Podcasts about Whitey

Point Break 1991 Review is here, and Born to Watch is heading into the surf with Johnny Utah, Bodhi and the Ex-Presidents. Whitey, Dan, Gow and Damo revisit Kathryn Bigelow's action film to find out whether its mix of bank robberies, beach culture and skydiving still delivers. This is the movie review podcast where we don't take the movies or ourselves too seriously, and a film this gloriously committed to its own intensity gives us plenty to work with.For Whitey, Point Break was a video shop favourite and an easy Sunday afternoon watch. Dan and Gow have returned to it plenty of times over the years. Damo, despite being the crew's actual surfer, has barely revisited it since seeing it at the cinema. That makes for an interesting question: does knowing your way around a wave make this film more exciting, or make its surfing scenes impossible to ignore?Keanu Reeves plays Johnny Utah, a former college quarterback turned FBI agent who goes undercover among Los Angeles surfers. Patrick Swayze is Bodhi, the magnetic thrill-seeker at the centre of a crew that seems to live for the next wave. Gary Busey joins the ride as Utah's partner, Angelo Pappas. The boys get into the cast, the chemistry and the peculiar power Bodhi has to make everyone around him listen when he starts talking about freedom.They also take a close look at Kathryn Bigelow's direction. The action has a physical energy that helped make Point Break a favourite for a generation of viewers. But how much of the film holds together once the adrenaline wears off? The crew picks through the undercover investigation, the shifting pace of the story, and an ending that gives them plenty to discuss.Then Damo and Dan bring some surfing knowledge to the table. Watch closely, and a rider can appear to change stance, while separate waves seem to become one continuous ride. The night surfing draws particular attention. Whitey remembers being swept up in the film when he was younger, but Damo sees details that took him straight out of it. It turns into a lively argument about whether a film needs to get the sport right when the rest of the experience is this entertaining.Naturally, the conversation takes a few detours. There are memories of seeing the film at the cinema, stories from Whitey's video shop days, plenty of Patrick Swayze appreciation and a debate over Keanu's performance. The boys find time for Gary Busey, Australian accents and the question of which cast member really deserves to be called the star of the show. Damo also brings a Point Break inspired credit song that takes the episode somewhere even Johnny Utah might not have expected.The crew agrees on some moments and splits sharply on others. Nostalgia plays a part, especially for those who grew up with the film close at hand, but nobody lets a favourite movie escape a proper examination. From the beach fights to the airborne thrills, they revisit what makes Point Break so memorable and where it asks the audience to go along for the ride.There's also Film School for F-Wits and, of course, the Rank Bank. The boys have plenty to say about where this one belongs, but you'll have to listen to hear how the debate plays out. Bring your best Bodhi impression, keep an eye on those waves and join Born to Watch for a return to one of the most talked-about action films of the 1990s.Listen now and tell us: does Point Break still make you want to chase the next wave, or has Damo spotted something you can never unsee?#PointBreak #PointBreak1991 #PointBreakReview #BornToWatch #MovieReviewPodcast #PatrickSwayze #KeanuReeves #KathrynBigelow #90sMovies #ActionMovies

Rediffusion Plongez dans la traque de James “Whitey” Bulger, le parrain de Boston. Né dans les rues violentes du Boston des années 50, Bulger gravit les échelons du crime organisé jusqu'à devenir l'homme que tout le monde craint. Meurtres, rackets, trahisons… Whitey règne par la terreur, tout en profitant d'un pacte secret avec le FBI qui lui permet d'agir dans l'ombre en toute impunité. Pendant des décennies, il manipule policiers, gangsters et politiciens, se jouant du système comme personne. Lorsque la vérité éclate, sa chute révèle l'un des scandales les plus explosifs de l'histoire du crime américain. La reddition de Santa Monica le spot télévisé du FBI finit par porter ses fruits : une voisine reconnaît Catherine Greig et révèle la planque du couple à Santa Monica. Tandis que Bulger réalise qu'il est enfin repéré, l'équipe d'intervention menée par Scott Garriola met en place une ruse et cueille le parrain sans qu'il tire un coup de feu. Catherine se rend à son tour, et après seize ans de cavale, les deux fugitifs sont transférés à Boston pour être jugés. Whitey affronte alors un procès retentissant, marqué par les témoignages de ses anciens associés, avant d'écoper de deux peines à perpétuité. En prison, vieillissant et toujours provocateur, il finit assassiné en 2018, closant définitivement la trajectoire du parrain intouchable de Boston. Production : Bababam  Textes : Lola Bertet Voix : Anne Cosmao, Aurélien Gouas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rediffusion Plongez dans la traque de James “Whitey” Bulger, le parrain de Boston. Né dans les rues violentes du Boston des années 50, Bulger gravit les échelons du crime organisé jusqu'à devenir l'homme que tout le monde craint. Meurtres, rackets, trahisons… Whitey règne par la terreur, tout en profitant d'un pacte secret avec le FBI qui lui permet d'agir dans l'ombre en toute impunité. Pendant des décennies, il manipule policiers, gangsters et politiciens, se jouant du système comme personne. Lorsque la vérité éclate, sa chute révèle l'un des scandales les plus explosifs de l'histoire du crime américain. Les cadavres refont surface La coopération de Kevin Weeks permet au FBI de découvrir les charniers liés à Whitey Bulger, révélant l'étendue des meurtres qu'il a commis avec Stevie Flemmi. Pendant que Boston déterre ses victimes et que l'ex-agent John Connolly tombe pour corruption, Whitey poursuit sa cavale en Californie, multipliant identités et précautions. Les attentats du 11 septembre détournent un temps l'attention du FBI, offrant un répit au fugitif. Mais les années passent, les investigations reprennent, et la traque renaît avec une nouvelle équipe fédérale prête à tout pour retrouver Bulger. À mesure que son passé refait surface, l'étau se resserre irrémédiablement autour du parrain de Boston. Production : Bababam  Textes : Lola Bertet Voix : Anne Cosmao, Aurélien Gouas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rediffusion Plongez dans la traque de James “Whitey” Bulger, le parrain de Boston. Né dans les rues violentes du Boston des années 50, Bulger gravit les échelons du crime organisé jusqu'à devenir l'homme que tout le monde craint. Meurtres, rackets, trahisons… Whitey règne par la terreur, tout en profitant d'un pacte secret avec le FBI qui lui permet d'agir dans l'ombre en toute impunité. Pendant des décennies, il manipule policiers, gangsters et politiciens, se jouant du système comme personne. Lorsque la vérité éclate, sa chute révèle l'un des scandales les plus explosifs de l'histoire du crime américain. Le chat et la souris Dans ce deuxième épisode, Whitey Bulger poursuit sa cavale à travers les États-Unis avec Catherine Greig, trouvant refuge en Louisiane sous une fausse identité. Pendant qu'il goûte à une vie presque paisible à Grand Isle, le FBI resserre l'étau : Teresa Stanley parle, Kevin Weeks hésite, et les agents fédéraux traquent les moindres traces du fugitif. S'ensuit un jeu du chat et de la souris où chaque déplacement, chaque voiture, chaque faux papier devient une piste potentielle. Tandis que Whitey multiplie les identités et échappe de justesse aux policiers, l'affaire éclate au grand jour : les révélations sur son pacte avec le FBI font scandale, bouleversent l'enquête et isolent définitivement le parrain de Boston. La cavale continue, mais le filet commence à se refermer. Production : Bababam  Textes : Lola Bertet Voix : Anne Cosmao, Aurélien Gouas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Martian (2015) review lands on Born to Watch this week as Whitey, Gow and Will blast off to Mars for Ridley Scott's hugely entertaining tale of survival, science, potatoes and one very unlucky astronaut. The Movie Review Podcast, where we do not take the movies or ourselves too seriously, is tackling one of the most rewatchable science-fiction films of the last decade, starring Matt Damon as Mark Watney, a man forced to do what none of us could possibly manage: stay alive on Mars using his brains, determination and an alarming amount of human fertiliser.Directed by Ridley Scott and adapted from Andy Weir's novel, The Martian starts with a simple but brutal premise. During a mission to Mars, astronaut Mark Watney is struck during a violent storm, presumed dead and left behind as the rest of his crew evacuates the planet. One problem: Watney isn't dead.Now stranded millions of kilometres from Earth, he has limited food, no immediate way to communicate with NASA and years to wait before another mission could possibly reach him.Easy.The boys dive into why The Martian works so well despite essentially being Cast Away on Mars. Matt Damon has to carry huge sections of the film alone, yet Watney never becomes boring. He is smart, vulnerable, funny and constantly solving problems, usually just before another problem arrives and threatens to kill him.That's one of the things Whitey loves most about the movie. Watney doesn't magically get everything right. Things go wrong. Calculations fail. Equipment breaks. Plans collapse. Every solution seems to create another problem, giving the film an authenticity that keeps the tension alive.Will has recently read Andy Weir's novel, so we also get into the differences between page and screen. The book dives much deeper into the science behind Watney's survival and adds context for how qualified he is to handle the mechanical and botanical challenges thrown his way.Then there is that cast.Jessica Chastain, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Jeff Daniels, Kristen Wiig, Sean Bean, Michael Peña, Kate Mara, Sebastian Stan, Benedict Wong and Donald Glover help turn what could have been a one-man survival story into something much bigger.The boys have different picks when it comes to the standout performances, with Damon naturally getting plenty of love, while Jeff Daniels and Chiwetel Ejiofor also come in for some serious praise. Donald Glover might arrive late, but he certainly makes an impression.The episode also asks whether The Martian might represent the last truly great Ridley Scott movie. That opens the door to a run-through of Scott's extraordinary career, from Alien and Blade Runner through Gladiator, Black Hawk Down and American Gangster, before looking at some of his more recent efforts.Then there is the music.For a bloke trapped on another planet, Watney has access to plenty of tunes; unfortunately for him, Commander Lewis appears to have left him with a collection heavily weighted towards disco. It becomes one of the movie's best running jokes and naturally gives Born to Watch plenty to work with.The Good, the Bad and the Ugly gets into everything from Damon's performance and Watney's relentless problem-solving to the genuinely stressful HAB sequence, NASA's decision-making and a couple of moments where the science-fiction starts leaning a little more heavily on the fiction.The film also sparks plenty of discussion for its surprisingly positive outlook. Rather than turning Watney's rescue into a simple American hero story, The Martian becomes a global effort. Scientists, astronauts, and space agencies work together toward one objective: bringing one man home.Of course, this is Born to Watch, so somewhere between the intelligent discussion of orbital mechanics, survival psychology and Ridley Scott's filmmaking, things inevitably deteriorate.Potatoes are discussed.Human waste is discussed.Duct tape gets the respect it deserves.And Will's ongoing journey from Worky to potentially fully qualified podcast contributor continues under intense performance-review conditions.Strap yourself into the Hermes, pack enough potatoes and make sure someone remembered the duct tape.This is The Martian (2015) Review, Born to Watch style.#TheMartian #TheMartianReview #BornToWatch #MovieReviewPodcast #MattDamon #RidleyScott #ScienceFiction #SciFiMovies #AndyWeir #MoviePodcast

