by Robert Ben Garant and Thomas LennonWant to learn how to write movies? This book is about writing movies! We’re joined by Danny Mac, who also writes movies. Normally these descriptions have clever jokes, but it’s late on a Sunday night, and I’m beginning to suspect you don’t read these descriptions, do you? I could probably write whatever I want here, couldn’t I? I could probably confess something real dark here, right? Hahahaha. But could I?On the night of August 12, 2017, at 4 a.m., I awoke during a camping trip at Willow Lake to find myself sleepwalking through de...
2022-09-2631 minThe Book PileGoodnight Moon--with guest Chad Daniels!--by Margaret Wise BrownToday three grown men, who as children presumably dreamed of doing something meaningful with their lives, give 40 minutes of analysis on a 2-minute book. Special guest Chad Daniels returns to break down this massive children’s book bestseller, and to give Dave candid thoughts on what counts as “reading”. Plus, Kellen has an excellent children’s toy idea, and Dave gives the gritty backstory of Goodnight Moon.*Check out Chad Daniels' podcast Middle of Somewhere!https://middleofsomewherepodcast.com/*To buy the book, Goodnight Moon, or listen to it free on Audib...
2022-09-1938 minThe Book PileThe Art of War by Sun TzuWhether war is your profession or just your hobby, this book is for you! It doesn’t matter if you’re an expert warlord with decades of killing, or a green-behind-the-ears dictator trying to make your mark on the world. This book teaches you how to do the violence! Plus, Kellen successfully surprises Dave and Dave finds remedies for his own cowardice.*To buy the book, The Art of War, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/454hkJd*TheB...
2022-09-1224 minThe Book PileThe War of Art by Steven PressfieldThis book says, if you want to be creative, treat your creativity a little more like a job! (Sadly wait for a machine to take your place. See your expectations dashed as the steady economic progress since WWII stagnates and you become the first family member in generations not to surpass their parents. It’s confusing advice.) Plus, Kellen decides whether or not to summon bears and Dave thanks this author for his own nickname.*To buy the book, The War of Art, or listen to it free on Audible AN...
2022-09-0522 minThe Book PileHarry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling100 episodes of The Book Pile!! Thank you so much for listening! Our goal is to make a world where no one else ever has to read! (The way Fahrenheit 451 wanted it.) With your continued support (and horcruxes), we'll be able to keep making this podcast FOREVER. Today we cover the 7th Harry Potter, the conclusion to a series so popular that J.K. Rowling probably said to herself, “Surely nothing could ever hurt my future popularity!” Also, Dave has some notes for Dumbledore and Kellen encourages writers to slap more readers in the face.*To b...
2022-08-2941 minThe Book PileLateral Thinking by Edward de BonoOkay, we’ll be honest. Last week’s murder mystery episode did really well. And we wanna keep riding that “whodunit” wave. So even though this is a book about creativity, not killing, we’re just gonna go ahead and say that when the author Edward de Bono died last year at age 88, he was murdered. Now are you interested? Please stay with us. Plus, Dave writes jokes the way he dates and Kellen tries to be wrong as much as possible.*To buy the book, Lateral Thinking, or listen to it free...
2022-08-2219 minThe Book PileAnd Then There Were None by Agatha ChristieIf you like murder mysteries AND Costco, then you will love these 10 murders for the price of one. Today we cover Agatha Christie at her best. Plus, Kellen hates a snack mentioned in this book and Dave makes fun of Thomas Jefferson (too soon?).*To buy the book, And Then There Were None, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3rU824k*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live...
2022-08-1522 minThe Book PileThe Alchemist by Paulo CoelhoIf you are someone who thinks following dreams is bad, prepare to spit out your drink. The Alchemist is a book about following your own personal legend. It’s based on the alchemists of old who successfully turned lead into nerve damage. Plus, Dave apologizes for being a cynic and Kellen showboats by speaking 2 seconds of Portuguese.*To buy the book, The Alchemist, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3OBlvXp*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine ha...
2022-08-0823 minThe Book PileDoing Good Better by William MacAskillWant to do as much good in the world as possible, but you don’t have a comedy podcast? Today’s book is about how to use data to make the biggest positive impact on the world. Plus, Dave wants you to know his net worth in Jet Skis and Kellen goes hard after the pogo sticking crowd.*To buy the book, Doing Good Better, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3q8OMzt*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*...
2022-08-0124 minThe Book PileWhere the Sidewalk Ends by Shel SilversteinThere are two ways to make it as a children’s author: tell kids the world is magical (Rowling, E.B. White), or tell kids the world is horrifying (Roald Dahl, The Brothers Grimm). Shel Silverstein tells kids the world is both magical and horrifying. Plus, Kellen wants people to stop copying Picasso and Dave gets philosophical about chaos.*To buy the book, Where the Sidewalk Ends, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/43Ky2fr*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.co...
