The Popped Cast

In Episode 89, Josh is rejoined by Maureen for the final episode of “The Popped Cast” (for now). Due to the impending arrival of Baby #2, we are taking a break from podcasting. We aren't sure when we will be back but until then, enjoy this episode. In the Snack Bag, we talk about the perfect casting of Joe Exotic in the upcoming film about the eccentric tiger king, discuss Tom Cruise's upcoming movie to be filmed in space and analyze the battle between film studios and movie theater owners. In the Premiere Topic, we dive into the hit NBC show “Parks and Recreation,” which ended its run in 2015 but came back just last week for a brand new episode to benefit the charity Feeding America. We talk about our thoughts on the special, the show overall, the MVP and LVP and whether or not we'd recommend it to someone who hasn't seen it before. PLUS, in our Teasers, Maureen recommends a new Amazon Prime Original and Josh recommends a band AND a 10-part docuseries on Michael Jordan. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Joe Exotic casting news Tom Cruise teams with Elon Musk for a movie shot in space Oscars eligibility change Movie studio and movie theater battle “Parks and Recreation” special episode “Parks and Recreation” “Upload” on Amazon Prime Johnnyswim “The Last Dance”

In Episode 88, Josh is joined by two special guests - Peter Laclede and co-founder of the Vernacular Podcast Network, Zac Crippen. In an extended Premiere Topic, the trio give their take on the massively popular Netflix docuseries “Tiger King.” In addition to giving their overall thoughts on the show and the characters they liked and disliked, they dive into the ethical and moral aspects of both consuming the show and the production of it. PLUS, in teasers, Peter gives a recommendation for a fun podcast, Zac suggests an Aaron Sorkin movie you can watch on Netflix and Josh teases an NBC special that is coming on Thursday, April 30, 2020. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: “Tiger King” “History That Doesn't Suck” podcast “Molly's Game” “Parks & Recreation” reunion

In Episode 87, we dive right into the Snack Bag talking about both the recent massive Netflix growth and the news that some companies and restaurants are giving away famous recipes (e.g. Ikea meatballs, the Egg McMuffin, DoubleTree chocolate chip cookies). In the Premiere Topic, we give you suggestions for things that are helping us get through the self-isolation and self-quarantine during the coronavirus pandemic. We each share a couple of our favorite things to do (active things), a couple of our favorite things to consume (passive things) and then discuss little things that are making us happy (all of our suggestions are linked below!). Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Netflix 1st quarter growth Famous recipes to try at home Jackbox Games “Better Call Saul” “Ozark” “Full House” “Step by Step” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver” Center for Mindful Self-Compassion “Something Pretty” blog “North Carolina Charm” blog “PBFingers” blog “Em for Marvelous” blog “How I Built This” podcast

In Episode 86, we kick things off by following up on a few items from the past few episodes. First, we give you the proper pronunciation for Gal Gadot's last name. Second, we give an update on our quest to find a new TV show with a review of the first three episodes of “The Good Wife.” In the Snack Bag, we cover CEOs giving up their 2020 salaries and “American Idol's” plan to finish out their current season with the contestants competing from home. In the Premiere Topic, we examine the legacy of ABC's long-running sitcom “Modern Family,” which came to an end after 11 seasons last Wednesday. We talk about our history with the show, our MVP and LVP(s) and give our recommendation for whether or not you should check it out now that it's wrapped up. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen gives a reverse teaser (something you should avoid!) and Josh recommends a double feature you can find on Netflix! Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: CEOs giving up their salaries to employees “American Idol” at home “Modern Family” “The Social Network” “Steve Jobs” on Netflix

In Episode 85, we kick things off talking about a short film we made together while stuck in self-isolation (link below!). Then we discuss what the heck a “Quibi” is (it's a unique spin on a streaming service for your phone) and whether or not yet another streaming service will last. In the Premiere Topic, we take a “New York Times” article from 2019 that details the best dramas since “The Sopranos” and debate the merits of the ones we haven't based solely on a single, short description from Wikipedia. After going through the 9 of the 20 on the list neither of us have seen, we pick a new one to watch in the next week (we will report back with our thoughts!). PLUS, in our teasers, Josh gives both! One is a video of a fun reunion from a famous Broadway cast and the other is an easily digestible Netflix true crime documentary. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Josh and Maureen's short film “Don't Touch Your Face” Quibi “The 20 Best TV Dramas Since ‘The Sopranos'” “Hamilton” cast reunites “Long Shot” on Netflix

In Episode 84, we kick things off in the Snack Bag talking about the (cringey) cover of John Lennon's “Imagine” by Gal Gadot and her celebrity friends. Then, we discuss the pros and cons of late night shows and musicians trying to bring their content to the masses via the internet. In the Premiere Topic, we are talking all about NBC's hit show “The Office,” which premiered 15 years ago in 2005. We talk about our history with the show, how it stacks up against other comedies, the MVP of the show, the LVP of the show and whether we'd recommend it to someone who's never seen it. PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a good news show from John Krasinski and Maureen challenges our listeners to step away from social media for a week and connect with something. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Gal Gadot sings “Imagine” “The Office” “Some Good News” on YouTube “Em for Marvelous”

