Podcasts about nick d

Nick is joined by film critics Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy for their regular round of movie reviews. They dig into Spike Lee's gripping new drama with Denzel Washington, Highest 2 Lowest, the high-octane sequel Nobody 2 starring Bob Odenkirk, and the wild, shoestring-budget horror oddity Jimmy and Stiggs, along with a few other fresh releases. Esmeralda Leon later stops by to take a nostalgic trip through the flashy days of LA Gear sneakers, afternoons spent watching Figure It Out on Nickelodeon, and late-night Taco Bell runs—preferably with a wisecracking chihuahua in the commercials. [Ep 377]

Uh-oh, Nicky hungie!!!!Ol' picky Nick ate around the Universe and is here to tell the tale of some delicious chicken, handheld mac & cheese, and a pretty average burger.Don't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and place your mobile order (just not until you've finished waiting for your table).SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Nick is joined by Hollywood Reporter TV critic Dan Fienberg for a conversation about his site The Fien Print and the latest chaos in the Big Brother house. They cover the return of King of the Hill, what to expect from Wednesday Season 2, and the debut of FX's Alien: Earth. The discussion also touches on Ozzy Osbourne's surprising TV legacy, the politics of South Park, and other small-screen topics. Esmeralda Leon then teams up with Nick to swap outrageous CTA stories. From a man licking every pole and handrail on a train, to Nick's bus ride with a loose mouse, to a woman on the Blue Line eating scrambled eggs with her bare hands right next to him—these tales prove public transit is never boring. [Ep 376]

AI isn't just hype, it's already changing how service companies capture leads, close deals, and keep customers happy. In this episode, Chris and Brandon dive into the most practical, boots-on-the-ground conversation we've ever had about AI for the trades. Our guest, Nick D'Urbano, CRO and co-founder of Distance, brings a wild career path, from Deloitte M&A to running growth for Victoria's Secret overseas, to his mission of helping restoration, plumbing, and HVAC companies stop letting revenue slip through the cracks Why you should listen: [00:03:37] Nick's career path and how e-commerce growth strategies translate perfectly into service industries. [00:10:19] Why your call intake process is probably leaking revenue—and how to fix it before spending more on marketing. [00:16:30] The cost of missed calls, after-hours gaps, and the “storm surge” scenario where AI can save six-figure jobs. [00:23:35] Offensive vs. defensive AI strategies—when to focus on lead capture vs. protecting the leads you've already paid for. [00:33:37] How far AI voice has come—and why it's no longer the clunky, robotic call bot you're picturing. [00:44:21] Using AI across different channels (voice, SMS, chat) to meet customers where they're at—in real time. [00:50:51] The opportunity to use AI for proactive customer check-ins to prevent small frustrations from turning into slow-pay invoices. [01:01:47] The three main ways Distance helps companies capture more leads and book more jobs. Did you know... Only 30% of businesses listed for sale actually find a buyer? Even more striking, just 10% of those sell for the price their owners anticipated or higher, meaning only 3% of all business owners achieve their desired sale price. By focusing on understanding and enhancing your enterprise value, you can significantly boost your chances of joining that successful 3%. Business Health & Value Assessment Start Assessment Know Your Enterprise Value. See Your Potential Gaps. Complete this assessment in less than 15 minutes and receive a free assessment for your business that includes: A Lite Valuation Of Your Business Your Value Multiplier Per Your Industry Health Assessment Per Our PYB Methodology Business Value & Growth Roadmap Tailored For You Value Acceleration Strategies Spotlight on Floodlight: Your Secret Weapon for Sales & Scaling This isn't a paid plug. It's real talk from the front lines. If you've ever thought, “How do I get a VP-level sales leader or even a sales team without hiring full-time?” Floodlight has the answer. Fractional Sales Leadership They act as your outsourced VP of Sales, taking full responsibility for training, managing, and growing your sales team. No six-figure hire needed. Clients often close 20 to 50 percent more deals within six months, thanks to data-driven coaching, CRM setup, scripts, and performance reviews.More at floodlightgrp.com/sales Commercial Sales MasterCourse A self-paced, video-driven B2B sales course designed specifically for restoration teams. Perfect for building commercial revenue and getting free from TPA handcuffs. Covers mindset, prospecting, pipeline building, LinkedIn lead generation, and includes a $250 discount with code SALESBOOST.Details at floodlightgrp.com/courses Tailored Consulting & Coaching Floodlight's Propel Your Business methodology offers a full-circle roadmap: financials, sales, marketing, leadership, recruiting, productivity. All built for contractors. These aren't “life coaches.” They're former restoration owners who've lived the chaos and know how to scale out of it.Explore more at floodlightgrp.com Live Training, Tools & Strategic Partnerships Floodlight also delivers live onsite and virtual training, keynote speaking, and leadership tracks covering operations, project management, and strategic growth. Bonus: They've vetted tools like Xcelerate, Liftify, and Sureti. Floodlight clients get access to exclusive discounts on tech that actually moves the needle.See all partnerships at floodlightgrp.com/partners Why it matters for you as a listener You don't need to figure this stuff out alone. If you're serious about sales growth, operational clarity, exit readiness, or leadership development, Floodlight is already helping folks like you scale smarter. And you get it from industry insiders. People who've sat in your chair, survived the fires, and built systems that actually work.

