Shows
Whims of ResistanceWeird Wonderful JoyseySeason 2, Episode 48: Take a fun, light-hearted road trip through the weird, crazy state of New Jersey -- featuring stops for the world's largest Idaho potato, a telephone pole graveyard, a giant gorilla statue, and a life-sized, granite Mercedes Benz tombstone. All amazing but true! In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hea...2024-08-1010 min
Whims of ResistanceFrogs On The RoadSeason 2, Episode 47: Chaos ensues when a bunch of high school buddies visit us in West Virginia, and unexpectedly run into a horde of frogs crossing the road on a rainy night in coal country. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hea...2024-07-2710 min
Whims of ResistanceShep Lives! rerunSeason 2, Episode 46: A special summer vacation re-run of one of our first-ever podcast episodes, a tribute to the late great Jean Shepherd, who's been called "a modern day Mark Twain." In this podcast, we share the story of how we first encountered the writings of Shepherd in our local hometown library. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If...2024-07-1311 min
Whims of ResistanceRootin' Tootin' Root BeerSeason 2, Episode 45: A fond look back at one of the oldest soft drinks in the U.S. -- Root Beer! We share a few early memories of that fabled beverage, including its reincarnation as root beer barrel candies, plus a childhood attempt to brew our own concoction in Mom's kitchen. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If y...2024-06-2910 min
Whims of ResistanceMe RobotSeason 2, Episode 44: Robots have long been part of our media culture, including movies and TV, science fiction novels, and even kids' toys. And now that AI is taking the world by storm, what better way to recognize that phenomenon than with a few memories of favorite robotic characters from childhood and beyond? In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers.Want to chat? Click here to text us. 2024-06-1511 min
Whims of ResistanceEdison Re-runSeason 2, Episode 43: The state of New Jersey is famous for many things and many people -- and foremost among them is Thomas Edison, the inventor of the light bulb. This episode shares both childhood and adult memories of visiting Edison's facilities in West Orange, NJ, as well as a reconstructed lab in Greenfield Village, Michigan. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers.Want to chat? Click here to...2024-06-0111 min
Whims of ResistanceWowser PowerSeason 2, Episode 42: Ever gone behind the scenes at the filming of a commercial? This episode shares some of the crazy things that can happen in low-budget, on-location productions, especially when you travel to rural Kentucky for a TV station's new transmitter tower spot. Names have been changed, of course, to protect the innocent. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. 2024-05-1810 min
Whims of ResistanceReunion, Dude!Season 2, Episode 41: Been to your class reunion lately? Whether it's a high school or college reunion, there are always some good stories to come out of these occasions. Our latest podcast episode shares a few such tales, including memories from senior year, as well as the ultimate reunion to end all reunions. As always, details have been altered, not only for artistic license, but also to protect the innocent. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain...2024-05-0410 min
Whims of ResistancePre-Uber Errand BoySeason 2, Episode 40: Remember the first time your parents sent you out alone to the corner store to run an errand? This episode shares a few of those incidents from our early childhood and pre-teen days, when things were so much simpler (and cheaper!). In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to...2024-04-2011 min
Whims of ResistanceHistory, ShmysterySeason 2, Episode 39: We all have favorite teachers from long ago. This episode shares some stories about three memorable history teachers, whose odd quirks, creative teaching styles, and in one case, a mysterious social life, forever impacted our own view of the teaching profession. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to h...2024-04-0611 min
Whims of ResistanceA Zoo's WhoSeason 2, Episode 38: Ever been to the zoo? Or read any of the Doctor Doolittle stories? This episode blazes a trail through some childhood memories of animals that spoke -- and those who didn't. Cats and dogs, tigers and turtles, parrots and naked mole rats, oh my! In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers.Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podc...2024-03-2311 min
Whims of ResistanceWeird ScienceSeason 2, Episode 37: When mischievous kids start experimenting, you never know what will happen. In this episode, we investigate a few memorable childhood adventures in science, including static electricity, solar energy, crystal radios, chemistry sets, fireworks, science fair volcanoes, and fake UFOs. And don't worry -- the Martians have NOT landed! In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channelling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers.Want to chat? Click here to text us. If y...2024-03-0910 min
Whims of ResistanceHot Dog HeavenSeason 2, Episode 36: Who had the best hot dog? There've been a lot of contenders, including Nathan's of Coney Island, Howard Johnson's, Yocco's in Allentown, and many more. In this episode, we revisit some childhood (and adult) memories of hot dogs, frankfurters, and wieners of days gone by. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channelling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers.Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed thi...2024-02-2411 min