In Episode 83, coronavirus is still dominating the news and it's dominating our Snack Bag again. We start by talking about some of the stars who've contracted coronavirus. Then we discuss how some of the major film studios are reacting to the news that most movie theaters in the United States and around the world are closed and will be closed for some time. In the Premiere Topic, we are bringing you another installment of our semi-regular series within The Popped Cast called “First Time.” Our fourth installment in the series is Maureen's first viewing of 2018 documentary film, “Free Solo.” We hear Maureen's “First Time Take,” give our most valuable player (MVP) and least valuable player (LVP) picks and tell you whether or not you should watch the movie. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends an awesome new blog about hiking in the northeast and around the world and Josh recommends an online video series from Broadway stars that is helping to raise money for The Actors Fund. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Stars who've tested positive for coronavirus Movies streaming early due to coronavirus “23 Streaming Services Offering Free Access Right Now” “Free Solo” Trekking Sketches Blog “Stars in the House”

In Episode 82, we talk about the elephant in the room (or rather, the disease in our world) with a wide-ranging discussion on coronavirus. We cover everything from what we're doing to help stop the spread to how it's affecting the entertainment industry to how we're trying to employ social distancing. In the Premiere Topic, we do a deep dive into the 2017 film “Super Size Me 2: Holy Chicken!” from filmmaker Morgan Spurlock. We discuss the uncomfortable revelations surrounding the star/director of the film, our thoughts on the film itself and whether or not the content presented made us think twice about the food we consume. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen rights a wrong and Josh recommends not one but TWO excellent climbing documentaries. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Social distancing to stop coronavirus - advice from an expert “Why outbreaks like coronavirus spread exponentially, and how to ‘flatten the curve'” “Super Size Me” “Super Size Me 2: Holy Chicken!” Morgan Spurlock's confession Beyond Meat Disney+ “The Dawn Wall” “Meru”

In Episode 81, we kick things off with a jam-packed Snack Bag. We discuss everything from the viral London subway singer to the production halt on the “Lizzie McGuire” reboot to the new (but actually old) “Bachelorette” to the passing of James Lipton. In the Premiere Topic, we are diving deep into our second edition of “Wheel of Disney Originals” (AKA WODO) with the 2000 film “Quints.” We talk about our impressions of the movie, its nonsensical plot device that is way overused, some of the ridiculous plot lines and of course, rate it on our special Disney scale. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a fun whodunnit film and Josh recommends some new music. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Viral Subway Singer on “Ellen” “Lizzie McGuire” production drama Clare Crowley named “The Bachelorette” James Lipton dies at 93 “Quints” “Knives Out” The Lone Bellow - “Half Moon Light”

In Episode 80, we give some more details about the decline in viewership for award shows. In the Snack Bag, we talk about the BIG (totally dumb) “Friends” reunion special on the horizon for the upcoming HBO Max streaming service. In the Premiere Topic, we are bringing you another installment of our semi-regular series within The Popped Cast called “First Time.” Our third installment in the series is Josh's first viewing of the film, “Downton Abbey.” It's actually Maureen's first time seeing the film as well but she was extremely familiar with the source material of “Downton Abbey” the TV show before we watched the movie. In this Premiere Topic, we hear Josh's “First Time Take,” give our most and least valuable player (MVP & LVP) picks and tell you whether or not you should watch the movie. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a new NBC comedy and Josh recommends an Oscar-winning film from this past year. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Decline in award shows chart The “Friends” cast is reuniting “Downton Abbey” “Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist” “JoJo Rabbit”

In Episode 79, we are back to our regularly scheduled programming after breaking down the Oscars last week. In the Snack Bag, we discuss the down ratings for the Oscars and the return of Gordon Bombay to the ice. In the Premiere Topic, we continue our mini-series on “The Popped Cast” that we do from time to time called “Pilot Review.” Always on the hunt for a new show to watch together, we watched a pilot for a show we've never seen and decide whether or not it's worth the time to continue watching. After trying "Cheers" last time, the Showtime hit “Episodes” is up next. We discuss our thoughts on the pilot, the good, the bad and whether or not we will keep watching. (You can currently watch “Episodes” on Netflix.) PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a Netflix documentary/reality TV series and Josh recommends season 40 of a CBS stalwart. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: 2020 Oscar ratings “Hair Love” - Oscar winner for Best Animated Short Film “The Neighbor's Window” - Oscar winner for Best Live Action Short Film Emilio Estevez returns to “The Mighty Ducks” reboot “Episodes” “Cheer” on Netflix “Survivor: Winners at War”

In Episode 78, Maureen and Josh are podcasting late into the night to bring you a full breakdown of the 2020 Academy Awards, which aired on ABC last night, so you can be the talk of the office with your fresh knowledge of everything Oscars. We discuss the big winners (“Parasite” for Best Picture!), the best speech, the best moment, the best one liner, the worst moment(s) and give our overall grade of the show. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Link: 2020 Oscar Winners Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already!

