Shows
The Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Skeletá by Ghost (feat. Blake Grimes)J. Mac & Ryder voyage into uncharted album review territory to discuss the latest album from heavy metal band Ghost. They also tap in rock/metal expert guest reviewer: Blake Grimes. 2025-04-2842 minThe Casual Genius PodcastMinecraft Movie Review (feat. Ty Palomino)This week, J. Mac & Ryder are joined by the great mind of gamer, streamer, and Geeked Out podcast cohost: Ty Palomino as they break down The Minecraft Movie. With TikTok trends sweeping the world, box office successes, and Jack Black at the helm of the acting crew, what could go wrong?2025-04-2145 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing the New Duckworth AlbumDuckworth is a multi-talented singer, often blending hip-hop, pop, and alternative music to create a distinct sound in the modern music landscape. J. Mac and Ryder sit down to break down his newest album and discuss where it ranks among the best projects of 2025. 2025-04-1435 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Playboi Carti’s MUSIC AlbumFew artists have shaped the modern generation of up-and-coming rappers the way Playboi Carti has. With his long anticipated album, MUSIC, dropping just a few weeks ago, J. Mac and Ryder sit down to discuss the project and where it ranks so far among this year’s releases. 2025-03-2836 minThe Casual Genius PodcastCpt. America Brave New World ReviewWith production quality and fan interest seeming to perpetually decline since 2019’s Avengers: Endgame film, Marvel looks to bounce back with the 4th installment in the Captain America franchise: Brave New World. This week, J. Mac & Ryder break down the new film and discuss where Marvel needs to improve. 2025-03-1751 minThe Casual Genius PodcastDrake & PND - $ome $exy $ongs 4 U ReviewWhile it’s been a rough year for Drake, his stardom and popularity remain at the forefront of the music industry. With over a year passing since his last album release, he’s teamed up with PARTYNEXTDOOR for a 21 track Valentine’s Day collab project. In this episode, J. Mac & Ryder break down each aspect of the album and how it measures up to Drake’s recent projects. 2025-02-2435 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show & The 2025 GrammysIt’s been a big week for the music industry with Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show coming off the heels of the 2025 Grammy awards. In this week’s episode, J. Mac & Ryder react to K. Dot’s performance as well as several of the Grammy category winners. (00:00:00) - Reviewing Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show (00:30:30) - Reacting to the 2025 Grammys2025-02-101h 14The Casual Genius PodcastThe Weeknd - Hurry Up Tomorrow ReviewArguably one of the most prominent music stars in the modern era, The Weeknd has been breaking records and changing the game throughout his career. After 3 years he’s returned to round out the conclusion of his new trilogy (and possibly his career) with the release of his new album: Hurry Up Tomorrow. Tune in as J. Mac, Ryder, and special guest Asher Swiss break down the new project and discuss where it ranks among The Weeknd’s best projects. 2025-02-031h 07The Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Kane Brown’s Album - The High RoadIn the late 2010s and early 2020s, Kane Brown established himself as one of the most promising and versatile pop-country artists in the modern music landscape. After just over 2 years since his last release, he dropped his new album The High Road highlighted by collaborations with Brad Paisley, Marshmello, Jelly Roll, and more. J. Mac and Ryder sit down in this episode to discuss the album and where Kane Brown ranks among today’s best country stars. 2025-02-0134 minThe Casual Genius PodcastMac Miller - Balloonerism ReviewJ. Mac and Ryder are back with another music review to discuss the 2nd posthumous album from Mac Miller: Balloonerism. 2025-01-2239 minThe Casual Genius PodcastWicked/Gladiator II ReviewsFollowing the 2023 “Barbenheimer” phenomenon, 2024 brought us….. “Wickediator”?…. “Gladiwicked”? In any case, J. Mac and Ryder break down two of the biggest big screen moments of 2024: Wicked and Gladiator II with help from special guest Jonah Park! Tune in to hear which movie was our favorite!(00:00:00) - Wicked Review(01:05:00) - Gladiator II Review 2025-01-081h 30The Casual Genius PodcastThe 2024 Casual Genius AwardsAs 2024 comes to a close, we revisit some of our favorite music to shout out songs, albums, and artists that stood out along the way. With special help from some of our favorite guests on the show (Tommy Acker, Asher Swiss, and Jonah Park) we present the 2nd Annual Casual Genius Awards!Categories:Most Underrated Artist (00:01:30)Best Rapper (00:07:45)Best Female Vocalist (00:13:25)Best Experimental Album (00:20:12)Best Concept Album (00:26:28)Best Storytelling in a Song (00:34:26)Best Male Vocalist - with Tommy Acker (00:40:17)Best New Artist (00:48:20)Best Bar of the Year - with Asher Swiss (00:52:38)Best Album Production - with...2024-12-301h 23The Casual Genius PodcastTop 10 Albums of 2024Our 2024 countdown continues with the Best Albums of the Year. Check out where projects from Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, Post Malone and more fall!2024-12-2324 minThe Casual Genius PodcastTop 10 Songs of 2024J. Mac and Ryder break down their picks for the top 10 songs of 2024 including tracks from Kendrick Lamar, Post Malone, Zach Bryan, SZA, Snoop Dogg and more!2024-12-1634 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReacting to Our 2024 Spotify Wrapped2024 has been a memorable year of music with some the biggest stars releasing new music. Check out which albums, songs, and artists we played most this year as we break down our 2024 Spotify Wrapped!2024-12-0928 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing the Final Juice WRLD AlbumJaden & Ryder break down the final album from the late artist Juice WRLD. Does it measure up to his best work? Is it a good tribute to his life? Tune in to find out!2024-12-0539 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Kendrick Lamar’s GNX AlbumSurprise! Kendrick recently surprise dropped his new album: GNX! Check out our full breakdown on the production, lyrics, vocals, features, and much more!2024-11-2645 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Cordae’s Crossroads AlbumIn a world full of Yeats and Cartis, Cordae is a rapper that has stayed true to the lyrical styles popularized by a past generation of rappers. On this episode, J. Mac & Ryder breakdown his newest project: Crossroads and discuss where Cordae sits among today’s best rappers. 