Whims of ResistanceAw NutsSeason 2, Episode 35: Ever go searching for pieces and parts for a DIY home repair project? Fret not, we've been there, done that. And it's not a pretty picture -- unless you have the Old Man's talent for organizing random spare parts in your home workshop. For this episode, we go screwing around with unhelpful home center salespeople as well as plumbing supply specialists who should know better. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channelling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Sei...2024-02-1010 min
Whims of ResistanceGroundhog DazeSeason 2, Episode 34: The hit comedy "Groundhog Day," starring Bill Murray, had the unexpected side effect of numerous movie industry accolades as well as making a major cultural impact on our society, serving as a symbol of being hopelessly stuck in place. In this episode, we recall some incidents in our own life that led to Groundhog Day-type transformations similar to what weatherman Phil Connors went through. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channelling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and...2024-01-2709 min
Whims of Resistance'Roo AnewSeason 2, Episode 33: Billabongs, didgeridoos, and kangaroos, oh my! G'day, mate! This episode takes a look back at some favorite high spots of Australian pop culture, including a chart-topping hit song, "Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport" -- which originally came out in the mid-1960s, and then, 37 years later, had an unexpected revival when it was re-recorded for The Wiggles' TV show. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channelling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. W...2024-01-1309 min
Whims of ResistanceNew Year's BeatSeason 2, Episode 32: Continuing our winter holiday theme, we look at New Year's Eve memories from Guy Lombardo to Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve. Includes audio of Dick Clark reporting on the Times Square ball drop, as well as a snippet from a phone interview on the subject of success in the mid 1970s. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channelling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers.Want to chat? Click here to tex...2023-12-3011 min
Whims of ResistanceChristmas-a-thonSeason 2, Episode 31: A few holiday memories of Christmases long ago, including Mom's bread and pastry Bake-a-thon, and Dad's equivalent, the house decorating marathon, complete with outdoor holiday lights and life-size cutout figures. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Look Behind in Rew...2023-12-1610 min
Whims of ResistanceConcert ChroniclesSeason 2, Episode 30: A quick tour of some of the rock concerts attended over the years, including the Four Seasons, Jay and the Americans, Tommy James, The Rolling Stones, Jonathan Edwards, 1910 Fruitgum Company, the Buckinghams, Peter Noone, Southside Johnny, and Bruce Springsteen. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers.Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed thi...2023-12-0210 min
Whims of ResistanceCoincidentally YoursSeason 2, Episode 29: Coincidences and synchronicity are everyday mysteries that somehow show up in our lives at the most unexpected times. In this episode, we share some of the odd coincidences that have happened in our life, from a childhood amusement park experience in Point Pleasant NJ to an adult restaurant encounter to a Disneyland meetup that defied all the odds of probability. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark...2023-11-1809 min
Whims of ResistanceInterview InsanitySeason 2, Episode 28: Ever get nervous going into a job interview? This episode delves into a few scenarios we've faced in our own employment seeking adventures, like the insecure interviewer who monopolizes the conversation, the sweatshop workplace, unforeseen financial landmines, and the "spec" free labor sometimes requested of candidates. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers.Want to chat? Click her...2023-11-0411 min
Whims of ResistanceHaunty JauntsSeason 2, Episode 27: Just in time for Halloween, we have three little tales to get you in the mood: "The Cookie Man," about a scary urban myth heard in our small town NJ neighborhood; "The Pelican Club," a story of misguided adventure, exploring an abandoned building that once housed a night club; and finally, "The Haunted Tunnel of Morris County," offering a brief historical account of numerous explosions at a NJ gunpowder and bomb factory over the course of 69 years. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsi...2023-10-2111 min
Whims of ResistanceClass TripSeason 2, Episode 26: From the long-lost Boardwalk of Linden, NJ, to Revolutionary War sites in Morristown, to New York City art museums, to the monuments of Washington, DC, our school trips were a wild and crazy assortment of adventures that lived on in our memories for years afterwards. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his own life experiences, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. And by the way, as we often do in these stories, the names are changed to...2023-10-0710 min
Whims of ResistanceTransistor MisterSeason 2, Episode 25: A fond look back at a few of the popular radio stations and some of the famous DJs in the New York City area catering to teenagers in the 1950s-1970s, such as WABC, WINS, and WMCA. Featuring on-air sound bites from the Dan Ingram, Murray the K, and Gary Stevens programs, as well as a special music montage of hits from that era. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the styles of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and ot...2023-09-2311 min