Rediffusion Plongez dans la traque de James “Whitey” Bulger, le parrain de Boston. Né dans les rues violentes du Boston des années 50, Bulger gravit les échelons du crime organisé jusqu'à devenir l'homme que tout le monde craint. Meurtres, rackets, trahisons… Whitey règne par la terreur, tout en profitant d'un pacte secret avec le FBI qui lui permet d'agir dans l'ombre en toute impunité. Pendant des décennies, il manipule policiers, gangsters et politiciens, se jouant du système comme personne. Lorsque la vérité éclate, sa chute révèle l'un des scandales les plus explosifs de l'histoire du crime américain. Le pacte avec le diable Gamin des logements sociaux de Boston devenu voyou instable, puis parrain redouté. Après la prison, les expériences MK-Ultra et les années d'errance, Whitey revient dans son quartier, soigne son image… tout en plongeant dans le crime organisé. Tandis que Boston s'embrase dans les années 70, il scelle un pacte secret avec le FBI : en échange d'informations sur la mafia italienne, il obtient une immunité officieuse. Protégé par l'agent John Connolly, Whitey élimine ses rivaux en toute impunité et s'impose comme le maître de South Boston. Une alliance toxique vient de naître : celle d'un gangster prêt à tout, et d'un agent fédéral fasciné par le pouvoir. Production : Bababam  Textes : Lola Bertet Voix : Anne Cosmao, Aurélien Gouas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bienvenue dans La Traque. Cette semaine, découvrez l'histoire du parrain de Boston : James “Whitey” Bulger. Né dans les rues violentes du Boston des années 50, Bulger gravit les échelons du crime organisé jusqu'à devenir l'homme que tout le monde craint. Meurtres, rackets, trahisons… Whitey règne par la terreur, tout en profitant d'un pacte secret avec le FBI qui lui permet d'agir dans l'ombre en toute impunité.Pendant des décennies, il manipule policiers, gangsters et politiciens, se jouant du système comme personne. Lorsque la vérité éclate, c'est une traque internationale qui s'engage pour capturer l'un des fugitifs les plus recherchés du pays. Sa chute révèle l'un des scandales les plus explosifs de l'histoire du crime américain. Découvrez cette nouvelle saison prochainement disponible sur toutes les plateformes d'écoute. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Is Spinal Tap Review takes Born to Watch somewhere few podcasts dare to go: backstage with Britain's loudest band, where amplifiers go to eleven, drummers have an alarming mortality rate, Stonehenge has serious measurement issues, and a beautiful piano composition can somehow be called “Lick My Love Pump”.Whitey, Damo and Dan are back to revisit Rob Reiner's 1984 mockumentary masterpiece, This Is Spinal Tap, a movie that barely made a ripple when it first arrived but went on to become one of the most influential comedies ever made. More than four decades later, the question is simple: is Spinal Tap still funny, or has the volume finally been turned down?For Whitey, the film has grown with every viewing. Watching it as a teenager meant missing half the jokes, but coming back to it years later reveals just how clever the movie really is. Damo is firmly aboard the Tap train, while Dan comes into this one having seen plenty of famous scenes over the years without previously sitting through the whole film from start to finish.That gives us the perfect mix for a Born to Watch review.The boys dive into what made This Is Spinal Tap so revolutionary. Rob Reiner, Christopher Guest, Michael McKean and Harry Shearer created something that looks and sounds so much like a genuine rock documentary that audiences could be forgiven for wondering whether Spinal Tap was actually real.And that is where the genius lives.There are no desperate punchlines or actors screaming at the audience to tell them where the joke is. The characters play everything completely straight. The stupidity is delivered with total sincerity, whether Nigel Tufnel is protecting a guitar that cannot even be looked at, Derek Smalls is calmly navigating another band catastrophe, or David St. Hubbins is watching his musical empire slowly fall apart.Then there are the moments that have become comedy folklore.Stonehenge.The amps that go to eleven.“Lick My Love Pump”.Smell the Glove.The constantly changing drummers.Getting hopelessly lost backstage.And some very questionable objects stuffed inside some extremely tight trousers.The boys pick apart their favourite scenes, with Dan loving the absurd brilliance of "Lick My Love Pump", Damo championing Nigel's priceless guitar collection scene, and Whitey finding himself laughing harder at the film than he ever has before.But this episode goes well beyond simply quoting the classics.The crew ask whether This Is Spinal Tap became the blueprint for the mockumentary format that followed. Would shows such as The Office and countless other mockumentary films and television series have existed in quite the same way without Reiner and the Tap boys showing everyone how it could be done?There is also plenty of love for the supporting cast and cameos. Billy Crystal, Dana Carvey, Fran Drescher, Fred Willard, Bruno Kirby, Paul Shaffer and Anjelica Huston all enter the conversation as the boys realise just how much talent is scattered throughout the film.Naturally, the episode also explores Spinal Tap's extraordinary musical history. The band's fictional back catalogue might contain some of the greatest album titles never released by a real band, from Intravenous DeMilo and Shark Sandwich to Smell the Glove, Silent but Deadly and the magnificent Bent for the Rent.Then it is time for all the regular Born to Watch madness.The Good, the Bad and the Ugly digs into what still works, what might require multiple watches to truly appreciate, and whether there is actually much "ugly" to complain about. The boys agree this movie is packed with jokes that are incredibly easy to miss the first time around, making repeat viewings almost essential.There is also Question Time, Quick Fire, Film School for F-Wits, plenty of musical detours and, naturally, another Kick Arse Credit Song from Dan.More than 40 years after its release, This Is Spinal Tap remains one of those rare comedies whose influence has become almost bigger than the movie itself. Its jokes have entered everyday language, its characters feel strangely believable, and its commitment to playing absolute stupidity completely straight remains almost impossible to replicate.So grab your guitar, prepare the miniature Stonehenge, sniff the feedbag and make sure your amplifier has that all-important extra number.Because Born to Watch is turning this episode up to eleven.Join the Born to Watch crew If you love movies but don't believe they need to be treated like sacred works of art, you've found your people. Follow the podcast, share the episode with a mate, jump onto the socials and tell us which movie deserves the Born to Watch treatment next.#ThisIsSpinalTap #ThisIsSpinalTapReview #BornToWatch #MovieReviewPodcast #SpinalTap #RobReiner #ChristopherGuest #80sMovies #ComedyMovies #Mockumentary