2024-11-1833 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Chromakopia by Tyler, The CreatorGrammy award winning artist Tyler, The Creator is back with his highly anticipated project: CHROMAKOPIA. Check out our full breakdown on the album and where it ranks among the best albums of this year!2024-11-1235 minThe Casual Genius PodcastVenom 3 ReviewJ. Mac and Ryder are back with a movie review this week, discussing the latest installment in Sony Spider-Man character franchise: Venom: The Last Dance. 2024-11-0430 minThe Casual Genius PodcastThe Top 4 Rappers of Every DecadeThis week J. Mac & Ryder break down who the top 4 rapper from each of the recent decades are (90s, 00s, 10s, 20s). Check out which artists made the cut!2024-10-2932 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing the Jelly Roll AlbumJ. Mac & Ryder break down the newest album, Beautifully Broken, by last year’s Best New Artist at the CMAs: Jelly Roll. Tune in to hear who rated the album as one of the best year and who thinks one of the collaborations on the album is being massively overrated. 2024-10-1734 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Drake 2.0Last year, Toosii was a favorite artist of ours on the show and even took home the award we gave for Best New Artist for his innovative sound and style in the melodic rap world. With high hopes, Ryder breaks down the exciting young artist’s second album: Jaded. (00:25) - Thoughts on Toosii (01:54) - Instrumentals/Production(02:42) - Vocal Performance(04:01) - Lyrics(05:11) - Album Concept/Theme(06:42) - Featured Artists(07:55) - Enjoyment/Replay Value(10:03) - Best & Worst Tracks2024-10-0713 minThe Casual Genius PodcastLady Gaga’s Harlequin AlbumIn light of the highly anticipated sequel of Todd Phillips & Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker movie, Lady Gaga has released a concept album about her character in the film: Lee Quinzel aka Harley Quinn. Tune in to join us in breaking down the glitzy, glamorous, and deranged musical adventure. (02:30) - Thoughts on Lady Gaga (04:36) - Instrumentals/Production(07:34) - Vocal Performance(10:00) - Lyrics(13:09) - Album Concept/Theme(15:28) - Featured Artists/Absence Thereof(17:36) - Enjoyment/Replay Value(20:18) - Best & Worst Tracks2024-09-3023 minThe Casual Genius PodcastRanking All of Eminem’s AlbumsWith Eminem releasing his first album in 4 years and again receiving mixed reviews (including our own), Jaden & Ryder decide to sit down and rank each of his albums from worst to best including their favorite and least favorite tracks along with which of Eminem’s songs are the most underrated in his catalogue. (02:10) - Jaden’s Ranking of Eminem’s Albums(24:25) - Ryder’s Ranking2024-09-1651 minThe Casual Genius PodcastFall Guy Movie ReviewAfter several months of covering music, J. Mac & Ryder discuss one of the biggest blockbuster movies of the summer, Ryan Gosling & Emily Blunt’s Fall Guy. Tune in to hear who is finally over their hatred of Ryan Gosling and who has been playing the soundtrack on repeat! (00:55) - Spoiler Free Review(05:04) - Plot(08:40) - Writing/Dialogue(11:42) - Visuals(15:58) - Audio/Soundtrack(18:29) - Characters(24:30) - Overall Enjoyment2024-09-0326 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Post Malone’s Country AlbumEveryone’s favorite pop/rap sensation Post Malone has finally dropped his long hinted at country debut, F-1 Trillion. Grab your boots and cowboy hats, because this week J. Mac & Ryder discuss the album from top to bottom including a song that may be the best Post Malone’s ever written. (00:58) - Thoughts on Post Malone (03:55) - Instrumentals/Production(05:46) - Vocal Performance(08:56) - Lyrics(13:01) - Album Concept/Theme(16:01) - Featured Artists(20:04) - Enjoyment/Replay Value(25:05) - Best & Worst Tracks2024-08-2031 minThe Casual Genius PodcastIs JPEGMAFIA Today’s Best Rapper/Producer?This week Jaden & Ryder breakdown the newest album from the highly regarded rapper/producer, JPEGMAFIA. Tune in to hear where this album ranks among this year’s best as well as whether or not Jaden thinks JPEG is currently a better rapper than Eminem!(00:33) - Thoughts on JPEGMAFIA (02:55) - Instrumentals/Production(07:01) - Vocal Performance(10:11) - Lyrics(14:33) - Album Concept/Theme(17:01) - Featured Artists(19:56) - Enjoyment/Replay Value(24:11) - Best & Worst Tracks2024-08-1229 minThe Casual Genius PodcastKanye West - Vultures 2 ReviewComing off of what many considered his worst musical endeavor (Vultures 1) and in only slightly less hot water regarding his highly controversial public statements and behaviors, Kanye West and his longtime collaborator Ty Dolla $ign have released their (mostly finished) follow up album: Vultures 2. (00:59) - Thoughts on Vultures 1(02:37) - Instrumentals/Production(04:06) - Vocal Performance(05:51 - Lyrics(07:08) - Album Concept/Theme(09:36) - Featured Artists(11:12) - Enjoyment/Replay Value(13:12) - Best & Worst Tracks2024-08-0715 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing the Final Childish Gambino AlbumThroughout his career, Donald Glover/Childish Gambino has proven to be one of, if not the most, talented entertainers of the 21st Century. Upon finishing his “side quests” (including Emmy award winning TV series Atlanta and Mr. & Mrs. Smith and appearing in the Star Wars and MCU franchises) he has returned to making music for his final album under the Gambino alter ego: Bando Stone and The New World.
