Shows
Everything 80sThe Rise of Heavy Metal in the 1980s: A Music RevolutionFrom the underground clubs to sold-out arenas worldwide, the 1980s marked the explosive growth of Heavy Metal. But it was much more than loud music, as the Heavy Metal of the 80s caused a cultural shift--especially with the youth. It's the decade that also brought us a wide range of metal styles; from Thrash to Glam, the genre was now bursting into the mainstream. Today, we look at not just the rise of Heavy Metal during the 80s, but also its impact on youth culture and society, how it was blamed for the Satanic Panic...2025-06-2536 minEverything 80sThe Battle for Tetris: How a Soviet Game Took Over the 1980sIn the mid-1980s, a Soviet engineer created a simple puzzle game he called Tetris. What was made for fun quickly spread throughout the USSR, and little did he know, but he had created something that would ignite a global frenzy that would include major companies like Nintendo and Atari. But that was just part of the story, as the battle for the rights to Tetris would spread beyond the Iron Curtain. It's a story that includes an international licensing war, Cold War espionage, lawsuits, shady business deals, and the highest levels of the Soviet government. T...2025-06-1849 minEverything 80sThe 1980s Late-Night Talk Show WarsThe Late-Night Talk Show scene of the 1980s was a smaller space than today, but it was even more powerful. It was an era filled with drama, ratings wars, and legendary hosts. From Johnny Carson and the Tonight Show to the rise of David Letterman, it was a defining era in 1980s television history. Today, we look at the origins of the late-night talk show, the creation of the format that is still followed to this day, then the rise of the Tonight Show. Then, we'll look at the Johnny Carson era, which spanned three...2025-06-1155 minEverything 80s10 Iconic 1980s Albums That Just Turned 40Let's go back 40 years and revisit 10 of the best albums of 1985, a year that was a landmark one in the history of music. From synthpop, hip-hop, metal, and classic rock, 1985 quickly became a standout year for 1980s music. From the chart-topping success of 'Brothers in Arms' by Dire Straits, to the radio dominating 'Songs From the Big Chair' by Tears For Fears, today, we look back on the albums and songs that defined a generation, became a huge part of 1980s pop culture, and also helped to drive MTV. These albums also include a new 17...2025-06-0440 minEverything 80sStart Here: The Everything 80s Podcast TrailerAre you ready to head back to the greatest decade ever and the ultimate nostalgia hit? The Everything 80s Podcast is your weekly time machine to revisit 1980s movies, 80s TV shows, 80s music, toys, sports, tech, and everything else that defined 1980s pop culture. From the Cola Wars to Cabbage Patch Kids and Tetris to Teddy Ruxpin, you'll get a deep dive into all the stories that represent an entire generation. Whether you lived it or just missed it, The Everything 80s Podcast is ready to take you back in time to r...2025-05-1600 minEverything 80sThe Golden Age of After-School SpecialsHard-hitting, intense, and sometimes difficult to watch--but it was can't-miss TV. This was the world of After-School specials in the 1980s. After being created by ABC in the 1970s, the after-school special continued to rise to prominence in the 1980s, where it became a television institution for an entire generation of kids. From its unique origins and the numerous awards to the breakout performances of actors who later became major stars, the ABC After-School Special left a lasting impact on television history. Get access to new shows early and ad-free: Patreon.com/80s 2025-04-2342 minEverything 80sMr. T: From Bouncer to Prime TimeThe story of Mr. T is as much the story of the 1980s as during a rapidly changing time of pop culture, he touched all aspects of entertainment. The big screen, the small screen, radio, home video, and even our toy shelves; in the 1980s, he was everywhere. From his early days as a bouncer, to protecting some of the most famous people in the world, this larger-than-life figure soon became one of the most recognizable people of the time. He was born Laurence Tureaud, but the world would soon get to know hi...2025-03-1947 minEverything 80sHow Black Sitcoms Shaped the 1980sAs we close out Black History Month, today we look back at 10 of the most groundbreaking Black sitcoms of the 80s. These shows not only helped define the decade but also had a huge impact on pop culture and changed television forever. These ten shows (plus a few forgotten ones) include some spin-offs of other popular sitcoms, a few break-out stars, and some of the highest-rated TV shows in history. The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s 2025-02-2642 minEverything 80sThe History & Controversy of Joe CamelIf you were around in the late 80s, he seemed impossible to miss... An anthropomorphic cartoon camel that quickly became one of the defining spokes characters of the decade--but one that came with endless controversy. This is a look back on the creation, popularity, and backlash of Joe Camel. It's also the story of the state of the tobacco industry coming out of the 1970s and heading into the 1980s. The story of Joe Camel goes all the way back to 1913, and we'll take a trip through the entire 20th century to look at the...2025-02-1946 minEverything 80s10 Forgotten Video Games From the 1980sNot everything could be a hit... Even though the 1980s gave us some of the best video games of all time, there were others that just slipped by the wayside--and some of them deserve better than that. Today we will look back at ten forgotten video games covering the big three systems: The Atari 2600, The NES, and the Sega Master System. Since there are so many games that didn't even make a dent, we'll look at ones that are relatively well-known but didn't necessarily achieve breakout status. Some of these games include a creation by...2025-02-1241 min
Lean Coffee Talk (formerly known as Lean Whiskey)The Final Episode... or Is It?Episode page
It's Episode 50 of the Lean Whiskey podcast with Jamie Flinchbaugh and Mark Graban!
tl;dr: Lean Whiskey will transition to a new brand Lean Coffee Talk, so stay tuned for more episodes from Mark and Jamie
In their 50th and final episode of Lean Whiskey, hosts Mark and Jamie announce a significant transition, revealing that while this marks the end of “Lean Whiskey,” the podcast will continue under a new title called “Lean Coffee Talk.”
