Shows
Open Mic with Aly and MichelleSpecial Guest: John Byrnes from CV4A | Senators Named, TSA Bonuses Exposed, and Rubio Drops a Terrorism WarningToday’s show is one for the patriots — packed with heart, headlines, and hard truths. Joining us live: John Byrnes, Strategic Director at CV4A, breaking down the real cost of the government shutdown and what Washington doesn’t want you to know. We’re also digging into what lawmakers snuck into the bill, the bonuses for TSA agents, and Rep. Luna naming names in the Senate . VP JD Vance speaks out, while prayers pour in for Sen. John Fetterman after his health scare. Plus: Trump and Melania sign an Executive Order boosting support for foster children — a powerful reminder o...
2025-11-1400 min
Security DilemmaA Veteran’s Journey from 9/11 to Restraint with John ByrnesOn this week's episode of Security Dilemma, A.J. Manuzzi spoke with John Byrnes, the Strategic Director of Concerned Veterans for America to discuss how his experiences being at Ground Zero on 9/11 and serving in America's post-9/11 wars shifted his perspective on U.S. foreign policy to a belief in realism and restraint. Mr. Byrnes joined the Marine Corps in 1991 out of high school and served four years, deployed to Somalia in 1993. He joined the New York National Guard, serving at Ground Zero after the September 11th terrorist attacks and was deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan before retiring...
2025-09-1141 min
Real Estate Riches Podcast!The Unyielding Spirit: Path to Freedom in Real Estate with John Mikesh - EP 36👨💼With Special Guest: John Mikesh
In this episode, Kathy Byrnes from Real Estate Riches is joined by her long-time friend John Mikesh to discuss his remarkable journey in the real estate industry. John shares his inspirational story of starting in the remote Hudson Valley of New York, struggling through market downturns, and ultimately achieving significant success. They delve into the importance of coaching, the value of hard work, and the impact of making strategic decisions in one's career. John also explains his transformative switch to eXp Realty, which unlocked unprecedented levels of freedom and passive income for him. Bot...
2024-10-0240 min
American PotentialA Memorial Day Tribute: Honoring the Fallen with John ByrnesIn this moving episode of "American Potential," host Jeff Crank welcomes John Byrnes, whose military career spans both the Marines and the Army National Guard. Byrnes shares poignant stories about his time in service and the brothers-in-arms he lost. He reflects on the deep bonds formed in the line of duty and the heavy cost of war, not only for those who fall on the battlefield but also for those who struggle upon returning home. The discussion extends to the broader significance of Memorial Day, emphasizing its role as a day of remembrance for those who have sacrificed everything for the...
2024-05-2730 min
American PotentialA Memorial Day Tribute: Honoring the Fallen with John ByrnesIn this moving episode of "American Potential," host Jeff Crank welcomes John Byrnes, whose military career spans both the Marines and the Army National Guard. Byrnes shares poignant stories about his time in service and the brothers-in-arms he lost. He reflects on the deep bonds formed in the line of duty and the heavy cost of war, not only for those who fall on the battlefield but also for those who struggle upon returning home.
The discussion extends to the broader significance of Memorial Day, emphasizing its role as a day of remembrance for those who...
2024-05-2730 minAmerican PotentialA Memorial Day Tribute: Honoring the Fallen with John ByrnesIn this moving episode of "American Potential," host Jeff Crank welcomes John Byrnes, whose military career spans both the Marines and the Army National Guard. Byrnes shares poignant stories about his time in service and the brothers-in-arms he lost. He reflects on the deep bonds formed in the line of duty and the heavy cost of war, not only for those who fall on the battlefield but also for those who struggle upon returning home.
The discussion extends to the broader significance of Memorial Day, emphasizing its role as a day of remembrance for those who...
2024-05-2730 minSecurity DilemmaJohn Byrnes and Tyler Koteskey on Veterans, Reservists and WarshipsThis week on Security Dilemma, John Allen Gay and Patrick Carver Fox talk with John Byrnes and Tyler Koteskey of Concerned Veterans for America. This episode covers how veteran communities have been affected by the Global War on Terror, the use and misuse of reservists and national guardsmen, naval procurement and more.
John Byrnes is strategic director for Concerned Veterans for America. He joined the marine corps in 1991 out of high school and served four years, deployed to Somalia in 1993. He joined the New York National Guard, serving at ground zero after the September 11th terrorist attacks...
2024-04-161h 03American PotentialMission Possible: John Byrnes on the VA, Freedom, and the MISSION ActJoin Host Jeff Crank in this eye-opening episode of "American Potential" as he sits down with special guest John Byrnes. They dive into intriguing stories of ordinary Americans striving to overcome government barriers and unlock their true potential. From the struggles of bureaucracy to the inspiring tales of triumph, John shares his insights into the continuous battle for liberty and freedom. Whether you're an advocate for minimal government interference or simply interested in the resilience of the human spirit, this episode is sure to stir your thoughts. #AmericanPotential Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com Check out CVA here: ht...
2023-07-3128 minAmerican PotentialMission Possible: John Byrnes on the VA, Freedom, and the MISSION ActJoin Host Jeff Crank in this eye-opening episode of "American Potential" as he sits down with special guest John Byrnes. They dive into intriguing stories of ordinary Americans striving to overcome government barriers and unlock their true potential. From the struggles of bureaucracy to the inspiring tales of triumph, John shares his insights into the continuous battle for liberty and freedom. Whether you're an advocate for minimal government interference or simply interested in the resilience of the human spirit, this episode is sure to stir your thoughts. #AmericanPotential
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.co...