2022-07-2522 minThe Book PileDecisive by Chip Heath and Dan HeathAs humans, we all sometimes struggle with bad decision-making: confirmation bias; overconfidence; marrying and settling down in the suburbs with a spouse and family and corporate job and the white picket fence and slowly wondering over 40 years… “Is this it? Is this all there is?” Well in today’s book, Chip Heath and Dan Heath help you make better choices! Plus, Dave has some advice for literary heroines deciding to get married in their teens, and Kellen finds a new definition for the word “boomer."*To buy the book, Decisive, or listen...
2022-07-1823 minThe Book PileThe Shining by Stephen KingListen, I bet Stephen King saved a lot of money on family trips once he convinced his kids that hotels are incredibly horrifying. (Like how he wrote Cujo to avoid buying them a dog.) Today we review the horror classic The Shining. Also, Kellen discusses this book with his years of boiler-repair experience and Dave owes his brother Josh an apology.*To buy the book, The Shining, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3rT87oR*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail...
2022-07-1127 minThe Book PileThe Return of the King by J.R.R. TolkienYou know those guys who wear wedding rings made out of rubber so they don’t accidentally get a fracture? I can’t help thinking if Frodo wore one of those he would still have all his fingers. Today’s book concludes the epic Lord of the Rings saga. (It also concludes our running joke of never actually finishing a book series.) Plus, Dave thinks the ring would reveal troubling things about his personal character, and Kellen probably tells his kids Gollum is alive enjoying a happy life somewhere.*To buy the book, The...
2022-07-0429 minThe Book PilePersepolis by Marjane SatrapiHere at The Book Pile, we get a lot of fan mail asking, “Hey, when are you going to do more books about dictators? We, your fans, all love dictators.” Well today you’re in luck! Persepolis is a memoir about life under an oppressive government, for all our hardcore dictator fans (tator-tots, they call themselves). Plus, Dave wishes he had learned history better and Kellen gets called fat by some people in Brazil.*To buy the book, Persepolis, AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3Ohd428*
2022-06-2722 minThe Book PileContagious by Jonah BergerIf you have some kind of product you want to spread to the world, check out this podcast, unless your product is Nazis. In Contagious, Jonah Berger gives great tips for improving word-of-mouth. Plus, Kellen name drops the Today Show many times, and Dave has great news about Baby Shark.*To buy the book, Contagious, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3OA7b1u*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central...
2022-06-2027 minThe Book PileLIVE! THE ROAST OF Twilight: Eclipse by Stephenie MeyerA live podcast! In which we make fun of the 3rd Twilight book! In a mean-spirited way! Come for the laughs, the drama, the sexism, the dull-eyed vapid characters. Stay for all the imprinting. Plus, Kellen tells a personal story about doing comedy in a cave, and Dave wants the fans to know that, like Edward, his lips are also “marble hard."*To buy the book, Eclipse, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/43Jx0jW*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.co...
2022-06-1342 minThe Book PileThe Inner Game of Tennis by Timothy GallweyWant to get better at sports, music, dance, romance, or anything that involves the use of your body? (Except miming. You freak mimes, get out of here.) The Inner Game of Tennis describes an innovative approach to better, easier mastery of tennis and other activities. Plus, Kellen tries to never praise his kids, and Dave gets better at sports by focusing REALLY hard on relaxing.*To buy the book, The Inner Game of Tennis, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn...
2022-06-0627 minThe Book PileThe Illustrated Man by Ray BradburyWhen you hear a story, do you lose interest after like 5 minutes? Then you will LOVE short stories, a new thing we invented. Today’s book is a short story collection by Ray Bradbury, who realized that anything counts as scifi if you take a normal story and just put it on Mars. Plus, Kellen has planned out a WILD last day on Earth, and Dave wants you to think more about death.*To buy the book, The illustrated Man, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the po...
2022-05-3028 minThe Book PileThe Singularity is Near by Ray KurzweilWhen you think of the future, what do you imagine? Flying cars? Uh, swimming planes? Boats that go on land? Well Ray Kurzweil is here to tell you how wrong you are. The Singularity is Near is full of stunning predictions about the future, made with absolute confidence even when they turn out to not be that accurate. (Kinda like when people predict “for better or for worse, in sickness and in health.") It was written in 2004, so some of the book has to be read with a grain of the-iPod-was-barely-a-thing-yet salt. Speaking of wh...
2022-05-2330 minThe Book PileGet in Trouble by Kelly LinkA short story is defined as a story that said it was taller on Tinder. Today’s book is a whole short story collection by magical realist Kelly Link. Plus, Dave is hiring an actor to play him on Instagram, and Kellen uses Latin so you know he’s intelligent.*To buy the book, Get in Trouble, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/43PQDXH*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimm...
2022-05-1628 minThe Book PileThe Big Short by Michael LewisSometimes during a time of global disease and war, it’s nice to read a little escapism about the worst financial collapse of our lifetimes. Today’s book is The Big Short. It’s by Michael Lewis, who has a talent for writing about global tragedies (2008 market crash, COVID-19, baseball). Plus, Kellen becomes a communist (knew it!). And Dave learns what an air fryer is, completing his journey into manhood.*To buy the book, The Big Short, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!ht...