The episode James has been waiting for is finally here. We hope it doesn't SUCKKKKK BLEGHHHHHH VAMPIRE NOISES.Hear all about the best ride at Epic Universe, some spooktacular meet and greets, and a land built entirely out of aura.Don't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and do the mash.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Nick catches up with filmmaker, podcaster, and journalist Amy Guth to hear about her latest projects and the behind-the-scenes grind of getting a movie made. They talk about the quirks of working in a foreign language, the translation tools that make it possible, and the challenge of posting exciting updates on social media when most days are just paperwork and meetings. The conversation also drifts into the return of King of the Hill and a few other pop culture side roads. Esmeralda Leon then joins Nick for a lively recap of their time at the Flashback Weekend Horror Convention. From hanging out with Dee Wallace to handling Q&As and making a few too many vendor room purchases, they share stories from the event and wrap things up with a nostalgic dive into 90s pop culture.  [Ep 375]

In Episode 22 of Let's Set Your Table, host John D. and co-host Nick D. are joined by fellow HGI team member and Director of Tabletop & Smallwares, Rachel Byerly, and Director of Sales - Northwest at American Metalcraft, Eric Hagge. In this episode, they discuss the evolution of heating solutions in catering, focusing on the transition from traditional chafing fuel to innovative flameless heating technologies like the Buffet Boost. They explore the implications of these changes for operators in the food service industry, particularly in terms of safety and convenience. The conversation also touches on the vibrant and evolving food scene in Chicago, highlighting trends such as fusion cuisine and the resurgence of retro dining experiences.   Takeaways Chafing fuel has been a staple in catering for over 150 years Flameless heating options are becoming increasingly popular The Buffet Boost offers a safer alternative to chafing fuel Operators are looking for more convenient heating solutions Chicago's food scene is diversifying with new cuisines Fusion restaurants are on the rise in Chicago American Metalcraft has evolved from hubcaps to food service The Buffet Boost can hold food at 190 degrees for three hours Innovations in food service are essential for staying relevant The future of catering will likely involve more battery-operated solutions   Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of Heating Solutions in Catering 06:58 Innovations in Flameless Heating Technology 16:46 Trends in the Chicago Food Scene   Links -  Explore our innovative, industry leading lineup of manufacturers we rep at: hodegroup.com -  Visit the Hode Group Chicago Showroom: hodegroupshowroom.com -  Listen to Let's Set Your Table on Apple Podcasts

Nick welcomes The Consumerman Herb Weisbaum to tackle listener questions and cover the latest consumer news. They dig into updates on EV tax credits, a federal court decision striking down click-to-cancel rules, the surprising impact of Buy Now Pay Later deals on credit scores, and Kroger's shift to digital-only coupons. Later, Car Guy Tom Appel from Consumer Guide Automotive stops by to talk about NACS charging, Subaru's massive-screened 2026 Uncharted, and bizarre vintage car commercials from Dodge and Chrysler. Plus, another round of #Starspotter and #MysteryShow. [Ep 374]