2023-07-3128 minAmerican PotentialMission Possible: John Byrnes on the VA, Freedom, and the MISSION ActJoin Host Jeff Crank in this eye-opening episode of "American Potential" as he sits down with special guest John Byrnes. They dive into intriguing stories of ordinary Americans striving to overcome government barriers and unlock their true potential. From the struggles of bureaucracy to the inspiring tales of triumph, John shares his insights into the continuous battle for liberty and freedom. Whether you're an advocate for minimal government interference or simply interested in the resilience of the human spirit, this episode is sure to stir your thoughts. #AmericanPotential
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.co...
2023-07-3128 min
The People We Meet#50 Pieces of the puzzleMark Byrnes has spent most of his life in, on or around helicopters, both maintaining and flying them. At a very young age his father was killed in a helicopter accident, but this didn't stop him from pursuing his dream of one day becoming a pilot. Years later his older brother was also killed in a helicopter accident yet Mark continued his career motivated by both accidents to make the helicopter industry safer.
Sadly the aviation industry has now taken Marks livelihood but in a completely different way.
Weekend magazine Rock Climbing...
2023-04-121h 44
Authorised with Kevin HillierAUTHORISED 2023 Episode 5 John Byrnes HeadlandHeadland is the debut novel for Australian author John Byrnes and it is a thriller with compelling characters and plot twists and turns that will keep you guessing. John talks about the creative process, the thrill of becoming an author and where his writing is headed. What are your financial goals for 2023? CSCG can help you achieve them and all you need to do is give them a call to get the ball rolling. The CSCG team covers all financial areas and has the experience and knowledge that makes all the difference. Call them on 03-9974 8333 or vi...
2023-03-0821 min
CVA Policy TalkNo Fly Zone Talking PointsThe idea of a No Fly Zone over Ukraine has become a hot topic. Here's John Byrnes and Tyler Koteskey explaning why a No Fly Zone is a bad idea, a potential disaster. For internal use only.
2022-03-0431 min
CVA Policy TalkCVA National Brand Strategy Pt 3 Advancing FreedomPart Three of the CVA National Brand Strategy, with Kyle Buckles, John Byrnes and Nate Anderson.
2021-01-1715 minCVA Policy TalkThe Biden Administration and Foreign PolicyCVA held a chat with Reid Smith from Stand Together, one of the community's lead thinkers on our Foreign Policy Priority Initiative who has a great read on the DC Foreign Policy establishment. Reid helps John and Tyler walk through Joe Biden's incoming Foreign Policy team and the challenges and opportunities that now face our effort to achieve a new Grand Strategy of Realism and Restraint.
2021-01-1533 min
2020-11-1102 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 50, 10 November, Lance Corporal SwansonHappy Birthday to the USMC, and Thank You to all our Veterans, tomorrow is Veterans Day!
2020-11-1004 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 49, Nov 9, LT Ferrara, Mersman, Langevin, Roque, and LancourCheck out Will Ruger's review of Restraint and Summary of the principles of Realist Retrained Strategy in The America Conservative.
2020-11-0903 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 48, Nov 6, SFC William BrownCitizens, check out our friends Top Priority Podcast on Foreign Policy here!
2020-11-0604 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 47, Nov 5, Gooch and AamotFolks it's never too late to click here and help end these wars!
2020-11-0503 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 46, SFC CribbenFolks today, more than ever we need people to connect to our politicians in DC and tell them to end these endless wars. Please click here to send tell them to bring our troops home.
2020-11-0404 min2020-11-0304 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 44, Nov 2, 1LT ZimmermanPlease remember to vote tomorrow. If you don't remember where your polling place is or to check if your registered you can start here.
2020-11-0206 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 43 October 30, SSG Paul SweeneyFolks make sure you get out and vote this year. Even if you haven't registered you may be able to do one stop voting before election day in some states. For more info you can start here!
2020-10-3004 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 42 October 29, Cabrera, Eugenio, Newman, and DarroughPlease help end these endless wars. Just click on our link to Tell Congress.
2020-10-2905 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 41, October 28, CWO Jacob SimsCheck out the CVA YouTube Channel and don't forget to Vote!
2020-10-2804 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 40, October 27, Casey and GriecoFolks, please make sure you vote this year. Even if you haven't already registered you may be able to do one stop voting before election day. For more info you can start here!
2020-10-2705 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 39, October 26, 7 Soldiers, 4 Marines, 3 US CiviliansFolks make sure you get out and vote this year. Even if you haven't registered you may be able to do one stop voting before election day in some states. For more info you can start here!
2020-10-2604 min2020-09-3005 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 20 Sept 28, LCPL John Wimpey CagleCheck out tomorrow's EEW Zoom presentation with CVA Deputy Director Russ Duerstine and Luis Cardona who handles our Federal Affairs. It's at 7 PM Eastern register here.
2020-09-2804 minEcho Echo WhiskeyEpisode 18, September 24, LCPL John MaloneConcerned Veterans for America on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/c/ConcernedVets/videos
2020-09-2405 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 115 - Lisa Cohen and Cynthia KaplanThe show rediscovered the mission statement inherent in its title this week, as the 2016 Presidential election came to a close with a twist ending that no one expected, not even the candidates. Lisa Cohen and Cynthia Kaplan join me to sort through our shock, provide irresponsible speculation as to what the heck happened, and to trash Florida, because we're still elitist. Nudist libertarians are discussed. Breaking terrible news to one's children is a topic. Plus: Snake Island!