2022-05-0924 minThe Book PileGone Girl by Gillian FlynnDo you like murder mysteries? Romance? Revenge? Gone girls? The police? Treasure hunts? Sociopaths? Mysterious pregnancies? If you answered yes to everything, it’s kind of weird that you like ALL those things, but boy is this episode for you! Plus, Dave doesn’t think we always have to be special, and Kellen has some thoughts on red flags.*To buy the book, Gone Girl, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/45aiSRM*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has...
2022-05-0228 minThe Book PileGreenlights by Matthew McConaugheySucceeding in Hollywood takes lots of practice, and that’s why Matthew McConaughey has put in 10,000 hours of being handsome. Today’s book is about how hard McConaughey’s career wasn’t. Plus, Kellen has some questions about Magic Mike and Dave has some aphorisms that were probably written by a human.*To buy the book, Greenlights, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/44J6CIe*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central...
2022-04-2527 minThe Book PileDEBATE: The Grapes of Wrath by John SteinbeckToday we cover The Grapes of Wrath, which Kellen loved and Dave hated. ‘Cause we think the best art happens when the two creators have COMPLETELY different visions. (Remember in Star Wars how J.J. Abrams and Rian Johnson just undid every creative decision the other one made, like two guys doing bad improv where they do NOT listen to each other at all? It was glorious.) Dave gives a good argument for why The Grapes of Wrath is boring, and Kellen just likes books about dirt I guess. (This description was written by anonymous...)*
2022-04-1833 minThe Book PileHelgoland by Carlo RovelliHelgoland is a spy thriller with lots of romance, great comedy, and hilarious, entertaining characters. You will love it as… okay, it’s actually about quantum mechanics, but if we told the truth, you would skip this episode. Plus, Kellen doesn’t think quantum physics actually changes your life, and Dave teaches physics via his favorite method – talking down to you.*To buy the book, Helgoland, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3rU0JcQ*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*
2022-04-1126 minThe Book PileThe Calvin and Hobbes 10th Anniversary Book by Bill WattersonA wonderful book with rare commentary from a reclusive author. As you know, Calvin and Hobbes was a Trojan horse comic strip, written by a pastor to get kids interested in the teachings of John Calvin. . . Also, Dave hates on Garfield and Kellen hates on Garfield. What, I’m sorry, we hate Garfield. How did it get so big? Who is reading this.*To buy the book, The Calvin and Hobbes, AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3KmJRSl*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Er...
2022-04-0431 minThe Book PileThe Silk Roads by Peter FrankopanDid history stress you out in high school? Not really your favorite subject? Well today we break down history in a fun, comedic way, and then at the end we test you and give you a grade that decides your whole future! Plus, Kellen wants you to know that not all of California is covered in feces, and Dave introduces his new best friend, Prester John.(Also, stick around for the end song for a final correction of a vegetable fact.)*To buy the book, The Silk Roads, or listen to...
2022-03-2832 minThe Book PileHALF-ROAST: The Skeleton Crew by Stephen KingStephen King knows that a short story collection is like an album – as long as you have a few hits, the rest can be crap. Today is our half-roast of Skeleton Crew! Plus, Dave has some fun ideas about the nature of suffering and Kellen thinks Stephen King’s endings need work. (What do you bet Stephen eventually dies in some random, uninteresting way?)*To buy the book, The Skeleton Crew, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/455hC2r*TheB...
2022-03-2134 minThe Book PileThe Storyteller by Dave GrohlDave Grohl has lived a fascinating creative life that includes being part of Nirvana and Foo Fighters, collaborating with Paul McCartney and Tom Petty, and being the most featured musical artist on SNL. But in a billion years, he’ll be just as forgotten as the rest of us, so why try? (Today’s episode brought to you by nihilism!) Plus, Kellen wants your kids to drop out of high school and Dave wants you to get good at the drums by ruining your teeth!*To buy the book, The Storyteller, or list...
2022-03-1436 minThe Book PileTHE ROAST OF: Goldfinger by Ian FlemingLong before The Sopranos or Breaking Bad, Ian Fleming accidentally created the first anti-hero! James Bond is what Reddit calls “a man of his time” (meaning “a bad person”). Today we roast his worst book, Goldfinger. Also, Kellen continues his love of coincidences in literature and Dave wishes his enemies would paint him in gold.*To buy the book, Goldfinger, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3q5Pduq*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan...
2022-03-0727 minThe Book PileThis Is How They Tell Me the World Ends by Nicole PerlrothThis Is How They Tell Me the World Ends is a chilling book about the danger hackers pose to all of us. It is also a title with a super unclear pronoun. What is “this” referring to? The cause of the world ending? Or the way she’s being told? Until we get answers, we unfortunately cannot recommend this book...Also, Dave has some cybersecurity tips that will only take you 10 minutes, and that you still will not do. And Kellen loved the Stuxnet virus.*To buy the book, This is How They T...