Recorded live at Flashback Weekend, Nick sits down with horror icon Danielle Harris for a candid conversation in front of a packed crowd. [Ep 373]

Nick opens the show with a heartfelt tribute to Ryne Sandberg, honoring the legacy of the Hall of Famer and longtime Cubs icon, who passed away earlier this week. Sandberg's impact on Chicago baseball is remembered with affection and admiration. Then, Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy return to break down this week's movie releases. They dive into the psychological horror film Together, the new reboot of The Naked Gun starring Liam Neeson, and the sequel to the animated satire The Bad Guys 2, weighing in on whether these films live up to the originals or crash and burn. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to talk about the recent wave of celebrity deaths, including Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Hulk Hogan, and Ozzy Osbourne. While the losses are somber, they quickly shift gears into a much lighter mood, sharing excitement and plans for their upcoming appearances at Flashback Weekend, where horror, nostalgia, and mayhem await. [Ep 372]

J.K. Rowling sucks shit, we know this. But there's no denying the architectural magic behind Universal's latest land themed after the boy who lived.Hear all about the overrated elevator ride, the Evil Circus Redux, and more!Don't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and donate to The Trevor Project.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Nick sits down with horror icon Danielle Harris to talk all things Flashback Weekend. From her early days as a child actor in the “Halloween” franchise to her scene-stealing role in the “Hatchet” films, Danielle shares what it's been like growing up in the genre and how she's managed to keep things bloody and badass ever since. She also teases her return to Flashback Weekend for a “Hatchet” cast reunion and some unforgettable celebrity photo-ops. Nick and Danielle get into her other life as a podcast host, the unique bond horror fans have with the actors they grew up screaming at, and what she still loves most about working in the genre. Then Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to preview all the madness in store at this year's Flashback Weekend, including a live taping of this very show. Special guests like Svengoolie and Dee Wallace will hit the stage at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare, and if you're in the crowd, you might just become part of the show. [Ep 371]

Nick previews all the bloody fun coming to the Flashback Weekend Horror Convention, including a special live taping of this podcast with Esmeralda Leon, special guests Svengoolie and actress Dee Wallace (yes, the mom from E.T.), and the chance for fans to be part of the action. It's happening soon, and Nick's ready for mayhem. Later, he's joined by food writer and horror superfan Marnie Shure for a chat about her clever pieces like Trail to Taproom and Sauteed Standup, and what she's been watching lately. From the cult classic They Live to early reactions to 28 Years Later, it's a feast of horror talk. Then Esma returns to share more Flashback excitement and muse on the joys of aging, Ozzy Osbourne's final bow, and the new season of South Park, which kicks off with a jaw-dropping premiere. [Ep 370]

We, my friends, have a podcast.C-Ticket's EPIC Summer rolls on as Nick takes you soaring through his favorite land on the back of a majestic glide- err...racer? I don't know, the naming conventions are a little confusing.Dive into the Viking-filled world of How to Train Your Dragon on the Isle of Berk. Who knows? Maybe you'll enjoy a delicious Bud Light along the wayDon't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and get out of bed before 10.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Nick is joined by Dan Fienberg from The Hollywood Reporter for a sharp, funny breakdown of the new season of Big Brother and the cast of lovable idiots already making a mess of things. They also dig into the 2025 Emmy nominations, calling out the most satisfying nods and baffling snubs, with a passionate plea for Harrison Ford to finally take home some gold. Plus, they react to the wild new Dexter reboot and marvel at Jamie Lee Curtis dropping the word "jagoff" repeatedly on The Bear—which, somehow, Nick still hasn't seen. Later, Esmeralda Leon pops in to help Nick rewind to the chaotic, glorious heyday of VH1 reality TV. From The Surreal Life to Mob Wives to the unforgettable Flavor of Love, it's a nostalgic trip through some of the most absurd and addictive shows ever created. Plenty of laughs, solid takes, and maybe a little regret over just how much of that stuff we all actually watched. [Ep 369]

