Shows
Rock 'n' Roll Grad SchoolRock n Roll Grad School #218: Author Jon Magidsohn on Crowded HouseThis is a special one for Heidi. She talks with Jon Magidsohn, author of a new book about her favorite band- Crowded House. Part of the "On Track" series by Sonic Bond Publishing, Magidsohn does exactly what is says on the cover- break down every Crowded House song. (And he does so with the help of an interview with Neil Finn to provide some of the answers.)"Crowded House: On Track" by John Magidsohn is available right now wherever you get your books. For more information, check out Sonic Bond Publishing's website.2025-03-2636 minRock 'n' Roll Grad SchoolRock n Roll Grad School #196- Rob McNelleyYou know Rob McNelley's work. He's written with country music legends like Dolly Parton, Bob Seeger and Lady A. Now, he's putting out his own music and, surprise surprise, it's really good. For more information, you can follow Rob on Instagram, @rmcnelley.Plus, Heidi sees Bob Dylan for the first time and has her life forever changed.2024-09-1842 minRock 'n' Roll Grad SchoolRock n Roll Grad School #179 Bullets & OctaneHard rock band Bullets and Octane are survivors. For the past 25+ years, they've been playing their brand of hard rock and touring regularly, including collaborations with Paige Hamilton from Helmet and Gilby Clarke from Guns n Roses. The band has been regularly releasing singles for the past 6 months, so, what comes next?We talked with lead singer Gene Lewis about the history of the band and what's next. For more information, you can check out the band's website and you can follow them on Facebook.And if that isn't enough, Heidi reviews the Echo & the B...2024-05-2942 minRock 'n' Roll Grad SchoolRock n Roll Grad School #169 Van Dyke ParksLuke has the flu. Heidi is off gallivanting. Until they rejoin forces next week, enjoy this classic episode of Grad School, culled from deep within our vaults.The music of Van Dyke Parks has always taken you on a journey, replete with exquisite sounds and thoughtful concepts. His most recent collaboration is no different- he never met Veronica Valerio, but the resulting album is no less compelling. We talked with Van Dyke about the new album, finger foods in Berlin, the Twentieth Century Fox theme music and the various books of the bible in this wi...2024-03-2746 minRock 'n' Roll Grad SchoolRock n Roll Grad School #166 Bettye LaVetteBettye LaVette is a music legend. Heading back out on the road this spring, Bettye is one of the foremost interpreter of songs and is one of a kind. We got to talk with Bettye about her albums, including how she approaches her interpretations as well as her fascinating and long-running career.Her most recent album LaVette! Is available now. For more information and tour dates, check out her website, or follow her on Facebook.Plus, Heidi recaps her night with U2.2024-03-0644 minRock 'n' Roll Grad SchoolRock n Roll Grad School #165 FirewindIf you’re looking for hard rock and great guitar, you need to look no further than Firewind. We talked with bandleader Gus G on the eve of the release of the new album, Stand United.Plus, we talk about Heidi’s big weekend and big summer plans, and if that isn’t enough, we extended an invitation to a particular politician to be a guest on the show and answer the tough questions. For more information on Firewind, you can check out their website, or you can follow them on Facebook.2024-02-2831 minRock 'n' Roll Grad SchoolRock n Roll Grad School #145- Martin Popoff on The Who and QuadropheniaThe Who and Quadrophenia is the new book by Martin Popff and it takes a detailed look at the making and response to the Who's second double album rock opera. The book is now available from Motor Books, wherever you find your reading material.For more information, check out Martin's website.Plus, Heidi just saw Ringo Starr perform and gives us her full review.2023-10-1143 min
Why? The PodcastWhy? Episode 269- The Exciting World of Hobby HorseLet's say you want to get into horseback riding and competition- but maybe you don't own a horse or are a little too young? Well, enter the folks at the Tryon Equestrian Resort who offer events requiring only a hobby horse?For more information, check out their website or visit them on Facebook.Plus, it's the popular game about drinks where no drinking is involved- that's right, we're seeing if Heidi can identify the drinks at U2's show at the Sphere in Las Vegas.2023-10-0937 minRock 'n' Roll Grad SchoolRock n Roll Grad School #139 Celebrating Ozzy @ 75Ozzy Osbourne is turning 75 and what better way to celebrate than looking back at his fascinating career. Daniel Bukszpan's new book "Ozzy @ 75" is the perfect examination of Ozzy's career and how he's still alive.Plus, Heidi saw Barry Manilow and offers her full review. 2023-08-3044 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 250- Dr MegavoltBy day, Austin Richards is an engineer and scientist, but by night, he's Dr Megavolt, blowing the minds of audiences everywhere by showing them the magic of science.We talked with Dr Megavolt about his early days and his complete lack of fear in building a Tesla coil, something which makes both Luke and Heidi quake in worry. We then move onto some of his most amazing performances, including several years at Burning Man.For more information on Dr Megavolt, check out his website, or follow him on Facebook, on YouTube. And there is a...2023-05-2932 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 244- Fertility TechnologyWe last spoke with Donna J Drucker about her book on the history of contraception and now her new book tackles the history of fertility and it is equally fascinating. We get into the details of the history of conception (and the history of trying to improve conception) and so much more.For more information, you can follow Dr Drucker on Twitter.Meanwhile, Heidi is left trying to figure out what to wear for an 80's themed party.2023-04-1740 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 230- Swissploitation movie Mad HeidiEveryone loves a good exploitation movie; but you haven't seen anything quite like the newest exploitation genre- Swissploitation. Co-director Johannes Hartmann joins us to explain his influences, how he funded the movie and, most importantly, why that little girl from the Alps is now so incredibly angry and bent on revenge.To buy or rent the movie, and to get all your Mad Heidi merch, check out the movie's website. You can also follow them on Facebook.2023-01-0929 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 222- The Famous ChickenHe's hobnobbed with presidents, he has his own baseball card, he's been named "one of the most powerful 100 people in sports of the 20th century." He is Ted Giannoulas, better known to most as the Famous Chicken.We talked with Ted