(01:02) - Thoughts on Gambino’s Discography
(04:12) - Instrumentals/Production
(06:57) - Vocal Performance
(10:21) - Lyrics
(13:00) - Album Concept
(16:48) - Featured Artists
(21:34) - Enjoyment/Replay Value
(26:02) - Best & Worst Tracks2024-07-3033 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing The Death of Slim ShadySince the dawn of man there have been only two things worthy of being considered absolutes: death, and Eminem dropping a controversial album. This week J. Mac & Ryder break down the record breaking artist’s newest album: The Death of Slim Shady.
(01:29) - Thoughts on Eminem’s Discography
(05:08) - Instrumentals/Production
(08:43) - Vocal Performance
(13:16) - Lyrics
(21:34) - Album Concept
(28:06) - Featured Artists
(36:37) - Enjoyment/Replay Value
(40:48) - Best & Worst Tracks2024-07-1546 minThe Casual Genius PodcastLil Yachty+James Blake=Album of the Year?This week Jaden & Ryder break down Lil Yachty and James Blake’s collab album Bad Cameo. Check out their thoughts on the best and worst tracks as well as where this album ranks among the best of the year!
(00:48) - Thoughts on Lil Yachty and James Blake’s Discographies
(04:12) - Instrumentals/Production
(07:18) - Vocal Performance
(10:11) - Lyrics
(13:01) - Tone & Flow of the Album
(17:06) - Featured Artists
(20:31) - Enjoyment/Replay Value
(24:30) - Best & Worst Tracks
(30:50) - Brief Thoughts on Lupe Fiasco’s Album2024-07-0832 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Imagine Dragons’ Album LOOMThey’ve been called the modern Nickelback by some and for others, they’ve been a mainstay in their music rotation for 12 years. This week Jaden & Ryder breakdown the newest album, LOOM, from the highly divisive band: Imagine Dragons. They also briefly cover their thoughts on the albums released by Jxdn and Lupe Fiasco.
(00:41) - Reviewing Jxdn & Lupe Fiasco’s albums
(11:18) - Instrumentals/Production
(13:52) - Vocal Performance
(17:58) - Lyrics
(21:51) - Theme/Concept
(26:44) - Featured Artists
(30:40) - Enjoyment/Replay Value
(32:08) - Best & Worst Tracks2024-07-0136 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing the New Don Toliver Album (feat. Asher Swiss)Jaden & Ryder are back reviewing music this week with the release of the album Hardstone Psycho from everybody’s favorite trap/r&b genre bending vocalist: Don Toliver. They tap in trap/hip-hop expert and former guest star on the Travis Scott episode, Asher Swiss, for some assistance in breaking down the project.
(04:10) - Instrumentals/Production
(10:12) - Vocal Performance
(17:00) - Lyrics
(23:14) - Theme/Concept
(29:02) - Featured Artists
(36:14) - Enjoyment/Replay Value
(41:12) - Best & Worst Tracks2024-06-2451 minThe Casual Genius PodcastMovie Sequels So Bad They Ruined the OriginalThis week, Jaden and Ryder breakdown some of their least favorite movie sequels, or at least sequels that ruined the original movie. Tune in to hear which films made their picks!2024-06-1723 minThe Casual Genius PodcastDid Vince Staples Drop the Best Album of the Decade?Jaden & Ryder return for another album review, this time to discuss the new Vince Staples album Dark Times. The album has already been making waves in the hip hop community with some regarding it as a top hip hop project of the year. Tune in to hear us breakdown each aspect of the album and where it ranks among this year’s rap albums!
(03:42) - Instrumentals/Production
(06:13) - Vocal Performance
(09:09) - Lyrics
(14:25) - Theme/Concept
(18:23) - Featured Artists
(21:20) - Enjoyment/Replay Value
(27:44) - Best & Worst Tracks2024-06-1032 minThe Casual Genius PodcastInterviewing Vegas Rappers J. Mac & Dirty MikeDid you know our very own cohost J. Mac makes music? In fact, this week Ryder sits down to interview him and his fellow Vegas rapper and collaborator Dirty Mike. They discuss their upcoming album Out of the City while Ryder plays couple’s therapist. Tune in to check it out!2024-05-2826 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Childish Gambino’s Album: AtavistaJaden and Ryder are back with an episode reviewing the fully finished and rereleased Childish Gambino album Atavista (formerly known as 3.15.20)
(04:20) - Instrumentals/Production
(08:40) - Vocal Performance
(12:42) - Lyrics
(15:05) - Theme/Concept
(18:39) - Featured Artists
(22:20) - Enjoyment/Replay Value2024-05-2032 minThe Casual Genius PodcastDrake v. Kendrick Lamar II: The Final VerdictJaden and Ryder finish discussing the rap beef saga between Kendrick Lamar and Drake by ranking the diss tracks released by both artists and offering their thoughts on the shots taken in new songs like Not Like Us, Family Matters, and Meet The Grahams.2024-05-1436 minThe Casual Genius PodcastThe Best Songs for Every SituationThis week Jaden & Ryder discuss some of their favorite songs for every scenario in life including in the gym, at the pool, road-trips and more. Check out which songs from artists like Kanye West, Lil Nas X, NF and more made the lists!
(01:59) - Gym/Workout Music
(06:35) - Summertime Songs
(10:50) - Road-trip Songs
(16:37) - Late Night Music
(21:40) - Sad Songs
(29:37) - Songs to Start the Morning2024-05-0639 minThe Casual Genius PodcastDrake v. Kendrick Lamar**EPISODE PUBLISHED PRIOR TO FAMILY MATTERS & MEET THE GRAHAMS, etc. Jaden & Ryder are back with a midweek episode to discuss the evolving beef between rap industry titans Drake and Kendrick Lamar. Tune in to hear their breakdown of each song so far and who they think has won the beef at this point. Link to part 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5msE3qIToTquQKnpXiqQzG?si=6IHyn5QiSaqMP7PywumUmA
(01:15) - Like That
(05:50) - 7 Minute Drill & Champagne Moments
(13:30) - Push Ups & Taylor Made Freestyle
(23:10) - euphoria
(3&:42) - Who won the beef?2024-05-0345 minThe Casual Genius PodcastThe Best Non-Batman DC FilmsJaden and Ryder talk movies this week breaking down their favorite DC Comics films with a twist: no Batman films considered. Check out where films like Man of Steel, Wonder Woman, Joker, and more rank!