Nick, Erik Childress, and Steve Prokopy break down a packed lineup of new releases, starting with Ari Aster's eerie pandemic thriller Eddington. They also unpack the murky identity crisis of the I Know What You Did Last Summer reboot, dissect the twisted charm of the rom-com satire Oh, Hi!, and weigh in on the latest Superman movie that has sparked more controversy than applause. Esmeralda Leon then joins Nick for a passionate ode to Jean-Claude Van Damme, revisiting classics like Kickboxer, Bloodsport, and her guilty pleasure, Street Fighter. Along the way, she explains why most modern movies leave her baffled and yelling, “Is this even a movie?” at her screen. Hollywood, consider yourself warned. [Ep 368]

Let's-a go to Epic Universe for another week of C-Ticket's EPIC Summer!The boys are warping up and laying pipe for a mushroom-tastic trip to Super Nintendo World! Full of coins, shells, and WAY too much shit going on.Don't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and don your augmented reality visor prior to listening.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

With the annual Flashback Weekend Horror Convention just around the corner, Nick welcomes Mike Kerz—the man behind the madness—for a look at how this beloved event began and how it's grown into a horror fan's dream. From humble roots to a stacked lineup featuring Robert Englund, Dee Wallace, Joe Dante, Devon Sawa, Danielle Harris, and the casts of Terrifier, Re-Animator, The Howling, and more, this year's gathering at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare (Aug. 1–3) promises serious screams and nostalgia. Nick and Mike reflect on over two decades of hosting panels, fan memories, and the joy of celebrating genre film with a passionate community. Then Esmeralda Leon jumps in for a wide-ranging conversation about gentrification, the corporate takeover of everything from coffee to culture, and why Meg Ryan's character in You've Got Mail is actually the villain. It's horror, heart, and a little hypocrisy—all in one show. [Ep 367]

Nell Minow, a.k.a. "The Movie Mom," returns for a lively chat with Nick covering everything from her recent testimony before Congress to what she's packing for San Diego Comic-Con. They break down early buzz around the new Superman and Jurassic World films, and share their picks for the best movies of the year so far. Later, Esmeralda Leon jumps in with tales from her latest co-hosting gig alongside Brandon Weatherbee on You, Me, Them, Everybody. Things quickly take a turn toward the bizarre as they question the originality of the Harry Potter franchise, uncover unexpected truths about Liquid Paper, and go down a few other unexpected rabbit holes. [Ep 366]

Nick, James, and their close personal friend Vincent Various welcome you to Celestial Park - the recently gentrified hub of interdimensional travel colonized - err, discovered by Vinny V. himself!Hear all about fountains, music loops, a dueling coaster, and Nick's missed connection with a kind Colombian woman.Don't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and thank Captain Cacao for his service.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Nick sits down with filmmaker Don Coscarelli and producer Paul Pepperman to revisit cult favorites The Beastmaster and Phantasm, ahead of their Music Box Theatre screenings in Chicago. They share behind-the-scenes tales from the wild world of 70s independent filmmaking, including ferret-related chaos, tricky actors, and how they somehow snagged a PG rating despite nudity. Later, Esmeralda Leon drops by for a lighter turn, bringing along some cosmic trivia, reflections on Nick's 60th birthday, and highlights from a recent Texas getaway. But things really go off the rails when she launches into a passionate retelling of The Greasy Strangler—a movie so bizarre, it may have broken her brain. From indie classics to absurd oddities, this one covers it all. [Ep 365]

Nick checks in with film critics Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy to size up the movie year so far. From the best and worst releases to the biggest surprises of 2025, they take stock of what's worked, what flopped, and what to keep an eye on for the rest of the year. Whether it's unexpected gems or overhyped duds, nothing gets a free pass. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick for a gleeful roast of Independence Day. They swap stories of wild July 4th antics, from backyard pyrotechnics gone wrong to baffling acts of firework-related idiocy. If you've ever wondered just how reckless people can get in the name of patriotism, this segment has you covered. Celebrate responsibly, or at least try not to make the news. [EP 364]