Follow-ups: Measles deaths, 3 in 2025 @2:42 Kennedy asked to remove Pennsylvania measles death from CDC tally @3:09 CDC Judge Once Again Blocks Mail-In Ballot Rules @4:33 News: Realty Agent loses job @6:31 Global warming will exceed limit, UN says @10:55 Politics: Natalie Harp exposed in 'creepy' Oval Office appearance @14:04 Do D.E.I. Bike Paths Exist? @15:50 Trump Officials Draft Plan to Pay At-Home Parents, Using Funds for Working Ones @18:28 Trump Billboard @22:51 Trump to Break Ground on Arch Before Getting Approval @24:44 Smithsonian's Secretary to Resign as Trump Tries to Rule the Institution @27:16 Secretary of the Army Resigns After Clashing With Hegseth Over Firings @30:45 Pentagon Gives Polygraph Tests to Joint Staff Members @38:27 This is fine - JD @47:57 Vereinigte Arabische Emirate sollen Netanyahu vor Hamas-Attacke am 7. @45:10 Trump Voter Breaks Down After His Brother Dies in ICE Custody @49:51 Health/Medicine/Science: a new analysis shows a 57% spike in refusals of Vitamin K shots @1:00:07 Religious Nonsense: Eiffel Tower management under fire @1:01:20 Final Stories: Influencer, 43, dies after penis enlargement surgery goes wrong @1:04:44 Holy Prepuce @1:12:28

The Foul Hooked Whitey is back with Part One of "The FHW's Top Ten List of Don't be the Angler that..." #flyfishing#eastrosebudflyandtackle#eastrosebud2026#eastrosebudbillings2026#eastrosebudthermop2026

The Foul Hooked Whitey returns with Part Two of "The FHW's Top Ten List of Don't be the Angler that..." #flyfishing#eastrosebudflyandtackle#eastrosebud2026#eastrosebudbillings2026#eastrosebudthermop2026

This week on Born to Watch, we head into Prohibition-era Chicago for The Untouchables 1987 Review, revisiting Brian De Palma's stylish gangster classic starring Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, Robert De Niro and Andy Garcia. It's cops, Capone, Tommy guns, questionable accents, immaculate suits and enough testosterone to make this one of the great 1980s sausage fests. More importantly, this special episode is dedicated to our great mate Chupperz, who requested the film. Chupperz, this one is for you.Released in 1987, The Untouchables takes us into the battle between federal agent Eliot Ness and Chicago crime boss Al Capone. Kevin Costner plays Ness as the ultimate straight-laced good guy, determined to bring Capone down legally, at least until Chicago starts teaching him that playing by the rules might not be enough.Enter Sean Connery as Jimmy Malone.Connery won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role, and the boys spend plenty of time discussing whether he is also the real star of the movie. Malone brings the experience, attitude, and gravitas Ness needs, along with one of the best approaches to law enforcement ever put on screen. If they pull a knife, you might want to start thinking about bringing something slightly more substantial.Then there's Andy Garcia as George Stone, young, ridiculously cool, deadly accurate and sporting enough back hair to qualify as an additional cast member. Garcia doesn't need many lines to make an impression. He simply turns up, looks cool and shoots people with an accuracy that would make most action heroes jealous.And then we get Bobby De Niro.Robert De Niro goes full method as Al Capone, putting on the weight and delivering a wonderfully smug, intimidating performance. The problem? Whitey wants more of him. A lot more. The discussion turns to whether The Untouchables missed an opportunity by keeping Capone relatively limited, instead of giving De Niro more screen time and letting the film explore both sides of the battle.There's also plenty of love for Brian De Palma's direction. This movie is packed with memorable filmmaking, from brutal moments of violence to beautifully constructed suspense. The famous Union Station sequence remains the standout, slowly tightening the tension before everything explodes. Even if the boys have a few questions about that pram, the woman carrying it, the strangely busy midnight railway station and why nobody thought to give her a hand.The episode also digs into Ennio Morricone's brilliant score, one of the elements that immediately gives The Untouchables its identity. The music is bold, instantly recognisable and a massive part of why the movie still feels so cinematic decades later.Of course, this is Born to Watch, so respectful film analysis only lasts so long.The boys question continuity problems, Sean Connery's Scottish take on an Irish accent, Frank Nitti's questionable escape plan, Capone's all-in-one grooming experience, Costner's white-knight energy, and whether a piece of paper listing bribed jurors would really be enough to send a courtroom completely sideways.There's also the usual trip through The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, Snorbs Report, Film School for F-Wits, quotables, trivia and the random tangents that somehow turn a discussion about a Brian De Palma gangster movie into conversations that have absolutely no right being there.But beneath all the piss-taking is genuine appreciation for a movie that still looks fantastic. The costumes, locations, production design and old-school filmmaking give The Untouchables a scale and atmosphere that remains impressive nearly four decades later.Is Costner charismatic enough to carry it? Is Connery actually the MVP? Should De Niro have been given far more screen time? Is the Union Station shootout still one of the great action sequences of the 1980s?And most importantly, where does The Untouchables eventually land in the sacred halls of the Born to Watch Rank Bank?You'll have to listen to find out.JOIN THE CONVERSATIONThink The Untouchables is an untouchable 1980s classic? Let us know your favourite scene, character and quote. And if you've got a movie you think deserves the full Born to Watch treatment, send it our way. Just remember, as Chupperz discovered, getting your movie selected also means giving the boys permission to absolutely tear it apart.Born to Watch, the Movie Review Podcast where we don't take the movies, or ourselves, too seriously.#TheUntouchables #TheUntouchables1987 #BornToWatch #MovieReviewPodcast #KevinCostner #SeanConnery #RobertDeNiro #AndyGarcia #BrianDePalma #80sMovies