(02:41) - Jaden’s Top 5 DC Movies
(08:30) - Honorable Mentions
(13:30) - Ryder’s Top 5 DC Movies
(24:10) - The Best Batman Movies2024-04-2929 minThe Casual Genius PodcastRanking Every Kanye West AlbumJ. Mac and Ryder are back after a week off to rank every album from one of the most prolific and controversial music artists of the 21st century: Kanye West.
(04:02) - Ryder’s Ranking
(23:00) - Jaden’s Ranking2024-04-2351 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing J. Cole’s Album: Might Delete LaterJ. Mac and Ryder are back with another album review to discuss the surprise J. Cole release: Might Delete Later. Check out their thoughts on the project as well as who won the beef between J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar!
(04:30) - Instrumentals/Production
(08:04) - Vocal Performance
(11:37) - Lyrics
(16:23) - The Kendrick Lamar Beef
(31:35) - Featured Artists
(37:00) - Enjoyment/Replay Value2024-04-0843 minThe Casual Genius PodcastWE DON’T TRUST YOU - Metro Boomin & Future ReviewJaden & Ryder are back to album reviews this week to recap a few of the past couple week’s biggest projects. They briefly review the machine gun kelly/Trippie Redd, Joyner Lucas, and Beyoncé albums before a more in depth review on the most recent Billboard #1 album: WE DON’T TRUST YOU by Metro Boomin and Future.
(01:47) - mgk & Trippie Redd - genre : sadboy
(06:45) - Joyner Lucas - Not Now I’m Busy
(13:22) - Beyoncé - COWBOY CARTER
(25:00) - Reviewing Future & Metro Boomin’s WE DON’T TRUST YOU
(25:31) - Production/Instrumentals
(28:31) - Vocal Performance
(31:51) - Lyrics
(34:58) - Album Theme/Concept
(38...2024-04-0158 minThe Casual Genius PodcastInterviewing Country Singer Tommy AckerJaden & Ryder are back with the Artist Interviews segment to talk with up and coming country music singer Tommy Acker. Tommy tells us about upcoming music and shows as well as his music making process and artists that he feels like are currently sitting as the best in country!
(00:35) - Getting started in music
(03:51) - The songwriting process
(07:12) - Studio recordings
(10:29) - Upcoming shows
(14:27) - Which artists inspire you?
(16:24) - Top 3 Country Artists
(18:38) - Pop-country vs. traditional country
(23:44) - Listening to other genres2024-03-2535 minThe Casual Genius PodcastDune: Part 2 ReviewJaden & Ryder are back to review one of 2024’s biggest blockbusters thus far, Dune: Part 2. Tune in to hear our favorite parts of the film, which actor was the weakest performer, and how we feel about Dune: Part 2’s current ranking as IMDB’s 12th best movie of all time!
(02:05) - Spoiler-Free Review
(08:15) - Discussing the Plot
(14:02) - Writing/Dialogue
(17:42) - Visuals/Cinematography
(23:08) - Audio/Score
(26:45) - Characters/Acting
(34:39) - Overall Enjoyment2024-03-1839 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReacting to the OscarsRyder is in the office this week for a solo episode to recap last weekend’s Oscar Awards. Check out his thoughts on who was snubbed, which actors gave the best performances of their career, and the Oppenheimer beef!
(01:08) - Lead Actor
(02:38) - Supporting Actor
(04:07) - Lead Actress
(05:28) - Supporting Actress
(06:18) - Animated Film
(08:23) - Cinematography
(09:35) - Directing
(10:39) - Soundtrack
(11:52) - Best Original Song
(13:05) - Visual Effects
(15:39) - Best Picture
(16:05) - The Oppenheimer Beef2024-03-1221 minThe Casual Genius PodcastBob Marley: One Love - ReviewJaden & Ryder are returning at long last with another movie review! This week they discuss Bob Marley: One Love, the new musical biopic and where this ranks against great films like Elvis and Bohemian Rhapsody.
(02:15) - Spoiler-free Review
(06:40) - The Movie’s Plot
(12:00) - Dialogue/Script
(14:42) - Cinematography/Visuals
(18:16) - Score/Audio
(21:19) - Character Development
(26:03) - Overall Enjoyment2024-03-0533 minThe Casual Genius PodcastInterviewing Las Vegas Rapper D-LOJaden & Ryder are kicking off a new segment on the podcast this week: Artist Interviews! For this first edition, they are joined by Las Vegas based rapper and freestyle extraordinaire, theofficial D-LO to discuss his recent album Revolutionary.
(00:52) - Making the Album
(02:37) - How Much of the Album Was Freestyles?
(05:06) - Talking About the Track “Burnin Up”
(08:50) - The Process of Freestyling
(13:05) - Discussing the Production on D-LO’s Album
(16:37) - What Makes This D-LO’s Best Album
(20:30) - What Artists Inspire D-LO
(23:45) - D-LO’s Top 5 Rappers
(26:25) - Why Do You Make Music?
Check out D-LO’s new album here: https...2024-02-2633 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Kanye West’s Vultures AlbumJaden & Ryder are back with an album review to talk about the highly controversial and highly anticipated from the both famous and infamous artist Kanye West and his long time collaborator Ty Dolla $ign.
(05:45) - Album Production/Instrumentals
(10:06) - Vocal Performances
(13:13) - Lyrical Content
(18:37) - Album Concept/Theme
(23:51) - Features
(28:34) - Replay Value
(36:57) - Best, Worst, & Most Underrated Songs2024-02-1943 minThe Casual Genius PodcastWhy the Grammys SuckJaden & Ryder break down the major winners and losers at the 2024 Grammy Awards. Check out their thoughts on Taylor Swift, SZA, Miley Cyrus, Travis Scott and more!