Okay - now THIS is epic!That's right folks! Nicky boy has seen the promised land - he's been to Epic Universe, and he's bringing YOU the exclusive scoop all summer long!Buuuut before he can do that, he has to get down to Orlando. Hear all about his travel woes, an unfortunate encounter with a cranky cast member, and more in this EPIC kickoff episode!Don't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and be kind to customer service employees.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Nick kicks things off with The Consumerman himself, Herb Weisbaum, who brings the goods on protecting your wallet this summer. From spotting bait-and-switch tricks by shady moving companies to understanding how AI is fueling smarter, sneakier online scams, Herb shares practical advice with his usual clarity and bite. If you're hiring a house painter, he's also got the checklist you didn't know you needed. Later, Car Guy Tom Appel rolls in with updates on the hottest new rides and a surprising about-face from Ram—they're keeping the V8 engines in their trucks after all. Alongside some genuine auto insights, Tom and Nick take a hilarious detour through the wild world of old car commercials, including a baffling pitch for the 1975 Granada and the curiously confident 1977 Oldsmobile Omega SX. Rounding things out are new rounds of #Starspotter and #MysteryShow, with Nick pulling from his bottomless bag of stories, sightings, and sideways tangents. It's a solid ride from scams to sedans, with just enough weirdness to keep it moving. [EP 363]

Nick kicks things off with pro-wrestling insider Dr. Keith Lipinski from AAW Pro, diving into everything from WWE's controversial Saudi Arabia deal to what might truly be Goldberg's final match. There's also plenty to say about John Cena's surprise heel antics, and a deeper look at AEW's packed schedule—including the buzzworthy "Mexico Grand Slam," already being called one of 2025's standout shows. Swerve Strickland, Toni Storm, and MJF all get their due in a smart, rapid-fire rundown of what's hot in the ring. After the wrestling chat, Nick and Esmeralda Leon catch up on their summers—spoiler: there's sun, stories, and probably a complaint or two. They take on a few listener questions before swerving into stranger territory: Hollywood's most eccentric stars. From Joaquin Phoenix's head-scratching interviews to Shia LaBeouf's unpredictability, it's a gallery of oddball fame. [EP 362]

TV critic Dan Fienberg from The Hollywood Reporter returns to break down the best shows of 2025 so far—yes, we're already halfway through the year—and to share thoughts on Netflix's unsettling new drama The Waterfront, featuring a seriously creepy Topher Grace. Nick and Dan also dig into the Top Chef finale, Owen Wilson's new comedy Stick, and a pair of fascinating docs about Andy Kaufman and Barbara Walters. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick for a nostalgic (and slightly disturbing) trip through oddball topics like creepy kids, long-lost TV repairmen, the rise and fall of 3-D television, and those sketchy old foot x-ray machines. Esma also recaps a night of laughs at The Den Theater, where Matty Ryan headlined a standout comedy show. [EP 361]

Nick brings back film critics Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy to tear into the newest movie releases—some hits, a lot of misses. Pixar's Elio gets a once-over, 28 Years Later tries to keep the horror flame alive, and Bride Hard with Rebel Wilson lands with a thud. They also offer an early review of F1: The Movie, Brad Pitt's high-octane racing flick that turns out to be all rev and no traction. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to gear up for the upcoming Flashback Weekend Horror Convention. The two get into what really makes a movie worth seeing on the big screen—spoiler: it's not just a lot of close-ups and dialogue. They also dive into the strange fate of people who resemble Macaulay Culkin, and why Scarecrow was just too much for Esma to sit through. It's a conversation that shifts gears from cinematic spectacle to psychological unease, with plenty of laughs in between. [EP 360]

The boys have a busy few weeks so they're letting you peek behind the paywall with this preview of the Patreon!Once you're done admiring that alliteration, hop on over there to check out more episodes like this!Universal is bringing all of their most popular franchises together for a spectacular new parade and also "Sing" is there.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Nick teams up with Forbes music writer Jim Ryan to honor two towering figures lost last week: funk pioneer Sly Stone and Beach Boys genius Brian Wilson. Jim shares memories of past interviews with Norman Greenbaum, Jerry Harrison, and Steve Stevens, and breaks down two very different concert experiences—Wayne Newton in Michigan and AC/DC bringing the noise to Soldier Field. They also ponder Billy Idol's uncanny durability and confirm, once again, that Mike Love remains Mike Love. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins the mix to chat about city protests, brutal heat, and the growing list of celebrity doppelgangers. And yes, they attempt to solve one of the internet's dumbest mysteries: did Rob Schneider secretly swap sketches for suplexes and join the WWE? The truth may disappoint you. [EP 359]