2016-11-1459 minThis Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 110 - Trace BeaulieuOn this Very Special Episode, I am pleased to welcome Trace Beaulieu, the man who was both Dr. Forrester and Crow on the beloved television series Mystery Science Theater 3000. This poor man gets dragged into our usual nonsense about the Panama Papers, black lesbians from Skokie, and a planet that is supposed to destroy the Earth next month, but we also manage to talk about Manos: The Hands of Fate and his latest project, touring the country with Frank Conniff doing the live show The Mads Are Back. It's a very nice conversation with a lovely man.
2016-04-1554 minThis Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 64 - Stephanie Hasz and Mike LawrenceIn the middle of a week of sub-zero temperatures, Mike Lawrence came through Chicago and sat down with Stephanie Hasz to talk about Chris Christie and Bridge-gate and a man who hasn't bathed in 60 years, but then we mostly ended up talking about television shows. A story about Cormac McCarthy's ex-wife descends into a series of vagina-themed jokes. Mike and Stephanie argue about the merits of Star Trek. I trot out my Norm Abram impression from This Old House, and then we defame Full House. Also, Mike was dealing with a faulty microphone, which is why he sounds like he's r...
2016-02-121h 01This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 103 - Live from Iowa 2016It's Election Season, and the podcast goes on the road to report live from the Iowa Democratic Caucuses, and brought Tim Barnes and Cody Melcher along for sociological experimentation. Interviews with local Democratic party officials and a live segement from the caucus site in Dubuque are in the offing. Tim is baffled by The West Wing. Cody is anxious about his peer group. Also, making her debut on the podcast, my daughter, known only as The Vegetarian Teen. It doesn't get much more topical than this, kids.
2016-02-101h 01This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 102 - Erik Niewiarowski and Kyle ScanlanDavid Bowie is dead, and I'm not feeling too good myself. Joining me to discuss his legacy are Erik Niewiarowski and Kyle Scanlan, who also indulge me in a discussion of the upcoming election season, an update on the militia in Oregon and the care packages they've received, and Rupert Murdoch's upcoming marriage to Jerry Hall. Robot Sperm are discussed. We take note of Ted Cruz's campaign ad done in blackface. The breakroom at ISIS is discussed.
2016-02-051h 02This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 101 - Reena Calm and Mary ZeeIt was the week that a bunch of ill-prepared rancher militiamen took over a federal building and Oregon, and Reena Calm and Mary Zee were both there to help me make fun of them. Obama was accused of fake crying over gun deaths, when it really should have been Rahm Emanuel. A discussion of the racist Maine governor turns into Massachusetts-splaining on the subject of Dunkin' Donuts. George Lucas is disparaged.
2016-01-2855 minThis Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 87 - Sonia Denis and Xavier LamontIt was the week of the protests and riots in Baltimore after the killing of yet another unarmed man by police, capping off a year of terrible misery. Joining me to explain why their black lives matter are Sonia Denis and Xavier Lamont, who talk about their own experiences, both of casual racism and the not-so-casual kind. Both Ben Carson and Barack Obama are included in the discussion, and oddly enough, OJ Simpson. I mostly keep quiet on this episode, because sometimes it's just best to listen.
2015-11-261h 01This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 93 - Bill Bullock and Stephanie HaszIt was a week during which in the wake of yet another gun massacre, President Obama got mad instead of sad, and America spent the week shouting at one another. Also, Volkswagen is poisoning the world, and UK Prime Minister David Cameron really likes pork, and even the possiblity of water on Mars doesn't lift the cloud. Luckily I have two of my favorite and most frequent guests, Bill Bullock and Stephanie Hasz, to help me get through it. Bill reveals his fear of Stephanie. Stephanie reveals her fear of space travel. They have a conversation about assault vs betray...
2015-10-2856 minThis Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 60 - Jamie Campbell and Sherman EdwardsIt's the week that Nelson Mandela died and Duck Dynasty's Phil Robertson got fired, so as far as racism goes it was pretty much a draw. Jamie Campbell and Sherman Edwards join me to sort through it all, plus several stories about foreign objects being inserted into people for the purposes of art. Jamie waxes nostalgic about Robert Zemeckis films. Kolchak: The Night Stalker is explained. Plus the return of Moral Dilemmas!
2014-12-1553 minThis Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 59 - Adam Burke and Stephanie HaszIn this live episode from The Hungry Brain, Adam Burke and Stephanie Hasz help me celebrate Thanksgiving by discussing Toronto mayor Rob Ford and abstinence education in Texas. The 50th anniversary of the Kennedy Assassination is handled in the show's usual tasteful manner. The panel reminisces about their own sexual eductation. Monkey birth control is also discussed.
2014-12-141h 19This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 58 - Cody Melcher, Dave Stinton, and Alexandra TsarpalasIt's the beginning of the charity season, and your host isn't feeling particularly chartiable. Returning veterans Cody Melcher, Alexandra Tsarpalas, and Dave Stinton are dragged into the cynical mire. Compassion fatigue and inefficient charities are discussed. A what-if scenario is discussed in which Mikhail Baryshnikov rules Russia instead of Vladimir Putin. We are collectively mean to a child with leukemia. All that, plus the horrifying dark side of Flipper!