Whims of ResistanceBug Man To The RescueSeason 2, Episode 24: From tales of catching lightning bugs and fireflies to serving as the unofficial "bug man" saving his family from creepy-crawly critters, this episode delves into the many ways that insect friends have intersected with our lives -- including the story of a pest control brochure written for an Ohio ad agency. As always, names have been changed to protect the innocent. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. 2023-09-0909 min
Whims of ResistanceSummer JobsSeason 2, Episode 23: A few summer sagas of memorable jobs from long ago, including grocery store clerk/cashier; gas pump attendant; mailroom clerk; newsletter editor at a Navy base; and security guard for a coffee factory/warehouse. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Loo...2023-08-2610 min
Whims of ResistanceKolor Me KindergartenSeason 2, Episode 22: A fond look back at our first days of kindergarten -- including a "magic" act with crayons that astounded our classmates and got us in hot water with the teacher. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of ou...2023-08-1210 min
Whims of ResistanceShopped Until DroppedSeason 2, Episode 21: From downtown shopping to huge mega-malls, we've done it all... and have a few stories to tell in the bargain. Our shopping journeys have taken us all over the country, including some stops at retailers very close to home in New Jersey, like the JCPenney store where one kid brother shocked the family with an unexpected prank. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers.Want to cha...2023-07-2911 min
Whims of ResistanceStreetcar Named HotwireSeason 2, Episode 20: A lifetime of traveling via buses, cable cars, subways, and similar mass transit vehicles brings with it a whole carload of poignant memories, with musical accompaniment by Charlie and the MTA, the Wheels on the Bus, the Trolley Song, and more. Tickets, get your tickets ready! In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this...2023-07-1510 min
Whims of ResistanceBirthday SuitsSeason 2, Episode 19: Recalling birthday bashes from long ago can be fun, maybe even touching. Then add a little bit of magic, some Groucho Marx, plus the provocative fad of streaking in your birthday suit, and the episode takes off from there! In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. In this story, as always, names have been changed to protect the innocent.Want to chat? Click here to text us...2023-07-0111 min
Whims of ResistanceScience FrictionSeason 2, Episode 18: Popular Science magazine had an amazing knack for predicting the future. This episode looks back at some of the new technology it touted back in the 1980s, which is now in common use in our 21st century world. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. In this story, as always, names have been changed to protect the innocent.Want to chat? Click here to text us. 2023-06-1710 min
Whims of ResistanceIce CreamedSeason 2, Episode 17: A special episode, just in time for National Dairy Month! We celebrate those fond ice cream memories of long ago, including Breyer's, Carvel, Good Humor, Mister Softee, Smith's Dairy of Ohio, and a local neighborhood ice cream parlor at Lampert's Dairy Farm in Linden, NJ. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podc...2023-06-0310 min
Whims of ResistanceBoy ToysSeason 2, Episode 16: Remember those toys from your baby boomer childhood? This episode looks back at a few of those youthful faves, including building blocks, Davy Crockett coonskin caps, Etch-a-Sketch, Mickey Mouse Club ukuleles, toy soldiers, Jon Gnagy paint-by-numbers, magic sets, Howdy Doody puppets, and more. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're inv...2023-05-2010 min
Whims of ResistanceComics ReliefSeason 2, Episode 15: A brief visit to the land of comic art, comic strips, and comic books, including mentions of Mad Magazine, the Saturday Evening Post cartoons, Classics Illustrated, and other faves from childhood onwards. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Look Behind in...2023-05-0610 min
Whims of ResistanceCars I Have KnownSeason 2, Episode 14: Baby Boomer car nuts will enjoy this little detour. What is it about old cars that excites the typical red-blooded American male? Our latest episode takes a stroll through memory lane, from 1953 Buicks to present-day hybrid electric vehicles. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers.Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our...2023-04-2210 min
Whims of ResistanceMonkey BusinessSeason 2, Episode 13: Monkeys, chimps, and apes, oh my! Our latest episode features a short history of apes in media, including the now-viral social media sensation, "Trunk Monkey." We even created our own Trunk Monkey TV spot, "Disco Trunk Monkey," which you can view on Youtube at bit.ly/DiscoMonkey . In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enj...2023-04-0810 min
Whims of ResistanceMushroom MadnessSeason 2, Episode 12: Mushrooms - friend or foe? That all depends on whether you've read Ray Bradbury's classic sci-fi thriller "Come Into My Cellar," or you're simply a mushroom foodie who enjoys fresh mushrooms on pizza or in casseroles or some fancy cuisine. This episode is about the time we visited a real mushroom farm in western Pennsylvania, and lived to tell about it. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. ...2023-03-2409 min