This week on Born to Watch, we sink our teeth into a Fright Night 1985 Review, revisiting one of the most recognisable vampire movies of the VHS era. For Whitey, this one comes loaded with childhood nostalgia, a movie discovered through an unforgettable video shop cover and watched countless times growing up. For Gow and Damo, however, this is essentially fresh blood. So, after more than 40 years, does Fright Night still deliver the perfect combination of horror, comedy and '80s vampire cool, or should some childhood favourites remain safely buried in the past?Directed by Tom Holland, Fright Night stars William Ragsdale as Charlie Brewster, a teenager who discovers that his charming new neighbour, Jerry Dandrige, is actually a vampire. Naturally, nobody believes him. Not his mum, not his girlfriend Amy, not the police, and certainly not washed-up television horror host Peter Vincent. Unfortunately for Charlie, Jerry knows that Charlie knows, and things are about to get considerably more complicated.The boys start with the nostalgia factor, and this might be one of the biggest tests yet of whether childhood memories can survive a modern rewatch. Whitey remembers Fright Night as the ideal gateway horror movie, scary enough for a young teenager but funny and accessible enough to keep bringing him back. Gow and Damo don't have that emotional safety net, so they judge the film in the cold, unforgiving light of 2026.That difference produces exactly the sort of Born to Watch discussion you'd expect.Chris Sarandon's Jerry Dandrige gets plenty of attention. Smooth, ridiculously confident and rocking some magnificent '80s wardrobe choices, Jerry might be the strongest thing the movie has going for it. The nightclub sequence gets examined, the seductive vampire powers are discussed, and Whitey can't help noticing some serious Michael Douglas vibes years before Basic Instinct arrived.Then there's Roddy McDowall as Peter Vincent, the former movie vampire killer who discovers that dealing with the real thing is considerably different from acting in front of a camera. The boys look back at McDowall's incredible career, from Planet of the Apes to his decades of film and television work, while deciding just how much Peter Vincent adds to Fright Night.But we need to talk about Evil Ed.Oh dear.Stephen Geoffreys' performance becomes one of the episode's biggest talking points, and not necessarily for the reasons the filmmakers hoped. Is Evil Ed deliberately annoying? Is he supposed to be funny? Is he operating in a completely different movie from everybody else? And most importantly, just how high can the Born to Watch annoyance scale actually go?The boys also dive into Amanda Bearse as Amy, William Ragsdale's Charlie, Charlie's questionable decision-making, Jerry's supernatural seduction abilities and the wonderfully bizarre logic that comes with trying to convince the police that the bloke next door is a vampire.There is plenty to admire visually. The practical effects still provide some of Fright Night's strongest moments, particularly as the film heads towards its creature-heavy finale. Melting faces, transformations, wolves, vampires, mist-covered houses, and gloriously physical '80s effects all remind us why this era of horror still has such a passionate following.Naturally, being Born to Watch, the conversation doesn't remain focused on vampires for very long.The boys wander through the movies of 1985, revisit the glory days of video shops, discuss horror films as a childhood rite of passage, remember a time when Australian television had only a handful of channels, somehow find their way into Married... with Children, debate vampire rules and take several conversational detours that absolutely nobody planned.There's also the usual critical analysis, questionable observations, movie trivia, overs and unders, the trailer breakdown, the Good, the Bad and the Ugly, and enough inappropriate vampire discussion to ensure Bram Stoker is spinning violently in his grave.The biggest question, though, remains simple.Can nostalgia save Fright Night?For one member of the Born to Watch crew, this was once a genuine childhood favourite. Decades later, surrounded by two first-time viewers and forced to examine every strange performance, plot decision and ageing effect, those memories are about to face their toughest test yet.Grab the garlic, check the mirrors, lock the bedroom window and whatever you do, don't invite the new neighbour inside.It's time for Fright Night on Born to Watch.Born to Watch, the movie review podcast where we don't take the movies, or ourselves, too seriously.#FrightNight #FrightNight1985 #FrightNightReview #BornToWatch #MovieReviewPodcast #80sMovies #80sHorror #VampireMovies #HorrorMovies #CultMovies

If a movie was ever made for the Born to Watch treatment, this is it. In our Rambo III 1988 Review, Whitey is joined by two certified '80s action tragics, Bones and DJ Glazby, to revisit Sylvester Stallone at his biggest, most shredded and possibly most ridiculous. The Russians are back, Colonel Trautman needs rescuing, Afghanistan is the battlefield, and John J. Rambo is about to discover that retirement is apparently not an option.For Whitey, Rambo isn't simply another action franchise. John J. Rambo has basically been part of his movie-watching life forever, and Rambo III was the first instalment he saw on the big screen. Bones and Glaz have similar credentials, with all three admitting they've probably watched these movies more than 100 times. That level of unhealthy familiarity can only mean one thing: two hours of remembering lines, picking apart scenes and asking questions nobody involved in the production ever expected anyone to ask.Released in 1988, Rambo III takes everything from the previous film and turns the dial past eleven. Bigger budget. Bigger explosions. Bigger weapons. Bigger muscles. Bigger hair. Stallone is in absolutely outrageous condition, sporting a physique that sends the boys down several completely unnecessary conversational rabbit holes.The story begins with Rambo attempting to live a peaceful life in Thailand before Colonel Trautman arrives asking for help with a mission into Afghanistan. Rambo declines, Trautman heads off without him and promptly gets himself captured. Naturally, Rambo changes his mind and goes after his old mate.Simple.What follows is peak late-'80s action excess.The boys dive into Rambo's magnificent opening stick fight, that red headband, the suspiciously dangerous spectator arrangements and the logistical nightmare of figuring out who exactly everyone is betting on. There are questions about the ridiculous staircase Trautman climbs to find Rambo, Rambo's magnificent 1988 hair and whether Colonel Trautman might be one of the oldest soldiers ever voluntarily sent behind enemy lines.Then there's Stallone himself.Rambo talks considerably more this time around, although nobody is going to mistake him for Shakespeare, and the boys discuss whether Sly knew exactly what sort of movie he was making or genuinely believed there was something much more profound buried underneath all those explosions.One thing everyone can agree on is that the practical action still looks fantastic.Real explosions, squibs, stunt work, enormous military hardware and physical effects give Rambo III a weight that many modern CGI-heavy action movies struggle to recreate. The cave sequence in particular gets plenty of love, with Whitey arguing that Rambo hunting enemies through the darkness is exactly where the character is at his best. Even the sound of Rambo firing an arrow gets nominated as one of cinema's great instantly recognisable noises.There's also plenty of behind-the-scenes madness. The film carried an enormous budget for its time, went through a director change early in production and ultimately became one of the biggest action productions of its era. Somehow, the Razzies still came calling, something the boys have very strong opinions about.Because this is Born to Watch, Rambo III also leads us into the wider Rambo universe. The boys attempt to rank the entire franchise, debate First Blood versus the increasingly outrageous sequels, revisit Rambo II and discuss where Rambo III belongs among Stallone's greatest action achievements.And then comes the most important question.Does Rambo III still work?It's too long. It's incredibly stupid in places. Its politics have aged in fascinating ways. Colonel Trautman may be surprisingly useless. But when Stallone picks up the bow, the explosions start, and that glorious Jerry Goldsmith score kicks into gear, none of that seems to matter quite as much.This is Born to Watch, The Movie Review Podcast where we don't take the movies, or ourselves, too seriously.Strap yourself in, tighten the headband and prepare for peak Stallone.Rambo III is back.#RamboIII #Rambo #SylvesterStallone #80sMovies #80sAction #ActionMovies #MovieReview #BornToWatch #MoviePodcast #Stallone