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 77, we are back after a two week break! In the Snack Bag, we dedicate all of our time to talking about the death of NBA superstar Kobe Bryant and dig into why people are so emotionally affected by the passing of a person they don't know. In the Premiere Topic, we break down our favorite commercials from this year's Super Bowl (New York Life?!) and discuss Shakira and Jennifer Lopez's energetic and entertaining halftime show. PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a movie you should definitely see in theaters and Maureen recommends an animated movie featuring some of the best toys around. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: "We Have To Tell The Whole Truth About Kobe Bryant" "Smaht Pahk" Hyundai commercial "Love Takes Action" New York Life commercial “Loretta" Google commercial "Typical American" Budweiser commercial "United Towns" Walmart commercial "1917" "Toy Story 4"

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 76, we finally reveal our secret message to our listeners and decode the secret code we've been planting in each episode since #68. In the Snack Bag, we talk about the royal rift in England, Leonardo DiCaprio's maritime heroics and analyze the 2020 Oscar nominations. In the Premiere Topic, we compare the 1994 version of “Little Women” to the 2019 version of “Little Women.” We discuss which performances are stronger, which story structure works better and which film has the better ending. Come for the discussion of the March family and stay for the chat about the amazing Saoirse Ronan and which movie has the better kitten to human ratio. PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a Jeopardy tournament and Maureen recommends season 3 of a popular Amazon show. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: The Royal rift Leonardo DiCaprio saves a man at sea 2020 Oscar nominations “Little Women” from 1994 “Little Women” from 2019 “Jeopardy: Greatest of All Time” “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 75, we are back after a week off celebrating Christmas and the turn to the new decade! We discuss Clint Eastwood's ski day with Arnold Schwarzenegger and also give our thoughts on how “Cats: The Musical: The Movie” is getting worse and worse despite attempts to “improve it.” In the Premiere Topic, Josh does a quick hit recap and instant reaction to the 2020 Golden Globes, which aired last night. Didn't catch the show? Want to know who the big winners were? We've got you covered! PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends an easy to swallow Netflix show she just discovered and Josh recommends a British show that originally aired in 2013 but is now on Netflix. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Clint Eastwood & Arnold Schwarzenegger go skiing “Cats” tries to fix its special effects errors The 2020 Golden Globe winners “Broadchurch” “Virgin River”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 74, we kick things off by talking about the massive difference in box office returns for the just released “Star Wars” movie and “Cats: The Musical: The Movie.” In our Premiere Topic, we talk about some of our favorites from the world of pop culture in 2019. We each talk about our favorite new movie we saw, discuss our favorite returning TV show and give our take on our favorite new show of the year. Josh also recommends a book that was first published in June 2019. Thanks to everyone who has listened in 2019. See you in 2020! Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 73, we talk about the new trailer for “Wonder Woman 1984” and look at the nominations for January's Golden Globe nominations. In our Premiere Topic, Josh is joined by special guest Mike Wilbur to talk all about “Star Wars.” We delve into the history of the franchise, discuss the ups and downs of the series and give our takes on the Disney+ show, “The Mandalorian.” Where does “Star Wars” stand in 2019? Find out! Then in Teasers for this week, Josh recommends a fascinating book on baseball and Mike suggests both a lighthearted “Star Wars/Hamilton” spoof and a gripping non-fiction audiobook. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: “Wonder Woman 1984” “Golden Globe Nominations” “Dear Baby Yoda” “In Harm's Way” “Astroball”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 72, we jump right into the Premiere Topic with special guests Zac and Sally Crippen (founders of the Vernacular Podcast Network and co-hosts of Vernacular Podcast) to determine the best Christmas song of all time. In a bracket style tournament, 16 songs enter (in four regions - Religious, Classics, Animated Classics, Modern) and only one emerges as the winner. Which song takes home the crown? The winner might surprise you! Then in our Teasers for this week, Josh recommends a really fun whodunnit movie in theaters now, Maureen proposes you watch a documentary you can catch on Amazon Prime, Zac suggests a re-imagined animated Christmas film you can see on Netflix and Sally praises another film you can still catch in theaters. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: “Knives Out” “Backstreet Boys: Show 'Em What You're Made Of” “The Grinch” “Ford v. Ferrari”