about his humble beginnings as a radio promotion chicken to his ascendancy to world-wide fame and adoration and what he's learned along the way.For more information, you can visit The Chicken's website, or you can check out his channel on YouTube.Plus, Luke and Heidi discuss what makes a good cult...2022-11-1441 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 221- Vehicle Centric Defensive TacticsIn movies what happens when a CEO or a head of state is in their car and trapped by the bad guys? The person usually turns to the driver and says, "get me out of here."But, how does someone learn how to do that? How do you learn to drive in a way that keeps your passenger and bystanders safe? Enter Vehicle Dynamics. They offer driving courses for security professionals, designed to help them get out of sticky situations. (They also offer courses for the general public too.)We talked with Joe Autera, the...2022-11-0741 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 219- The World Famous Gopher Hole MuseumThis week we're headed to visit our neighbors to the north so we can appreciate and celebrate their culture.We talked with Laurel Kurta from the World Famous Gopher Hole Museum, located in Torrington, Alberta. The museum is part of Laurel's family history, as well as the history of their small town. (And we already asked about getting gophers dressed like Luke and Heidi added to the museum.)For more information, check out the Gopher Hole Museum's website.Plus, we've got leaf peeping and sexy ghosts.2022-10-2434 minRock 'n' Roll Grad SchoolRock n Roll Grad School #89 3 Pairs of Boots' Andrew SternThe music of Andrew Stern and Laura Arias, better known as 3 Pairs of Boots, is a warm take on folk and country music. Their new album, Mighty Love, is available right now on their website, and can be streamed on all of your favorite streamers.For more information, check out their website.Plus, Heidi decides which is the main reason she's going to Bourbon and Beyond- the bourbon or the beyond?2022-09-1436 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 212- Songwriters Daw & EdmondsonYou may not know the names of songwriters Charity Daw and Josh Edmonson, but you definitely know their music. Their music has over a billion streams and they've worked with artists like the Beach Boys' Mike Love, Ringo Starr and Dove Cameron. Wait... Dove Cameron? Yup, they wrote songs for the uber popular Disney movie The Descendants. Need we say anything else?Plus, Heidi's mom extends an invitation and we're all booking our flights on Southwest from now on.2022-09-0529 minRock 'n' Roll Grad SchoolRock n Roll Grad School #87- Brian Kramp on his new Cheap Trick bookBrian Kramp grew up a Cheap Trick fan and now he's written a great book about the history of the one and only Cheap Trick. The book goes from the pre-history to the creation of the band. It's one of the best music books of the year.This Band Has No Past is available September 6th wherever you get your books.Plus, Heidi reviews George Thorogood and Sammy Hagar life. And how can "Rhythm Nation" crash your computer?2022-08-3135 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 209- Sword Swallower Cyrus PynnCyrus Pynn learned how to swallow swords the hard way- he just did it. And that was just the beginning of our fascinating conversation. We learned all about the hard knocks of sword swallowing and why neither Luke or Heidi should ever be allowed to try this dangerous trick.You can see Cyrus in action across the country. For more information, you can check out his website, or follow him on Facebook and Instagram.And if that isn't enough, we talked for a while (some might say too long,) about Tommy Lee's method of mayhem...2022-08-1532 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 201- Ballroom Dancer (and Luke's mom) Lynn PolingAs we cross the episode 200 threshold, we need to acknowledge those who have been so important to our success in making this show. So, this week, we're talking with Luke's mom, Lynn Poling and her hobby of ballroom dancing.2022-06-2030 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 200- Opera Singer (and Heidi's mom) Marily SampsonAs we cross the episode 200 threshold, we need to acknowledge those who have been so important to our success in making this show. So, this week, we're talking with Heidi's mom, Marily Sampson and her career as a professional opera singer.2022-06-1326 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 194- Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader Sherri SteensonSherri Steenson was still in high school when she joined the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders in 1971. And the group was nowhere near as famous as they would become. But in her season with the team, Sherri had a lifetime of experiences, from cheering at a Super Bowl to doing some advertising to meeting new friends she'd have never met otherwise. Sherri shared with us some of her memories of that season and the lifetime of friendships that she gained while working for the Cowboys and Heidi once again lamented her career that could have been.2022-05-0228 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 178- Mud Wrestling with Kim from Chicago Mud QueensSure mud wrestling is fun- but mud wrestling for a good cause? Well, sign us up. (No really, Heidi might be entering a ring near you soon.)The Chicago Mud Queens are wrestling and donating the proceeds raised from their matches to different women-centric charities in the Chicago area. For more information on the Queens (and trust us, you want more information) check out their website, follow them on Facebook or Twitter.We also go through some of the many items we're interested in at the Don Rickles estate auction.2022-01-1022 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 159- Nellie Lillie from the National Roller Skating MuseumThis week, we lace up our skates and talk with Nellie Lillie from the National Roller Skating museum. We examine the history of the sport and where it is now. We also try to wrangle an invitation to skate through the museum.For more information, check out the museum's website. You can also find them on Instagram, which is one of Heidi's favorite follows.2021-08-3026 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 132- Actor Ted LangeWould it shock you if we said that our conversation with Ted Lange was exciting and new? Because it was. Ted was wonderful, telling us all about his career, his time on The Love Boat and how his career has only grown and expanded since the show ended.Heidi told Ted about her celebrating his birthday every year and he wasn't the least bit scared. Needless to say, we are fans of Ted and his work. Come aboard, we've been expecting you.2021-03-0846 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 