The boys are heading back to the decade of slick crime flicks, sharp dialogue and Hollywood cool for our Get Shorty 1995 Movie Review. This is peak John Travolta, riding the post-Pulp Fiction wave; Gene Hackman is doing comedy without really doing comedy, and Dennis Farina has arrived to swear at practically everyone in Los Angeles.Welcome back to Born to Watch, the Movie Review Podcast where we don't take the movies or ourselves too seriously.This week Whitey and Gow are joined by a returning Dan, who has finally wandered back into the studio after his extended sabbatical. It doesn't take long before old stories, old insults and the questionable exploits of 1990s G start flying around the room.But eventually, somehow, we get to Get Shorty.Adapted from the Elmore Leonard novel and directed by Barry Sonnenfeld, Get Shorty drops loan shark Chili Palmer into Hollywood and quickly discovers that the movie business might be even more crooked than organised crime. Chili comes to Los Angeles chasing money and ends up chasing something completely different, a shot at the movies.And nobody could play Chili Palmer quite like John Travolta.The boys dig into Travolta's incredible mid-'90s resurgence and why Chili might be one of his coolest performances. This isn't the dialled-up Travolta of Face/Off or the villainous version from Broken Arrow. Chili is controlled, confident, charismatic and almost impossible to rattle. As Whitey puts it, he's basically Vincent Vega without the heroin problem.Then there's Gene Hackman as B-movie producer Harry Zimm. Hackman was apparently reluctant to play comedy, which makes his performance even better. He plays Harry almost completely straight while chaos unfolds around him, and the result is bloody funny.Rene Russo brings Karen Flores to life, Danny DeVito sends up the Hollywood superstar as Martin Weir, Delroy Lindo is outstanding as Bo Catlett, and a pre-Sopranos James Gandolfini turns up as Bear.But then there's Dennis Farina.Farina's Ray "Bones" Barboni has no interest in becoming a producer, landing a movie deal or joining Hollywood's endless bullshit machine. He wants his money. That's it. His delivery, aggression, and complete inability to understand why everyone else is suddenly obsessed with making movies produce some of the episode's biggest laughs. By the time the boys get to Star of the Show, Farina is very much in the conversation.The real star, however, might be the dialogue.The boys talk about how Get Shorty captures Elmore Leonard's distinctive rhythm, humour and effortless conversations. Whitey remembers absolutely hammering this movie after first seeing it at Hoyts with the boys, watching it repeatedly on VHS because he loved the back-and-forth between the characters.That leads perfectly into Film School for F-Wits, where Dan dives into Elmore Leonard. Get Shorty was Leonard's favourite adaptation of his work, and the boys explore the run that also gave us Jackie Brown and Out of Sight. Dan also breaks down Leonard's famous approach to writing, including natural dialogue, avoiding unnecessary exposition and one beautifully simple philosophy: if your writing sounds like writing, rewrite it.There's also plenty buried in Listen to This, including the actors considered for Chili Palmer, Danny DeVito originally being lined up for the role, James Gandolfini's performance attracting the attention of David Chase, Tarantino's connection to the project and Travolta's determination to protect Leonard's dialogue.Add The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, 1995 movie memories, Quickfire, quotables and the G-Man's wonderfully ridiculous Born to Get Shorty Kick Arse Credit Song, and we've got ourselves another proper Born to Watch outing.Is Get Shorty still one of the smartest crime comedies of the '90s? Does Travolta's Chili Palmer remain one of cinema's coolest operators? And can Dennis Farina steal an entire movie simply by being Dennis Farina?There's only one way to find out.Join Whitey, Gow and Dan as Born to Watch heads to Hollywood, where everybody wants to be in the movie business, even the gangsters.#GetShorty #GetShortyMovie #JohnTravolta #GeneHackman #DennisFarina #ElmoreLeonard #90sMovies #MovieReview #MoviePodcast #BornToWatch

The Foul Hooked Whitey returns with Part One of "Bighorn River Apocalypse" ...#flyfishing#eastrosebudflyandtackle#eastrosebud2026#eastrosebudbillings2026#eastrosebudthermop2026

The Foul Hooked Whitey returns with Part Two of "Bighorn River Apocalypse" ...#flyfishing#eastrosebudflyandtackle#eastrosebud2026#eastrosebudbillings2026#eastrosebudthermop2026

Whitey goes downtown. Tim has no chill. Tatanka museum is badass.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Warriors 1979 Review is finally here, and this week on Born to Watch, Whitey, Gow and Damo are heading deep into enemy territory for a movie they've been circling since the early days of the podcast. Walter Hill's 1979 cult classic has leather vests, painted faces, subway trains, some of the strangest gangs ever assembled and one very simple objective: get back to Coney Island alive. The Movie Review Podcast, where we don't take the movies or ourselves too seriously, is about to find out if The Warriors can still come out to play.For the boys, this isn't just another movie review.The Warriors carries some serious childhood baggage.This was one of those movies you heard about before you actually saw it. The video shop cover caught your eye; older kids talked about it, and somehow the movie's reputation became almost as important as the movie itself. Whitey remembers hammering it during his teenage years, while Damo recalls hiring it on VHS and watching the bloody thing twice back-to-back.That's the sort of nostalgia we're dealing with here.The setup remains magnificent.Cyrus has a dream. Get every gang in New York together, stop fighting each other and realise they collectively outnumber the cops.CAN YOU DIG IT?Unfortunately, Luther can't.Cyrus goes down, The Warriors get blamed, and suddenly a crew from Coney Island is stranded in the Bronx with every gang in New York looking to collect.What follows is essentially one long journey home through a New York City that feels like it exists in another universe.Whitey, Gow and Damo get stuck into Walter Hill's world-building and the collection of gangs roaming the streets. The Turnbull ACs look genuinely terrifying. The Lizzies have guns but apparently attended the Imperial Stormtrooper Marksmanship Academy. The Orphans desperately want someone to take them seriously.And then there are the Baseball Furies.Baseball uniforms. Painted faces. Baseball bats.It shouldn't work.It absolutely works.The boys also give plenty of love to Barry De Vorzon's brilliant score. From the opening moments, that pulsing soundtrack drags you straight into The Warriors' version of New York, and the music accompanying the Baseball Furies chase remains an absolute belter.Then there's the cast.Michael Beck brings the brooding as Swan, while James Remar is perfectly unhinged as Ajax, a bloke who seems about five seconds away from causing a problem in every scene he enters.But David Patrick Kelly's Luther may own the movie.Three bottles on his fingers."Warriors... come out to play-ay."An improvised moment that became one of the most recognisable scenes in cult movie history.Of course, nostalgia only gets you so far on Born to Watch.The boys ask whether a film with such a notorious reputation is actually violent enough. They question the shooting ability of the Lizzies, the sheer amount of running required while wearing a leather vest with no shirt, and whether the final confrontation delivers the payoff the movie has been building towards.There's also plenty of Walter Hill appreciation, including his incredible run through movies like Southern Comfort, 48 Hrs., Streets of Fire, Red Heat and Last Man Standing.Where does The Warriors land?You'll have to listen.After more than four years and 226 episodes, the F-Wits have finally made it back to Coney Island.Grab your vest, paint your face, jump on the subway and come along for the ride.WARRIORS... COME OUT TO PLAY-AY!JOIN THE BORN TO WATCH CREWLove the show? Follow Born to Watch, leave us a five-star review and, most importantly, share the episode with another movie-loving F-Wit.Because podcasts don't grow on their own, people.Can you dig it?#TheWarriors #TheWarriors1979 #BornToWatch #MovieReviewPodcast #CultMovies #WalterHill #ClassicMovies #1970sMovies #BaseballFuries #CanYouDigIt

All aboard for our second last Trains episode! . . . YOU DON'T KNOW MOJACK is a podcast dedicated to exploring the entire SST catalogue, in order, from start to finish. During the podcast we will discuss all the releases that are part of our core DNA, as well as many lesser-known releases that deserve a second chance, or releases that we are discovering for the very first time (we actually don't know Mojack!). First and foremost we are fans, and acknowledge that we are not perfect and don't know everything – sometimes the discussion is more about a time, place, feeling, personal experience or random tangents, and less about the facts (but we will try to get to the facts too). Facebook: www.facebook.com/mojackpod/ Twitter: @mojackpod Instagram: www.instagram.com/mojackpod/ Blog: www.mojackpod.com/ Tumblr: www.tumblr.com/blog/mojackpod Theme Song: Shockflesh