(02:28) - Record of the Year
(08:45) - Album of the Year
(14:17) - Song of the Year
(18:29) - Best Pop Solo Performance
(20:28) - Best Progressive R&B Album
(24:24) - Best Rap Performance
(29:31) - Best Melodic Rap Performance
(31:21) - Best Rap Song
(34:03) - Best Rap Album
(46:32) - Grammy Snubs2024-02-1352 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing Kid Cudi, Ariana Grande, Lil Nas X, and more!Jaden & Ryder recap new music from January including albums from Kid Cudi and 21 Savage as well as singles from Ariana Grande, Lil Nas X, and Megan Thee Stallion.
(02:10) - What Jaden Has Been Listening To
(04:25) - What Ryder Has Been Listening To
(09:19) - Insano by Kid Cudi
(13:31) - American Dream by 21 Savage
(19:10) - All Is Yellow by Lyrical Lemonade
(25:30) - yes and? by Ariana Grande
(28:10) - J Christ by Lil Nas X
(36:11) - HEAVEN by The Kid Laroi
(38:40) - Hiss by Megan Thee Stallion
(42:08) - The new Ice Spice song
(45:38) - Selfish by Justin Timberlake
(50:40) - this is what winter...2024-02-0553 minThe Casual Genius PodcastDebating the #1 Taylor Swift FanJaden & Ryder are back after a week off with a very special episode to debate the biggest star in music today: Taylor Swift. They enlist the help of special guest Ellie Flynn, one of the biggest Taylor Swift fans they know to discuss the best and worst albums, what criticisms against Taylor are valid, and more!
(01:15) - What Made You A Swiftie?
(04:30) - Discussing The Eras Tour
(08:07) - The Best Aspect of Taylor Swift’s Music
(12:45) - Break Up Songs
(16:58) - Discussing the Reputation Album
(23:00) - The Best Era/Album
(24:25) - The Worst Era/Album
(26:56) - Criticisms Against Taylor Swift
(31:32...2024-01-2939 minThe Casual Genius PodcastCivil War Pt. 2: Ranking Every Marvel MovieThis week Jaden & Ryder dive into their most requested episode (one person asked us to do it) by ranking each of the 33 Marvel Cinematic Universe films. Check out who ranked Iron Man 3 in their Top 10, which villain we agree is the best Avengers villain, and which film felt like a Chevy SUV commercial.
(01:45) - Ryder’s Ranking of the Marvel Cinematic Universe
(11:35) - Debating Captain America: The Winter Soldier vs. Iron Man 3
(21:58) - Jaden’s Ranking of the Marvel Cinematic Universe2024-01-1640 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReacting to Our 2023 Spotify WrappedJaden & Ryder kick off the New Year by first closing out 2023 by sharing and reacting to their 2023 Spotify Wrapped! Check out which musical artists, songs, and albums we listened to most last year!
(02:21) - Jaden’s Top Artists of the Year
(07:30) - Ryder’s Top Artists of the Year
(13:20) - Jaden’s Top Songs of the Year
(19:52) - Ryder’s Top Songs of the Year
(25:08) - Jaden’s Top Albums of the Year
(28:29) - Ryder’s Top Albums of the Year
(30:36) - Our Top Genres of the Year2024-01-0835 minThe Casual Genius PodcastThe 2023 Casual Genius AwardsIt’s officially time to ring in the New Year by recapping the very best entertainment of 2023 during this, the first ever Casual Genius Podcast Award Show! Join Jaden & Ryder along with each of our special guests who joined us throughout 2023 (Blake Grimes, Asher Swiss, Madi Vance, & Jonah Park) and see where your favorite music and movies rank!
Categories:
(01:33) - Best Male Vocalist
(08:00) - Best Female Vocalist
(12:24) - Best Rapper
(17:18) - Most Underrated Artist
(23:20) - Best Storytelling In A Song
(28:58) - Best Album Production (with Blake Grimes)
(37:35) - Best Experimental Album (with Asher Swiss)
(47:42) - Best New Artist (with Madi Va...2024-01-011h 43The Casual Genius PodcastThe Christmas SpecialHappy Holidays! Ryder and Jaden are here with a post-Christmas Special episode to count down their favorite holiday entertainment! Break out the box of leftover Christmas cookies, a cup of hot cocoa, and nestle up by the fire to wrap up the holiday season!
(01:25) - Jaden’s Top 10 Christmas Songs
(07:40) - Ryder’s Top 10 Christmas Songs
(13:45) - Jaden’s Top 10 Christmas Movies
(19:23) - Ryder’s Top 10 Christmas Movies2023-12-2628 minThe Casual Genius PodcastTop 10 Songs of 2023As we close in on the end of 2023, Jaden & Ryder look back on some of their favorite songs of the year including songs from Morgan Wallen, Juice WRLD, Metro Boomin, and more!
(01:52) - Ryder’s Honorable Mentions
(03:55) - Ryder’s Top 10 Songs of 2023
(13:19) - Jaden’s Honorable Mentions
(14:55) - Jaden’s Top 10 Songs of 2023
(28:19) - The Worst Song of 2023
Playlist of our favorite 2023 songs: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-12-1831 minThe Casual Genius PodcastTop 10 Albums of 2023This week Jaden and Ryder are back with the second of their year end lists to count down their Top 10 Albums of 2023! Tune in to see where artists like Drake, Morgan Wallen, JPEGMAFIA and more land in our favorites from 2023!
(02:01) - Our Criteria for Creating the Top 10 Albums
(05:12) - Ryder’s Honorable Mentions
(06:53) - Ryder’s Top 10 Albums of 2023
(18:10) - Jaden’s Honorable Mentions
(20:14) - Jaden’s Top 10 Albums of 20232023-12-1135 minThe Casual Genius PodcastTop 10 Movies of 2023It’s time for the first year end list on the Casual Genius Podcast! Jaden and Ryder dive into their favorite films of 2023. Check out where highly anticipated films like Oppenheimer, Creed III, and more end up!
