Episode 113: Gallagher

While the entertainer that came to be known solely as “Gallagher” made his name smashing watermelons, he was actually a fully developed comedic powerhouse, until he wasn’t. Gallagher’s signature bit overshadowed much of his other work, which was, in reality, about 95% of what he did on stage. On this episode we breakdown how a silly melon smashing jester became the target of harsh criticism who was washed away in the changing tide of the times.

Episode 108: Fabio

Fabio is a manly man! His luscious long hair and Italian accent made him a sex symbol of the 90s. But what did Fabio even do? Handsome as he was, there was something very silly and funny about Fabio’s appearance. He was the winking joke for the “bored housewife” who dreamed on a shirtless man on the beach to take her away from suburban life. His benign ubiquity and iconic look made him something of a walking meme.

If he looked like the model on the cover of trashy grocery store romance novels, that’s because he was that guy! Fabio even started writing his own sultry pulp fiction. Eventually Fabio transitioned into acting, music and advertising, most famously for I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter. His tale is truly an American success story, and if we could learn anything from Fabio, it is how to laugh at ourselves, especially if you are super hot.

Episode 105: Ben Stein

For the final dump of 2023 we are uncovering the story of one of the biggest and worst nerds in history, Ben Stein. Ben cut his teeth as an economist and professor, not to mention presidential speech writer, but what he is best known for is his strange and surprisingly consistent acting career. Through bit parts, spokesperson gigs, and finally,  his time as an emmy award winning game show host, Ben  Stein became one of the most recognizable character actors of the 80’s and 90’s. However, as of late he is best known for racist rants and more than questionable political opinions as well as some really sketchy personal behavior. 

Episode 100: Anna Nicole Smith part 1

We made it folks, episode 100 (proper)! For this landmark episode we are beginning to tell the tale of Anna Nicole Smith, a true blonde bombshell and icon of beauty, scandal, and tragedy. Join us as we dive into her early days in Mexia, Texas, her fateful meeting with a billionaire oil tycoon, and her introduction to adult entertainment. RIP Anna.

Special Episode: Interview with Dave Sirus

Dave Sirus is an Emmy nominated, Writers Guild Award winning comedian who has written for comedy giants like SNL and Triumph the Insult Comic Dog. His latest project is “Bupkis,” a show he created along with his best friend and writing partner Pete Davidson. Ryan and Dave discuss Dave’s career, his new show, what it’s like when your friend becomes one of the most famous people on the planet, and their time together in the LA art-punk scene.

*we ran into some connectivity issues during this interview and there will be some rough patches.

Episode 94: Judas Priest Trial

This week we go back to 1990 to discuss one of the most bizarre trials in music history. After an attempted double suicide by two young friends, metal legends Judas Priest were put on trial for alleged subliminal messages in their music that were believed to have caused the tragedy. The trial was as ridiculous as the claim.

This trial was part of an ongoing cultural movement to censor musicians in the 80s (PMRC, 2 Live Crew, NWA, Satanic Panic). The heavy publicity of this trial introduced many to the practice of backmasking; listening to music played in reverse to attempt to find hidden messages.

Episode 91: Vanilla Ice Part 1

Sup Ninjas, you know we had to do it. Vanilla Ice is a dump like no other. Truly a one hit wonder with his smash hit “Ice Ice Baby,” a song that launch rap music to global ubiquity. The rapper found harsh criticism as quickly as he found mega stardom. Part 1 traces the roots of the 90s rap sensation as he makes his way to super stardom.