Nick kicks things off with Jack Godfrey, the creative force behind 42 Balloons—a musical inspired by the true story of Larry Walters, the guy who floated into the sky strapped to weather balloons. Now playing at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, the show has been drawing buzz, and Jack shares how this wild tale took shape on stage. Then Monica Eng from Axios Chicago swings by with her usual eclectic mix of stories. From citywide protests to the red carpet at the James Beard Awards, she's been everywhere lately—even on those weird three-hour cruises where fans can awkwardly corner celebs. She also dishes on her latest run-ins riding the Red Line and weighs in on Jim's new take on the Chicken Polish. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to unpack summer's greatest discomforts. They cover the mysterious vanishing of windshield sunshades, patio furniture that brands your thighs, and the persistent agony of a hot butt. It's a warm-weather rant session, complete with laughs and just a hint of sweat. [EP 358]

No more music. No more lights. No more Muppet show tonight. The curtain has officially come down on both Muppet*Vision 3D and PizzeRizzo, coincidentally our two hosts' respective favorite theme park attractions in history. Join them on this retrospective that is mostly a philosophical debate about what constitutes "good" food.Don't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and resort to cheap 3D tricks.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

TV critic Dan Fienberg from The Hollywood Reporter drops by to talk all things television with Nick, starting with their predictions for the Top Chef finale. Dan also recaps the highs and lows of the Tony Awards, breaks down CNN's broadcast of Goodnight and Good Luck, and reviews the new wave of streaming content—including Netflix's moody procedural Dept. Q, Amazon's The Better Sister starring Jessica Biel and Elizabeth Banks, and Julianne Moore's twisted turn in Netflix's dark comedy Sirens. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick for a lighter conversation about oversized dogs, summer art fairs, and the bizarre world of celebrity lookalikes who don't resemble their supposed twins at all. [EP 357]

Nick kicks things off with Mike Kerz of Flashback Weekend and The Midway Drive-In to mark National Drive-In Day and explore the surprising opportunity for regular folks to own a piece of cinematic Americana. From midnight horror screenings to real estate with a screen, it's a nostalgic look at the past—and maybe your future. Later, Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy drop by for another spirited round of movie reviews, this time clashing over Wes Anderson's The Phoenician Scheme, the John Wick spinoff Ballerina, and the latest Stephen King adaptation, The Life of Chuck. Spoiler: things get heated. Wrapping things up, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to dissect oddball cable networks and Hollywood's most confusing lookalikes. Jessica Chastain or Bryce Dallas Howard? Even they're not sure some days. [EP 356]

Uh-oh! The boys are fighting again!James took a trip to Florida for an audition and there were a few points of contention. Hear all about James' rental car debacle, his weird hotel shower, and a disappointing lack of hot dogs.Don't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and set your alarm.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Nick kicks things off with Herb Weisbaum, aka The Consumerman, who breaks down the FTC's crackdown on hidden junk fees—what it means, how it works, and why it might finally spare you some surprise charges. They also dive into the sketchy world of overpriced solar installations and wrap with practical, money-saving travel tips for your summer plans. Later, Car Guy Tom Appel pulls up with tales of hybrid Toyotas, obscure concept cars inspired by butterflies, and a nostalgic look at the Super Jeep. There's also some history on the Pope-Mobile (yes, really) and a reality check on whether that Porsche you spotted is actually worth only twenty grand. As always, Nick throws in fresh rounds of #Starspotter and #MysteryShow to keep things unpredictable. [EP 355]