Whitey drops in for a cool chat & names his Dream 13! Any player. Any era. Any team. Any competition ... then combine them!The Dream Team Series is driven by https://www.cooksplumbing.com.au

This week on Born to Watch, we're diving deep beneath the surface for our Crimson Tide (1995) Review, revisiting Tony Scott's tense 1995 submarine thriller starring two absolute acting heavyweights, Gene Hackman and Denzel Washington. It's a film packed with military drama, explosive confrontations, unforgettable performances, and enough pressure to make anyone glad they never enlisted in the Navy.Whitey and Damo return to the captain's chair to break down one of Tony Scott's most underrated films, a movie that proves you don't need endless explosions to create edge-of-your-seat tension. When a US nuclear submarine receives an incomplete launch order during an international crisis, Captain Frank Ramsey (Gene Hackman) and Executive Officer Ron Hunter (Denzel Washington) find themselves locked in a battle that could determine the fate of the entire world.At its heart, Crimson Tide isn't really about submarines or nuclear weapons. It's about leadership.Gene Hackman delivers one of the most intimidating performances of his legendary career as the old-school Captain Ramsey, a man who believes orders are meant to be followed without question. Opposite him is Denzel Washington, calm, measured, and incredibly composed as Hunter, the officer who believes thinking before acting might just save millions of lives.The chemistry between these two acting giants drives every scene. Every conversation feels like a heavyweight boxing match where neither man wants to blink first. Whitey and Damo debate whose side they'd be on, whether Ramsey is a fearless wartime leader or simply an egotistical loose cannon, and whether Hunter's calm approach would really survive under the pressure of nuclear war.Of course, this is Born to Watch, so things quickly drift into discussions about sweaty submarines, impossible flat-top haircuts, George Dzundza somehow fitting through submarine hatches, Tony Scott's signature directing style, Hans Zimmer's early military score, and why James Gandolfini was already becoming Hollywood's go-to bloke for playing absolute jerks before The Sopranos.The boys also revisit Tony Scott's incredible filmography, comparing him to brother Ridley Scott, while reminiscing about classics including Top Gun, True Romance, The Last Boy Scout, Enemy of the State, Man on Fire, Deja Vu and more. Is Tony Scott one of the greatest blockbuster directors of the 1990s? The debate certainly gets underway.As always, there's plenty of Born to Watch goodness along the way. Expect the IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes comparisons, the VHS synopsis, the 1995 Hit, Sleeper and Dud, plenty of movie trivia, questionable observations, and enough laughs to break the tension inside the USS Alabama.The discussion also shines a light on the incredible supporting cast. Viggo Mortensen appears long before becoming Aragorn, James Gandolfini is perfectly cast as another intimidating authority figure, while early performances from Ryan Phillippe and Steve Zahn provide plenty of "I forgot they were in this!" moments.The episode also explores whether Crimson Tide deserves its reputation as one of the greatest submarine films ever made. How does it compare to The Hunt for Red October? Is Gene Hackman's Captain Ramsey one of cinema's best military leaders or one of its most dangerous? Does Denzel Washington quietly deliver one of the finest performances of his career?If you love intense thrillers, powerhouse acting performances, Tony Scott's kinetic filmmaking style, or simply enjoy hearing four mates argue passionately about movies while constantly getting distracted by completely unrelated topics, this episode is for you.So grab your popcorn, secure the launch keys, and prepare to dive deep into one of the smartest action thrillers of the 1990s.Have you seen Crimson Tide? We'd love to know whose side you're on. Was Captain Ramsey right to follow orders without hesitation, or did Hunter make the only decision that could save humanity? Join the conversation across all our social channels and let us know your thoughts. Don't forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and tell a movie-loving mate about Born to Watch. Your support helps us keep revisiting the films we all grew up with.#BornToWatch #CrimsonTide #CrimsonTide1995 #MovieReview #TonyScott #DenzelWashington #GeneHackman #90sMovies #FilmPodcast #MoviePodcast

Saddleback Golf Club is a public 18-hole golf course located in Firestone, Colorado, about 30 miles north of Denver. It's known for being an affordable, player-friendly course with a fun personality and a relaxed atmosphere. On this episode of The Wednesday Match Play Podcast powered by Heritage Creations USA, Whitey introduces us to Saddleback Golf Club and shares what makes this unique facility stand out. He discusses the club's use of autonomous mowers, robotic range ball pickers, and his connection to the NGCOA. We also dive into the club's feature in Golf Digest, water conservation initiatives, dynamic pricing, and his advice for golf course owners and operators navigating today's industry. This was a heartfelt conversation, and it was an honor to have Whitey to the show. Let's tee off!

This week on Born to Watch, the boys dive into a true cult classic with our Big Wednesday Movie Review, the coming-of-age surfing epic that has inspired generations of surfers while leaving plenty of movie fans wondering what all the fuss is about. Directed by the legendary John Milius, Big Wednesday isn't just about riding waves; it's about growing up, friendships, the passing of time, and the harsh reality that life eventually catches up with everyone. Whitey, G-Man and Damo paddle out into one of the most personal films ever covered on the podcast, and the discussion quickly reveals a massive divide. For G-Man, this is sacred territory, a film that captures everything he loves about surfing culture and the changing seasons of life. For Whitey, it's a movie full of unanswered questions that leaves him searching for meaning between the swells. Somewhere in the middle sits Damo, appreciating both the spectacular surfing sequences and the emotional weight hidden beneath the surface.The boys break down the journey of Matt, Jack and Leroy, three lifelong mates whose lives unfold across more than a decade as they chase waves, girls, parties, responsibility and eventually the mythical Big Wednesday itself. Is the famous swell simply a perfect wave, or is it a metaphor for life's biggest moments? G-Man comes armed with enough knowledge to teach a university course on the film, explaining the significance of each swell and how every chapter represents another stage of growing older.Along the way, the conversation drifts into everything that makes Born to Watch what it is. Whitey questions why nobody seems capable of explaining anything in 1970s cinema, Damo reminisces about recording surfing competitions onto VHS tapes before the internet existed, and G-Man somehow turns an episode about surfing into a passionate defence of Jan-Michael Vincent's career.Speaking of Jan-Michael Vincent, the boys explore what should have been one of Hollywood's biggest success stories. Blessed with movie star looks and undeniable charisma, Vincent seemed destined to become one of the industry's leading men before a series of personal struggles derailed his career. They also examine the careers of William Katt, Gary Busey, Lea Purcell and the incredible creative team behind the film, including legendary director John Milius and composer Basil Poledouris.As always, the regular segments are packed with laughs. The team looks back at 1978, discussing classics including The Deer Hunter, Grease, Superman, Animal House and Every Which Way But Loose. The Snorb's Report uncovers another unforgettable scene from Animal House, while Hit, Sleeper, Dud delivers recommendations ranging from Midnight Express and The Wild Geese through to the gloriously ridiculous disaster movie The Swarm.Of course, no Born to Watch episode would be complete without random tangents. There are discussions about beach culture, lending surfboards to complete strangers, teenage house parties, Bear's outrageous life choices, surfing legends, Airwolf, The Greatest American Hero, Star Wars auditions, Gary Busey's teeth, and whether anyone has ever actually met an old surfer who correctly predicted the mythical "Big Wednesday".Whether you grew up quoting Matt Johnson, dreamed of chasing perfect waves, or you've never understood surfing culture at all, this episode celebrates a film that means something different to everyone who watches it. Some see an unforgettable surfing movie. Others see one of the greatest coming-of-age stories ever made. Whitey still isn't entirely sure what he watched.So grab a beer, wax the board, paddle out with the boys, and join us as we revisit one of cinema's most beloved cult classics. The waves are building, the friendships are tested, and eventually, Big Wednesday arrives.If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share Born to Watch with your mates. Every new listener helps us keep celebrating the movies we all grew up loving, one classic at a time.#BornToWatch #BigWednesday #BigWednesdayMovieReview #MoviePodcast #SurfMovies #JohnMilius #CultClassic #FilmReview #MovieLovers #PodcastAustralia