2014-12-131h 02
Put Your Hands Together with Cam and RheaT.J. Miller, Dan St. Germain, Phoebe Robinson, Whitmer Thomas, Allen Strickland Williams, Peter-John Byrnes, Andy PetersPremium sets from T.J. Miller, Dan St. Germain, Phoebe Robinson, Whitmer Thomas, Allen Strickland Williams, Peter-John Byrnes and your special guest host Andy Peters
2014-10-171h 04This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 57 - Chad Briggs and Goodrich GevaartChicago has a new mass transit card, and it's terrible. Veteran despairer Chad Briggs joins newcomer and gigglepuss Goodrich Gevaart to discuss that horror, plus the nightmare of modern customer service. Edward Snowden's government theft is compared to that of Fat Lenny, who ripped off the Navy for millions. Poor people take it in the shorts again. And Chad unveils his newest character, Folksy South American Sheriff.
2014-07-291h 01This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 56 - Bill Bullock and Sonia DenisRegular guests Bill Bullock and Sonia Denis return to reveal their secret identities as Information Technology professionals for a discussion of Healthcare.gov, the failing Obamacare website. The NSA is also in the news as the discussion turns to privacy in the modern age or the lack thereof. Sonia will cut you before telling you if she's single or not. Bill puts his business out on the street. There's also a discussion of Girl Scout cookies as a gateway to lesbianism, and how open mic comedy causes us all to lose faith in humanity.
2014-07-141h 00This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 55 - Stephanie Hasz and Katie McVayReturning champions Stephanie Hasz and Katie McVay join me for a live episode that needed to have the monologue re-recorded due to technical difficulties. Racist NFL owners and bisexual Disney princesses are in the news, plus menstruating t-shirts make an appearance. Katie knows things about football. Stephanie has an unusual crush on an animated character. Katie and Stephanie disagree about boycotting terrible companies, but unite in their belief in ghosts against me. I don't really have much control over this episode.
2014-07-101h 08This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 54 - The Byrnes Sisters Strike AgainIn previous episodes, my sisters have ruined Christmas, and Memorial Day. Now they ruin a funeral. This episode was recorded after attending the funeral of a close family member, and my sisters help produce an episode where the humor is as black as pitch. It's the full set of Kubler-Ross stages, it's the laugh that catches in your throat, it's the tears which might be of laughter or pain. It's This Week in Despair. This episode also contains a tribute to our fallen comrade and former guest, the late Dan Ronan.
2014-07-041h 00This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 53 - Andy Fleming, Jason Earl Folks, and Derek SheenIt's our first-ever three-guest show! Seattle comic Derek Sheen is in town to join stalwart regulars Andy Fleming and Jason Earl Folks on a week where the government has been shut down, giant Chinese wasps fill the air, lizard people roam the streets undetected, and local restaurants are serving blasphemy on a bun, so the show is even more apocalyptic than usual. We learn what American voters believe. Killer bees make a comeback. Jason would prefer to fight a bear. And the latest Bigfoot news, of course.
2014-07-0254 minThis Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 52 - Matt Drufke and Joe HerrmannFellow comedy dads, über-nerds, and loud laughers Matt Drufke and Joe Herrmann join me on a week where Ted Cruz redefines a waste of time on the floor of the Senate. Pregnant priests, warp drive, and the deliciousness of babies all get discussed. We get nostalgic for how Rodney King was merely beaten. What would Jesus do? Probably not cut the food stamp program. Joe gets horrible parenting advice. It's our first episode with an Easter Egg!
2014-06-191h 13This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 51 - Adam Burke and Stephanie HaszAdam Burke and Stephanie Hasz are my two most frequent guests, but they've never appeared together on an episode...until now. On this special LIVE episode from Chicago's Hungry Brain, we have to sort through the wreckage of yet another gun massacre, plus the Costa Concordia makes a surprise return appearance. Espionage figures are discussed, including an Egyptian stork and Jackson Pollock. Hawai'ian names are pronouced. Clowns are disparaged.
2014-06-091h 18This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 50 - Stephanie Hasz and Nathan RabinOur 50th episode is also one of our most entertaining. First-time guest Nathan Rabin and long-time regular guest Stephanie Hasz join me for a discussion about Miss America, Juggalos, and Vladimir Putin. Our historical relationship with Russia is explained thorugh the filter of Rocky IV and Hawaii Five-O. Tattoos are shared. Speaking ill of the dead is approved of by all guests, and then exemplified by an extended trashing of the works of Michael Crichton. Nathan and I try to out-do one another on obscure 1980s film references, and go deep into the weeds. Stephanie is patient.
2014-06-061h 13This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 49 - Will Miles and Liza TreygerWe recorded this episode on September 11th, which is like Christmas for despair fetishists. Will Miles and Liza Treyger join in my nostalgia for terrible things, as George Zimmerman popping up in the news gives us an opportunity to review the Trayvon Martin case, and an analysis of Syria and Rwandan genocide somehow turns into a discussion of Sex and the City. Will and Liza explain OKCupid to me. Will reveals his family's UFO abduction past. Liza reviews her preferences in flowers. I conclude the episode by explaining the BDSM themes in early Wonder Woman comics while attempting to not s...
2014-06-051h 11This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 48 - James Fritz and Zach PetersonOn our very first ever live episode, delivered to a largely indifferent coffeeshop audience at the Out of Bounds Comedy Festival, we're joined by one of the guests on our very first episode, James Fritz, because sometimes you want a friend when you go skydiving without a parachute. He's joined by the Bard of Nebraska, Zach Peterson, as we run through the week's news, which includes marijuana legalization, NFL concussions, and Syrian diplomacy, only two of which involve brain-damaged people. James plays Carnac the Magnificent with the musical segues. Zach is in need of an aspirin. We had a...