Whims of ResistanceHospital-itySeason 2, Episode 11: When a health crisis hits, where do you go? The Emergency Room, of course! Tom shares his experience getting a gall bladder removed at the Robert Wood Johnson Hospital in Rahway, NJ... just a short hop away from Rahway Prison. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you...2023-03-1108 min
Whims of ResistanceJunk JourneySeason 2, Episode 10: Collectors, hoarders, dumpster divers -- we all know one, or have those tendencies ourselves. This episode focuses on the Old Man's unrivaled cellar treasure trove, with a side journey to Tom's own short-lived collecting days, when Mother Nature threw a monkey wrench into the works. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podc...2023-02-2510 min
Whims of ResistancePicture PerfectSeason 2, Episode 9: Perfectionism has a price. But there's another side to this coin, and it ain't pretty. This episode takes us back to some early experiences that shaped our young lives, for better or worse, including a stint as classical music DJ and a newscaster wannabe. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Names have been changed to protect the innocent.Want to chat? Click here to text us...2023-02-1112 min
Whims of ResistanceDown The Shore & MoreSeason 2, Episode 8: Which is better -- down the shore vs. up to the lake? This episode delves into the eternal debate over which are the preferred New Jersey beach destinations, including Asbury Park and Lake Hopatcong. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Look...2023-01-2809 min
Whims of ResistanceBus Tour Fire DrillSeason 2, Episode 7: When five rowdy high school buddies get together for a night of cruising, which they called a "Bus Tour," anything can happen -- and it did! This episode describes their journey on New Jersey's famous Route 22, including dealing with a failed muffler, dinner at a Chinese restaurant, and their attempt to return home. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. ...2023-01-1410 min
Whims of ResistanceDennis the Boy MayorSeason 2, Episode 6: A long, long time ago in Cleveland, Ohio, a very young, inexperienced politician took the helm at City Hall. To mark the occasion, a political satire radio series about his escapades was produced, in hopes of getting onto a local radio station. We dug up three of these old episodes from our files, to entertain our present day podcast listeners. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Wa...2022-12-3110 min
Whims of ResistanceHappy Hallowethankrisukkah!Season 2, Episode 5: Too many holidays, too little time? This podcast episode offers a wild, wacky solution: combine them all into one gigantic holiday called Hallowethankrisukkah. We revisit the subject of holiday consolidation, first proposed in a high school newspaper article back in the late 1960s. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invite...2022-12-1709 min
Whims of ResistanceA Christmas Story StorySeason 2, Episode 4: Jean Shepherd fans will appreciate this brief review and mini-tribute on the occasion of "A Christmas Story Christmas" making its debut on HBO Max. This episode hits some of the highlights of the new sequel, without giving away too many spoilers -- including a short discussion of "Easter eggs" to be found in the movie, and a mention of the shooting location in Bulgaria. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and oth...2022-12-0308 min
Whims of ResistanceSubmarine RacesSeason 2, Episode 3: In the 1960s, going out to watch submarine races was a clever euphemism or polite term for "making out." New York City disk jockeys like Murray the K and Cousin Bruce Morrow promoted it on their radio shows, and area teenagers eagerly took the bait. This episode offers a short history of "submarine races," featuring a few personal recollections of the sport. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous st...2022-11-1908 min
Whims of ResistanceDress Codes & More Pt. 2Season 2, Episode 2: Our conversation with former high school classmate Don Krueger continues. Don was Student Council president during our senior year, and so was privy to many interesting, behind-the-scenes encounters with administrators, teachers, students, and community residents. Today's concluding episode delves into topics like diversity in the student population, censorship of student newspapers, undercover narcotics agents, welcoming foreign students, the impact of COVID on today's pupils, and more. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Sei...2022-11-0513 min
Whims of ResistanceDress Codes & More Pt. 1Season 2, Episode 1: We check in with a former high school classmate, Don Krueger, who was Student Council president during our Senior Year. In part one of the conversation, Don talks about dress codes, student protests, and other aspects of high school life in the 1960s-70s. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you...2022-10-2212 min
Whims of ResistanceName GamesEpisode 52: It's funny how names - real, made-up, or falsely assumed - have played such a big part in movies, radio, and TV through the years. This episode features a few such examples, including Romper Room, Shirley Ellis' Name Game, and Spartacus, which all served as formative influences growing up...even in high school gym class! In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Names have been changed to protect the i...2022-10-0810 min