117- The Disney Quiz with Banter? I Hardly Know Her (Bonus!)We thought we knew a few things about the Walt Disney Company, their various products and the possible location of their founder's frozen remains. Well, we were wrong- or were we?We talked with Perry and Wes from the popular podcast Banter? I Hardly Know Her and they tested us with their difficult Disney quiz. Do you know which voice actor Luke has the e-mail of? Do you know which character Heidi wanted to fight? Learn all these fun facts and more.You can follow Banter? I Hardly Know Her on Facebook and Instagram, and...2020-12-1029 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 100- Drummer Richie RamoneHey! Ho! Let's Go!This week we talk with another rock great- Richie Ramone. Richie made a mark in the band by bringing in great songs (and being the first person to sing on a Ramones record besides Joey). We talked about Richie's time with the band, what other musical adventures he's been on, where he's headed next and what Joey & Johnny really were like. For more information on Richie, check out his website.2020-08-3130 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 99- Professional Mini GolfMini golf- it's a sport one can learn in minutes, but not master until decades later. Maybe watching the PGA is fun, but can you play on the same course as those clowns? No, you can't. But you can play the Mossy Creek course in Jefferson City, TN. We talked with Kyle Cutshaw, the owner and general manager of Mossy Creek, who will be hosting the Tennesee Open, August 29th.And if that wasn't enough, we talked with professional mini golfer Danny Baddeley. Both of them gave us an inside look at the sport whose...2020-08-2440 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 98 (Bonus!)- Competitive Dog Grooming with Rebecca SternCompetitive dog grooming. It's a thing. And it's a really popular thing. We talked with Rebecca Stern, director of the new documentary Well Groomed, which gives an inside look to this fascinating world. You can watch Well Groomed right now, streaming on HBO Max.2020-08-2021 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 97- A History of Contraception with Donna DruckerDr Donna Drucker is a historian and her most recent book is a fascinating look at the history of contraception across the ages. We talk about her book and why Americans are so uptight in this interview. You can find out more about Donna at Women Know History Too and order her book here.2020-08-1731 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 96- Action Park with Andy MulvihillEveryone has fun memories of the local amusement park that they went to every summer growing up. Action Park, in Vernon, NJ is memory for many people. And what is that memory of? Dangerous rides, frequent injuries and even a couple of deaths.Action Park, "Where you control the action," was known by many nicknames, Class Action Park, Traction Park, Accident Park, but whatever you call it, you never forget it.Andy Mulvihill, son of Action Park's creator, Gene Mulvihill has written a new book about his memories of not only the park, but also...2020-08-1027 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 95- Cornhole with ACL Commissioner Stacey MooreCornhole is sweeping the nation. And don't just believe us. Believe ESPN, who are devoting almost 30 hours of time to the sport this week. We sat down with American Cornhole League Commissioner Stacey Moore to talk about how this sport went pro, how good you have to be to go pro and why Roger Goodell isn't taking his calls... just yet.2020-08-0326 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 94- Baseball Groundskeeper Paul ZwaskaPaul Zwaska knows how to take care of a baseball field. He was the head groundskeeper for the Baltimore Orioles for 15 years. Now, he works with groundskeepers across the world in keeping their fields ready for play. We learned about some of the stresses of the job, and one of the nicest things Cal Ripken Jr ever said to him. For more information on Paul, you can follow him on Twitter and you can check out Beacon Athletics, the company Paul works with, for all of your grounds keeping goods & information.2020-07-2736 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 93- Talking Head Chris FrantzChris Frantz is music royalty. As a founding member of Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club, he's created some of the drum beats that you've hear many times over. Now Chris has a new book out about his life. It's called "Remain in Love: Talking Heads, Tom Tom Club, Tina" is available from St. Martin's Press. You can also follow Chris on Twitter.2020-07-2036 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 92 (Bonus!)- Music Great John EllisonJohn Ellison is one of the great songwriters of all time. His "Some Kind of Wonderful," is known the world over as a classic and it's been covered by a wide array of musicians. John has just released a new song, "Wake-Up Call (Black Like Me)" and it's a powerful statement and indictment of the times we are living in.But it wasn't all serious with John. He also let us sing backup with him. He's likely regretting that decision. For more information on John, check out his website. "Wake-Up Call (Black Like Me) can be downloaded...2020-07-1520 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 91- Poly Dom Writer Tammy Jo EckhartIt's hard to succinctly describe Tammy Jo Echkart. She's a writer. A chocolate priestess. A poly dom. A woman who shares her house with both her husband and her submissive. We talked about all of this with Tammy Jo in a fascinating conversation. For more information on Tammy Jo and to find her writings, check out her website.2020-07-1330 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 90 (Bonus!)- Blobfest 2020 with Bob TrateWe've had Bob Trate on the show before, to talk about one of the great genre film festivals in the country- Blobfest. The Colonial Theater in Phoneixville, PA (where they filmed the 1958 class film The Blob) has been home to the festival for the past 20 years.This year, unfortunately, they were forced to cancel the in-person celebration. But now anyone, anywhere gets to join in the fun. Friday and Saturday of this week, take part in the celebration and get some great Blob swag while you're at it.For tickets and t-shirts and posters and p...2020-07-0817 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 89- You Don't Nomi with director Jeffrey McHaleWhat better way to say 'Happy Birthday America,' than to talk about Showgirls. The Paul Verhoeven (classic?) film made a mark on film goers from it's opening weekend. (We know because Heidi was there.)We sat down with Jeffrey McHale, director of the great new documentary You Don't Nomi, where he examines the obsession people have with Nomi Malone and