2014-06-041h 02This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 47 - Ralph Hardesty and Kerri LendoIt was a week where reporters threatened to murder whistleblowers and a racist rodeo clown was the toast of FOX News, so what better week to go visit Austin, Texas? Recorded during the Out of Bounds Festival, this episode features two of Austin's finest, Ralph Hardesty and star of stage and screen Kerri Lendo. Kerri is not opposed to sending SWAT teams after hippies. Ralph shares his secret shame regarding Miley Cyrus. I suggest that a disgraced cop kill himself. VC Andrews makes a strong showing near the end. I think the heat got to us.
2014-06-0355 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 46 - Sonia Denis and Charlie RohrerIt's a week when there's a new Royal Baby and a new panelist on The View, so first-time guest Charlie Rohrer is joined by the canny veteran Sonia Denis to help sort it all out. Charlie doesn't like babies. Sonia doesn't like anyone. Genital-hungry Israeli snakes, Jenny McCarthy and other horrible creatures make an appearance. Sonia reveals her new hit song for next summer, and takes us to the bleakest subject matter we've ever had on the show!
2013-12-1156 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 45 - Ever Mainard and Cody MelcherOn the week where the Defense of Marriage Act was struck down, we convene a demographically-accurate all-gay Texan panel of frequent guests Ever Mainard and Cody Melcher, who discuss Rick Perry, Playboy bunny art installations, and how it feels to win one for a change. Ever and Cody perform their "gas station voices." Racist Disney films are discussed. Cody and I debate the end of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Ever reveals the true identity of her father at the end, making this the Empire Strikes Back episode.
2013-12-1054 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 44 - Sonia Denis and Andy FlemingRegular panelists Sonia Denis and Andy Fleming are back for a very strange episode in which a discussion of Paula Deen and Rupert Murdoch is delayed so I can explain the plot of Last Tango in Paris and give a brief history of sexual lubricant. Other topics include eyeball licking and breast-milk-flavored lollipops, both of which will haunt your nightmares forever.
2013-11-0456 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 43 - Drew Frees and Stewart HuffFrom the heart of Bloomington IN, Drew Frees and Stewart Huff join me for our first remote recording, made during the Limestone Comedy Festival. It's a episode in which the difficulty of major social change is discussed in the wake of the NSA scandal, and how the poor are well and truly screwed in this country. We also talk about bare boobs in New York City, so there's something for everyone. Well, maybe not for rich straight women.
2013-10-151h 06
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 42 - The Return of the Byrnes SistersMy sisters previously ruined Christmas, and now they're back to ruin another holiday. Memorial Day usually means cookouts, and on this food-themed show we discuss marijuana-infused bacon, insect-based protein, and how everything gives you cancer. Suzanne makes a brave stand against poisioning one's family. Pepperoni pervert perpetrators make an appearance. My sisters salute our Presidents on Memorial Day with a series of graphic sexual references. They're terrible people.
2013-10-0255 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 41 - Cody Melcher and Ranjit SouriThe co-hosts of the delightful podcast Tomefoolery, Cody Melcher and Ranjit Souri, don their tinfoil hats and join me on a trip down the rabbit hole, as the news this week leads us to a series of conspiracy theories. The IRS scandal and Benghazi are given their due, but also the theory that tornadoes in Oklahoma are created by the White House to distract us from their crimes. We discuss sexy Tasmanian ghosts, and devils. Cody unveils his funeral plans.
2013-09-1156 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 40 - Steve Walker and Brian WilleThis week, Steve Walker and Brian Wille join me for a discussion of bodily horrors, with multiple stories of terrible things being inserted or excreted from a cornucopia of orifices. The revenge of bees, and the 3-D printing of guns also come in for scrutiny. I am accused of working for the NSA. Bad parenting decisions come in for review. Brian is called upon to represent all of Central and South America. No diapers were soiled in the making of this episode.
2013-09-0356 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 39 - Joel IngersollSometimes the peril of doing a topical show is that you end up processing tragedy in real-time. When my guest Joel Ingersoll agreed to do the show months in advance on a trip through Chicago, he had no idea that he'd be talking about the bombing at the Boston Marathon, which happened just days before we recorded. The result is a conversation that's sometimes sober, sometimes funny, but never dull. We spend a surprising amount of time talking about baseball. The recently-dead Margaret Thatcher is spoken ill of. The actress Jeri Ryan is praised for her political impact. I di...
2013-08-2153 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 38 - Andy Fleming and Stephanie HaszFrequent guests and good-but-not-great friends Andy Fleming and Stephanie Hasz have never appeared together on the show, and their pairing results in utter insanity. The sexiness of Elizabeth Warren is discussed. Bob Woodward is explained and defamed again. Sex is Zimbabwe is revealed to be dangerous. Stephanie shares her top sexual fantasy over a multi-year period. Andy reveals a shameful Star Wars secret in his past. My guests share their encyclopedic knowledge of statutory rape laws in multiple states. I hide under the desk for much of this episode.
2013-08-161h 08
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 37 - Chad Briggs and Cody MelcherOur first-ever star-spangled all-Texas panel of Chad Briggs and Cody Melcher demonstrate just what a wide demographic diversity that state really has. It's a week where horsemeat and beauty-pageant show ponies were in the news, as well as the animals behind Girls Gone Wild. Chad and I try once more to discuss our sexual obsession with Debra Winger and Urban Cowboy, but are once again stymied as the conversation turns to Paul Lynde. The sequester and Bradley Manning somehow get worked in there as well. The show also takes a remarkably dark turn regarding new information about German concentration camp...
