Épisodes

  • Gen X Guilt

    Gen X Guilt
    Feb 26 2025
    Why do I feel so guilty, Slackers?

    In a recent podcast, Tom Morello and Billy Corgan discussed a number of topics, but when Billy talked about "Gen X not having a second act” and Tom said he had “Punk Rock Guilt”, this really struck a chord with me.

    Growing up in the ‘80s and ‘90s—amid economic flux, cultural cynicism, and punk’s rebirth via hardcore and grunge — gave us a somewhat strange worldview. In 1989 Family Ties ended while Seinfeld just started to air. We went from wholesome to cynical in the blink of an eye.

    Morello talked about the uneasy feeling of raging against the system only to end up part of it - is that just an inevitable part of growing up or have we somehow let our younger, more idealistic selves down?

    As a parent I often wrestle with whether I have done the right things for my kids. And I certainly lament my restless, rudderless youth. This episode is a reflection on my own personal (and Gen X’s) struggle to reconcile our hedonistic, yet oddly idealistic, youth with the quiet regrets of middle age.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    59 min
  • From Teen Stars to Hollywood Legends

    From Teen Stars to Hollywood Legends
    Feb 19 2025
    Feeling old yet, Slackers?

    When we were young, there were so many movie stars—and not just the Brat Pack. Sean Penn, Kiefer Sutherland, and Elisabeth Shue come to mind. Fast forward to today, and these former young heartthrobs and beloved teen idols have become Hollywood royalty, winning some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, including Golden Globes, Academy Awards, Emmys, and Tonys. Movies like TAPS and Fast Times at Ridgemont High boast numerous award winners, including multiple Oscar wins.

    While Sean Penn received recognition fairly early in his career, actors like Christian Slater and Jennifer Jason Leigh didn’t receive any significant award buzz until 30+ years into their careers. Though I’m an avowed Ferris Bueller hater, it was still pretty cool to see Alan Ruck (Cameron) receive nominations for his role on Succession.

    Although I don’t typically pay much attention to award shows, I’m rooting for Demi Moore to finally win the big one for her role in The Substance.

    We dive into how these stars have evolved—not just in their careers, but in their artistry—transforming from iconic teen roles into multi-award-winning performances. We explore their journeys from being the faces of an era to becoming respected actors and performers across different genres. It’s fascinating to see these once-young stars redefine what it means to age gracefully in Hollywood while staying relevant, admired, and celebrated.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h
  • The List Generation

    The List Generation
    Feb 12 2025
    Top 5 all time, Slackers!

    Ever wonder why we have always been "list" oriented - or maybe that's just me? "Top 5" this or "Top 10" that - from Casey Kasem's American Top 40, MTV's Top 20 Countdown, later TRL, to Rolling Stone Magazine's Top 500 series, lists have been a regular part of our lives.

    With the advent of the internet, many of us were the early adopters of "listicles" on web forums where we chimed in on "Top 5 Tag Teams" or "Top 5 Video Games". Fast forward 20+ years and the list format drives everything from Netflix & Spotify algorithms, to targeted ads. In fact, lists likely drive commerce!

    For many of us, lists are what drives debates, and as long as people keep it civil, this has always been our way of communicating. Back in the day it could be debates on "best running backs", or "best metal guitarist". It's all subjective but that's what makes it fun.

    There's also some talk about the Big Game, Boston sports, and the many opinions on the Half TIme show.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    39 min
  • Grammys Awards (Are You Still Watching?)

    Grammys Awards (Are You Still Watching?)
    Feb 5 2025
    I don’t know about you, but I didn’t watch any of this year’s Grammy Awards.

    This used to be appointment viewing back in the day, but now - not so much. I thought, let’s revisit the ceremonies of 1975, 1985, and 1995. While we might not be tuning in now, these past shows seems to actually matter - and I recognize that is because I am an old man yelling at clouds!

    While you early Xers may recall the ’75 awards, for me it was 1985. Tina Turner, Bruce Springsteen, Prince, and Lionel Richie were huge stars, while Huey Lewis & the News had their big breakout with “Sports”.