In Episode 71, we give you an update on the (now resolved) Taylor Swift drama, talk about the big box office for “Frozen 2” in its opening weekend and discuss Ricky Gervais being named the host for the 2020 Golden Globes. In the Premiere Topic, we are diving deep into our first edition of “Wheel of Disney Originals” (AKA WODO) with the 1999 hit film “Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century.” We talk about our impressions of the movie, what the movie got right (and wrong) about the future, why the acting is so bad and rate it on a special Disney scale. PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a possible Oscar contender still in theaters and Maureen recommends taking a step back and slowing down this Thanksgiving week. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Taylor Swift drama resolved “Frozen 2” crushes at the box office Ricky Gervais will host the 2020 Golden Globes “Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century” “Ford v. Ferrari”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 70, Josh is re-joined by Maureen after her week off to attend the wedding of a close friend. We talk about the Taylor Swift drama dominating the news, the newly named “People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive” and how celebrities are really just like us. In the Premiere Topic, after rewatching the five “How I Met Your Mother” Thanksgiving episodes, we discuss our personal favorites, our least favorite, the MVP of the episodes, how it compares to the “Friends” Thanksgiving episodes and how the show holds up today on a partial rewatch. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends some more Netflix content and Josh recommends a new band recommended to him by the robots at Spotify. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Taylor Swift drama John Legend named “People's Sexiest Man Alive” Does John Legend look like Arthur? Matt Damon's daughter falls asleep during his movie “How I Met Your Mother” “Queer Eye: We're in Japan” Hush Kids on Spotify

In Episode 69, Josh is joined by a special co-host, Zac Crippen, who is covering for Maureen as she attends a wedding out of town. We kick things off talking about the ramifications of James Dean being resurrected digitally for a new movie (spoiler: NO THANKS!) and get Zac's take on the Martin Scorcese Marvel drama. In the Premiere Topic, we talk all about HBO's “Silicon Valley.” We talk about our favorite moments and episodes from the acclaimed comedy, our favorite characters, our least favorite aspects of the show and whether or not we'd recommend to someone if they've never seen it. PLUS, in our teasers, Zac suggests a forthcoming entrant in the streaming wars and Josh recommends a new movie from South Korean director Bong Joon Ho. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Josh and Peter's podcast on the Nationals World Series championship James Dean digitally resurrected “Silicon Valley” on HBO Disney+ “Parasite”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 68, we commiserate over the end of Daylight Saving Time, discuss just announced casting for a new movie musical, talk all about the “Game of Thrones” prequel drama and say farewell to an original “Survivor” castaway who passed away at the age of 91. In the Premiere Topic, we are back with another installment of “Critically Panned” and examining the 2001 film “A Knight's Tale” starring Heath Ledger. We give our own critical reviews, discuss the Rotten Tomatoes score, award our MVP (most valuable player) and our LVP (least valuable player) and tell you what we would do to improve the movie. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a fun sketch from Stephen Colbert and Josh recommends a new Netflix show starring Paul Rudd. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Andrew Garfield cast in Lin-Manuel Miranda's film “tick...tick...BOOM!” “Game of Thrones” prequel drama Rudy Boesch passes away at the age of 91 “A Knight's Tale” “A Knight's Tale” on Sony Crackle “The Late Show is Releasing 900 Christmas Movies” “Living with Yourself” on Netflix

In Episode 67, we are podcasting on the road (literally recording in the car driving back from a wedding). First up in the snack bag, we discuss the ramifications and frustrations of Francis Ford Coppola's comments about Marvel movies. In the Premiere Topic, we are doing something a little different this week in celebration of Halloween on Thursday! We are doing a bracket-style tournament where we are determining the very best Halloween candy that's out there. 16 candies enter, one emerges as champion. Who takes home the crown? PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends some music he's been listening to recently and Maureen recommends an ABC show that's just for fun. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Francis Ford Coppola goes off on Mavel Top Halloween candy by production Coldplay “Dancing with the Stars”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 66, Josh and Maureen open the episode, yet again, with another saltine update. Then, we discuss a Snack Bag topic so serious, it's the only one on the docket this week. In the Premiere Topic, we are kicking off a new mini-series on “The Popped Cast” that we will do from time to time called “Pilot Review.” Always on the hunt for a new show to watch together, we will watch a pilot for a classic show we've never seen and decide whether or not it's worth the time to continue watching. First up, the NBC 80s juggernaut “Cheers.” We discuss our thoughts on the pilot, the good, the bad and whether or not the show holds up today. (You can currently watch “Cheers” on Netflix.) PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a great article on his beloved Washington Nationals that transcends baseball and Maureen suggests a throwback movie starring Julia Roberts. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Lady Gaga falls off the stage in Vegas “Cheers” “First comes the NLDS, then comes ... a baby? Inside Daniel Hudson's life-altering weekend” “Eat, Pray, Love”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 65, we have a special crossover episode with another Vernacular Podcast Network podcast that Josh co-hosts - "Breaking Pod" - to talk about the just released Netflix original film "El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie." Josh is joined by his "Breaking Pod" co-host (and co-founder of the Vernacular Podcast Network), Zac Crippen, to discuss overall thoughts on the movie, how it stands up to the "Breaking Bad" series and favorite and least favorite moments from the film. Email us here!