2013-08-151h 08
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 36 - Bill Cruz and Sean WhiteThe very entertaining and thoughtful pair of Bill Cruz and Sean White join me to discuss papal conspiracy theories, historically-significant pornography collections of the non-Vatican variety, and sacred jelly. Sean and Bill educate me on TSA security holes. Racist math problems are examined. Bill is a rule-stickler where popes are concerned. Our game of Moral Dilemmas gets very heated over the ethical lessons of Star Trek. We learn yet another reason why one should never live in Las Vegas. It's all very educational.
2013-08-1459 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 35 - Maggie Ednie and Michael OrtizOn a week where the United States government announced it had the right to kill its citizens without trial if they are considered an imminent threat, returning guests Maggie Ednie and Mike Ortiz are very patient with me as I rail about government overreach and sing the praises of the US Postal System. Mike outlines his design for a whale factory farm. Maggie manages to insult all of Asia. I tell stories about stripper tricks that I've never seen, plus we have our usual wrap-up of pornography and bestiality stories. It's a show likely to cause an international incident.
2013-08-1359 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 34 - Alexandra Tsarpalas and Mike WileyOn a week where North Korea dominated the news, Alexandra Tsarpalas and Mike Wiley come to discuss Pacific Rim geopolitics and the Benghazi hearings, but stay for the more serious matters of unauthorized silicone butt injections in Miami, and "Flamy," the ill-conceived Brazilian hospital mascot for child burn victims. I explain the plot of the 80s classic Red Dawn to my guests. Alexandra is fascinated with Faces of Meth. Amy Poehler's teeth are judged.
2013-07-2455 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 33 - Joe McAdamJoe McAdam joins me for a particularly free-wheeling episode, where everything from Iranian Space Monkeys to Bedbugs to Hitler's fabled Lost Toilet were in the news. The NRA compiles a ilst of enemies that sounds like a sad Hollywood Squares cast list. A discussion of poisonous vaginas lead to a bad Peter Falk impression. Tony Danza is disparaged. Pam Dawber is explained. You'll never watch Sesame Street the same way again.
2013-06-2153 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 32 - Adam Burke and James BurkeRegular guest Adam Burke returns, this time accompanied by his brother Jim, for an off-beat episode with an international flair, wherein we sit around and tell stories of travel and journeys. Adam and Jim talk about their early years in Australia, and summer holidays in Spain. Jim has a tale of getting in touch with his inner colonialist in Morocco. Adam explains how he came to live in Dallas. I tell a story about helping to build an online casino in Costa Rica. We all have a grim ferry tale to share.
2013-06-041h 05
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 31 - Bill Bullock and Megan GaileyIt's a week when Notre Dame football is in the news, so who better to bring on the show than Naked Sports Live Host Megan Gailey, and Notre Dame alum Bill Bullock? This marks the first time on the show that I know the least about the subject at hand. We all share on this episode. Bill tells us what it's like to be an African-American student at Notre Dame. Megan tells us about waxing trends among the 20-something generation. I explain to my guests about John Hinckley and Jodie Foster. We all come together to be mean to...
2013-05-281h 01
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 30 - The Byrnes SistersMy sisters, Jessica and Suzanne, are my guests this episode with the intention of sharing Christmas memories from our childhood and adulthood, but instead reveal themselves to be horrible, horrible people. Grandmothers are mocked. Nutloaf is discussed. A story is told of enemas purchased in advance of a funeral. All manner of bodily excretions are brought to light. Jane Goodall is disparaged. Mother Teresa is slandered. This is officially the Worst Christmas Episode Ever. It might ruin all future Christmases. Consider this before listening.
2013-05-221h 03
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 29 - Adam Burke and Kenny DeForestOne of our favorite regular guests, Adam Burke, is joined by newcomer Kenny DeForest to help with a recap of 2012. Adam and Kenny share their love of Gangham Style. Fan-favorite subjects Bigfoot and The Girl with the Anal Tattoo make return appearances. Kenny gives his plans for introducing world harmony. Adam unveils his new character, Racist Helen Keller. It's all very tasteful and elegant.
2013-05-201h 07
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 28 - Andy Fleming and Emily LakeNever has our show's title been more appropriate as on this episode, recorded the day after the Sandy Hook Elementary School gun massacre. Andy Fleming and Emily Lake endure the blast of the angriest opening monologue ever recorded on the show, then help me dissect the arguments that allow these events to happen. And then the episode takes a bizarre and clearly self-medicating detour into Smut Town, as we abandon our contemplation of these horrible events by compulsively telling funny sex jokes. The jokes catch in the throat, and the laughter's on the edge of tears. It's the most F...
2013-01-131h 00
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 27 - Anthony McBrien and Nate SimmonsThe first of two episodes where our gun culture is discussed, this episode was recorded immediately prior to the Sandy Hook massacre. Anthony McBrien and Nate Simmons join me for a conversation heavy with historic irony as we discuss the gun culture as it relates to the NFL, but also covers Katt Williams's reign of terror in Seattle, the Pope joining Twitter, and a surprising amount of personal hygiene habits. Anthony tells of his surreal experience watching Lincoln. Nate gives us his history of concussions. I mispronounce a name to the delight of my guests.