Whims of ResistanceHowl of the WolfmanEpisode 51: Crashing the NBC Radio studios at Rockefeller Center to visit the legendary DJ Wolfman Jack in his NYC lair in the early 1970s. A tale of bravado, b.s., and broadcast baloney. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of o...2022-10-0110 min
Whims of ResistanceBaseball BonkersEpisode 50: Take yourself out to the ballgame, and hear some stories about the Cleveland Indians, the New York Yankees, and an ill-fated, calamitous softball game in middle school -- which explains why Tom Nielson avoids baseball games to this very day. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of...2022-09-1710 min
Whims of ResistanceOoey Gooey KerblooeyEpisode 49: Remember the days when fireworks were the big climax of the summer? This belated story about July 4th, illicit fireworks, cap pistols, punks, cattails, and other home-made flammables is a good way to finish out this summer season with a bang. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear mo...2022-09-0309 min
Whims of ResistanceLinden Laugh-InEpisode 48: Transplant the humor of Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In to a high school in northern New Jersey, and what do you get? Maybe a "Senior Follies" stage production that socks it to teachers, classmates, and administration in a zany parody of the original NBC TV series? You bet your sweet bippy! In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, light-hearted tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If yo...2022-08-2010 min
Whims of ResistanceBen and the SweathogsEpisode 47: What do The Sweathogs and Ben Franklin have in common? How about a middle school field trip to see Ben Franklin on Broadway? A rowdy 7th grade class learns history in an unconventional setting, thanks to a singing and dancing Founding Father. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, Jerry Seinfeld, and other famous storytellers. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to he...2022-08-0609 min
Whims of ResistanceThe Magic SwitchEpisode 46: Once upon a time, in the days before internet, online gaming, and other high tech activities, kids used to entertain themselves with whatever was available. So to aid in role-playing games, we scrounged for materials in the old man's workshop in order to make the experience even more authentic. Staging a pretend space launch was no exception. And one time, having a Frankenstein lab-style "magic switch" helped in the illusion -- up to a point. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style...2022-07-2309 min
Whims of ResistanceWings 'n ThingsEpisode 45: When high school pals start their own history club and begin collecting World War II artifacts to validate their town's heritage, trouble ensues in the classroom as the wild kingdom of Mother Nature asserts itself. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, and other renowned storytellers. Names and details have been changed to protect the innocent. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to...2022-07-0909 min
Whims of ResistanceDonut TrainEpisode 44: All aboard! In this episode, we take you on a nostalgic tour of youthful model railroading, with stops along the way for tales of trackside pennies and donuts in the small northeastern town of Linden, NJ. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, Mark Twain, and other storytellers. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear mo...2022-06-2510 min
Whims of ResistanceDuck TaleEpisode 43: A quick tour of comic book fandom from kiddie comics through adult-themed and satirical works. Featuring a description of the time a Cleveland TV station held open auditions for the hosting role of a new Howard The Duck late night program. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, and other radio storytellers.Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes a...2022-06-0409 min
Whims of ResistanceSuper Duper PodmanEpisode 42: Who was your TV hero, growing up? Ours was Superman -- the original B&W George Reeves version! Our latest podcast episode features a few memories from those Super years of childhood cos-play and pretend-adventures, including some trivia from the TV show. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd, Garrison Keillor, and other radio storytellers.Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our...2022-05-2110 min
Whims of ResistanceNews DazeEpisode 41: Small town radio can be a real hoot -- both on and off the air. Here are a few memories from WJDM-Radio in Elizabeth, NJ, which wasn't all that different from the craziness at WKRP in Cincinnati. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio and other radio storytellers.Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Look Behind...2022-05-0709 min
Whims of ResistancePolish HamEpisode 40: Discovering our unique ethnic heritage, growing up in Linden, NJ, known as a major hub for Polish immigration on the East Coast. Includes a tribute to the now-defunct Big Stash's restaurant, the site of many apres-bowling feasts where we consumed mass quantities of beer, piroghis, stuffed cabbages & more. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channelling the style of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Names and details have been changed to protect the innocent. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If...2022-04-2310 min