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 64, we reaffirm Josh's love for saltines (and thank all those who emerged from the shadows to stand with him), discuss Spider-Man returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (just weeks after he left) and talk about Martin Scorsese's ill-timed comments on Marvel movies. In the Premiere Topic, we take a look at the upcoming streaming service from Apple, Apple TV+. We discuss whether or not the service will be worth it and give our takes on four trailers they've released thus far for original content coming to the service. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a new season of a British competition show and Josh recommends a new show from Ryan Murphy on Netflix. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Spider-Man is back in the MCU Martin Scorsese on Marvel films Apple TV+ “The Morning Show” trailer “Dickinson” trailer “See” trailer “For All Mankind” trailer “The Great British Baking Show” “The Politician”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 63, we talk about J. Lo performing at the Super Bowl in 2020 (and her not so covert campaign strategy to get an Oscar), the possible remake of “The Princess Bride” (PLEASE, NO!) and the original stars of “Jurassic Park” returning to the franchise in the upcoming “Jurassic World 3.” In the Premiere Topic, we take a look at the upcoming streaming service from Disney, Disney+. We discuss whether or not the service will be worth it and give our takes on a couple of trailers they've released thus far for original content coming to the service. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends an ABC show going into its final season and Josh recommends some music you might have missed back in 2012. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: J. Lo at the Super Bowl Remaking “The Princess Bride” “Jurassic Park” stars are returning for “Jurassic World 3” Disney+ “The Mandalorian” trailer “Lady and the Tramp” trailer “Noelle” trailer “Modern Family” John Mayer's “Born and Raised”

In Episode 62, Josh is podcasting solo (and late into the night) to bring you a full breakdown of the 2019 Emmy Awards, which aired on Fox last night, so you can be the talk of the office with your fresh knowledge of everything Emmys. He discusses the big winners (and his thoughts on those), the best moments, the most cringeworthy moments and wraps things up by giving his final impressions of TV's biggest night. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Link: 2019 Emmy Winners Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already!

In Episode 61, we talk about a bad hire for SNL (another racist white guy who gets a shot - sigh), Zooey Deschanel's new boo, the passing of “Take Me Home Tonight” singer Eddie Money and a heartwarming story out of Florida (that's only partly pop culture BUT THIS IS OUR PODCAST AND WE DO WHAT WE WANT). In the Premiere Topic, we revisit the pilot of the hit ABC show “LOST” and discuss how well it holds up 15 years later, the good and the bad in the two-part episode and whether we would recommend it to someone who's never seen it. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a new movie starring Mindy Kaling and Emma Thompson and Josh recommends a powerful short documentary that first aired on ESPN. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Shane Gillis racist comments surface Zooey Deschanel is dating WHO?! Eddie Money passes away A heartwarming story out of Florida) “LOST” “Late Night” “The Man in the Red Bandana”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 60, we kick things off by giving some cold hard facts as to what really finished #1 in the race for the song of the summer. Then we jump right into the Snack Bag where we talk about Jeremy Renner's failed fan app, Nicki Minaj's surprise retirement (with some bonus life advice from Maureen) and the newest celebrity professor at the University of Texas. In the Premiere Topic, we are bringing you another installment of our semi-regular series within The Popped Cast called “First Time.” Our second installment in the series is Josh's first viewing of the classic coming-of-age film, “Clueless.” We hear Josh's “First Time Take,” give our most valuable player (MVP) and least valuable player (LVP) picks and tell you whether or not you should watch the movie. PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a cancelled Fox show that he loves (and that Maureen hates) and Maureen recommends new seasons of a Canadian show that just came to Netflix. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Jeremy Renner's failed app Nicki Minaj is retiring A new professor in town at the University of Texas “Clueless" “The Last Man on Earth” “Workin' Moms"

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 59, we discuss the breakup between Sony and Marvel over Spider-Man, reboots on reboots on reboots from Disney (“Home Alone” and “Lizzie Mcguire”) and Taylor Swift taking her power back by pledging to re-record her first six albums next year. In the Premiere Topic, Maureen and Josh are giving their snap judgements on possible 2020 Oscar contenders based solely on the trailers that have been released. We rate the movies on a scale of “Oh yeah!” to “Ehhhhhh” to “HECK No” and talk about whether or not the movies will be contenders or pretenders during the upcoming awards season. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends the fourth season of a Netflix show and Josh recommends some lovely film scores to pass the time at work. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Sony and Marvel break up over Spider-Man “Home Alone” and “Lizzie McGuire” reboots on Disney+ Taylor Swift will re-record her first six albums in 2020 “The Irishman” “Harriet” “Little Women” “Ford vs. Ferrari” “The Goldfinch” “1917” “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” “Queer Eye” season 4 on Netflix Thomas Newman