The change is partially influenced by Jamie's lifestyle choices, which is reflected in their drink selectio...2025-02-071h 09Everything 80sThe 1980s Cola WarsIt's a battle that's been going on for well over a century featuring two of the biggest brands of all time. But in the 1980s--the war really heated up... Today we look back on the battle between Coke and Pepsi during a transformative time for not just the two colas, but for society in general. It's the story that involves some of the most iconic commercials of all time, a nationwide taste test challenge (that may have been unfair), a whole new generation, and the King of Pop. The Cola Wars of the 80...2025-01-2257 minEverything 80sG.I. Joe: The Toy, the Cartoon & the LegacyIt's the toy and cartoon that may best define the entire 1980s, a toy that goes back to the 1960s but re-created for a new era. This is the complete history of G.I. Joe, and in this episode we look at: The two fashion dolls from the 1950s that helped inspire it Why two simple words were so important in its initial success The impact of the Vietnam War and oil embargoes How Star Wars walked so G.I. Joe could run The changing era of government regulations and advertising to children How the cartoon...2025-01-0852 minEverything 80sEverything 80s Year-in-ReviewIt's been more than 35 years since the 80s ended, but the decade continues to be with us as much as ever--especially when it comes to our entertainment. In this year-in-review special, we look back at all the 1980s-related movies, TV shows, Netflix series, and documentaries that came out in 2024. And there was a lot... Unfortunately, over these last 12 months, we also lost many people with connections to the 1980s, and we look back at some of those notable names. To finish, we look back on the podcast itself, including where you're all listening f...2025-01-0132 minEverything 80sThe Everything 80s Christmas SpecialIt's time for a very 80s Christmas as we travel back to revisit the holiday season during the 1980s. In this episode, we look back at the holiday movie that was a surprise hit and then the story of a beloved TV special that didn't come from the 80s--but was adopted as our own. Next, we look back at the creation of a modern classic Christmas song and finish with the unlikely story of a group of children that managed to dethrone John Lennon... So warm up the cider and toss another Yule l...2024-12-1833 minEverything 80sThe 10 Best 1980s Christmas SpecialsSome of the all-time great TV Christmas specials go all the way back to the 1960s. But it's easy to forget how many memorable ones came from the 80s. Today we look back at ten of the best specials the 80s had to offer. Some of those shows include: Two separate specials based on a few of the hottest fads of the decade A sadsack comic strip character (not the one you're thinking of...) A powerful brother/sister duo teaming up for a holiday special The return of a beloved icon after 30 years A Christmas special...2024-12-1132 minEverything 80sFamily Ties: From Hippies to YuppiesOn September 22, 1982, a new show debuted on NBC. It felt like a throwback to the family sitcoms of yesteryear, but, at the same time, felt like a big risk... The early 1980s seemed to be a time when the family sitcom had disappeared. Primetime TV at the time was all about dramas, and the popular sitcoms were shows like M.A.S.H and Three's Company. The new NBC show came out to little fanfare and barely had an audience in its first season. It was the same thing for the second season. But in...2024-11-1344 minEverything 80sThe Bizarre History of Monster CerealsIt's just not the Halloween season without them... Today, we go back to witness the creation and release of everyone's favorite breakfast monsters. it's a story that goes back to the early days of cereal, the silent film era, the monsters of the 60s, and their release in the '70s. But it was during the 1980s that Monster Cereals continued to grow in popularity. It was also during the '80s that the Monster Cereals experienced some of their biggest changes--both physically and to the Monster lineup. This is the story of Fra...2024-10-2342 minEverything 80sAustralia Takes the 80s by Storm!The Brits had taken over music and pop culture in the 1960s, and then--to a lesser extent--they did it again in the early 80s. But now, it was time for the Aussies to take over... This is a look back on the 1980s Aussie invasion, a time when the Land Down Under heavily influenced radio, record stores, TVs, and movie theatres in North America, and around the world... Whether you played knifey-spoony before or not, it was hard not to be aware of the Australian influence. From Kylie Minogue to Midnight Oil, and Paul Hogan...2024-10-1640 minEverything 80sVoltron: Defender of the 80sHere's an idea: 5 robot lions that turn into a super robot. Sounds pretty simple and straightforward, doesn't it? But the story of how Voltron came to be was much more complicated. It's a story that begins in Japan, involves multiple anime shows, and then goes through the ardous process of being transformed for a North American kids audience. It's the show that caught everyone off guard when it became a surprise hit. This hit quickly spread worldwide, and the giant robot soon became a cornerstone of 1980s pop culture. This is the history of...Voltron.2024-09-2540 minEverything 80sBeetlejuice Beetlejuice BeetlejuiceWith a Beetlejuice sequel finally about to hit theatres, we revisit the original 1980s classic by traveling back to 1988. It was a movie that many weren't too sure of--including some of its cast. Today we look back on the making of Beetlejuice, how the original version was going to look quite different from the version we know, and how the movie almost went by an entirely different name... It was a film that one of its stars believed would ruin everyone's career, but it ended up becoming a cultural touchstone spreading into all aspects of p...2024-09-0429 minEverything 80sRewind: New York City in the 80s"Ford to City: Drop Dead..." These are the words that appeared on the cover of The Daily News in 1975. Financially, New York was hanging by a thread and the city appealed to President Gerald Ford for some federal help. As the 70s came to an end, and the 1980s began, it felt like a make-or-break decade for the city that never sleeps. Today, we look back on a tumultuous decade for the Big Apple and how it started to turn the corner. But a lot of amazing things came out of NYC in the 80s...2024-08-2835 min