(03:14) - Ryder’s Top 10 Movies of 2023
(14:28) - Jaden’s Top 10 Movies of 2023
(28:37) - Movies We’re Looking Forward To
(30:39) - Best TV Show of 20232023-12-0435 minThe Casual Genius PodcastNovember New Music RecapJaden and Ryder are back with a special end of the month episode reviewing some of the biggest songs from November including releases from Olivia Rodrigo, Kanye West, Dua Lipa, & more!
(01:29) Can’t Catch Me Now - Olivia Rodrigo
(05:02) Big Dog - Benny the Butcher & Lil Wayne
(09:28) Don’t Front - Eminem & Buckshot
(13:50) Houdini - Dua Lipa
(17:34) Lovin’ On Me - Jack Harlow
(22:10) That’s How We Ballin’ - T-Pain & Snoop Dogg
(26:36) Natural Habitat - 070 Shake & Ken Carson
(30:22) Evil Ways - Drake & J. Cole
(34:14) Vultures - Kanye West & Ty Dolla $ign2023-11-3047 minThe Casual Genius PodcastReviewing LokiIn this episode Jaden and Ryder are pulled through time to discuss the second and final season of Marvel’s Disney+ series Loki. Check out their thoughts on the show and how they feel about the current and future state of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.2023-11-2743 minThe Casual Genius PodcastAlbums & Movies We’re Thankful ForThis week Jaden and Ryder are here with a special Thanksgiving episode to share their picks for some of the Albums and Movies that they’re most grateful for including albums by Kendrick Lamar and Childish Gambino and films including Hot Rod and 500 Days of Summer!
(02:21) - Albums that Jaden is Thankful for
(07:30) - Albums that Ryder is Thankful for
(14:04) - Movies that Jaden is Thankful for
(21:23) - Movies that Ryder is Thankful for2023-11-2032 minThe Casual Genius PodcastThe Kid Laroi - Album ReviewJaden & Ryder are back fresh off of a big week of music releases with a review of one of the biggest young pop stars: The Kid Laroi and his proper debut studio album: THE FIRST TIME. Check out our thoughts on his artistic reinvention and where this album falls in our favorites of this year!
(03:41) - Overall Thoughts on The Kid Laroi
(07:09) - Album Production
(12:18) - Vocal Performances
(18:26) - Lyrics
(22:31) - Album Concepts
(26:20) - Featured Artists
(34:00) - Replay Values
(39:17) - Best, Worst, & Underrated Tracks2023-11-1345 minThe Casual Genius PodcastIs Lahai by Sampha Album of the Year?Jaden & Ryder are here with a review of one of this years most critically acclaimed albums, Lahai, the long-awaited and highly-anticipated sophomore album from experimental electronic and R&B artist Sampha. Tune in to hear their thoughts on every aspect of the album including whether or not it’s worthy of Album of the Year conversation.
(02:32) - Review of Sampha’s Lahai album
(06:44) - Album Production & Instrumentals
(11:59) - Vocal Performance
(14:51) - Lyrical Abilities
(18:19) - Album Concept & Themes
(24:30) - Album Features (& Lack Thereof)
(30:09) - Replay Value
(32:16) - Overall Rating/Best, Worst, and Underrated Tracks2023-11-0640 min
The Casual Genius PodcastThe Halloween Spooktacular SpecialJaden and Ryder are back with a Halloween Themed Spooktacular episode! We’re here to count down the best of Halloween, Jaden’s infamous “Joker” costume, and why Clorox wipes should never be used as toilet paper.
(03:58) - Jaden’s Top 10 Halloween Songs
(09:29) - Ryder’s Top 10 Halloween Songs
(25:08) - Jaden’s Top 5 Halloween Movies
(28:17) - Ryder’s Top 5 Halloween Movies
(35:23) - Rating Halloween as a Holiday
(42:24) - Guessing the Top 10 Grossing Horror Movies of All Time2023-10-3155 minThe Casual Genius PodcastDrake v. Kanye WestJaden and Ryder are here with an intriguing debate this week about two of hip-hop’s best selling artists: Drake & Kanye West. They put their highly anticipated and highly debated 2021 albums, Certified Lover Boy & Donda, through a gauntlet-style head-to-head battle to decide which artist’s album was better.
(06:08) - Album Production
(10:42) - Vocal Performances
(15:35) - Lyrics
(19:57) - Album Concepts
(24:05) - Featured Artists
(30:37) - Replay Values
(35:30) - Best, Worst, & Underrated Tracks
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-10-2345 minThe Casual Genius PodcastThat Time AI Took OverThis week Jaden and Ryder discuss which artist is currently 10 times better than Drake, the best Ice Spice song we’ve ever heard, and of course the newest sci-fi, post-apocalyptic thriller film: The Creator starring John David Washington.
(00:47) - New Music Reviews
(16:53) - What We’re Listening To
(26:46) - Spoiler-Free Review of The Creator Movie
(34:44) - Spoiler-Filled Review of The Creator
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-10-1657 minThe Casual Genius PodcastFOR ALL THE DOGSIt’s time to ask the hard-hitting questions: are wiener dogs born that way? Or do they get wienier? This week Jaden and Ryder discuss all things K9 related, and oh yeah, review the newest Drake album: For All The Dogs.
(03:21) - New Music Reviews
(12:01) - What We’ve Been Listening To
(19:14) - Recapping Season 1 of Ahsoka
(36:10) - Reviewing For All The Dogs by Drake
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-10-091h 21The Casual Genius PodcastGetting Catfished by Doja CatRyder and Jaden are fresh off of a bye week with an exciting episode recapping their thoughts on some of September’s biggest albums, Jaden’s maiden voyage to Comic Con, and Doja Cat’s newest album: Scarlet. Also, be sure to tune in to the end of the episode for Ryder’s one sentence summary of the new Lil Wayne project, Tha Fix Before Tha VI.