2022-02-2830 minThe Book PileTimeline by Michael CrichtonTimeline is an excellent Michael Crichton book about using a time machine to visit the Middle Ages. But, we just wanna point out – you could also use a time machine to get some dinosaurs. That’s why here at The Book Pile we believe every Michael Crichton book should just be Jurassic Park. The nanobots in Prey could have formed a giant dinosaur. The park in Westworld coulda been robot dinosaurs. What’s inside the sphere in Sphere? Dinosaur. Also in this episode Kellen and Dave revive a HEATED debate about sports: Are they silly?*To buy th...
2022-02-2135 minThe Book PileCreativity by John CleeseIn the 60s, a group of creative guys in the UK formed a cheeky but charismatic group that gained popularity in Britain before becoming a sensation in America, pushing the boundaries of genre before finally breaking up, and also two of them are now dead. And that group is the Beatles. You thought we were gonna be tricky and say it’s Monty Python, right? You dumb imbecile.Okay, all that stuff is true of Monty Python too. Please enjoy John Cleese’s excellent, excellent tips on creativity. Also, Dave has a great idea for a new Mile...
2022-02-1433 minThe Book PileThe Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsToday’s episode is a children’s book about a society that loves watching game shows (fun!). 24 contestants enter a fun franchise called the Hunger Games and, in the spirit of The Biggest Loser, 23 of them lose weight! (The person who doesn’t lose weight gets to go back to the games later and try again!) Read this book with your young kids who love game shows! Also, Dave has theories about Peeta’s real job and Kellen has a critique of Peeta’s frosting skills.*To buy the book, The Hunger Games, or lis...
2022-02-0734 minThe Book PileThe Space Between Worlds by Micaiah JohnsonFirst the good news about this book — one of us really liked it! You’ll have to listen to the episode for the bad news. (This is called clickbait. We clickbaited you.) The Space Between Worlds is a scifi story that stretches across multiple universes, and is also about love. Plus, Dave and Kellen says something CRAZY about Nazis. (As we wrote that last clickbait, we chuckled and muttered to ourselves, “We have you now…”)*To buy the book, The Space Between Worlds, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcas...
2022-01-3123 minThe Book PileEinstein by Walter IsaacsonHere at The Book Pile, we connect deeply with Einstein, since all 3 of us are creative and none of us graduated from an American high school. Today we cover Isaacson’s excellent biography of Einstein — a man we would go so far as to call a genius! Plus, Kellen uses relativity to win at laser tag, and Dave once again brings Al-Qaeda into this.*To buy the book, Einstein, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3OjqN8A*TheB...
2022-01-2427 minThe Book PileTHE ROAST OF: The Da Vinci Code by Dan BrownIn honor of the Da Vinci Code, today’s episode description is written using Dan Brown’s prose:Chapter 1The two podcast hosts entered the studio, with their probing blue eyes, arrestingly deep voices, and “erudite” appeal. They tasted the familiar tang of a podcast studio — an arid, deionized essence that carried a faint hint of carbon — the product of industrial, coal-filter dehumidifiers.Then a voice spoke, chillingly, “Do not record.”Only fifteen feet away, outside the sealed gate, the mountainous silhouette of their attacker stared through iron bars.“Who could that be?” the surprisingly-han...
2022-01-1032 minThe Book PileOur Favorite Books of 2021! Plus bonus audio from The (Live!) Roast of New MoonWe discuss our 10 favorite books we read in 2021, PLUS we've included more bonus audio from the botched live-taping of THE ROAST of The Twilight Saga: New Moon.*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's America's Got Talent, and the Amazon Original Series Inside Jokes. He has garnered over 50 million views with his clips on Dry Bar Comedy. In 2018 he was selected to perform on the “New Faces” showcase at the Just For...
2022-01-0320 minThe Book PileSomething Wicked This Way Comes by Ray BradburyAmong all the classic horror books dealing with horrifying supernatural terrors preying upon small children, this is the one with the prettiest poetry. Plus, Dave dumbs things way down, and Kellen tries to save the Berlin Wall.*To buy the book, Something Wicked This Way Comes, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/43TPRsy*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's America's...
2021-12-2734 minThe Book PileTo Kill a Mockingbird by Harper LeeTo Kill a Mockingbird is a classic novel grappling with bigotry and other issues facing America, and also it’s way better when you’re not being forced to read it for a grade. Plus Kellen has a great idea for long lines at Disneyland, and Dave wants to someday be as lazy as Harper Lee.*To buy the book, To Kill a Mockingbird, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3YmKLnK*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Ersk...
2021-12-2029 minThe Book PileThe Sociopath Next Door by Martha StoutIn today’s Netflix society, full of rampant paranoia about the dangers of sociopaths, it’s important to remember… they could be anyone! Today Kellen and Dave show off their psychology credentials (none) in this discussion of antisocial personality disorder. Plus, Kellen has serious doubts about quadruplets and Dave stands up for sociopaths almost to a suspicious degree.*To buy the book, The Sociopath Next Door, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3OhG6yF*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*
2021-12-1327 minThe Book PileBig Little Lies by Liane MoriartyToday’s episode is a thrilling murder mystery, an engaging character drama, and a profound examination of heavy topics, all written by Sherlock’s nemesis. Plus, Kellen misbehaves at a zoo and Dave comes up with a nightmare factory.*To buy the book, Big Little Lies, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3KjPBML*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's America's Got...