Everything 80sLive From New York: SNL in the 80sAs a new decade began, the late-night sketch comedy show found itself hanging in the balance. The start of the 80s represented a time of massive transition for Saturday Night Live and the show underwent some major changes. The 1980s became a make-or-break period for the late-night institution. Today we look back on this tumultuous time for SNL, how it managed to turn the corner, and then brought us some of the best performers, writers, and sketches in the history of the show. The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s 2024-08-0745 minEverything 80sThe 1984 Los Angeles Summer OlympicsIt's been exactly 40 years since one of the most important Summer Olympics in the history of the modern Games. The Summer Olympics were coming off two less-than-ideal previous editions and very few cities even wanted to host. Add to this a Soviet-led boycott, and the 84 Summer Games faced serious uncertainty. However, the Los Angeles Summer Games changed everything about the Olympics as we knew them. The technology, the presentation, the broadcast, and the corporate sponsorships transformed the Olympic games into the ones we're familiar with today. But let's not forget the events. The 84 Summer Games...2024-07-2440 minEverything 80sThe Unusual History of MadballsWhat do you get when you combine Nerf with the Garbage Pail Kids? You get Madballs, one of the most memorable toys of the 1980s. Madballs came out during a time when a big segment of the toy industry followed the motto, "If it's gross or smells, it sells." Madballs continued with that formula of gross-out humor and quickly made a dent in the toy market (and on heads...) Today we look back on the creation, launch, and remarkable success of Madballs, along with the controversy that resulted in them getting banned in some schools.2024-07-1731 minEverything 80sAndy Kaufman Creates Chaos in the 80sWhen does performance art go too far? How long do you suspend disbelief before you start asking yourself whether what you are seeing is actually real? Or is that the whole point... When it comes to performance art, there may be no better performer ever than Andy Kaufman. And in the 1980s, he took his unique brand of comedy to a wider audience than ever before. Most people knew him from Taxi, but an even wider audience would know him from two shocking network television moments--one that even happened on live TV... Let's go back...2024-07-1039 min
Sentientism"Marx for Cats" - Leigh Claire La Berge - Sentientism 204Leigh Claire La Berge is Professor in City University of New York's English Department. Her work focuses on aesthetics and political economy. Her first book, "Scandals and Abstraction: Financial Fiction of the Long 1980s", tracked the convergences of finance, realism and postmodernism in literature and culture throughout the 1980s in the United States. Her second book, "Wages Against Artwork: Decommodified Labor and the Claims of Socially Engaged Art" explored the twin rise of new forms of socially engaged art alongside what she called "decommodified labor," or labor that is not recompensed. Along with Alison Shonkwiler, Leigh Claire is the c...2024-07-081h 16Everything 80sThe Magical Summer of 19841987 was a good one. So was 1989. But summertime at the movies may not get much better than the magical summer of 1984. Today, we travel back exactly 40 years to one of the defining summers of the entire 1980s. The summer of '84 gave us blockbuster after blockbuster and fully cemented the summer movie season as one of the most important of the year. A huge sequel, a coming-of-age classic, a new horror favorite, and a supernatural comedy are just some of the era-defining films that came out. It's the summer that gave us some of the...2024-07-0334 minEverything 80sJim Henson in the 80s: A Decade of Wonder & JoyAfter the phenomenal success of Sesame Street and then The Muppet Show, it seemed as if things couldn't get much better. But as the 1980s began, Jim Henson was just getting started... Two groundbreaking films, new Muppet movies, and one of the most beloved children's series of all time--these are just some of the amazing creations by Jim Henson in the 80s. But it goes even deeper: countless TV specials, a Sesame Street movie, a cherished cartoon show, and even a few holiday favorites. For Henson, the 1980s were a decade of prolific creation, and...2024-06-2638 minEverything 80sHow the TurboGrafx-16 Changed Video Games ForeverAs the NES and Sega Master System were dominating the 1980s video game market, something interesting was happening in Japan. Something ahead of its time. Something revolutionary... The dream of a 16-bit system felt like it was years and years away, but, in 1987--it happened. It took a few more years, but the system that began as the PC Engine in Japan eventually hit North America. But now, it had a new look and a new name: the TurboGrafx-16. This is a look back on the system that ushered in the fourth generation of video...2024-06-1935 minEverything 80s10 Forgotten Movies: Rediscovering 1980s Hidden GemsThey couldn't all be hits... During a decade that gave us so many beloved classics, there were other great movies that just flew under the radar. Whether it was too much competition, inadequate marketing, or bad timing, there are plenty of 1980s movies that could have been big hits, but just weren't. Today we look back at ten of those movies. Movies that had everything going for them; big-time directors, huge stars, exciting stories, and cutting-edge special effects. But because of a variety of issues, they just didn't reach the heights of other classics from...2024-05-2938 min
Lean Coffee Talk (formerly known as Lean Whiskey)AI (ChatGPT) Takes Over Lean Whiskey, Including the Role of Bartender
In Episode 46, Mark Graban and Jamie Flinchbaugh spend a lot of time talking about AI, but that still, as always, begins with the whiskey.
Episode page
We both asked ChatGPT to consider all our ingredients for making a whiskey-based cocktail, and to invent an original recipe. Jamie's is called The Bourbon Harmony, although there was a lot in there to try to reach harmony, and Mark's was called the Spiced Cherry Rye Cocktail.
The verdict for both drinks was that they were good, but probably wouldn't be...2024-05-171h 23Everything 80sThe Best Snacks & Junk Food of the 1980sArmed with a pocket full of change, you walk through those sliding doors and are greeted by a wonderland of amazing options as far as the eye can see. The biggest issue you face is what do you choose; candy, chocolate, chips, or a drink? This is a look back on the best snacks and junk food from the 80s, a decade that gave us some of the greatest products of all time. Products that are still with us to this day. But then, there are also some less fortunate favorites that didn't last long and went...2024-05-1534 minEverything 80sThe First Cell Phone: The Mobile Revolution Begins...There's a good chance you're reading this on your phone right now. And that phone of yours has some humble origins that go all the way back to 1983... This is the history of the Motorola Dynatac 8000x: the world's very first commercial cell phone. It's a story that begins in the 1970s and is followed by a massive uphill battle that lasted a decade and cost more than $100 million. But in 1983, the Dynatac 8000x finally hit the market. The giant brick of a phone slowly caught on, and also became a part of pop culture...2024-05-0832 min
The Quo-CastA Spotlight on Perfect Remedy (1989) with Greg HarperIn this episode of The Quo-Cast, Jamie Dyer is joined by Musician and Writer Greg Harper to discuss Status Quo's 1989 album Perfect Remedy.