2013-01-111h 00
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 26 - Stephanie Hasz and Danny KallasHostess has filed for bankuptcy, Twinkie speculation is running rampant, and Stephanie Hasz and Danny Kallas join me to make sense of it all. On a very food-oriented episode, we cover Danny's love for Olive Garden, Stephanie's dislike of sweets, and my knowledge of kosher Dunkin' Donuts in the area. Stephanie quizzes me about my high school fashion choices, and reveals the only two books she was required to read in high school. Danny gives tips on eating for free. It's all very educational.
2013-01-0459 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 25 - Rachel Baron Singer and Henry Birdseye IIIThere was a Presidential election this week, but there were far more weightier matters at hand, like the premiere of a new James Bond movie. Ian Fleming expert Rachel Baron Singer and Ian Fleming novice Henry Birdseye III join me for an in-depth discussion of Bond movies past and present. Rachel and I debate the Best Theme Song, Best Title Sequence, and of course, who the best Bond is. Hint: not Roger Moore.
2012-12-241h 00
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 24 - Drew MichaelDrew Michael and I don't agree on much, politically, but we do agree that we like our periodic spirited discussions, and one another. He joins me for what turns out to be an audio version of My Dinner with Andre, with beastiality jokes. This Very Special Episode is being released deliberately with almost none of my usual editing, to avoid any temptation to tip the scales.
2012-12-101h 10
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 23 - Rhea Butcher and Cameron EspositoAnd sometimes, you just want to take a break from news and politics and talk about the movies with your friends. The utterly charming Rhea Butcher returns, accompanied by the no-less-charming Cameron Esposito, to talk about the recent DVD releases The Avengers, Prometheus, and The Dark Knight Rises. But we also range far and wide, discussing Thelma and Louise, Robocop, Basic Instinct, and Total Recall. Cameron defends Showgirls. Rhea and Cameron both describe hot background extra action in Cruising. Siskel and Ebert it ain't, folks.
2012-12-071h 00
G5 Radio, The Friday Guys@5Award winning public relations guru John Byrnes of Beverly Hills joins he G5 Radio crew to discuss being amongst other things, a voting member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and show biz at large.Donn Dabney, Jamie Waterman, Rick Miron, John Byrnes
2012-12-041h 36
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 22 - Ted Alexandro and Adam BurkeTed Alexandro and Adam Burke are in the studio with me for a surprisingly serious and considered discussion of what gets left out of our national political discourse. I make an argument for mob violence against Wall Street executives. Adam tells us about The Scottish Streaker. Ted explains how thorough the corruption is, and how difficult it is to escape. The show lives up to its title this time around.
2012-12-041h 01
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 21 - Jessica Byrnes and Brian WilleMy sister Jessica Byrnes makes a return appearance, accompanied by local man-about-town Brian Wille. The VP debate is quickly discussed and dismissed in favor of Lance Armstrong's testicle, a murder-castration in New York, and the linking of Laura Ingalls Wilder and Flowers in the Attic. Jessica won't stop talking about Danish penises. Mice are disparaged. Iowa is praised.
2012-12-0157 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 20 - Maggie Ednie and James FritzThe dismal first Presidential Debate sends regular guest James Fritz and me into a spiral from which we self-medicate by discussing Texas spanking rules, horse sex, and Koren eunuchs. Maggie Ednie comes along for the ride and shares her disdain for media-baiting scientific studies. James reveals the name of his next podcast. Maggie reveals her favorite superhero. Our Finnish fanbase is repeatedly addressed. This is a very silly episode.
2012-11-131h 01
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 19 - Andy Fleming and Natalie JoseOn this episode Andy Fleming and Natalie Jose join me for a particularly biological discussion. Boobs of the Hooters and Kate Middleton variety make an appearance, so to speak, and we wind up the episode sharing childbirth stories. My prostate makes a special guest appearance. Natalie details her unusual work history, and Andy pulls a surprise out of his backpack. Snakes are discussed at some length.
2012-11-1257 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 18 - Ever MainardEver Mainard joins me for a wide-ranging discussion which encompasses the Chicago teacher's strike, anti-Muslim YouTube videos, crime in the streets, and the evil of Frappucinos. Ever explains the aesthetics of decorative cow skulls. I'm generally cranky about things.
2012-11-0958 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 17 - Sonia Denis and Rebecca O'NealNew guest Rebecca O'Neal and returning champion Sonia Denis join me on this episode to discuss the 2012 political conventions, racists in denial, and the South Side of Chicago. Sonia reveals how you get on her blacklist. Rebecca explains how exhaustion trumps her sense of offense. I tell the story of the time I was booed and hissed by an audience with my wife in attendance. It's the episode with our most optimistic ending yet.
2012-11-061h 00
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 16 - Jason Earl Folks and Katie McVayThis episode was recorded on my birthday, and what greater cause for despair is that? Our National Bigfoot Correspondent Jason Earl Folks turns his expert eye to the latest sighting video emerging from Ohio, and Katie McVay joins us because one loud guest isn't enough. Atrocities discussed include anal tattos, Dungeons and Dragons groups who use Star Wars characters, major newsweeklies which no longer fact-check, and Todd Akin.
2012-09-2959 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 15 - Adam Burke and Dan TelferAdam Burke and Dan Telfer join me for a discussion of science, Mars, Wikileaks and Julian Assange, Sally Ride, and our military-industrial complex. Dan tells a story of terror from 1998. Adam is angry about Pussy Riot. If you asked me what my ideal episode of this podcast would sound like when I first started, it would be a lot like this. My guests are smart, engaged, and disagree with me. I'm wrong a lot on this episode.