Whims of ResistanceKazoobie Doobie DooEpisode 39: Both professional and amateur kazoo performers will enjoy this brief story of where it all begins -- the Kazoobie Kazoo Museum and Factory in Beaufort, South Carolina. Fans of Jean Shepherd of WOR Radio in New York will also appreciate this kazoo connection, since Shep was a well-known kazoo connoisseur who often accompanied his nightly monologues with wild and wacky kazoo music (which we've attempted to replicate in this episode). To view an accompanying video tour of the Kazoobie Museum, type in bit.ly/kazoovideo in your computer or smartphone browser. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells...2022-04-0909 min
Whims of ResistanceFood FrenzyEpisode 38: What's your most unusual food encounter? In our latest episode, hear about a few experiences we've had, including frogs legs, escargot, deep-fried crawdaddies, and the pièce de résistance, a green onion sandwich. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our epi...2022-03-2609 min
Whims of ResistanceArt & OdditiesEpisode 37: Tales of unusual artwork, from Florida's famous whimsy museum, to an odd metallic object seen on Interstate 95, to tweaking the nose of the fine arts establishment through entries in a local art competition that were made half in jest. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our e...2022-03-1210 min
Whims of ResistanceAlly Gator's Haven of Southern BlissEpisode 36: Stories of alligator encounters, from Wally Gator animated cartoons to a possibly apocryphal tale of an alligator experience in the Florida Everglades with the Bus Tour boys. Includes mention of Jean Shepherd's home on Sanibel Island, plus Shep's Bahn Frei theme music. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Names have been changed to protect the innocent. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to h...2022-02-2610 min
Whims of ResistanceAmusement Park SmackdownEpisode 35: Recalling those favorite amusement parks of long ago, including Palisades Park, Olympic Park, Chippewa Lake, and others, plus the story of an embarrassing incident when a young, ambitious, game show host wannabe gets his comeuppance at an amusement park outing. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Look Behind in Re...2022-02-1210 min
Whims of ResistanceBiking BuzzEpisode 34: Remember when bicycling gave you your first taste of freedom and mobility -- before you got your learner's permit to drive a car? A Look Behind in Rewind shares a few tales of teenage biking, including venturing into dangerous, unknown territory. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the monologue style of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Look Behi...2022-01-2908 min
Whims of ResistanceThe Night of The BirdsEpisode 33: What happens when a movie classic like Alfred Hitchcock's The Birds bombs at the box office during a fundraising event? A Look Behind in Rewind shares the memory of a fateful night when the birds came home to roost at a booby-trapped dorm room. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A L...2022-01-1509 min
Whims of ResistanceStar StruckEpisode 32: From War of the Worlds to Star Trek, Star Wars, Don't Look Up, and more! A Look Behind in Rewind transports you to galaxies yet undiscovered, plus a childhood star-gazing tale that anyone in the New York metro area can relate to. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, channeling the style of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Look Be...2022-01-0511 min
Whims of ResistanceA Tale of Three StoogesEpisode 31: With so many old TV shows being rebooted, why not a Three Stooges revival? A Look Behind in Rewind shares memories of an unforgettable live appearance by the Three Stooges at the DeWitt Theatre in Bayonne, NJ, as well as the report of a modern-day Stooge following in his grandfather's footsteps. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, modeled on the monologues of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're in...2021-12-2808 min
Whims of ResistanceThe Sled GangEpisode 30: A trip back in time to those fun days of sledding down snowy neighborhood streets on a Flexible Flyer, as reported by A Look Behind in Rewind spy, Ray from Colorado. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, modeled on the monologues of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Look Behind in Rewind." And feel free to share our link wi...2021-12-2109 min
Whims of ResistanceHershey Or BustEpisode 29: Taking a family trip to Hershey can be fun, if you stay on course. But if you miss the turn, be prepared to improvise. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, modeled on the monologues of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Look Behind in Rewind." And feel free to share our link with friends, family, and others, as well a...2021-12-1209 min
Whims of ResistanceHorsing AroundEpisode 28: A horse is a horse, of course, of course. Here are a few horse tales, both ancient and more recent, from our travels down some dusty trails. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, modeled on the monologues of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Look Behind in Rewind." And feel free to share our link with friends, family, and oth...2021-12-0510 min
Whims of ResistanceWater BoyEpisode 27: Pirate passion on Cape Cod... a crooked river on fire in Ohio... Jersey Shore grammar... and more! This episode shares a few random tales of places and attractions near or on the water. In this podcast series, Tom Nielson tells stories, shares memories, and concocts whimsical, humorous tales inspired by his life adventures, modeled on the monologues of Jean Shepherd of WOR-Radio. Want to chat? Click here to text us. If you enjoyed this podcast, you're invited to hear more of our episodes at "A Look Behind in Rewind." And feel free to share our...2021-11-1810 min