Link for Greg's book Status Quo in the 1980s: Status Quo in the 1980s: Decades : Greg Harper: Amazon.co.uk: Books
2024-03-291h 04Everything 80sWho Shot J.R.: The Episode That Changed TV ForeverWhere were you the night of November 21st, 1980? If you were like the majority of the public, you were huddled around your TV waiting to find out the answer to one of the biggest questions in television history: Who Shot J.R.? The 'Who Shot J.R.' episode of Dallas was so big that it spread well beyond North America, becoming part of the public discourse for countries around the world. This is a look back on one of the most astonishing TV events of the 20th century, and the massive speculation around one...2024-03-2732 minEverything 80s1980s Fashion: From Acid Wash to Leg WarmersHow can one decade have so many different aesthetics associated with it? Well, this is the 1980s; an era when big, bright, and bold choices dominated our fashion. Today, we look back on the styles, clothing items, and individuals that helped create the look of the 80s. Support the show and get access to bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s 2024-03-2034 minEverything 80sThe Birth of the IBM PC: A New Era BeginsFor years, a computer was something only used by governments, corporations, or hobbyists. They didn't have any practical appeal to the average person. But that all changed going into the 1980s. Computers like the Apple 2 and the TRS-80 made some strong headway, but it was in 1981 when IBM helped to fully launch the personal computer revolution. This is the story of the IBM PC 5150: a machine for the masses. With a lower price point, and better usability, the concept of a PC in a home or small business finally made sense--and a new era in...2024-02-2838 minEverything 80sRun-DMC: The Beatles of Hip-Hop"Two turntables and a microphone. That's all it took to change the world..." These were the words spoken in 2009 by Eminem as he inducted Run-DMC into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. It was a fitting tribute to the group from Hollis, Queens, that not only took hip-hop to new heights but changed the music industry--and pop culture--in the process. This is the story of Run-DMC, the group that crashed down walls, cut through floors, busted through ceilings, and knocked down doors... Support the show and get bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s 2024-02-2140 minEverything 80sDirty Dancing: The Little Movie That CouldIt's Valentine's Day, and what better way to celebrate than to look back on a beloved 1980s romantic drama: Dirty Dancing. Despite being a timeless hit, it's a miracle that Dirty Dancing ever reached theatres. Between shooting difficulties and real-life tension between its stars, this was the movie very few people believed in--and it was projected to go straight to video bins. But what happened next shocked everyone... Thanks to word-of-mouth, the film took off like wildfire and soon became a worldwide hit. The soundtrack dominated the charts, and the home video release smashed records...2024-02-1431 minEverything 80s10 Forgotten TV Shows From the 80sThey couldn't all be hits... During an era that gave us some of the biggest shows in television history, there were others less fortunate. Because of all the big established shows, limited networks, and limited timeslots, there just wasn't room for everyone. This is a look back at 10 forgotten TV shows from the 80s; some of which were quite good, but for various reasons, just couldn't last. A half-alien/half-girl, an ancient character living in our modern world, and a few new Knight Rider alternatives, represent just some of those unique shows. Some of these...2024-02-0740 minEverything 80sThe Muppet BabiesWhat began as a brief segment during the third Muppet movie soon became one of the most beloved children's shows of the entire 1980s. The Muppet Babies was not only a uniquely creative show but one that took a different path than many of the other cartoons dominating the networks. With an assist from some Hollywood heavyweights, the Muppet Babies quickly became a hit--both critically, and ratings-wise. Loved by kids, and parents, this award-winning cartoon featured great music and some amazing voice talent. And in this episode, we may even hear from a real-life Muppet...2024-01-3138 minEverything 80sHalyx: Star Wars Meets Rock 'n' RollWhat do you get when you combine Star Wars, rock music, Disneyland, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Wookies? You get Halyx, a real-life, science-fiction rock band created by Disney for the summer of 1981. This is a look back on the unique, somewhat bizarre, but incredibly creative project that brought together some tremendous talent. The band was short-lived but remains a perfect snapshot of pop culture in the early 80s. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s 2024-01-2434 minEverything 80sThe Burger Wars of the 1980sA hamburger is a pretty simple thing, and it's always been a huge part of fast food culture. But in the 80s, the humble burger found itself at the center of a multi, multi-billion dollar battle. This is a look back on the 1980s Burger Wars that pitted McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, and A&W in an all-out battle for our tastebuds, our loyalty, and our wallets. Little did these companies know how much they would shape the industry for decades to come--and even shape pop culture itself... -Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s 2024-01-1736 minEverything 80sMy Pet Monster: If it's Ugly or Smells, it Sells...My Pet Monster came out of an interesting era. It was a time when there was a move away from video games and a return to more traditional toys like dolls and stuffed animals. Combine this with a focus on gross-out products and it set the stage for a pretty unique, but beloved toy and cartoon series. This is a look back on My Pet Monster, the brand that didn't take the traditional route as other 1980s toys, but still managed to carve out its own piece of 1980s pop culture nostalgia Bonus 1980s Content...2024-01-0326 minEverything 80sRewind: A Look Back at 1981Well, that sure was a doozy... By the time 1981 came to a close, it seemed like we had experienced a bit of everything; astounding technological achievements, two near tragedies, and an event that captured the interest of the entire world. And when it came to young people, there was something new. Something that changed how we consumed media--and it also changed pop culture forever... This is an all-new look back on the movies, TV shows, music, tech, video games, and sports that made up a pretty astounding year. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-12-2733 minEverything 80sThe Everything 80s Holiday SpecialTurn on the fireplace channel, grab a cup of 'nog, and settle in for a nice winter's podcast as we travel back to the holiday season during the 1980s. We'll look back on things like the Sears Wishbook, holiday movies, forgotten TV specials, and even the experience of heading to the mall to find that perfect gift. Then I turn the show over to you to hear from a few listeners about their favorite holiday traditions and memories while growing up in the 80s. It's a honey of a show, Clark... The Everything 80s Movie...2023-12-2031 minEverything 80sThe 9 Best Movies of the 1980sNarrowing down the very best movies of the 1980s seems like a tall task--and why just nine of them? Well, these aren't my rambling musings but are the movies from the 80s that made the American Film Institute's Top 100 List. So which 1980s movies made the cut and appear on this prestigious list? Some may seem obvious, some may surprise you, and some end up in the conversation for the greatest of all time. The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s 2023-12-1328 minEverything 80sMiami Vice: Neon, Loafers, and Big RatingsIs there a more definitive 1980s TV show than Miami Vice? The drama starring Don Johnson and Phillip Michael Thomas is not only one of the most notable shows of the entire 1980s--but one of the most influential. Today we look back on the show that not only had a massive impact on pop culture but forever changed the way that TV was made. Bonus 1980s Content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-12-0631 minEverything 80sM.A.S.K.: Toys, Cartoons, and an Uphill BattleHow do you stand out during a decade that gave us some of the most iconic toy brands and franchises of all time? Especially considering that some of those franchises continue to appear in our movie theatres to this day. This was the challenge for the Mobile Armored Strike Kommand, or M.A.S.K., a toy and cartoon series that had to balance being familiar, but still unique. Today we look back on the toyline from Kenner that despite all the competition, still managed to carve out its own little piece of 1980s pop culture nostalgia.2023-11-2928 minEverything 80sMuhammad Ali's Final FightIt probably should have never happened. But as Muhammad Ali made his way to the ring on the night of December 11th, 1981, no one knew what to expect. A year prior, Ali faced off against Larry Holmes in a fight that was not only hard to watch but resulted in Ali's trainer stopping the fight. That should have been it--but Ali didn't want to go out like that. This led to the 'Drama in the Bahamas,' Muhammad Ali's very last professional fight. Today, we look back on how this event came to be, why no one...2023-11-2226 minEverything 80sSpielberg in the 80sIf you're checking out this podcast about the 1980s, there's also a good chance that the movies of Steven Spielberg probably had a major impact on you. Between directing, writing, and producing; Steven Spielberg was involved with 24 different movies throughout the 1980s. Many of those are not just some of the best films of the decade--but ever. Today, we look back on all of Steven Spielberg's work in the 80s, the joy and entertainment he brought millions, and how he forever influenced movie making. The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s 2023-11-1536 minEverything 80sSuper Mario Bros. 2: The 'Borrowed' Video GameHold on, something doesn't seem right here... Did you have that same reaction back in 1988 the first time you got to play Super Mario Brothers 2? For a new generation familiar with the original Mario Brothers game for the NES, the follow-up felt like quite a departure. But there was a reason for this, and today, we look back on the story behind the creation of Super Mario Bros. 2. An early version of Super Mario 2 was created, then abandoned, and it was a pre-existing Japanese game that allowed for its North American release. Time restraints, computer...2023-11-0831 minEverything 80sFriday the 13th: The Decade of JasonIt's Spooky Season, and what better way to pay tribute to it than to look back on the definitive 1980s horror movie franchise: Friday the 13th. Freddy and Michael Myers were big in the 1980s, but when it came to dominating the silver screen: it was all about Jason. Today, we look back on the movies that, except for two years, had a new release for every other year in the 80s. It's a look back on how these movies came together, why Jason wore a hockey mask, and the legacy of this iconic franchise. ...2023-10-2534 minEverything 80sThe California Raisins: The Grapes of CashWell, that sure escalated quickly... What started out as a new marketing campaign to sell more dried fruit, quickly grew into a bona fide pop culture phenomenon. This is the story of The California Raisins, the Claymation hit from the 80s that not only sold a lot of raisins but became a moneymaking sensation in the process. Toys, albums, and TV specials: let's look back at how The California Raisins quickly cemented themselves as a huge part of the 1980s. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-10-1829 minEverything 80s10 of the Biggest Sporting Moments of the 80sSome were epic. Others were devastating. But they were all unforgettable... There is no better way to sum up the big sporting moments of the 1980s. Today we look back on ten of the biggest moments in sports that best define the decade. Joy, upsets, and heartbreak; in the 80s we witnessed moments that transcended sports. From basketball and hockey to soccer, tennis, baseball--and numerous Olympic games--the 1980s gave us sporting memories to last a lifetime. Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-10-1130 minEverything 80sNintendo Power MagazineWhat do you get when you combine customer feedback cards, a phone hotline, and a free newsletter? You get Nintendo Power Magazine, the must-have companion to the NES. But this magazine did more than just help us beat Zelda 2. It also served as a strategic form of marketing to not only advertise upcoming games but also gather invaluable customer insights in the process. Today, it's the story of Nintendo Power Magazine, its origins, incredible success, and long-lasting legacy. Bonus 1980s Content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-09-2737 minEverything 80sThe Black Cauldron: Did it Almost Sink Disney Animation?The 1980s weren't exactly a golden age for Disney animated features. Maybe a new cartoon film based on a series of books could usher in an exciting new era of Disney animation. That film was The Black Cauldron; a movie that took a long time to make, cost a fortune, and created a lot of backlash. And it almost sunk Disney animation for good... Bonus 1980s audio content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-09-1328 minEverything 80sThe Fitness Boom of the 80sHeadbands, legwarmers, and spandex... In the 1980s, these things started to appear everywhere. It was a time when fitness, aerobics, and health clubs began to take center stage. Activities that used to be more niche--like aerobics and bodybuilding--quickly became mainstream. Today we look back on the fitness explosion of the 80s, the people (and celebrities) that helped make it popular, and the technology that allowed it to grow like wildfire. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-09-0640 minEverything 80sFrank Welker: The Voice of the 80sThe 1980s gave us an explosion of new cartoon shows. But with so many new shows and characters, someone had to voice them all. It was even better if you could have the same person perform multiple voices. If you don't know the name Frank Welker--but grew up in the 80s--you've definitely heard his voice. This is a look back on the incredible career of the man who was the voice of the 80s, and is in more TV shows and movies than you could even imagine... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-08-3031 minEverything 80sThe Choose Your Own Adventure BooksWhich path will you choose? That was the question that faced millions of kids during the 1980s. The Choose Your Own Adventure books felt like part story/part game, but every time you picked one up: it was always different. This is a look back on the unique books, their phenomenal success, and some brilliant marketing that led to the sale of hundreds of millions of copies. And it all began with a bedtime story... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-08-1626 minEverything 80sThe Story of Air Canada Flight 143It seemed like a 'whatever could go wrong, did go wrong' situation... as passengers in Montreal boarded their plane on July 23rd, 1983, little did they know they were about to become part of one of the most astonishing events in aviation history. This is a look back on Air Canada Flight 143, a remarkable flight that combined mathematical errors, heroic bravery, and many 'what if?' scenarios... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-08-0223 minEverything 80sThe Eruption of Mount St. HelensA brand new decade was underway--but it began with a truly catastrophic event. Today, we travel back to May 1980 and the devastating eruption that took place in the Pacific Northwest. From a geological standpoint, it was a historic eruption that decimated the area and displayed the incredible power of nature. But, if not for some scientists, could have been much deadlier... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-06-1424 minEverything 80sThe History of the A-TeamThere are a handful of TV shows that perfectly represent the 1980s--and right at the top of the list is The A-Team. What began as a way to get NBC out of third place quickly became a ratings powerhouse, a merchandising juggernaut, and pop culture phenomenon. This is a look back on the show that no one believed in at first, but, based around a larger-than-life character, would go on to hold its own against some of the biggest shows of the decade. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-06-0729 minEverything 80sHow Teddy Ruxpin Changed the Toy IndustryWhat do you get when you take Chuck E. Cheese, Atari, Disney, and Lord of the Rings? You get one of the defining--and best-selling--toys of the 1980s: Teddy Ruxpin. This is a look back on the iconic toy that was so much more than a talking bear. It's a tale of technological advancement; a pioneering company making a huge splash; and a retail and media impact that we hadn't really ever seen before. Bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-05-3129 minEverything 80sThe Raccoons: The Groundbreaking Canadian CartoonWhile transforming robots and singing hologram cartoons were being created in the U.S., something interesting was happening in Canada. It was a new cartoon, based on some previous specials, but made in a more unique way than other cartoons at the time. The result was The Raccoons, a beloved 1980s series that stood out in an era of loud, flashing, and often violent cartoon shows. The Raccoons was also unique in that it--unlike its peers--wasn't created as a 22-minute commercial to sell toys. This is a look back on the heartwarming series that became a true...2023-05-1727 minEverything 80sThe Golden Age of Video StoresThere really was nothing like it... Walking into a video store in the 1980s was like entering a whole new world of entertainment possibilities. And during the 80s, we lived through a true golden age of video rental. This is a look back on a rapidly changing era of technology and pop culture; it's a look back at the machine and the stores that changed the way we consume entertainment to this day; and it's also a look at how both the VCR and the video store as we know them almost never happened... -Get...2023-05-0336 minEverything 80sThe 10 Best Sitcoms of the 80sDon't call it a comeback... Even though the sitcom had lost some steam at the start of the 1980s, in the second half of the decade, they were back--and better than ever. Join me as I take a quick look at the origin of the sitcom, and how--thanks to the 80s--they changed network television forever. And, today, I'm counting down ten of the best sitcoms the 80s had to offer. -Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s 2023-04-2637 minEverything 80sALF: From Melmac to Pop Culture PhenomenonThere are certain defining images that represent the entire 1980s--and right at the top of that list is ALF. With origins beginning in 1984, this is a look back on the beloved character, its creator, and the show that became a true pop culture phenomenon. The story of ALF has a bit of everything; connections to the Simpsons and Seinfeld; legal changes to network TV; some of the greatest merchandising the decade would ever see--and genuine nostalgia. The E80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s 2023-04-0535 minEverything 80sJem and the Holograms: Perms, Products & ProfitsWhat do you get when you combine Transformers, Marvel, MTV, and a LOT of neon? You get Jem and the Holograms; a defining 1980s toy, cartoon, and franchise. When it debuted in 1985, the cartoon show caught on quickly, as did the subsequent toy line. And none of this was by accident. Built on the back of already successful properties like G.I. Joe, and Transformers, Jem and the Holograms followed the formula, but with its own unique twist. So journey back with me to a time of glitter, neon, rock music, and some very stealthy marketing… T...2023-03-2225 minEverything 80sHBO, Showtime & the Rise of Cable TVIt felt like it happened overnight... we went from just a few TV channels to a seemingly endless amount. So, what exactly led to the rapid growth of cable television in the 1980s and a time when our TVs changed forever? HBO and Showtime set the stage and as we entered the 80s, new channels like Nickelodeon, The Disney Channel, ESPN, and CNN quickly became popular. The cable revolution of the 80s gave us many beloved children's shows, technological advancements, and some good ol' government deregulations. So don't touch that dial; this is a story that includes...2023-03-1535 minEverything 80sAndre the GiantWe've all grown up with stories and fairytales filled with heroes, dragons, and monsters. And then there are giants. Giants seem to be a thing of myth, but if you grew up in the 1980s, you saw one of these myths come to life: Andre the Giant. This is a look back on the remarkable life of the "8th Wonder of the World" and how he forever changed the landscape of professional wrestling. But this isn't just a wrestling story; it's also how Andre Roussimoff became a massive part of 1980s pop culture including an appearance in...2023-03-0132 minEverything 80sKnight RiderThere are many TV shows and movies that perfectly embody the 1980s--and right at the top of that list is Knight Rider. Knight Rider is the story of Michael Knight and his crime-fighting automotive assistant: KITT. The premise was