2021-12-0628 minThe Book PileThe Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth by Rachel IgnotofskyRachel Ignotofsky is a phenomenal writer, illustrator, and designer, and in today’s book she introduces us to her magnificent fictional planet of “Earth.” Come experience her excellent worldbuilding as she introduces creatures called “animals” that live in mystical “ecosystems." Plus, Dave gets shamed for visiting Machu Picchu and Kellen pitches an excellent new protein supplement.*To buy the book, The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3DB5k67*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Ke...
2021-11-2930 minThe Book PileDune by Frank HerbertToday’s episode on Dune is just like the movie: we both wore enormous fat suits, and failed to warn you this is only Part 1 of 2. Today we cover the scifi classic that inspired the blockbuster movie. Plus, Kellen launches a great new diaper line, and Dave gives a warning about madmen.*To buy the book, Dune, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3YhZTTg*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Co...
2021-11-2228 minThe Book PileThe Big Picture by Ben FritzIn 2014, Sony was hacked in a massive crime that leaked terabytes of data, causing immense suffering to the Sony team – and helped us learn about movies! This book goes behind the scenes on what it’s like to run a movie studio. Also, Kellen begins his rap career and Dave leans into his German origins.*To buy the book, The Big Picture, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/477yo2V*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on
2021-11-1534 minThe Book PileTHE ROAST OF: The Twilight Saga: NEW MOON by Stephenie MeyerHave you ever read a book and just known the author’s marriage is terrible? Today’s roast is New Moon -- about a love triangle where the protagonist does NOT love one of the boys, so it’s a janky triangle with a leg that’s way shorter -- the first isosceles love triangle! Plus, Kellen moves on from his Twilight-loving past, and Dave does not move on from his Twilight-hating present.***NOTE***This episode was originally taped in front of a live audience, but the venue's audio software "crashed" and was lost. We apologize to all w...
2021-11-0836 minThe Book PileJurassic Park by Michael CrichtonJurassic Park helped launch a classic American genre -- a park that seems fun but is actually trying to kill you (Westworld, Something Wicked This Way Comes, Disneyland). Plus, Kellen has a fun description of an ankylosaurus, and Dave thinks there should be a scene in Jurassic Park where a velociraptor is on a beach and sees an ancient velociraptor Statue of Liberty, and is like, “You animals!!!”*To buy the book, Jurassic Park, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3...
2021-11-0127 minThe Book PileThe Prehistory of The Far Side by Gary LarsonThe Far Side proves what Kellen’s mocking of Dave proves – good comedy can come from the suffering of others. Today we discuss a book that discusses one of the greatest comic strips of all time. Also, Dave promotes his college band, and Kellen says there are no rules to comedy, but we’ll see if that holds up in court.*To buy the book, The Prehistory of the Far Side, AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3rMobbH*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskin...
2021-10-2531 minThe Book PileAtomic Habits by James ClearAtomic Habits shares tips on developing habits so that you can reach any goal, be it neurosurgeon, nuclear physicist, unpaid comedic podcaster in his 30s, or President. Plus, Dave turns his family members into hostages and Kellen takes a cheat day, on his diet and taxes.*To buy the book, Atomic Habits, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/45aC7L0*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!
2021-10-1824 minThe Book PileHit Makers by Derek ThompsonHow do things become popular? In Hit Makers, Derek Thompson examines the qualities of massively successful products and people, including iPhones, ESPN, Adele, The Lion King, The Book Pile, and Star Wars. Plus, Kellen tries to trick you by rhyming, and Dave wants to sell you cigarettes.*To buy the book, Hit Makers, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3Ydfmnz*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel...
2021-10-1124 minThe Book PilePhysics of the Impossible by Michio KakuAs Niels Bohr once said, the best way to learn complex physics is by listening to two comedians who are VERY confident they understand it. Physics of the Impossible discusses technologies like teleportation, phasers, and invisibility that may be possible in the future, and boy is it exciting and terrifying! Plus, Dave is one of those dumb UFO crazies and Kellen is one of those lame UFO skeptics.*To buy the book, Physics of the Impossible, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!...
2021-10-0431 minThe Book PileThe Two Towers by J. R. R. TolkienThe Two Towers is the book where Viggo Mortenson breaks his toe. It is also the second book in Tolkien’s sprawling Lord of the Rings saga, and unlike Return of the King, it doesn’t have the biggest spoiler right in the title. Plus, Kellen has more critiques of Tolkien’s songwriting, and Dave says Gollum can teach you how to be popular.*To buy the book, The Two Towers, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3rUj75m*
2021-09-2724 minThe Book PileTalk Like TED by Carmine GalloIn Talk Like TED, Carmine Gallo gives tips for giving a TED Talk. But we did some research and, uh… he hasn’t given a TED Talk. So is this allowed now? We can just write How-To books for things we haven’t done? Check out Dave’s new book, How to Date Florence Pugh. Needless to say this book has some helpful advice, some wild guesses, and we're here to help you navigate through all of it, The-Book-Pile style.*To buy the book, Talk Like Ted, or listen to it free...