(00:37) - Recapping our reviews of Nas, 30 Seconds To Mars, and Vic Mensa
(06:07) - Reviewing Salt Lake Comic Con/Fan X
(26:24) - New Music Reviews
(42:11) - What We’ve Been Listening To
(48:16) - Reviewing Doja Cat’s...2023-10-021h 15The Casual Genius PodcastMaturity or immaturity — that is the question (Dan+Shay & Olivia Rodrigo)Ryder & Jaden are back on the reviewing albums grind with two fan favorite artists’ new releases. First they dive into country duo Dan + Shay’s newest project: Bigger Houses before reviewing one of music’s up-and-coming pop sensations: Olivia Rodrigo and her sophomore album Guts.
(02:02) - New Music Reviews
(17:57) - What We’re Listening To
(30:38) - Reviewing Bigger Houses by Dan + Shay
(44:19) Reviewing Guts by Olivia Rodrigo
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-09-181h 20The Casual Genius PodcastBreaking the Simulation (Gran Turismo Review)Ryder & Jaden are back to kick-off the return of NFL football, talk new music, review the latest episode of Disney+’s Ahsoka, and the newest action-racing film based on the incredible true story: Gran Turismo.
(01:50) - New Music Reviews
(27:24) - What We’ve Been Listening To
(34:53) - Ahsoka Ep. 4 Review
(41:14) - Gran Turismo Review
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-09-111h 14The Casual Genius PodcastBlue Beetle ReviewThis week Jaden and Ryder dig into new music, episode 3 of the Disney+ series: Ahsoka, and the latest installment in the DC film franchise: Blue Beetle. Tune in to hear how Barbie and Blue Beetle are related and what notes Taylor Swift can take from Nicki Minaj on this week’s episode!
(01:52) - New Music Reviews
(19:13) - What We’ve Been Listening To
(26:26) - Ahsoka Episode 3 Review
(31:39) - Blue Beetle Review
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-09-0559 minThe Casual Genius PodcastRankings, Ratings, Top 5’s, & MoreJaden and Ryder are back with a unique episode to cover a wide variety of entertainment topics. They review new music and the first episodes of Disney’s new Star Wars series: Ahsoka. They dive into their top TV shows of all time and what they think the best movies of 2023 are so far before wrapping up with a rapid fire question segment.
(01:26) - New Music Reviews
(16:48) - What We’ve Been Listening To
(23:20) - Ahsoka Episodes 1 & 2 Reviews
(33:43) - Ryder’s Top 5 TV Shows of All Time
(41:21) - Jaden’s Top 5 TV Shows of All Time
(49:25) - Ryder’s Top 5 Movies of...2023-08-281h 32The Casual Genius PodcastMammoth II Review (feat. Blake Grimes)Jaden and Ryder are back with a special midweek episode to cover all of this past week’s new music reviews, film news, as well as their discussion of Wolfgang Van Halen’s (son of Eddie Van Halen) sophomore album: Mammoth II. They tap in special guest, and Rock & Roll guru, Blake Grimes to help review the record as well as hear his thoughts on who is killing the game in the rock scene today.
(01:05) - News Topics
(04:44) - New Music Reviews
(11:30) - What We’re Listening To
(17:21) - Reviewing Mammoth II w/ Blake Grimes
(44:50) - The Best Rock Artists Today
...2023-08-2448 minThe Casual Genius PodcastTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem Review (feat. Pop Culture Roundup & David Rene)This week Jaden and Ryder have a very special announcement: The Casual Genius Podcast will be releasing TWO episodes this week! This very special crossover episode with the legendary Jonah Park of the Pop Culture Roundup and the brilliant & hilarious Davin Rene to review TMNT: Mutant Mayhem along with the release on Thursday of our review of Mammoth II by Wolfgang Van Halen! Be sure to check out other episodes of the Pop Culture Roundup here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pop-culture-roundup/id15591991452023-08-211h 29The Casual Genius PodcastBarbie ReviewThis week Ryder and Jaden chat about some upcoming films, television and new music before breaking down their thoughts on the massive cultural moment in 2023: the Barbie movie. Tune in to hear their thoughts on the Chevrolet Commercial within the film, the real Barbie MVP and whether or not Jaden’s extreme hatred of Ryan Gosling is justified.
(01:09) - Music News
(03:19) - Movie/TV News
(07:48) - New Music Reviews
(25:28) - What We’re Listening To
(32:50) - Barbie Review
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-08-1458 minThe Casual Genius PodcastUTOPIA Review (feat. Asher Swiss)Ryder and Jaden take a trip to the future this week on a journey to uncover UTOPIA and all that it entails. They chat about album release rumors, review new music singles, and share a few songs they’ve had in rotation lately. At long last they review one of the most highly anticipated albums so far in the 2020s: Travis Scott’s UTOPIA.
(00:56) - Music & Movie News
(04:27) - New Music Reviews
(19:19) - What We’ve Been Listening To
(25:36) - Reviewing Travis Scott’s UTOPIA w/ Asher Swiss
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-ch...2023-08-071h 43The Casual Genius PodcastPost Malone-AUSTIN // Secret InvasionThis week Jaden and Ryder are fresh off of the Taylor Swift episode with an olive-branch and a challenge for the Swifties. They also debut the August Episode Schedule and review a few of this week’s new tracks along with some songs they’ve been listening to this week. Last, they review the finale of Marvel’s Secret Invasion TV series and Post Malone’s new record: AUSTIN.
(02:18) - A Message to Taylor Swift Fans
(04:03) - Our August Episode Schedule
(05:27) - New Music Reviews
(13:50) - What We’ve Been Listening To
(21:32) - Secret Invasion Review
(30:28) - Review of AUSTIN by Post Ma...2023-07-311h 10The Casual Genius PodcastThe Taylor Swift EpisodeRyder & Jaden kick off a special Taylor Swift edition episode by first speculating about Travis Scott’s movie announcement, reviewing new music, and shouting out a few tracks they’re listening to. This week they review and rank each of Taylor Swift’s 10 albums and share some of their favorite and least favorite tracks in her catalog.