why we all aren't done talking about Showgirls. You Don't Nomi, is now available for rent from the film's website. We recommend it.2020-07-0634 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 88- Music Great Suzi QuatroSuzi Quatro was one of the first female bass player to make it big in rock. She also was a television star, playing Leather Tuscadero on Happy Days. There's a new documentary, called Suzi Q, where Suzi leads you through her amazing life. We got to talk with Suzi prior to the film's release and learn about her friendship with Debbie Harry, where she celebrated her 50th birthday and so much more. For more information on the film, check out their website. (There's a virtual premiere July 1st with Suzi doing a Q&A after the movie... Ge...2020-06-2936 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 87- Pizza Tours with Scott WienerScott Wiener knows a thing or two or three or four about pizza. He offers guided tours of different pizzerias in New York City, but that's not all. He also is a writer & columnist for Pizza Today magazine and holds the world record for owning the most pizza boxes. We talked with Scott about the tour, what makes a good pizza and the history of the most wonderful food group ever. For more information on Scott's tours & classes, check out his website, and for more information about his charity dedicated to helping feed front-line health care workers, check out t...2020-06-2229 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 86- Jeopardy Champion & Author Sarah Jett RayburnNot only is Sarah Jett Rayburn a Jeopardy! champion- she's a four time Jeopardy! champion. We sat down to talk with Sarah about nerves, the backstage area at the show and her new book which just came out. For more information on Sarah, follow her on Twitter, and your can order her books on Amazon.2020-06-1536 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 85- Naked Skydiving with Jeff DawsonIf you're Jeff Dawson, jumping out of a plane isn't enough. He'd rather do it naked. And he's done so 814 times. (And counting.) Believe it or not, it's harder to do a naked jump than a clothed one. And, the Guinness people don't keep records, so it's up to Jeff and his friends at SANS (The Society for the Advancement of Naked Skydiving) to keep the records. For more information, or to join, check out their website.2020-06-0834 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 84- US Olympic Synchronized Swimmer Anita AlvarezSynchronized swimming is hard work. Don't believe us? Listen to our conversation with US Olympic Synchronized Swimmer Anita Alvarez. We talk about the specifics about the sport, what drew her to the water and if the team might consider changing their performance music. For more information on the team, check out the Team USA website. And you can follow Anita on Twitter.2020-06-0138 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 83- Naked & Afraid Blur-er Erin T GavinThere's only one way a show with the title Naked & Afraid is going to be making it to TV- that's with extensive graphic work. Erin Gavin was part of what they called, "The Blur Man Group," the group of visual effect engineers who spent painstaking hours covering all the contestants bits and bobs. Needless to say, there are some stories. For more information on Erin's work, or to learn more about visual effects, check out his website.2020-05-2533 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 82- Tennis Great & Podcast Host Patrick McEnroeYou may know Patrick McEnroe from his time on the tennis court, but now he's also hosting a new podcast called Holding Court. His show features conversations with celebrities who are also tennis fans.We are thrilled to announce that we're now sharing a network with Patrick. Why and Holding Court are both part of the Mudd House podcast network. You can find out more about Patrick's show and the network at their website.2020-05-1835 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 81- Collecting Indiana Jones with Michael MillerTo say Michael Miller likes the Indiana Jones movies is a bit of a understatement. He has what much be the greatest collection of material related to the films in his Wisconsin home. We talked with Mike about how he started his collection, where he got some of his prized pieces from and whether or not he opened the Indy LEGO set. (For a full look around his collection, check out our website.)2020-05-1529 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 80- Effin' Birds with Aaron ReynoldsYou may not know Aaron Reynolds, but you know his work. His Effin Birds twitter account has been a sensation, and just what many people need during these trying times. The concept is simple but brilliant- show pictures of birds with incredibly inappropriate captions. We talked with Aaron about his creation, how it got started and which bird is the easiest to write for. You can check out Effin Birds on Twitter or at their on-line store.2020-05-1135 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 79- Music Legend Cherry VanillaIt's too difficult to explain all that Cherry Vanilla has done in a couple of sentences. She has led an amazing life and gotten to know many rock legends before becoming one herself. We got to talk with Cherry about her time working with David Bowie, her many friendships and whether music still retains that thrill for her that got her interested in the first place.2020-05-0435 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 78- Stuntwoman Rachel HarrisonStuntwoman Rachel Harrison has done things we certainly wouldn't want to try. From skydiving, to being set on fire to being buried alive in cement... she's survived it and even gotten paid for it. We talked with Rachel about her career, how she got into the industry and what all of this feels like.2020-04-2741 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 77- Boober Eats with Shon BouldenAs the pandemic continues, small business owners are looking for new and inventive ways to stay open and take care of their customers as well as their staff. Shon Boulden at the Lucky Devil Lounge in Portland, Oregon has hit upon an idea that is downright brilliant- and he calls it Boober.If you can't go to the strip club, why not have the strip club come to you? We talked with Shon about his bright idea and how quickly it has caught on. For more information on the Luck Devil Lounge, check out their website.2020-04-2031 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 76- Hair Collecting with John ReznikoffJohn Reznikoff is one of the foremost autograph and ephemera dealers in the world. So when he decided he wanted to start collecting something, he wanted to pursue something that wouldn't be a conflict of interest. So he ended up collecting hair.John owns the locks of Abraham