2021-09-2029 minThe Book PileHarry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by JK RowlingHarry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is Rowling’s sixth… okay look, this episode description isn’t going to make any difference, right? Either you’re a Harry Potter fan and you’re going to listen to this episode, or you’re not. Do you think any cute book description here will get you to take the bait? Forget it. Let’s not kid ourselves. This was predestined long before today. Plus, Kellen has more thoughts about how Ron sucks.And as always with our Harry Potter episodes, SPOILERS AHEAD.*To buy the book, H...
2021-09-1328 minThe Book PileSense and Sensibility by Jane AustenJane Austen began writing Sense and Sensibility as a 20-year-old first-time author, in a time when women had incredible difficulty being published at all and, uh... boy do we have notes! Plus, Dave wants the Dashwood sisters to be exactly the same (in a feminist way!), and Kellen finally shows us his Snape/Colonel Brandon impression.*To buy the book, Sense and Sensibility, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3QeGqRs*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine...
2021-09-0626 minThe Book PileSapiens by Yuval Noah HarariIf you ever feel depressed that your job isn’t inherently meaningful, read this book so the author can tell you that NOTHING is meaningful! Really puts things in perspective. But seriously, Sapiens is a short and interesting history of humankind. Plus, Kellen believes money can make you happy and Dave has a new idea for what to put on Bitcoin.P.S. We apologize for Kellen's subpar audio quality on this episode, he was in a hotel room in St. Louis (by choice) during this recording session because his stand-up career is finally picking back up....
2021-08-3029 minThe Book PileA Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony SnicketEver notice how every single Count is obsessed with killing people? Olaf, Dracula, Dooku, Monte Cristo....Today’s book is A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket. Listen to it while eating some Count Chocula, which will also kill you. Plus, Dave wants you to write a will and Kellen hates the Berenstain Bears. (Yeah, it’s spelled Berenstain, isn’t that embarrassing?)*To buy the book, A Series of Unfortunate Event, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/44PICDd
2021-08-2324 minThe Book PileGood Economics for Hard Times by Abhijit V. Banerjee and Esther DufloSometimes after slogging through some technical, academic books like Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings, we like to kick back with a real thriller like Good Economics for Hard Times. We both really liked it, except Kellen. Plus, Dave has a great idea for a factory and Kellen isn’t scared of robots, so you know they’re gonna kill him first.*To buy the book, Good Economics for Hard Times, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/47cavaa*TheB...
2021-08-1627 minThe Book PileTHE ROAST OF: Twilight by Stephenie MeyerIn 2004, feminist author Stephenie Meyer critiqued the romance genre with her parody book, Twilight, featuring a man so abusive and a woman so dull that no one could ever admire either character. Today we give her masterpiece the academic analysis it deserves. Just kidding, we’re roasting this one. Plus, Kellen is keeping this book away from his 17-year-old daughter and Dave places a bounty on Edward’s head.*To buy the book, Twilight, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3DDuGQW...
2021-08-0935 minThe Book PileWe Don’t Need Roads: The Making of Back to the Future by Caseen GainesBack to the Future is a story of a 17-year-old high-schooler hanging out with a super, super old man, much like our upcoming episode on Twilight. We Don’t Need Roads tells the story behind this groundbreaking sci-fi series. Plus, Kellen harasses DeLorean drivers, and Dave has an apology for Rebecca Black.*To buy the book, We Don't Need Roads, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3OCOtWU*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Con...
2021-08-0237 minThe Book PileHarry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by JK RowlingThe longest Harry Potter book, and the only one that is named after a city in Arizona. We explore how the emotions of this book resonate so forcefully, why it pays off so effectively, and why Professor Umbridge is basically worse than Voldemort (fun fact, Stephen King called her, "...the greatest make-believe villain to come along since Hannibal Lecter"). Plus, Dave thinks the prophecy changes nothing, and Kellen barely makes it through discussing the most bonkers section of the Department of Mysteries.*To buy the book, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
2021-07-2630 minThe Book PileWhy We Sleep by Matthew WalkerIn Why We Sleep, Matthew Walker delivers an important message (“Get enough sleep!”) using a fascinating, innovative method (lying). Seriously, we were surprised to learn how thoroughly this book has been fact-checked. But we still think sleep is important! Plus, Kellen is tired of being harassed for being a night owl, and Dave wants you to help him be harder to trick.*To buy the book, Why We Sleep, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3QlbDCp*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com...
2021-07-1934 minThe Book Pile1984 by George OrwellGeorge Orwell wrote 1984 while slowly dying of tuberculosis on a miserably cold island, and boy does it show! Today we cover his classic take on totalitarianism. Plus, Kellen finds his new home decor -- pneumatic tubes! -- and Dave talks about Orwell’s sad, painful life.*To buy the book, 1984, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/45cJbXy*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's ...