State employees returning to Downtown Sacramento following Gov. Newsom's Return-To-Office order are finding a vastly different universe from the vibrant metro area of 2019, the last time Sacramento food writer Becky Grunewald was on the Podcast. Many longtime lunch and coffee favorites have closed, moved, or offer only limited hours. She joined us to talk about some current lunch options for the Downtown crowd, and other highlights of the local food scene.  Plus, as always, we tell you Who Had the Worst Week in California Politics. 1:18 Rising Star: Annika Bjork 1:48 Experts Expound: Gavin Newsom's legacy 2:10 Proposition 40 4:45 Becky Grunewald 6:05 Five picks for Abridged 7:05 Drunken Tortilla 8:28 Buddah Bowls and Rolls 9:03 CalPERS Cafeteria 9:36 Capitol Weekly article on Capitol favorites 12:20 Mother (RIP) 13:42 Pizza Supreme Being 15:05 Buffalo Pizza's breakfast pizza 16:47 Sapha Kafae 18:40 My Sister's Cafe 21:59 Jimboys 24:58 Sal's Tacos 26:00 Whitey's Jolly Kone 26:47 The Sunflower Drive-In 28:45 DoorDash 32:32 Stockton detour: Manny's California Fresh 34:20 Sacramento burgers 41:12 WWCA Want to support the Capitol Weekly Podcast? Make your tax deductible donation here: capitolweekly.net/donations/ Capitol Weekly Podcast theme is "Pickin' My Way" by Eddie Lang  "#WorstWeekCA" Beat provided by freebeats.io Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tim Riedel grew up thinking his stories didn't matter. He didn't see a lot of Indigenous movies, even less featuring his Red River Metis tribe; the ones he caught felt more like Schoolhouse Rock primers for Whitey.So as a filmmaker, he turned his attention outwards to More info on ANCESTRAL BEASTS can be found here.---Follow The Movies on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Letterboxd⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Throw a couple dollars in the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tip jar!