Lincoln, John Wilkes Booth and Edgar Allan Poe, among others. We talked with John about his collection and how he authenticates something as personal as follicles. For more information on John's collection or to see what cool things he's auctioning off now, check out his company, University Archives.2020-04-1329 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 75- Quidditch with Mary KimballQuidditch isn't just for wizards anymore. The sport has evolved from the pages of J.K. Rowling and is now being played world wide by people (some of whom haven't even read the books).We talked with Mary Kimball from US Quidditch about the origin of the sport, how they've adapted the rules for muggles and where the sport can go from here. For more information and to find a team near you, check out the US Quidditch website.2020-04-0628 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 74- Isolation Movies with Bob Trate (Bonus!)With so much time on our collective hands, people everywhere are now looking for more movies to watch. We re-connected with Bob Trate from the Colonial Theater in Phoenixville, PA to talk about what he's been watching and one way you can stay involved with the local independent movie theater near you during this rough time.For more information on the Colonial check out their website. And to join an on-line viewing party, check out the Colonial's Facebook page.2020-04-0139 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 73- XFL Tight End Jake SutherlandWe get all of our football questions answered when we talked with Jake Sutherland. Jake is a tight end for the XFL's New York Guardians. How many people are hitting him up for tickets? Who names the plays? Do signs in the stadium really encourage them? Check Jake out on Twitter, or visit the Guardians' website for more info.2020-03-3025 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 72- The Obama-Biden Mysteries with Andrew ShafferWhen you think of the perfect detective pair, maybe you think Crockett and Tubbs. Or Holmes and Watson. But you likely don't think of the 44th President and his Vice President.Andrew Shaffer is here to change all that. He's the author of the Obama-Biden mysteries books that, while are a lot of fun for the politically informed, they're also actually really good mysteries.We talked with Andrew about how he crafts his mysteries, why he settled on Biden and why the former Vice President is the perfect detective noir voice.For more...2020-03-2342 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 71- Heidi & Luke on The Love Pod Podcast (Bonus!)Heidi and Luke were recently guests on The Love Pod, a podcast dedicated to discussing everything going on in the world of reality TV dating. They got together to talk about Love is Blind, the hit Netflix show. (In case you haven't binged it yet, you might want to give it a shot.)For more info on the Love Pod, check out their site.2020-03-2032 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 70- The Star Wars AirBNBIf you're looking to get away, why not go to a galaxy far, far away?We talked with Bryndee Barton from Loma Homes, the woman who oversaw the building of the home and talked over the details that they put into every room. For more information, or to book your time to stay at the Twelve Parsecs house, check out their website. You can also check out a gallery of the room inside the house at our website.2020-03-1625 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 69- Love is Blind with Mikey Cobb & Andy RickertLove is Blind is a reality TV show on Netflix. And it's popular. And if you didn't know this, we're thrilled to know they finally got you out from under that rock.We talked with two contestants about their brief stay in the pods, what they learned about themselves and why Andy might be a bad traveling companion.2020-03-0942 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 68- The Art of Pigcasso with Joanne LefsonWhen it comes to famous animals who paint, one swine who is taking the art world by storm is Pigcasso. When she's not painting in her barn in South Africa, she's designing Swatch watch bands and raising money to support the animal sanctuary where she resides. (And if that isn't enough, she's also bottled and about to start selling her own wine.)We talked with Jo Lefson, who not only rescued Pigcasso, she discovered her unique talent. For more information, or to purchase a Pigcasso original, visit her website.2020-03-0229 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 67- Rage Rooms with Kea TullWho hasn't needed to blow off some steam? Who hasn't wanted to smash stuff? Well, thankfully, there's rage rooms. (And they're, forgive the pun, all the rage.) We talked with Kea Tull from the Philadelphia Rage Room about the creation of the room, what kind of music people like to smash to and who is the best rager?For more information and to book your time in the room, check out their website. Rage on!2020-02-2424 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 66- Chess Boxing Champion Matt ThomasMatt Thomas is a world champion chess boxer. As the first American to try the sport, Matt broke new ground in a sport that combines the brains needed for chess and the brawn needed to hit someone in the face repeatedly.Matt talks with us about his strategy that he brought to the world championship and what gave him a leg up on his competition and about his charity that raises money through boxing.For more information on Chess Boxing, check out their website, and to learn more about Matt's Brawl For a Cause program, c...2020-02-1729 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 65- Dolphin Telepathy with writer Malcolm J BrennerMalcolm Brenner is fascinated with the idea of dolphin telepathy. After a life long interest in dolphins, (and a romantic relationship with a dolphin named Dolly in the 1970s) Brenner sat down to talk with us about communication with animals and his two books, Wet Goddess and Mel-Khyor.For more information on Malcolm, check out his website. You can also order his books on Amazon, and get the audio book of Mel-Khyor from Audible.2020-02-1033 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 64- Super Bowl Winning Mascot Dan Meers (Bonus Episode!)Long before the Lombardi trophy was a glint in the eye of anyone in Kansas City, we sat down with KC Wolf himself, professional mascot Dan Meers.Today, as the Kansas City Chiefs parade through their city as world champions, we re-visit our talk with Dan. (If you enjoy this sample, we highly recommend you check out the full interview and learn all of Dan's amazing story.)For more information, to order a copy of Dan's book, or to book him to come speak to your group, check out his website.2020-02-0515 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 63- Flight Attendant