Nick welcomes back food writer and horror aficionado Marnie Shure for a conversation that spans terrifying films, bizarre food trends, and the upcoming Mortified Live event she's producing. From the online rabbit hole of “dinosaur eating” videos to the surprising joys of Lemonhead Ropes, Marnie shares her latest cultural obsessions—and issues a critical warning about one kitchen item you should never store near the stove. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to talk about the newly announced Karate Kid movie and where it fits in the ever-expanding dojo of the Karate Kid Universe. The two also dive into the legacy of Jackie Chan, the underappreciated brilliance of Just One of the Guys, and Esma shares reviews of the shows she's been streaming, including Slow Horses and The Last of Us. Plus: a brand-new installment of “The Easiest Pop Quiz Ever.” [EP 354]

Universal spared no expense in delivering one of the greatest coasters on Earth, but has science gone too far?Well, the genetically engineered dinos are okay. We're talking about podcasts. Should they be illegal? More at 11.Don't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and enjoy a delicious churro.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Nick is joined by TV critic Dan Fienberg from The Hollywood Reporter to unpack the season finale of Saturday Night Live, and break down the highs and lows of its 50th season. They also cover new episodes of Top Chef, Hacks, and dig into Amazon's comedy Overcompensating, plus HBO's original film Mountainhead starring Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman, and Ramy Youssef. And yes, they try to make sense of the whole “Max is now HBOMax again” situation. Later, Esmeralda Leon returns for another pop culture quiz, this time facing questions on Disney Princesses, rom-coms, and goth trivia. [EP 353]

Nick is joined by film critics Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy for reviews of the latest cinematic offerings, including Tom Cruise's return in Mission: Impossible, the offbeat music doc Swamp Dogg Gets His Pool Painted, the darkly comic Friendship, and a new installment of the ever-morbid Final Destination series. Later, Esmeralda Leon pops in for a spirited breakdown of some real-life Hollywood rivalries, debating whether to side with Alec Baldwin, Shia LaBeouf, or just back away from the mess entirely. [EP 352]

After several years (and "billions and billions of dollars") Universal has FINALLY opened the first major domestic theme park since 2001, and they had to celebrate in truly EPIC fashion - with a kinda janky 4+ hour live stream!The boys watched (most of) it and have lots of thoughts. Plus, the dragon!Don't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and ignite the thrill of feeling alive.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Nick welcomes music journalist Jim Ryan for a chat about his recent interviews with Adam Duritz and the group MSSV, plus reviews of concerts by The Smithereens and a Talking Heads celebration screening of Stop Making Sense hosted by Jerry Harrison. Naturally, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame takes its usual beating, and the guys weigh in on the Breakfast Club reunion at C2E2. Later, Esmeralda Leon returns as she and Nick wrap up their takedown of bad TV shows based on movies and expose some of Hollywood's most notoriously difficult stars. [Ep351]

Nick sits down with journalist and filmmaker Amy Guth to chat about her latest film and TV ventures taking her from Italy to Canada—assuming international tariffs don't throw a wrench in the works. Amy also shares updates on her podcasting life, dives into the marketing world, and breaks down some surprising business headlines. Later, Esmeralda Leon drops by for a fun conversation about the snacks they can't resist no matter the time or place, and a few hilariously absurd TV shows that somehow made it to air.

It's a spaceship! It's Earth! It's Spaceship Earth!Join Nick, James, and some very special guests for a soothing trip through time in space in the world's largest geodesic sphere!Don't forget to like, subscribe, rate, review, comment, share, and thank the Phoenicians.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/cticketpodCHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:https://youtube.com/@cticketpod?si=ig6ODv0zvbaXuFPhFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@cticketpodINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cticketpod/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/CTicketPodEMAIL US:cticketpod@gmail.comMERCH AVAILABLE NOW!https://www.teepublic.com/user/the-c-ticket-podcastThe C-Ticket Podcast: It's not the best theme park podcast, but it's probably somebody's favorite!Hosted by Nick D'Ambrosia and James PerlasMusic:Delightful D Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