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 58, we talk about Jeremy Renner's incredibly silly Jeep commercials, Harry Styles turning down the role of Prince Eric in Disney's forthcoming live action reimagining of “The Little Mermaid” (and give our pick for who SHOULD play the role) and discuss the Princess Diana musical hitting Broadway next year. In the Premiere Topic, Maureen and Josh each give their picks for who they think were the three most influential people in pop culture over the past decade. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a Charlize Theron/Seth Rogen comedy and Josh recommends a song he just discovered. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Jeremy Renner Jeep commercial Harry Styles passes on Prince Eric in “The Little Mermaid” Princess Diana musical “Finder” by Cyrus Reynolds “Long Shot”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 57, we are back with a regular edition of the Snack Bag! We talk about Nicolas Cage's real life hunt for the Holy Grail, Universal's decision to cancel the release of the film “The Hunt” and singer Mike Posner's walk across the United States (and his unfortunate run in with a baby rattlesnake that put him in the hospital). In the Premiere Topic, we are kicking off a new semi-regular series within The Popped Cast called “First Time.” Each new episode of this series will feature Josh or Maureen's reaction to a movie, TV show, book or music that they've never seen, read or heard until just prior to the recording the podcast. Our first installment in the series is Maureen's first viewing of the classic courtroom drama “A Few Good Men.” We hear Maureen's “First Time Take,” give our most valuable player (MVP) and least valuable player (LVP) picks and tell you whether or not you should watch the movie. PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a sci-fi novel and Maureen recommends season 3 of a Netflix comedy. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Nicolas Cage searches for the Holy Grail Universal cancels the release of “The Hunt” Mike Posner is bitten by a rattlesnake “A Few Good Men” “Dark Matter” by Blake Crouch “GLOW” Season 3 on Netflix

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 56, we bring you our second installment of “Critically Panned” with two special guests - Maureen's brother and Josh's brother-in-law, Kevin, and Kevin's wife and our sister-in-law Kathy! We jump right into our Premiere topic to discuss whether or not the abysmal Rotten Tomatoes score (23%!!!) for the beloved classic “The Mighty Ducks” is warranted. We give our own critical reviews, discuss the Rotten Tomatoes score, award our MVP (most valuable player) and our LVP (least valuable player) and tell you what we would do to improve the movie. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends the next season of her favorite guilty pleasure show, Kathy recommends an audio book read by its very distinguished author, Josh recommends an AMC original show and Kevin recommends a Netflix miniseries. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: “The Mighty Ducks” “Bachelor in Paradise” “Becoming” by Michelle Obama “Better Call Saul” “Maniac”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 55, we talk about the passing of Russi Taylor, the voice of Minnie Mouse, and discuss “Avengers: Endgame” passing “Avatar” to become the highest grossing movie of all time. In the Premiere Topic, we are looking at the career of Leonardo DiCaprio (AKA Maureen's favorite actor of all time). Inspired by the article “‘His Brand Is Excellence': How Leonardo DiCaprio Became Hollywood's Last Movie Star” by Tatiana Siegel of “The Hollywood Reporter,” we consider our first interaction with Leo, list the best performances he has given, give our favorite movies in which he has appeared and try to determine just what it is that makes him such a bankable and reliable movie star. PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a finance podcast and Maureen recommends a throwback show that just had a recent revival on Hulu. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! Links: Russi Taylor passes away “Avengers: Endgame” passes “Avatar” for all-time global box office record “How to Money” podcast “Veronica Mars” on Hulu

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 54, we react to the brand new “Cats” and “Top Gun: Maverick” trailers, give our thoughts on the forthcoming “It's a Wonderful Life” musical with music and lyrics by Paul McCartney (spoiler: NO THANKS) and hear Maureen's live reaction to Marvel's just announced future plans. In the Premiere Topic, we are talking all about the 2019 Emmy nominations. We give our takes on the nominees, the surprises and the snubs before giving our early predictions for the winners in the major categories. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a throwback album from Celine Dion and Josh recommends the brand new season of one of Netflix's most popular shows. Email us here! Links: “Cats” trailer “Top Gun: Maverick” trailer “It's a Wonderful Life” the musical The future of Marvel 2019 Emmy nominations Celine Dion's “Falling Into You” “Stranger Things 3”

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 53, we have a special episode featuring Zac Crippen, co-founder of the Vernacular Podcast Network! Josh and Zac talk all about “Spider-Man: Far From Home” and give their overall impressions of the movie, their favorite and least favorite aspects of the film, their thoughts on Tom Holland as Spider-Man and Jake Gyllenhaal as Mysterio, hash out the best supporting characters and discuss where Marvel goes from here. Email us here!

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 52, Josh kicks things off with a song and gives a non-spoiler review of “Toy Story 4” (it was good but not great). In the Snack Bag, we talk about “Old Town Road's” dominance on the “Billboard” Hot 100 (can anything dethrone it?) and the fact that “The Office” is leaving Netflix at the end of 2020. In the Premiere Topic, we are talking all about Netflix original films - the good, the bad, the positive and the negative. PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a YouTube series from “Vox” and Maureen suggests a Netflix original series on the food industry in America. Email us! For links mentioned in this episode, go here!