Caroline BrightYou see them on every flight, but what are they thinking, how can they help you and, more importantly, how can you help them?We sat down with flight attendant Caroline Bright to find out what is the most annoying thing for attendants, how they respond to emergencies and what drink you should never ask for when they come around with the beverage cart.If Caroline's voice sounds familiar, that's because her side job is being a professional bridesmaid and we talked to her about that job in episode 29, which you can listen to here.2020-02-0335 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 62- The Horror Bowl with Bob TrateThe Colonial Theater in Phoenixville, PA is a great movie theater. Besides being the location of one of the most memorable horror films ever, (1958's The Blob), it also hosts a ton of wonderful events. And one of those events is The Horror Bowl on February 2nd. They'll be screening the three movies that make up John Carpenter's Apocalypse Trilogy. (That would be The Thing, Prince of Darkness and In the Mouth of Madness.) We talked with Bob Trate from the Colonial about the big event and traded movie fun facts.For more information & tickets for the...2020-01-2738 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 61- Fruitcake Tossing in Colorado (Bonus Episode!)After the holidays have come and gone, you might find yourself surrounded by fruitcake. What's a person to do? Why not head outdoors and try throwing it as far as you can?That's what they do every year in Manitou Springs, Colorado, where they have thrown fruitcakes for the past 24 years. We talked with Jenna Gallas from the Chamber of Commerce about the annual tradition, how it got started and, more importantly, where they get their fruitcakes from.This year's event is being held this Saturday, January 25th from noon to 2:30. There'll be costume contests...2020-01-2312 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 60- LGBTQ Romance Author Quinn AndersonQuinn Anderson is a writer. Starting off in fan fiction, she eventually moved on to novels, creating the popular Murmur Inc. series among her other work. She's also known for writing a how to write a sex scene article, which has been a beacon of light in a storm of bad fornication. You can follow Quinn on Facebook or Twitter, and her "smut fic" guide is definitely worth checking out. All of her books are available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and at your local bookseller.2020-01-2034 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 59- Cosplay with Rachel DevineFinally, a look under the helmet- this week we talk with cosplayer Rachel Devine. She talks with us about how long it took her to make her costume, what she's learned doing cosplay and why you always need to design keeping the forecast in mind.2020-01-1325 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 58- Curling with Team USA's Korey DropkinIf you want to talk stone throwing and sweeping, Korey Dropkin is your guy. A member of Team USA’s curling team, Korey knows all the ins and outs far better than we do, and he’s doing great at it. (Just look at his performance in this season’s tournaments.) He answered all of our stupid questions with ease and grace.To learn more about the team, check out their website. And to plead with Korey to name one of his brooms Flash, do that on twitter. (We’d also accept a broom named ‘Wonderboy,’ but you know whe...2020-01-0627 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 57- Talking Pete Seeger with Paul SuchowAs 2019 ends and we head into a new decade, now is as good a time as any to reflect on what we've done and what we could do better.Pete Seeger was one of the people who was always trying to do better. From is multitudinous work with a wide variety of charities, Pete seemingly lived his life to try to make things better for people.We were fortunate to talk with Paul Suchow, a musician and the music director at Surprise Lake Camp in New York, about his long friendship with Pete and what...2019-12-3041 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 56- Audiobook Narrator Sean PrattIf you listen to audiobooks, you've probably heard Sean Pratt's voice. That's because Sean has narrated over 1,000 books. On top of that he also offers coaching, working with both writers who want to read their own work and aspiring narrators improve their skills.We talk about some of his favorite books he's read, how to truly embody the personality of Paul Stanley (aka The Star Child) and why he rarely reads for fun anymore.For more info on Sean, you can check out his website, or follow him on Facebook or Twitter.2019-12-2336 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 55- Deadtime Toys & Tattoos with Felix CangasFelix Cangas is an artist.On top of being a tattoo artist in Denver, Colorado, he's made a splash with his Deadtime Toys. Felix works with tools that you wouldn't normally associate with My Pretty Pony or any Disney princess- a blowtorch. And what he creates is something wholly unique and memorable.Listener note: This episode is pretty visual, so be sure to check out the photo album of Felix's work on our website. (Don't do this while you're driving, or unless you're really good at steering with your knees.)Second listener note...2019-12-1635 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 54- Professional Mermaiding with The Mermaid PhantomSo are things really better hotter under the water? We talked with professional mermaid The Mermaid Phantom, who, on top of her numerous public appearances, also blogs & posts videos on YouTube about mermaiding. (Yes, that's the correct term.) We talk about tail care, what mermaids say and how much her career has changed her life and her outlook.For more information on Mermaid Phantom, check out her website and her blog, or check out her YouTube page for some of her videos.2019-12-0926 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 53- Fruitcake with Hayden Crawford from Collin Street BakeryIf you want a fruitcake this holiday season, you need to go to the best. That's why we talked with Hayden Crawford from Collin Street Bakery. Apart from being one of the best-known and well-loved fruitcake purveyors in the world, it's a family business. Hayden talks about what makes the Collin Street Bakery fruitcake the classic it is, how much people love it (and include it in their wills) and whether or not he ever gets tired of it.Plus, in this episode, we go through Flash's Gift Guide, giving you shopping ideas from our guests over...2019-12-0232 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 52- Cheeks by Mail with Papa CheeksYou ever get so mad at someone that you just want to send them a box full of ass-shaped gummies? Well, thank goodness for Cheeks by Mail. The company will anonymously