2021-07-0525 minThe Book PileThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen CoveyIn 7 Habits, Stephen Covey tries to trick you into being a better person by showing how it makes you better at business. No thanks! We prefer the Dale Carnegie method of sucking up to the powerful so we can drain them of resources like ravenous, insatiable tapeworms. (We’re only interested in 7 Habits if one of those habits is “grifting”.) Plus, Dave has a story about a dumb optometrist, and Kellen has a brush with a bow and arrow. But seriously, this is a good book.*To buy the book, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People...
2021-06-2827 minThe Book PileEmma by Jane AustenToday on The Book Pile, we’re pleased to launch the career of promising new author Jane Austen, whose novel Emma tells the story of a girl named Emma. (You can support Jane at her Patreon or via PayPal!) Plus, Kellen believes arguments make stories more interesting. (Counter-argument: no.) And Dave gives tips for breaking up your friend’s engagement.*To buy the book, Emma, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3q8UwJATheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has...
2021-06-2130 minThe Book PileThe Fellowship of the Ring by J. R. R. TolkienTolkien is the first person to invent both a new genre (high fantasy) and a new type of person (the nerd). Before Tolkien, thousands of young geeks could only engage in their classic hobbies, like being sickly or dying of consumption. Plus, Dave has sympathy for orcs, and Kellen wishes Tolkien left in more details...*To buy the book, The Fellowship of the Ring, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3Kmx4iI*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine...
2021-06-1429 minThe Book PileYes Please by Amy PoehlerYes Please is the memoir of comedian Amy Poehler, which inspired us to write our own memoirs with similar titles. (Excuse Me by Kellen; Can you Pass the Salt? by Dave.) Plus, Kellen REALLY wants you to send him your movie script. And Dave is inspired by Conan O’Brien’s unrelenting self-cruelty. (He’s just like us!)*To buy the book, Yes Please, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3rZHn5Q*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has ap...
2021-06-0726 minThe Book PileThe Martian by Andy WeirThe Martian tells the story of an astronaut trying to survive alone on Mars, so why isn’t it called The Earthling? Huge let down! We thought there would be aliens! If you write a non-alien book, make that clear from the top and stop wasting our time. Plus, Kellen talks about how the author uses jokes to smuggle in information (instead of including aliens) and Dave is the one writing this description and he is LIVID that this was marketed as “The Martian”! Can you imagine reading a book called “The Italian," but it’s just some dude from...
2021-05-3128 minThe Book PileThe Power of Moments by Chip Heath and Dan HeathWant to create moments so memorable that you and loved ones remember them the rest of your lives (and you’ve already seen Kellen’s standup)? The Power of Moments teaches you how! Plus, Dave has a story about his Mom, and Kellen’s family has a new and potentially dangerous holiday tradition.*To buy the book, The Power of Moments, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3YnzFP9*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Cona...
2021-05-2427 minThe Book PileThe Checklist Manifesto by Atul GawandeA simple checklist can change your life. Don’t believe us? Then explain “Live Laugh Love”. Plus, Kellen makes fun of Johns Hopkins and Dave has an idea for police lineups.*To buy the book, The Checklist Manifesto, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3qolT26*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's America's Got Talent, and the Amazon Original Series Insi...
2021-05-1724 minThe Book PileEssentialism by Greg McKeownEssentialism is a book all about focus, so we gave it the one thing it was missing -- more tangents. Plus, Dave has a dark recurring dream, and Kellen finds a way to bring up his favorite topic -- his hatred of Ron Weasley.*To buy the book, Essentialism, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3QqEMwg*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's
2021-05-1032 minThe Book PileInvisible Women by Caroline Criado PerezIn Invisible Women, Caroline Criado Perez talks about all the ways women are ignored by society. So we had an idea -- take the same message, but have it come from two men. Plus, Dave has thoughts on a Viking skeleton, and Kellen explores the world’s worst mascot.*To buy the book, Invisible Women, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/45cYVdi*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Co...
2021-04-2625 minThe Book PileHarry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J. K. RowlingHarry Potter and the Goblet of Fire raises the crucial question -- does Voldemort ever get embarrassed that he’s constantly beaten by a literal child? Like, imagine you had a reputation for being good at your job, and yet you keep getting beaten by an eighth-grader. You would be humiliated. Also, Kellen hates Ron Weasley, and Dave gets mushy.*To buy the book, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/459FCS2*TheBookPilePodcast@gm...
2021-04-1930 minThe Book PileThe Elements of Style by William Strunk and E. B. White The Elements of Style is one of the most popular writing books of all time, so it seemed a natural fit for this, the most popular podcast of all time. Plus, Kellen believes “alright” is two words (he is technically right, but morally wrong). And Dave makes an Oprah quote worse.*To buy the book, The Elements of Style, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3rQ1djX*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appea...
2021-04-1229 minThe Book PileDeep Work by Cal NewportIn Deep Work, Cal Newport tells you how to get more work done (start with lip fillers or Botox). Plus, Kellen has a story about the world’s coolest juggler (not a competitive category), and Dave talks about the person he’s most ashamed to have hated.*To buy the book, Bears Want to Kill You, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/47g9E8w*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on
2021-04-0528 minThe Book PileWorld War Z by Max BrooksIn World War Z, Max Brooks paints a well-researched picture of a zombie apocalypse, something we at The Book Pile take very seriously. Plus, Kellen talks about why this book doesn’t adapt well into a movie (just into a podcast!). And Dave says we should be nicer to preppers (because they have guns).*To buy the book, World War Z , or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3YkWdAb*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine ha...