simple: What would a modern version of the Lone Ranger look like with a car instead of a horse? Combine that with some other sci-fi elements--and one of the coolest cars of all time--and you have a show that was a worldwide hit and a merchandising powerhouse. This is a look back on one of the...2023-02-0121 minEverything 80sHow the 'Memphis Design' Created the Look of the 80sClose your eyes and picture what the 1980s looked like. What do you see? When you get past the giant perms and shoulder pads, what does the aesthetic look like? You may picture bright colors, geometric shapes, and a lot of bold designs. Just look at the logo for this podcast and you'll get an idea of what I'm referring to. This was a distinctive style known as the Memphis Design. It was created by the Memphis Group; an Italian art collective that may be the most important 1980s group you've never heard of, as the 80s...2023-01-2532 minEverything 80sA Look Back at 1987We're deep into the 1980s, and our world seems to be changing by the minute. Besides the usual political strife, we continue to experience Cold War tension and a crazy economy. But while all this is going on, we get one of the best years of the entire decade--and 20th century--for pop culture. Not only is there an endless amount of timeless movies, but the release of some truly iconic music and the introduction of some TV shows that would change pop culture as we knew it. So gather round as I take you back to the...2023-01-1132 minEverything 80sRewind: 10 Groundbreaking Inventions From the 80sIt's easy to look back at 1980s creations as old-fashioned and quaint, but this was a time of remarkable progress. Some of these innovations still seem advanced even by today's standards. Welcome to rewind and an all-new version of one of my favorite 1980s topics: the groundbreaking inventions and innovations. In this episode, I cover some inventions that you may not realize come from the 1980s including astounding new technology, advanced medical breakthroughs, and even changes to the way we consumed entertainment. And they all happened in the 80s... Support the show and get access...2022-12-2832 minEverything 80sChristmas in the 80sWelcome to the Everything 80s Holiday Special! (featuring less Life Day and Gormaanda... ) I'm here in my ugliest Christmas sweater with the fireplace channel roaring in the background as we travel back in time to the holiday season during the 80s. In this special, we look at a modern holiday movie that captures the essence of the 80s, a certain house from a beloved Christmas classic, then dive into some of the best-selling Christmas albums and singles from the decade--including one of the most bizarre albums of all time. So grab some cocoa and settle in for...2022-12-2121 minThe Quo-CastInterview with Musician Greg Harper - Author of Decades: Status Quo in the 1980sIn this episode of The Quo-Cast, Jamie Dyer talks to Musician Greg Harper about his new book: Status Quo in the 1980s. Part of the decades series, it is published by SonicBond Publishing.
Greg's Website: https://www.gregoryharper.co.uk/
SonicBond Publishing Website: https://www.sonicbondpublishing.co.uk/
Purchase: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Status-Quo-1980s-Greg-Harper/dp/17895224472022-12-0534 minThe Quo-CastStatus Quo in the 1980s By Greg Harper ReviewIn this episode of The Quo-Cast, Jamie Dyer discusses Greg Harper's book Status Quo in the 1980s.
LINK: https://burningshed.com/greg-harper_status-quo-in-the-1980s_book2022-11-2110 minEverything 80sThe Story of TransformersIt was a classic battle between good and evil and it gave us one of the greatest toys of all time. Today, we journey back to revisit the history of the iconic Transformers. From their early days in Japan to dominating TVs and toy shelves in North America, this is another defining 1980s toys franchise that was also a masterclass in marketing. So hit play and let's roll out! Support the show and get bonus audio content at Patreon.com/80s 2022-11-0228 minEverything 80sYuppies, Reaganomics & the Crazy 80s EconomyIf you were a kid in the 80s, you were probably blissfully unaware of what was happening with the tumultuous economy. But this crazy financial world created the 80s as we know it. This is really a story in three parts: It starts low, soars to dizzying heights, only to come crashing back down. It was the time of Reaganomics, recession, deficits, vast wealth, and one of the darkest days in the history of Wall Street. The economy of the 1980s gave us things like the Yuppie, Strawberry Shortcake, Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, G.I...2022-10-1933 minEverything 80sThe TGIF Friday-Night Lineup BeginsIf you grew up in the 1980s, you know how sacred Saturday morning cartoons were. But as we got older, they faded away, and our interests changed. Would anything be able to fill the void of that beloved TV-watching ritual? Enter TGIF on the ABC network. Though it may feel more like a 90s institution, TGIF began in the late 80s with roots going all the way back to 1985. This episode looks back at the origins of the beloved Friday night lineup, the importance of following a formula, the real meaning behind TGIF, and the importance of...2022-09-2130 minEverything 80sThe Royal Family During the 1980sNo matter what our feelings are about the Royal Family, we've been living through historical times. And, for the Royals, there may be no era more significant than the 1980s. This was a decade where--thanks to the growth of media, cable, and networks--awareness of their every move was at an all-time high. The 1980s gave us two royal weddings, four royal births, multiple threats to the Queen, and a humorous public relations disaster. This is also a time when we began to see cracks in the facade of what was supposed to be a "perfect family." And...2022-09-1423 minEverything 80sThe MTV Generation BeginsWhether you grew up in the 80s or not, MTV has probably impacted you at some point. Even though the all-music channel debuted way back in 1981, it continues to influence pop culture to this day. This is a look back on a risky idea that went on to define the entire 1980s and changed the way we consume music. In this episode, we'll look back at the origins of MTV (that involves New Zealand and The Monkees), the immediate impact it made, the rise of giant stars like Madonna and Michael Jackson, and the controversies that have...2022-08-3136 minThe Quo-CastA Chat With Jamie Dyer: Greg Harper sits inIn this episode of The Quo-Cast, Musician and Author Greg Harper interviews Jamie Dyer about his love of Quo, with a focus on the 1980s onwards. They discuss Francis Rossi's productions (Incl Lee O'Brien), Bula Quo, Aquostic, In Search Of The Fourth Chord and more!2022-08-141h 10Everything 80sThe 10 Best Video Games of the 1980sWhat's your favorite video game ever? Quite often, they're the beloved games from our childhood. If you grew up in the 1980s, some of the classics probably come to mind. The 80s was a golden age of video games, and it gave us some of the most iconic--and important--video games ever created. The advancement in video games from 1980 to 1989 was truly night and day. The games at the