sent a box of gummies that look like butts to anyone you'd like. It's just that simple.How did he come up with the idea? What public figures has he sent gummies to? (We give you three guesses and the first two don't count.) We sat down with Alex, better known as Papa Cheeks, to get to the bottom (pun intended) of this brilliant business idea.2019-11-2526 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 51- The King of the Texas Renaissance FestivalWhen you're at the Texas Renaissance Festival, it's good to be the king.The fest is the largest renaissance festival in the country, with over half a million visitors every year. Having run every year since 1974, this fest has become legendary. We sat down with the king of the fest, (who has reigned for more than 20 years) about what makes the festival so special and what he's learned after ruling for so long.For more information on the festival and to get tickets, check out the festival's website.2019-11-1831 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 50- Astronaut Mike MullaneMike Mullane has spent over 350 hours in space on three different shuttle missions. If anyone can talk about what that's like, it's Mike. So how does one become an astronaut? How scary is it lying in the shuttle, waiting for lift off and you hear someone say, 'there's a small fire?' And do you ever get tired of the view?Mike's written several books about his career with NASA, Riding Rockets and Do Your Ears Pop In Space? You can also learn more about Mike and read his blog on his website. ...2019-11-1136 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 49- End of Life Care and Burlesque with Misty LynnAt first blush, or maybe second, end of life care and burlesque don't really seem to go together. But, the more you think about it, they do. (Listen to the show and find out how.) Misty Lynn provides end of life care and is also a burlesque dancer. And while it isn't always a light-hearted conversation, our talk is fascinating and you'll learn a lot about both of her careers.2019-11-0433 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 48- Ben Franklin Impersonator Brian Patrick MulliganBrian Patrick Mulligan is Ben Franklin. And Teddy Roosevelt. And Winston Churchill. And he's been Charlie Chaplin, Oliver Hardy and Harpo Marx.Brian isn't possessed, he's an impersonator, bringing history to life for people. Sometimes he talks to school or library groups. Sometimes he talks to corporations. Obviously he knows a few things about this founding father.We talk with Brian about how he got into this line of work, some of his favorite quotes and what facts we've all been getting wrong about Franklin for decades.For more information, or to book B...2019-10-2836 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 47- NHL Zamboni Driver Ali MurdockAli Murdock describes her job as 'living the dream.' And she is. Growing up wanting to work for the Tampa Bay Lightning, she now is the zamboni driver for the team she grew up loving.What's the hardest part about driving a zamboni? Is it difficult? What other ice care is she responsible for? For more info on the Lightning, check out their website.2019-10-2125 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 46- Comic Book Writer Rob FeldmanRob Feldman is the writer and creator of Cyko KO, a best-selling comic book series that has crossed over into a coloring book and an audio adventure. (You know, like the ones that have the bell when it's time to turn the page?)We talk with Rob about creating a comic book for all ages, the feedback he gets from fans and his Ringo-nominated book.For more info on Rob and Cyko, (and to pick up copies of the books) check out the Cyko KO website.2019-10-1425 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 45- The Gilligan's Island Fan Club with the PresidentThe Gilligan's Island fan club has been keeping the torches lit for the Professor, the Millionaire, Lovey, Mary Anne, Ginger, the Skipper and, of course, Gilligan for decades. What is it about this show that has created such a rabid fan base?We're joined by the fan club president to talk about the phenomenon that is Gilligan's Isle, what got him into the show and we listen to the first pass at the theme song, before it was changed to the one we all know and love.For more information, check out the fan club's...2019-10-0727 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 44- Professional Rodeo Clown Josh "Porkchop" GarrickProfessional rodeo clown Josh “Porkchop” Garrick is living his best life. Dreaming of the career since he was 5, Porkchop followed his dream and is now a rodeo clown on the PBR Bull Riding Tour.What does a rodeo clown do? How badly can you get hurt? What was his first rodeo like? For more information on Porkchop, and to find out where he will be appearing next, check out his Facebook page for more information.2019-09-3029 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 43- Cozy mysteries with Elizabeth CraigIt may seem antithetical- a story about a gruesome crime where the details are deliberately kept fuzzy so that it doesn't upset the reader. It's also an incredibly popular genre in crime fiction.This week we got to talk with Elizabeth S Craig, the best-selling author of the Myrtle Clover, Southern Quilting and Memphis Barbeque series. And if that isn't enough work for one person, Elizabeth has just launched her latest series, the Village Library Mysteries.Elizabeth talked about how she got into writing, how much she writes every day (spoiler: it's an impressive amount...2019-09-2327 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 42- Erotic Disney stories with Blu CarsonThere's been a lot of books written about Disney World, but nothing like Blu Carson's Dark Rides: Erotic Theme Park Adventures. Blu talked with us about the inspiration for the book, what she's learned from writing the book and when (if ever) Volume Two of her book will be coming out.And, for more Blu, check out our YouTube page, where you can listen to an outtake from our interview where she talks about some of the reasons people didn't give the book five stars and how she wanted to answer those reviews.To pick...2019-09-1636 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 41- The Zombie Research SocietyWhat are you going to do when the zombie apocalypse is upon us? Are you ready? Can you really ever be ready for an army of the undead? We spoke with Cameron Carlson from the Zombie Research Society, who helped us come up with a plan for the day the zombies rise up as one.He gives us some tips on how to be ready, where you should go when it goes down and what we can hope to be when it happens.For more information, check out the Zombie Research Society's website, or you...2019-09-0930 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 40- The