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 51, we are kicking off Season 2 with a fun episode! In the Snack Bag, we talk about a "Hunger Games" prequel, Kristen Bell and Dax Shepherd's children discovering their parents are famous and the forthcoming big screen adaptation of the cult hit musical "tick...tick...BOOM!" directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda and possibly starring Andrew Garfield (can he sing?!). In the Premiere Topic, we re-watch and revisit the original Pixar film "Toy Story," 24 years after its release, in advance of "Toy Story 4" hitting theaters on June 21, 2019. We talk about whether or not the movie holds up, what surprised us most about the film and our favorite characters (not named Woody or Buzz).  PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends an excellent HBO mini-series and Maureen recommends a charming and moving film starring Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!  For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp51. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 50, we have officially reached our one year anniversary of recording and releasing The Popped Cast! We reflect on a year of podcasting and discuss changes to our upcoming schedule. Then we dive into the Snack Bag where we talk about Gwyneth Paltrow forgetting she was in "Spider-Man: Homecoming" and talk about the just released "Frozen 2" trailer (and whether or not anyone cares that a sequel is coming this fall). In the Marquee Topic, we discuss the 2019 Tony Awards. We dive into our overall impression of the show, how James Corden did as the host, our favorite performances and what CBS is going to do about the sinking ratings for the broadcast. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a short book she loved and Josh reads a delightful short story that originated on Twitter. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp50. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 49, we discuss the end of iTunes as we know it (RIP!) and talk about James Holzhauer's amazing run on "Jeopardy" finally coming to an end (don't feel too badly - he's walking away more than $2 million richer). In the Marquee Topic, we are crowning a song of the summer for 2019! We examine six songs and take them through a mini bracket to determine what we think will be the earworm from summer 2019 that we remember for years to come. The contenders include “Boy with Luv” by BTS ft. Halsey, “Juice” by Lizzo, “bad guy” by Billie Eilish, “I Don't Care” by Ed Sheeran ft. Justin Bieber, “Old Town Road (Remix)” by Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus and “Sucker” by the Jonas Brothers. PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a YouTube series from "Wired" and Maureen recommends a book by Tim Ferriss. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!  For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp49. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 48, we follow-up on two of our teasers from a few weeks back. Josh gives an update on how his "American Idol" prediction turned out and Maureen breaks down the ridiculousness of the current season of "The Bachelorette." Then, we chat about Ariana Grande's new wax figure that doesn't really look like her (and the general creepiness of wax figures) and discuss Adam Levine stepping away from "The Voice."  In the Marquee Topic, we are examining how public backlash to TV shows and movies affects perception of those TV shows and movies and whether or not visceral public reaction is a good or bad thing for pop culture (spoiler: it's complicated). PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends an audition from this season of "America's Got Talent" and Maureen suggests a podcast with bite-sized episodes on time management. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!  For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp48. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

Please rate, review and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 47, we follow-up on giving "Saturday Night Live"a second chance (spoiler: it did not go well for the NBC sketch show), give our NON-SPOILER reviews of the finale of "Game of Thrones," discuss just how weird it is that New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady has never eaten a strawberry and share our excitement that Ellen DeGeneres' talk show was renewed for three more years. In the Marquee Topic, we are looking back at The Backstreet Boys' 1999 album "Millenium" and consider whether or not that album (along with the albums of other pop stars and boy bands of the time) brought about the rise of Napster and illegal downloads and the subsequent downfall of the music industry. Was there causation? Correlation? No relation? We get into a heated discussion to find out! PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a new podcast and Josh recommends a series of behind the scenes videos for the last season of "Game of Thrones." Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!  For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp47. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

Please rate and subscribe to our podcast if you haven't already! In Episode 46, we talk about Constance Wu's very public negative reaction to her ABC show “Fresh Off the Boat” being renewed for a sixth season and discuss the trend of naming children after characters from TV shows (especially before you know whether that character is ultimately good or bad). In the Marquee Topic, we look into the state of NBC's “Saturday Night Live,” one of the longest running programs on TV. We talk about whether or not the show is still funny, what they could do to improve it, the current standout performers and if the host of the show makes any difference from week to week. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends the trailer for the sixth season of one of her favorite shows and Josh recommends a heartbreaking but inspiring article about perseverance. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!  For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp46.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

In Episode 45, we chat about the new royal baby, discuss the rogue coffee cup that appeared in a dramatic scene during the latest episode of "Game of Thrones" and talk about the (latest) delay of the "Avatar" sequels (and wonder whether anyone even cares that there will be sequels - hint: nope). In the Marquee Topic, we are joined by special guest Zac Crippen (co-founder of the Vernacular Podcast Network) to do a deep dive into "Avengers: Endgame" and the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. WARNING: MAJOR SPOILERS. If you haven't seen the film and don't want to be spoiled, skip the conversation and come back after you've seen it. PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a fun retrospective on a hit 1999 song and Maureen recommends an upcoming season of TV she is especially excited about. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!  For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp45.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