2012-09-251h 02
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 14 - Sonia Denis and Stephanie HaszThis episode's conversation with Stephanie Hasz and Sonia Denis starts with a discussion of newly-selected GOP VP candidate Paul Ryan, but then descends into talk of cheese curds, horrible spiders, scrubbing toilets without a brush, and ends with a cataloguing of the varieties of sexual aids available on the market. Stephanie really needs to wash her hands more. Sonia will never set foot in Wisconsin. I had dreams of high-minded discourse when I started this podcast. They're all ashes now.
2012-09-2059 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 13 - Bill Bullock and Cody MelcherOn a week where The Olympics celebrated the pinnacle of human health and achivement and Chick-Fil-A served up homophobia on a bun, Bill Bullock and Cody Melcher stop by to help me make sense of it all. Cody displays both a rapier wit and an extensive knowledge of rapiers. Bill reveals his encyclopedic knowledge of statutory rape laws in Midwestern states. Indiana is repeatedly disparaged. This episode is brought to you by schadenfreude.
2012-09-1958 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 12 - Dave StintonOn a particularly despairing week, I am blessed to have the sensible and reflective Dave Stinton. Topics include Fred Willard, and other movie-related atrocities. Dave unveils his vision of a world ruled by intelligent wombats. A personal letter from Barack Obama is discussed. I talk too much, to little avail.
2012-09-181h 00
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 10 - James Fritz and Bjorn SkaptasonA really fun episode in honor of Independence Day, where Civil War historian Bjorn Skaptason and man-about-town James Fritz discuss the past, the South and the hypocrisy of America. You know, the usual.
2012-07-181h 03
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 9 - Jessica Byrnes and Kris SimmonsMy heavily-medicated sister fills in as an emergency guest, and is funny enough that pain medication will be mandatory for all future guests. Kris Simmons sets a horrible precedent by arriving prepared with actual facts. Topics include the Supreme Court's decision on health care reform, Adele's pregnancy, and Mississippi abortions, but we end up spending the most time discussing strippers, foreign and domestic, literary and literal.
2012-07-101h 01
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 8 - Robert Buscemi and Ever MainardRobert Buscemi and Ever Mainard are my guests for the most unusual episode we've had so far. A discussion of women in comedy veers away from the week's news and into a discussion of bodily fluids you can find in a 24-hour coffee shop. It all ends with a conversation in which Robert gets me to discuss my personal feelings and my history, neither of which I'm the slightest bit comfortable in doing. This one gets pretty real, kids.
2012-06-261h 04
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 7 - Adam Burke and Mary CharleneA special Father's Day edition of This Week in Despair leads to a discussion about parenting both good and bad, with guests Adam Burke and Mary Charlene. Baby-eating dingos, kinky Swedish mothers, and Lindsay Lohan are amongst the topics. Adam Burke shares his knowledge of Australia. Mary shares her knowledge of fresh-water fish auctions.
2012-06-1859 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 6 - Rhea Butcher and Katie McVayRhea Butcher and Katie McVay join me this week for a discussion that starts high-minded and with the best of intentions, but degenerates into topics such as Mitt Romney's state trooper cosplay fetishism, sploshing, toilet wine, and locavore meth. James Joyce is discussed, but only as it involves his flatulence fetish. Katie reveals some questionable TV viewing habits. Rhea says "yeast" repeatedly. Also: fedoras.
2012-06-111h 01
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 5 - Michael Ortiz and Dan RonanThis week, Michael Ortiz and Dan Ronan join me to sift through the entrails of the previous week. Topics include drones, zombies, the North Carolina state legislature, and other mindless entities. The yumminess of whales is discussed. Michael gets angry about banks. The panel agrees that we're the first ones eaten when the apocalypse comes.
2012-06-0459 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 4 - James Fritz and Stephanie HaszIn this episode, James Fritz and Stephanie Hasz join me in an attempt to discuss Wall Street, global finance and the Facebook IPO, but relapses into a discussion of the films of 1982, and geographic errors in movies set in Chicago. Other topics include the oeuvre of Chuck Norris, Zac Efron's golden shower, and drones. Stephanie Hasz breaks the Ferngully seal. James Fritz keeps his David Cronenberg reference streak alive.
2012-05-281h 02
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 3 - Jason Earl Folks and Stephanie HaszIt's NATO weekend in Chicago, and I'm joined in the studio by the red-headed tag team of Jason Earl Folks and Stephanie Hasz as the helicopters hover overhead. Other topics include Jon Lovitz, the Chicago Cubs ownership, and the rap career of Jason Earl Folks. Also: Bigfoot!
2012-05-211h 01
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 2 - Chad BriggsThis week's episode has Chad Briggs on the panel, where we tackle the weighty subject of gay marriage. The Minnelli Beard Scale is introduced, and we discuss Geraldo's manual manipulation, John Travolta's unhappy ending, and the 70 Year-Old Virgin.
2012-05-1456 min
This Week in Despair with Peter-john ByrnesEpisode 1 - Adam Burke and James FritzOur first episode was intended to be a pilot that never saw the light of day, but then it turned out to be too much fun to keep to ourselves. Comedians Adam Burke and James Fritz join in a discussion that covers Ted Nugent, Scooby-Doo guest stars, Dominique Strauss-Kahn's bodily fluids, and third-party Presidential politics.
2012-05-0759 min