World Black Pudding Lobbing CompetitionBlack Pudding lobbing is no joke. It's been around since the War of the Roses. This yearly tradition continues on in Ramsbottom, where black puddings are lobbed at Yorkshire puddings on posts high above competitors. Why do they do this? Well, in previous iterations, it was a continuation of an ongoing battle, but today it's to raise money for local families in need of a little assistance.We talk with Jimmy Cunliffe, the current organizer of the event and Gillian, the social media person with the competition.2019-09-0229 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 39- Sculptor (and reluctant Executive Producer) John SauveIn many ways, Why exists because of John Sauve. (Not that he'd want us to advertise this fact.) But John's real love is art and sculpture. We sat down with John to talk about his Man in the City project, showing his work on the Highline in New York and how you get the permits to float a giant orange man down the Chicago river. For more information on John's work and the Sauve Art Foundation, check out his page on Facebook.2019-08-2634 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 38- Las Vegas Doorman Jay RankinAnd you thought your job was exhausting...Jay Rankin saw it all as a doorman at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Working the graveyard shift, Jay saw a side of Vegas they don't advertise in magazines, and he learned a lot about people by seeing them at their best and their worst. Jay's taken these experiences and written about them in his book Under the Neon Sky. It's a fascinating read and we're not just saying that because Jay was on our show.For more information on Jay, check him out on Facebook, or...2019-08-1928 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 37- Loch Ness Monster expert Gary CampbellYou've heard the legend of the Loch Ness monster. But if you want some facts, you need to check out Gary Campbell's website. Gary's archived every single sighting of Nessie, starting in 546 AD up to today.We talk about the very first Nessie sighting and when the legend really took off. What could be living in the dark waters? What will Gary do if the truth is ever discovered?And that's not all. If you have any questions about the history of the monster, or the history of the Loch, Gary's your guy. Check out...2019-08-1229 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 36- Water Skiing Girl Wonder Shellie BlumShellie Blum was the first female freestyle waterski ramp jumper in the world. Yet, shortly after this incredible feat, she broke her neck attempting a record setting jump. We talked with Shellie about her incredible story, about how she got into the sport, and how she came back from such a terrible injury. Shellie has written and shared her story in the book, Waterski Girl Wonder, which is available on Amazon. For more information, check out Shellie's website.And to hear Shellie break down which Go-Go was the best waterskiier, check out our website or...2019-08-0527 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 35- Rock and Roll all night with Mini Gene from Mini KissPeople! You wanted the best, we got the best. And it is a fun conversation.One of the best tribute bands out there is Mini Kiss. And if you don't believe us, would you believe the members of real Kiss? We talk with Mini Gene about the joys of rock stardom, what the fans are like, what Gene Simmons thinks of the band and, most importantly, whether it's possible to text Dr. Love now. This show was made for lovin' you.For more information on the band, check out their website. And, check out our...2019-07-2925 minWhy? The PodcastWhy? Episode 34- Superhero/Former Wrestler Todd TurfeTodd Turfe used to wrestle professionally. And while that might be cool, nothing is as cool as walking into a hospital carrying Thor's hammer. 'Cause that's what Todd does now.Todd spends his free time dressing up as superheroes and visiting sick kids in the hospital. While getting to meet a professional wrestler is cool, hanging out with Batman will always be cooler.Todd talks with us about what he carries in his utility belt, how Spiderman's outfit is not one-size-fits-all and how he can carry a hammer that is so dang heavy.2019-07-2229 minWhy? The PodcastWhy?- Episode 33 Medium Connie SmockConnie Smock is a medium. That means she talks with people who have passed on, but still have messages for the living. Connie talks with us about how she gets these messages, what types of messages she gets and whether your dead relatives can see you in the bathroom. (All the important stuff.)For more on Connie, check out her website.2019-07-1531 minWhy? The PodcastWhy?- Episode 28 Sealand with Prince MichaelSealand is the smallest country in the world. Located just off the coast of the UK in international waters, the country was 'founded' when Prince Michael's dad took over an abandoned World War II defense post and turned it into a pirate radio station. How do you keep broadcasting AND keep her majesty's government off your back? Claim you're not part of the UK. And it's worked. Sealand has happily existed since 1967.Prince Michael talks with Luke and Heidi about the country- how did they form, what's their relationship like with England and does he ever get...2019-06-1025 minWhy? The PodcastWhy?- Episode 23 Dreamland Wax Museum with Jed ReitlerThe wax museum returns to Boston with the Dreamland Wax Museum. Located in downtown Boston, the museum features popular celebrities including Snoop Dogg, Amy Winehouse, the Dali Lama and Clint Eastwood. (This is also the first time those 5 have appeared in the same sentence.)Luke and Heidi talk with Jed Reitler from Dreamland about his favorite figures, how a figure is created and whether it is creepy to be alone in the museum at night.For more information on the Dreamland Wax Museum, visit their website.2019-05-0622 minWhy? The PodcastWhy?- Episode 15 Gender-Free Clothing with Phluid's Rob Garrett SmithWhat is gender-free clothing and what is the Phluid Project? And what is their mission? Heidi and Luke talk with Phluid phounder Rob Garrett Smith about what makes his store different, why pink is now a color associated with women and why you shouldn't quit your job after your first trip to Burning Man. Recorded onsite in New York City, it's phucking fabulous!2019-03-1130 minWhy? The PodcastWhy?- Episode 02 Herper Monty NajarWe're joined by herper Monty Najar. What is a herper? Why does Monty do this? Why is Luke standing on the desk, crying?2018-12-1027 minWhy? The PodcastWhy?- Episode 01 Ghost Hunter Ken SuminskiHeidi & Luke are joined by ghost hunter Ken Suminski. What has Ken found in is work? How do you get ghosts to leave? Can you date ghosts? All the important questions are asked and, surprisingly, answered.2018-12-1028 min