end of the decade were virtually unrecognizable compared to those from the beginning. But it's sometimes those simple games that have stayed with us. So, ready player 1, b...2022-08-1021 minEverything 80sRewind: Which Summer Had the Best Movies?The 1980s gave rise to the summer blockbuster. Before then, the summer wasn't seen as an effective time to release movies. That definitely changed, and this was mainly thanks to Steven Spielberg and George Lucas. But which summer had the best movies? In this look back at one of my favorite episodes ever, I rank every 1980s summer to see which one was the very best. How does 1985 compare to the juggernaut that was 1989? Which summer was the real dark horse with a ton of classic offerings? Which summer is maybe not as good as we remember?2022-07-2024 minEverything 80sThe Toys of the 80s With Dan LarsonThe 1980s ushered in a new era of cartoons, toys, and action figures the likes we had never seen before. But what made this era so different? And why did we love the toys that we did? What makes for a good toy? Is it functionality? Backstory? Interaction? Marketing? Or the fact our friends had them? This is also a look at the government deregulation, trade embargos, capitalism, and even war that had a major influence on one of the biggest eras of toys ever. Special Guest: Dan Larson from Toy Galaxy Support the Show: Pa...2022-07-1329 minEverything 80sStranger Things Season 4: The Final RecapAfter an epic four hours of Stranger Things: Volume 2, it's time to recap episodes 8 and 9 and then wrap up what was a truly remarkable season. For both episodes, we will break down the plot, and look at all the themes, observations, and 1980s references. We look ahead to what may be in store for the 5th season, and how season 4 could not have come at a better time for Netflix. Chrissy, this is for you... Support the show at Patreon.com/80s Check out the 1980s-based book, "Tommy and the Cosmic Champions" 2022-07-0632 minEverything 80sThe Dungeons & Dragons Scare of the 1980sPeople sure were scared of the devil back in the 80s. As the fear of Satanic cults grew, one simple role-playing game became the spokesperson for all the evils facing youth: Dungeons and Dragons. How did this game that appealed to creative people become blamed for so many terrible events? This is a look back on the rise of Dungeons and Dragons and the fear that swept through the nation. A game that was played by a niche community was now on network news and fear and hysteria were being pumped into every living room in the...2022-06-2227 minEverything 80sThe Complete Stranger Things Season 4 RecapWhoa nelly, this has been a doozy. I'm going to recap everything that went on during Volume 1 of Stranger Things season 4. We will do a plot summary breakdown of what transpired over the last 7 episodes, explore some of the deep themes used this season, look at the movies that influenced it (one horror movie, specifically), look at the importance of music during this season, and uncover all the Easter eggs and 1980s references I could find! Spoiler warnings if you haven't seen season 4 yet Support the show: Patreon.com/80s Show Notes: Stranger...2022-06-0121 minEverything 80sThe 10 Best Breakfast Cereals of the 1980sThe 1980s were a golden age of breakfast cereals. The decade ushered in a whole new era of breakfast options that probably couldn't even be considered real food--but we loved it (even if our mothers hated them). I'm going to count down what I believe are the ten best cereals of the decade. Some of these came out before the 80s but became as much a part of our morning breakfast routine as reading the back of the box. Some came out for a short period in the 80s and were never seen again. Hopefully, some of y...2022-02-2325 minEverything 80sThe Everything 80s 2021 Christmas Spectacular!Welcome to my annual Christmas special! I'm wearing the ugliest Christmas sweater I could find, have the fireplace channel "roaring" in the background, and am drinking some type of nog. For the Christmas special, I wanted to look at the movies and TV shows that captured Christmas for us in the 1980s. First, we will look at 4 films that actually are Christmas movies (you know where this is going...) And then look at 5, forgotten—and underappreciated—TV Christmas specials that came out during the decade. So put on your best Christmas PJs and curl up by th...2021-12-2222 minEverything 80sThe 10 Best Music Videos of the 1980sDo you remember the first music video you ever saw? Even if you don't, you may be like me and still remember being in awe of these mini "music movies." Today, I countdown what I believe are the 10 best videos of the 1980s. There will be a bunch of similarities as my "best songs of the 80s" podcast, but that's just because they are such decade-defining hits. We will also look at the rise of MTV, how the Beatles helped pave the way for music videos, and a bunch of behind-the-scenes facts on some of your favorites.2021-09-1527 minEverything 80sThe 10 Best Pop Culture Cars of the 1980sThis is a big episode where we look at the world of cars in the 1980s. We'll look at the state of the automotive industry, the best-sellers, the duds, and the advancements. Then, I'll count down what I think are the 10 most iconic vehicles from movies and TV. So get out of my dreams, and into my car--and let's look at the best 80s cars. Show Notes: The Most Iconic Cars of the 80s Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s 2021-02-1032 minEverything 80sThe Best of the 80s in 2020This is my yearly review show where I look at the best of 1980s content in 2020. In this episode, I'll cover the topics I found most interesting, including the REAL reason behind the creation of Apple computers, the story behind a certain McDonald's item, the original forbidden video game, and more. I'll also give my review of a book sequel that was ten years in the making and look back at the television return of a beloved 1980s character. Website: https://www.everything80spodcast.com Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s 2021-01-1332 minThe Quo-CastQuo's Most 1980s Sounding SongsIn this episode of The Quo-Cast, Jamie Dyer discusses which Status Quo tracks he thinks definitely sound they originate from the 1980s.2020-11-1808 minEverything 80sThe Top 10 Cartoons of the 1980sToday, we're counting down the top 10 cartoons of the 1980s. With each choice, we will look at what made it great, the pop culture influence it had, and some insights into each show. Show notes: Top 10 Cartoons The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s 2020-06-1721 minEverything 80sThe 20 Best Bands Of The 80sThe 80s are a pretty iconic time for music. You've got news styles and genres coming out like hip-hop and new wave and its setting the stage for a huge new music movement. You've got the start of MTV, and also the Walkman - both of which are changing the way we consume music. This episode looks back on 20 of the very best bands of the 1980s. 1980s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s2019-07-1035 min
Arab Spring: A HistoryEpisode 34 - 1980s TurkeyThis week we continue in Turkey to cover the events of the 1980s2018-10-1300 min