TV critic Dan Fienberg from The Hollywood Reporter returns to break down the second-to-last episode of Saturday Night Live's 50th season, the latest from Top Chef, and the return of Poker Face with Natasha Lyonne. He also weighs in on new releases like MurderBot and Duster, and shares thoughts on the quiet shutdown of Amazon's Freevee. Later, Nick and Esmeralda Leon go down a 2017 rabbit hole and uncover a few truly baffling TV shows that somehow made it to air—yes, there was a Ferris Bueller series, and no, it didn't go well. [Ep 349]

Nick sits down with The Movie Mom, Nell Minow, for a wide-ranging chat that covers everything from her recent congressional testimony to her film writing at RogerEbert.com. They dive into the buzz around Thunderbolts and Sorry, Baby, and she shares highlights from Ebert Fest 2025. Later, Esmeralda Leon drops in for a nostalgic trip back to the chaos of 2017—a year that delivered peak weirdness—and the two swap picks for their favorite movie and TV moms, just in time for Mother's Day. [Ep 348]

In this "For The People" special, Nick kicks things off with Consumerman Herb Weisbaum from Checkbook.org, covering the return of student loan collections, the recent congressional moves on overdraft and credit card late fees, and some fresh credit card perks you might've missed. Herb also shares important health insurance updates and a few eye-opening AAA stories. Then, Car Guy Tom Appel from Consumer Guide Automotive hops on to chat about tariffs (so many tariffs!), Jeff Bezos jumping into the electric vehicle game, and nostalgic memories of Drive-Ins and the notorious film "Ishtar." Plus, they take a fun ride down memory lane with some forgotten car brands, celebrate the unforgettable 1974 Dodge Ramcharger ad campaign, and wrap things up with new rounds of #Starspotter and #MysteryShow. [Ep 347]

Nick welcomes the always-lovely Monica Eng from Axios Chicago to chat about a range of uniquely Chicago topics, including Aldi's surprising fine-dining options, Potbelly stepping things up with their new prime rib sandwich, the controversial speed cameras on LSD, and the ever-present challenges (and horrors) of riding the CTA Red Line. They also dive into the bizarre world of Malört candy and share details about an upcoming Axios event featuring Maria Pappas and Lori Lightfoot. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to catch up, answer listener emails, and revisit some of the most bizarre events from the very strange year of 2017—including the story of a man who had a 130-pound growth surgically removed, a growth that began as an ingrown hair...yes, really. [Ep 346]

Nick welcomes Pro-Wrestling expert Dr. Keith Lipinski from AAW Pro to talk about this year's Wrestlemania—including the Cena-Cody match, the joy of watching Dominik Mysterio, Becky Lynch's surprising heel turn, and Jay Uso making everyone Yeet! They also discuss the latest developments in AEW, preview the upcoming AAW Pro event, and explore the upcoming 90-minute TV special about the Von Erich family titled "Hollywood Demons." Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to catch up, chat about spring fever, and share their mutual dislike for summer camp. They also dive into some truly memorable celebrity quotes, including unforgettable gems from Sylvester Stallone, Brooke Shields, and Sarah Jessica Parker. [Ep 344]

Nick welcomes film critics Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy to review several new movies, including "The Accountant 2," "The Shrouds," "Cheech and Chong's Last Movie," "The Legend of Ochi," and more. They also share insights and highlights from the upcoming Chicago Critics Film Festival at The Music Box Theater during the first week of May. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to discuss the highs and lows of video game adaptations in movies and TV, celebrate Andy Samberg's comedic brilliance in the underappreciated classic "Hot Rod," and tackle rumors about a possible "Bloodsport" remake—both firmly agreeing that Jean-Claude Van Damme is truly irreplaceable. [Ep 344]

Nick welcomes TV critic Dan Fienberg from The Hollywood Reporter to talk about the return of several high-profile MAX shows: The Rehearsal, The Last of Us, and Hacks. Dan also reviews new series including #1 Happy Family, Government Cheese, and the Red Sox docuseries The Clubhouse: A Year With The Red Sox. Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to chat about some baffling modern Easter traditions, the new Cheech and Chong documentary, and another round of The Ultimate Pop Culture Quiz. This time, they try to figure out what exactly a Squishmallow is, and tackle the very serious cultural question: Is Pete Davidson hot? [Ep 343]