2021-03-2933 minThe Book PileCreativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull and Amy WallaceIn Creativity, Inc. the cofounder of Pixar teaches lessons about creativity -- such as, every animated movie should emotionally devastate a child. Plus, Kellen knows a shocking amount about box office numbers, and Dave has a sad story about almost meeting Ed Catmull.*To buy the book, Creativity, Inc, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3DEBVIf*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!
2021-03-2234 minThe Book PileBorn Standing Up by Steve Martin -- with guest Matthew Broussard!In Born Standing Up, special guest Matthew Broussard discusses Steve Martin’s memoir and the many lessons from standup comedy. (Steve, Matthew, and Kellen have over 43 years of standup experience between them.) (Dave has 0 but he is a very nice boy.) Plus, Kellen talks about the worst time he made fun of an audience, and Dave tells a story about horse-racing, just to let you know his life is troubled.*To buy the book, Born Standing Up, or listen to it free on Audible AND support th...
2021-03-1529 minThe Book PileTHE ROAST OF: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale CarnegieIn How to Win Friends and Influence People, Dale Carnegie teaches you how to view other humans as objects you can manipulate to get what you want. (We aren't fans.) Come hear us roast it! Plus, Kellen talks about sneaking past a talkative neighbor, and Dave has some news about Charles Manson and the Nazis.*To buy the book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3Ok9Mv1*TheBookPilePodcast...
2021-03-0826 minThe Book PileQuiet by Susan CainIn Quiet, Susan Cain discusses the ways in which society undervalues and stigmatizes introverts. (Don’t tell them they’re quiet, they hate that.) Plus, Kellen tells about life as an introverted comedian, and Dave just sorta remains his loud, extrovert self.*To buy the book, Quiet, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/44TCwlk*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's
2021-03-0132 minThe Book PileHarry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban--with guest Natalie Madsen!Special guest Natalie Madsen joins to talk about the third Harry Potter book, and how to make your third creation just as successful as the first two (Nat has three kids). Plus Kellen airs his grievances with time travel, and Dave tells a sad story about Krispy Kreme.*To buy the book, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3rZIdQ2*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!
2021-02-2233 minThe Book PileFreakonomics by Stephen J. Dubner and Steven LevittIn Freakonomics, we learn how economics can improve your daily life and help you achieve your goals. (Like Kellen’s goal of a good financial future for his kids, and Dave’s goal of joining the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors.) Plus, Kellen talks about the things that will and won’t kill you, and Dave tells stories about comedians attacking dictators.*To buy the book, Freakonomics, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/45bslID*Kellen E...
2021-02-1536 minThe Book PilePride and Prejudice by Jane AustenIn Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen explores the challenge of finding love in a time when you weren't allowed to touch people. Plus, Kellen has strong feelings about the stakes in rom coms, and Dave loves Mrs. Bennet.*To buy the book, Pride and Prejudice, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3DKSt1a*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's America's Got Talent, and the Amazon Original Series "Inside Jokes."...
2021-02-0828 minThe Book PileOutliers by Malcolm GladwellIn Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell asks, what does it take to become the master of your field? His answer: thousands of hours of practice--plus being born in the right place at the right time to the right family. Plus, Dave knows stuff about hockey despite having all his teeth. And Kellen gets insulted by a taxi driver despite being in Canada.*To buy the book, Outliers, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3qg1qwx*Kellen Erskine...
2021-02-0127 minThe Book PileHarry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. RowlingKellen and Dave share their favorite creative lessons from Joanne Kathleen Rowling’s unbelievably well-crafted debut novel, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Plus, Kellen tells a story about meeting Robin Williams for the first time. Also, Dave knows way too much about Harry Potter, and Kellen lets him know several times.*To buy the book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3Yhc82s*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com
2020-12-2127 minThe Book PilePeak by Anders Ericsson and Robert PoolWhat if you could get good at any skill? (Except for being a DJ, that's not a skill.) In Peak, Anders Ericsson and Robert Pool share the secrets of skill development. Plus Kellen talks about one of his first comedy open-mics, and Dave gets insulted by Kellen.*To buy the book, Peak, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3Yi1ecy*TheBookPilePodcast@gmail.com*Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, C...
2020-12-1417 minThe Book PileRange by David Epstein (no relation)Why are there child-prodigy golfers, but no child-prodigy family therapists? We answer these questions with the book Range, where David Epstein writes about the virtue of having broad interests in an increasingly specialized world. Plus Kellen gives a glaring example of how he definitely does not specialize in playing basketball, and Dave recounts the time he went skydiving for a dumb reason.*To buy the book, Range, or listen to it free on Audible AND support the podcast, click here!https://amzn.to/3KrDFbQ*
2020-12-0124 min