Ever wondered how the term "geek" evolved from its circus origins to encompass today's tech-savvy, fandom-driven enthusiasts? We take a stroll down memory lane, unpacking the term's complex past and acknowledging the mixed legacy of circus sideshows. Our conversation includes a poignant reflection on Katherine Dunn's "Geek Love," a tale that dives into the heart of a circus family and their offbeat dynamics. I also get personal, sharing my recent eye injection ordeal, which, believe it or not, connects back to the historical view of physical differences.

Life throws us curveballs, and in this episode, we catch a few, sharing heartfelt messages and well wishes to friends navigating through them. From recollections of Miichael's military days, including his friend Ed, who took a few stints as a town clown, to dealing with the gnawing frustration of chronic back pain and the pursuit of medical relief, we traverse a landscape of resilience and camaraderie. We're also cheering on our listeners, Artemis and Joselyn, urging them to keep turning those pages and to fill us in on their life's latest chapters.

As the episode winds down, we chat about the eclectic mix of topics that somehow interweave in our lives—like securing that elusive summer reservation or the anticipation of Eurovision's latest hits. I spotlight a "Peruvian" restaurant's exceptional eggplant rollatini, a taste that lingers long after the meal, and discuss "Hurricane" by Eden Golan, Israel's vibrant contribution to Eurovision. It's a reminder of the unifying power of music, and how, amid the ups and downs, the right song can feel like a shared heartbeat across the globe. Join us for this journey of stories, empathy, and a shared love for the little things that connect us all.

As we crank up the volume with a throwback to Big Pig's iconic track, Breakaway, it's remarkable how a single song can transport us through time—this episode is an audio time capsule just waiting to be unwrapped for probably one person alone. Music isn't just background noise; it's the soundtrack to our lives, a thread connecting us to the moments that define us. Come along for the ride as we share stories of cross-country journeys, a nod to the adventurous spirit we all harbor, and the undeniable mix of excitement and challenge that tagging along can bring.

It's not every day that a Jerry Seinfeld routine gets overshadowed, but when protests erupt at a Duke University commencement, it deserves a closer look. We wade into the tangled web of political expression and the delicate lines that, when crossed, kick up dust around anti-Semitism and free speech. Anne displays her animosity toward pickleball just on general principles, Later, we find solace and celebration at a memorial service for my beloved friend David Wallace, where emotions run deep, and the passage of time is palpable through the ever-evolving art of parenting, the eternal nature of friendships, and the way music brings us all together.

Down in New Orleans, before Katrina left her mark, I discovered the true meaning of 'joie de vivre'—a blend of family ties, local flavor, and the kind of mix-ups that turn into treasured anecdotes. In homage to my six-decade-long friendship with David, we let the soulful groove of Earth, Wind & Fire carry us through a city that, much like the beauty of enduring relationships, stands resilient against the tests of time. Finally, a reminder of the small victories in life—like the perfect fit of Spanx trousers Artemis—and the immeasurable worth of reconnecting with old pals. Wherever your journey takes you, the stories shared here are sure to strike a something.

Also, most of this description was written by AI, taking my job.

Have you ever stumbled upon a word that delightfully encapsulates those all-too-human moments? The German language is rich with such terms, and on our latest episode, we journey through the intricate dance of linguistics to uncover the charm behind words like "Treppenwitz" and "Kummerspeck". Our conversation takes an amusing turn as we share anecdotes of personal encounters with these linguistic gems, and we invite you to laugh along at the precision with which they narrate life's peculiar experiences.

The buzz around a new TV show or film can fade faster than a shooting star, and we've all felt that waning interest after an initial infatuation. I engage in a heart-to-heart about the shows and movies that captured our hearts only to release them just as quickly, from classics like "Petticoat Junction" to modern hits like "Ted Lasso". Heidi Gardner who KILLED on the "Beavis & Butthead" sketch on SNL, is applauded for bringing her comedic genius to the Cape Cod production of "Noises Off."

We then pivot to more serious terrain as we discuss the powerful interview with Brittany Griner by Robin Roberts, diving into the challenges and triumphs of Griner's journey. Moreover, we unpack the complexities of global events, such as the Eurovision Song Contest's decision regarding Israel, and reflect on the deeper implications of such actions. Whether it's through laughter or solemn discussion, our episode aims to connect, enlighten, and leave you with a sense of hope in the nuanced tapestry of the human narrative.