In Episode 44, we give an update on Jeopardy champion James Holzhauer ($1.5 million in winnings and counting!), give our brief (and SPOILER-FREE) thoughts on "Avengers: Endgame," discuss the just released Tony Award nominations and remark on the sad passing of director John Singleton. In the Marquee Topic, we look back on the NBC hit comedy "Friends," which had its series finale on May 6, 2004 - 15 years ago! We talk about our favorite characters, whether or not the show holds up today (it's complicated), where it ranks among the best comedies ever and how the careers of its six stars have fared since the show went off the air. PLUS, in our teasers, Josh recommends a fun summer song and Maureen suggests an article on Vox. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!  For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp44.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

In Episode 43, we talk about a truly impressive (and ongoing) streak happening on "Jeopardy"($1.2 million and counting for contestant James Holzhauer), "People" magazine naming Jennifer Garner as its cover star for its “Beautiful People” issue, the casting of Rami Malek as the next Bond villain and our predictions for how much "Avengers: Endgame" will make in its opening weekend.  In the Marquee Topic, we do a deep dive into the Beyoncé Netflix documentary "Homecoming." We talk about how we liked but didn't love the film itself (a mix of a concert film and a cinema verite documentary) but really felt strongly about the importance of its message, discuss the two major themes presented in the film (representation for minorities and motherhood/womanhood) and heap our praise onto Queen Bey. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a different Netflix documentary and Josh recommends a Netflix original show that will help you stay up to speed on politics and happenings around the world. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!  For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp43. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

In Episode 42, Maureen is back for a full episode! We discuss the "Grease" prequel in the works (NO THANKS), a fun throwback video to the set of "The Office" made by Jenna Fischer (Pam) herself and talk through an oral history of one of the most bizarre minutes in film history (especially when taken out of context) - a hilariously strange and gruesome moment from "Meet Joe Black." In the Marquee Topic, we examine the "Time"100: Most Influential People, 2019. We talk through surprises on the list (especially a few from the “Artist” category), who from the list personally influences us and whether or not the people represented are positive or negative influences in our culture. PLUS, in our teasers, Maureen recommends a fantasy novel and Josh recommends the second season of an HBO show. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!  For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp42.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

In Episode 41, Maureen returns from her two-week hiatus and gives her thoughts on everything we discussed on the podcast in her absence. We also give our reactions to the new full-length trailer for the upcoming live action remake of "The Lion King" and share just-released casting news for the 2020 film adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda's first musical, "In the Heights."  In the Marquee Topic, Josh is joined by special guest, friend and pop culture connoisseur, Mike Wilbur to break down the epic fantasy series "Game of Thrones" (WARNING: minor spoilers ahead). In our deep dive to prepare for the April 14 premiere of the final season, we talk about our overall impression of the show, our favorite scenes and characters and whether or not the show has more to say outside of being one of the most entertaining shows on television.   PLUS, in our Teasers, Maureen gives both a regular teaser and an UN-teaser (something you should avoid) and Josh gives a suggestion for a cover of a song from "A Star Is Born."  Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp41.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

In Episode 40, Josh welcomes guests Zac Crippen (the co-founder of the Vernacular Podcast Network, co-host of Vernacular Podcast and co-host of Vernacular's sports podcast The Line-Up) and Peter Laclede (co-host of Vernacular's sports podcast The Line-Up), for a very special episode where we rank a selection of 15 baseball movies from worst to first to celebrate the start of the 2019 Major League Baseball season.In no particular order, we ranked Field of Dreams, The Sandlot, The Bad News Bears, A League of Their Own, Bull Durham, Moneyball, The Natural, Fever Pitch, Major League, Rookie of the Year, Little Big League, Angels in the Outfield, For Love of the Game, 42 and The Rookie.We individually ranked each film on a scale of 1-10 in three categories. 1. Overall enjoyment of the film. 2. Overall quality of the film. 3. Baseball accuracy. We then averaged everyone's score to get a total for each movie out of a possible 30 points. The film with the lowest score would be #15 and the film with the highest score would be #1.The results might surprise you - the top 5 were separated by just 3 and a half points.Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support

In Episode 39, Josh is tackling another episode solo! He talks about Chris Evans' desire to star in a musical, Apple unveiling their new streaming service (set to launch this fall) called Apple TV + and some fascinating casting “what-ifs” from the 1999 blockbuster "The Matrix." In the Marquee Topic, Josh takes a look at the critically acclaimed and award-winning HBO show "Veep" and tells you why it's 100% worth the watch even if you don't think it can live up to the hype. PLUS, in his teaser, Josh recommends a YouTube video featuring an audition from a current "American Idol" contestant. Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!  For links mentioned in this episode, go here: http://bit.ly/PoppedCastEp39. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thepoppedcast/support