    The Best New artist award went to Cyndi Lauper. The other nominees? Sheila E., Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Corey Hart, and The Judds! I think Cyndi might have deserved that one!

    I’m not sure if it just being a middle aged man that informs my lack of interest in modern awards shows - it seems as though the industry has changed since our youth. While it has always been about the record labels and their influence, it at least seemed as thought the artistry was equally, if not more important, than record sales alone.

    So, did you watch the Grammys this year and are there any artists I should actually take the time to listen to?
    Voir plus Voir moins
    53 min
  • Diamond Albums of the 80s

    Diamond Albums of the 80s
    Jan 29 2025
    Diamonds are forever, Slackers!

    In this episode we will revisit the Diamond-certified albums from the 1980s that dominated the charts. These weren’t just records—they were the soundtrack for our generation.

    From Michael Jackson’s Thriller, which owned the airwaves, to AC/DC’s Back in Black, the 80s gave us albums that endure today. Bon Jovi’s Slippery When Wet gave us new global superstars (and a few timeless hits), while Def Leppard’s Hysteria was the comeback of all comeback records.

    From MTV marathons to the mix tapes we swapped, these records defined an era. If you were rocking a mullet (I did), a jean jacket (yep, me too) and music was your life, these albums were pretty big deals.

    So, grab your Walkman, hit play, and let’s take a trip down memory lane to the music that defined Generation X.

    Also, AI is pretty dumb - at least for now.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    51 min
  • Conspiracy Theories of the 1980s

    Conspiracy Theories of the 1980s
    Jan 22 2025
    Get on your tin foil hats, Slackers!

    In this episode, we take a look at the wild conspiracies that shaped the 1980s—a decade full of political scandals, social upheaval, and a growing sense of mistrust in authority.

    Some of the most notable were the Iran-Contra Affair, The Crack Epidemic, Denver International Airport and the Satanic Panic.

    We dive into how these conspiracies became the backdrop for Gen X's formative years, and how they still influence the way we view power and truth today. We might just be a little distrustful of authority!

    Tune in for a trip down memory lane and a look at the conspiratorial mindset that defined a generation.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    57 min
  • Guns N' Roses

    Guns N' Roses
    Jan 17 2025
    They’re out to get me, Slackers!

    In this episode, we explore the rise, fall, and enduring legacy of Guns N' Roses, one of rock's most iconic bands. From their formation in 1985 to the release of Appetite for Destruction, we cover their breakthrough into superstardom and the cultural shift they sparked. We delve into key moments, including lineup changes, controversies, and their influence on hard rock and popular culture.

    We also examine their lasting impact, from the sleazy early days on the Sunset Strip, their unraveling due to the trappings of sudden fame, to their 2016 reunion tour, and discuss how Guns N' Roses reshaped rock music while inspiring generations of musicians.

    And, let’s face it, “Rocket Queen” absolutely rules!
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 1 min
  • A TV Listings Time Capsule

    A TV Listings Time Capsule
    Jan 8 2025
    Hey, Slackers!

    Ever miss the old TV guides? I know I would love to look at that crazy grid and plan on what to watch during the week. Thanks to TVTango.com, you can find pretty much every TV listing going all the way back to 1950.

    While we were raised on the "Big Three" networks of ABC, CBS, and NBC, there was another network before FOX was launched in 1987 - The Dumont Television Network, which ran from 1946 to 1956. But that's a little before our time.

    Throughout the episode we will jump around from the 60's, through the 90's, with particular attention paid to Tuesday and Thursday night programming. ABC dominated Tuesdays, with NBC controlling Thursdays.

    Oddly, for a period of time in the 1960's, one hour dramas would start at the half hour, which seems so strange to me. For most of my life, those TV dramas often aired in later timeslots, often starting at 10:00 PM. Who programs a drama to start at 8:30 or 9:30!?

    What were some of your favorites? And do you recall shows like the Yellow Rose or Riptide?
    Voir plus Voir moins
    53 min