(00:45) - Utopia Film Announcement
(06:07) - New Music Reviews
(19:30) - What We’re Listening To
(23:41) - Jaden’s Ranking of Taylor Swift Albums
(49:04) - Ryder’s Ranking of Taylor’s Albums
(1:22:21) - The Best & Worst Songs by Taylor Swift
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https...2023-07-241h 36The Casual Genius PodcastInsidious: The Red Door - ReviewRyder and Jaden kick off this week’s episode with new news regarding the Superman: Legacy cast, the actors & writers strikes and Travis Scott’s Utopia announcement. They review some of this past week’s new music and shout out some songs they’ve been listening to before reviewing Episode 4 of Marvel’s Secret Invasion and Insidious: The Red Door.
(01:30) - Superman: Legacy Cast News
(10:50) - Actors & Writers Strikes
(13:32) - Travis Scott’s Utopia News
(17:14) - New Music Reviews
(43:01) - What We’ve Been Listening To
(48:10) - Secret Invasion Ep. 4 Review
(54:12) - Insidious: The Red Door Review
What We’re Listening To Pla...2023-07-171h 35The Casual Genius PodcastGunna & Young ThugThis week Jaden & Ryder discuss their feelings on the new Superman actor: David Corenswet, along with other DC film news. They also share their feelings on the new Drake album announcement, what they thought of this week’s new music, and what songs they’re listening to before they chat about the newest Secret Invasion episode and review the most recent albums from Gunna & Young Thug.
(01:49) - Superman Casting/DC Film News
(09:30) - The New Drake Album News
(13:08) - New Music
(41:13) - What We’re Listening To
(46:50) - Secret Invasion Ep. 3 Review
(53:58) - Gunna Review: a Gift & a Curse
(1:04:30) - Young...2023-07-101h 21The Casual Genius PodcastSCARING THE H*ES/Pink Tape - Album ReviewsJaden & Ryder are back to respond to critics who say they have terrible music taste this week, as they review and discuss the newest music singles. They also review the first two episodes of Marvel’s Secret Invasion before jumping into reviews of two of this year’s most unique sounding albums: Pink Tape by Lil Uzi Vert and SCARING THE H*ES by JPEGMAFIA & Danny Brown.
(01:10) New Music
(15:11) Secret Invasion review
(26:59) Pink Tape - Lil Uzi Vert Album Review
(41:59) SCARING THE H*ES - JPEGMAFIA & Danny Brown Album Review
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/pla...2023-07-031h 04The Casual Genius PodcastThe Flash - Movie ReviewThis week Jaden & Ryder break down new Marvel trailers and TV episodes, review the new music they’ve listened to and review the DC Universe’s newest film, The Flash.
(00:56) - Kraven the Hunter trailer
(09:15) - Secret Invasion: Episode 1
(11:58) - New Music
(29:05) - What We’re Listening To
(35:08) - The Flash Review
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-06-261h 03The Casual Genius PodcastRevisiting Mr. Morale & The Big SteppersJaden and Ryder are back with another episode on what some have called The Most Pointless Podcast Ever, where they revisit Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy Award Winning record from 2022: Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers. This week’s segments:
(0:00:28) - The Most Pointless Podcast
(0:01:40) - Movie News
(0:03:33) - New Music Releases
(0:20:30) - What We’re Listening To
(0:27:38) - Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers Review
(1:06:56) - What the Future Looks Like for Kendrick Lamar
What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-06-201h 19The Casual Genius PodcastAcross the Spider-Verse ReviewThis week Jaden and Ryder break down the new animated film Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. They also discuss some movie news (1:40), news around the music world (23:50), new music released this week (28:30), Jaden’s thoughts on the Metro Boomin Across the Spider-Verse Soundtrack (52:40), and of course review the newest Spider-Man film (1:01:20).2023-06-131h 52The Casual Genius PodcastNBA Finals Discussion (feat. Madi Vance) + Across The Spider-Verse Soundtrack ReviewJaden and Ryder are back with a special episode talking about this year’s NBA Finals between the Denver Nuggets and the Miami Heat. They are also joined by special guest and basketball expert Madi Vance. Jaden and Ryder also talk about the new movie trailers they saw, new music they listened to this week and Ryder shares his thoughts on the new Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse soundtrack produced by Metro Boomin. •00:55-Movie Trailers •23:05-New Music •42:05 NBA Finals Discussion (w/ Madi Vance) •1:12:56-Review of Metro Boomin Presents: Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse soundtrack2023-06-061h 32The Casual Genius PodcastEpisode 2: Reviews of AIR and Almost HealedJaden & Ryder chat about news in the music and movie worlds, what songs they’re listening to this week, review Lil Durk’s “Almost Healed” album and Ben Affleck/Matt Damon’s newest film “AIR”. •3:00-Movie News; •20:50-Music News; •44:20-What We’re Listening To; •50:25-Lil Durk’s “Almost Healed”; •1:07:20-Ben Affleck/Matt Damon’s “AIR”; What We’re Listening To Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-05-291h 32The Casual Genius PodcastEpisode 1: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 - ReviewJaden and Ryder talk about what’s coming up in the world of cinema and music, discuss what they’re listening to right now, their top albums of 2023 so far and review the newest MCU film: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. •3:20 - Music/Movie News •56:00 - What Music Are We Listening To? •1:05:30 - Top 5 Albums of 2023 (so far) •1:25:00 - Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 3 Review What we’re listening to playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/editors-choice-the-casual-genius-podcast/pl.u-b3b8DNei37jL1b22023-05-232h 08The Casual Genius PodcastThe Casual Genius Podcast (Trailer)2023-05-1500 min