Natale Olivieri wanted to sell bottled drinks so people could take them home. Noticed no premade chocolate milk, so… YooHoo! Dave Young: Welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast, teaching business owners the not so secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom and pop to major brands. Stephen Semple is a marketing consultant, story collector and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick and business partner, Dave Young. Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor, which is, well, it’s us, but we’re highlighting ads we’ve written and produced for our clients. So here’s one of those. [Central Heating & Air Ad] Dave Young: Welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast. Dave Young here alongside Stephen Semple. And we’re talking about empires, big businesses, big enterprises that have gone global, have gone ballistic and become huge, huge names. And Stephen whispered in my ear that we’re going to be talking about Yoo-hoo. Stephen Semple: Yoo-hoo. Dave Young: Not yahoo. Stephen Semple: Yoo-hoo. Dave Young: I thought he was just trying to get my attention when he said it. But no, Yoo-hoo. It’s a soft drink, right? Is it like the predecessor of Mountain Dew? Is it related? Stephen Semple: Somewhat. Somewhat but it’s a- Dave Young: I kind of remember drinking a bottle of Yoo-hoo when I was a kid. Stephen Semple: It’s a chocolate drink though. Dave Young: Oh, it’s the chocolate thing. Yeah, yeah. No, I don’t think I’ve ever drank a bottle of that. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Well, and the reason why it’s kind of a predecessor to a bunch of things is that it really was the first in the made to drink category. It actually invented that category of made to drink type. Dave Young: Made to drink as opposed to a soda fountain where you’re mixing the syrup and the soda at the point of consumption. Stephen Semple: Correct. Or an orange juice where you mix the concentrate. It was sort of, again, one of the very first made. Today it’s part of Keurig. And as we- Dave Young: Is it really? Stephen Semple: Yeah. It’s part of Keurig today. Yeah. Dave Young: I don’t know why that doesn’t seem to fit what I think of- Stephen Semple: Well, Keurig owns a bunch of things now, like their Dr. Pepper and there’s a number of things in the Keurig world today. Dave Young: I’m not keeping up with the… Pretty soon they’re all going to be owned by one company. Stephen Semple: Well, you’re not keeping up with the mergers and acquisitions? Dave Young: No, not at all. Try to hide from it. What are you going to do? Stephen Semple: Because Keurig doesn’t break out the sales, the estimates are somewhere between 100 million and 300 million in sales through Yoo-hoo. But what we do know is it’s a pretty big deal to be part of that group now. Now it was started by Natale Olivieri in 1928 and he sold it to Max Geller, who was an advertising executive in the early 1960s for a million bucks. But a million bucks in the 1960s was good money, right? Dave Young: Probably good retirement for the guy in the ’60s. Stephen Semple: And that’s basically what he did. He retired, moved to Florida, and didn’t work again. Natale’s an Italian immigrant and he’s a soda shop owner in New Jersey. Dave Young: That makes sense. That tracks. Stephen Semple: Yeah. And he’s making his own bottle of fruit sodas, but he’s struggling to differentiate from Orange Crush and Nehi. Dave Young: Okay. Stephen Semple: And his drinks are called True Fruit and he uses these high quality ingredients and they’re sold in these take-home bottles, which was unusual at the time. But what he noticed is a lot of people, he was losing a lot of business to the chocolate drinks sold at the soda fountain across the street. Dave Young: Okay. Stephen Semple: Because remember, soda fountains is where we used to go and get all sorts of things like milkshakes. Right? Dave Young: Yeah. But he was doing bottled drinks and take them home. Stephen Semple: Bottled fruit drinks. Dave Young: Fruit drinks. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Bottled fruit drink. Dave Young: Okay. Not sodas. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Not sodas. But he also looked around, he saw there was no pre-bottled chocolate milk on the market. Dave Young: Okay. Yeah. Stephen Semple: So he had this idea, what if I could make a shelf-stable chocolate drink that customers could have anywhere, anytime? All that sort of stuff, unprecedented idea, right? Dave Young: Sounds like a million-dollar idea. Stephen Semple: Yeah. It turned out to be, but there were some challenges along the way. The first challenge is people don’t have refrigeration. It’s not widespread. Milk spoils. Dave Young: Put some milk in a bottle and yeah, that seems problematic. Stephen Semple: Yeah. So how do you create a milk-like experience and taste without milk? That’s kind of challenge number one. So he experiments with a bunch of different things, and he comes across this whole idea of a milk protein and this dairy byproduct that he put together that suddenly created this milky flavor with lower fat and better freshness, had more shelf life. But despite that this was now whey-based, it was still not really and truly a shelf stable product. It was better than milk, but it was not yet what was needed. Dave Young: Got you. Stephen Semple: And in fact, he was working so hard on this that he started to kind of almost ignore his soda business and that actually began to falter. And he reached the point where frankly he almost gave up. Dave Young: Wow. Okay. Stephen Semple: So he’s at the end of his rope, he’s almost given up, and he got actually inspired one day when he was home and he watched his wife canning fruit using the hot fill method. Dave Young: Okay. Stephen Semple: Now what the hot fill method is, you heat the bottle interior and the liquid to just over 200 degrees Fahrenheit. I think it’s like 214 or something like that. And then seal it while it’s hot, which basically prevents bacterial contamination. Dave Young: The end result is when it cools, there’s a vacuum that’s formed and- Stephen Semple: There’s a vacuum that formed and also all the bacteria was killed. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: Or a good chunk of it, enough of it that now the product is quite shelf stable. So he applied this to his drink and now he’s able to produce a shelf stable drink that’s smooth, cocoa flavored, dessert-like, sweet, all the things that he’s looking for. But he also realizes he has another problem. He can’t call it True Fruit. Dave Young: It’s chocolate fruit. Stephen Semple: Because that would be kind of confusing. Dave Young: My favorite chocolate fruit. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Kind of a confusing name for chocolate drink. So he decides to call it Yoo-hoo. And Yoo-hoo was inspired by a line in the song called the Indian Love Call. And literally the Indian Love Call, Yoo-hoo. Right? Dave Young: Okay. Stephen Semple: You can actually go back and listen to this old song. He heard the song and he said, “That’s what I’m going to call the drink.” MUSIC: Back in our days of happy childhood, Yoohoo means please come out and play I was so bashful in the wild-wood Now I am bolder, I wrote and told her You’ll hear me calling Yoohoo, ‘Neath your window some sweet day You’ll hear me calling Yoohoo, Yoohoo, Then you’ll know I’m home to stay When I hear your cheery answer, It will make my dreams come true Because I know that Yoohoo Means I love you Stephen Semple: Now here’s the part that I know, Dave, you would love about this. People were skeptic because it gave no clues to the product. Yoo-hoo doesn’t say chocolate. Dave Young: Yoo-hoo, try it. Stephen Semple: It doesn’t say drink. It doesn’t say any of those things. All it is different and memorable. Dave Young: Yeah. I think that’s great. And honestly, stealing a line from a song, not the worst idea. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Yeah. Dave Young: Especially if it’s in the popular vernacular. Stephen Semple: It was at the time. It was at the time. And the thing I loved about it is, Dave, how often do we talk about where people are trying to name things right on the money and it’s uninspiring and uninteresting and not memorable? Here’s a guy who I guess in a former life you were him because you called it Yoo-hoo. Dave Young: Yoo-hoo. I would’ve called something else Yoo-hoo, but he already did it. So no, I like that. And I think it just never became huge enough brand. I don’t know that I’ve ever seen it in a store. Stephen Semple: Well- Dave Young: But I could just not be looking for it either. Stephen Semple: There was a time it did get big versus everybody else, so we’ll talk a little bit about that next. So it’s 1928 Olivieri starts basically selling the world first shelf stable bottled chocolate drink. Now, why do we call it chocolate drink? Dave Young: Stay tuned. We’re going to wrap up this story and tell you how to apply this lesson to your business right after this. [Using Stories To Sell] Dave Young: Let’s pick up our story where we left off and trust me, you haven’t missed a thing. Stephen Semple: Now, why do we call it chocolate drink? Because the FDA required it to be called chocolate drink because it contained no milk. Dave Young: Got you. So was that whey or milk proteins, the stuff in it? Stephen Semple: So that’s why they couldn’t call it chocolate milk. Yeah, it’s milk proteins and whey. So basically the FDA said, “You can’t call it chocolate milk because it’s not milk.” So it’s called a chocolate drink. Dave Young: So he invented… What he did is he invented the protein shake. Stephen Semple: Basically. Yeah. I guess I hadn’t thought about it that way, but yeah, basically. Yeah. Dave Young: CrossFit didn’t exist back then. Stephen Semple: It did. Dave Young: So there was no real market for crookie shakes. Stephen Semple: Yeah. That was called… They had a different name for it back then. It was called work. Dave Young: How do those people get away with calling that other one muscle milk? Stephen Semple: I don’t. Dave Young: I don’t know. I’m chasing a rabbit into the woods. Let’s get back to Yoo-hoo. Stephen Semple: Okay. So Yoo-hoo becomes a local hit. It’s pretty popular in New Jersey, then moves into Pennsylvania. Consumers like it. Restaurants start carrying it, starts getting onto grocery store shelves because people love the durability of it. And really again, this whole idea is the product created this new category. Ready to drink chocolate that’s shelf stable. Now through the Great Depression and into the 1950s, he scaled production. He got to the stage where they were pretty big. He got to the stage where they were manufacturing 250 bottles a minute. Dave Young: Wow, okay. Yeah. Stephen Semple: In the facility in New Jersey and in South Carolina, the facility in South Carolina, they were doing 300,000 cases a year. Dave Young: Okay. Stephen Semple: So pretty big. Dave Young: It’s a lot of Yoo-hoo. Stephen Semple: Pretty big. And basically one of the things that he did to make it popular, because what he knew was he was competing against Nestle and Hershey’s because they very quickly came out with things like that. So in 1955, comes up with this marketing idea because he’s now facing this competition. He’s no longer the only game in town. So he has this chance meeting with Yogi Berra. As we know, Yogi Berra was the winner of two American League MVPs. He was a five-time consecutive World Series champion, right? Pretty popular guy. Dave Young: Mm-hmm. And famous for his weird slip-ups with language. It was just these Yogi Berra-isms. Stephen Semple: Yeah, Yogi Berra-isms. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: One of my favorite ones is no one goes to the mall any longer because it’s too busy. Dave Young: Yeah. Oh, that restaurant used to be really popular till everybody started going there. Stephen Semple: Exactly, exactly. Or my favorite one of his is deja vu all over again. Dave Young: Uh-huh. Yeah. So Yogi Berra becomes their spokesman? Stephen Semple: Yeah. And he actually created an endorsement deal that was innovative for the time, but has now been done a lot because he didn’t have a lot of money to give Yogi Berra. So what he gave Yogi Berra was stock options. Dave Young: All right. Stephen Semple: And that led to endorsements also from Mickey Mantle and Whitney Ford. So he’s got Whitney Ford, Mickey Mantle and Yogi Berra. And basically they start branding it the drink of champions. Dave Young: Okay. That’s cute. Stephen Semple: Right. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: Predated the breakfast of champions, right? Dave Young: Yeah. That’s right. Stephen Semple: The drink of champions. But could do it because he had these people who were champions endorsing- Dave Young: They were champions. Yeah. Stephen Semple: … endorsing the product. So it’s the early 1960s and Olivieri has this opportunity to sell to Max Geller for a million bucks, which would be roughly like 10 million today, retires at Florida. Soon afterwards, now Max was a smart guy because soon afterwards they do a distribution deal with Pepsi. Dave Young: There you go. Yep. Stephen Semple: And then later Yoo-hoo would be acquired by Keurig. And at the time that the acquisition with Keurig happened, they were doing a hundred million bottles a year of Yoo-hoo. So still 100 million bottles a year is nothing to sneeze out. Dave Young: With my mouth, you’d think I’d stumble across one now and then. Stephen Semple: Yeah. And I’ve always just sort of thought maybe it’s not in Canada. I’ve not stumbled across it but- Dave Young: I think when I look at it and I think about the name and I don’t know the Indian song, so it just feels like a child’s drink. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Maybe. Maybe. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: But I thought it was pretty cool from the standpoint of here he is and he’s seeing this thing happen and decides to invent this thing that no one has done before, which is this shelf stable chocolate drink and then decided to do this really fun name and then had this opportunity for the endorsement deal and didn’t go, “Oh, I can’t endorse Yogi Berra. I have no money.” Dave Young: Yeah. Yeah. Stephen Semple: Instead looked at it and went, “Well, wait a minute. If he endorses it and we do well, the stock price will go up, so why don’t I give him stock options?” Dave Young: So Yogi and Mickey and Whitey Ford, they did okay too. Stephen Semple: Yeah. I’m sure they did just fine. And that became a standard for endorsements going forward where celebrities much more, instead of taking the cash, would have royalties or shares in companies or things along that lines, which not only made endorsements more lucrative, but also opened the door for smaller businesses to be able to do it. Dave Young: Yeah. You see it all the time. Even movie stars are like, “Don’t pay me as much, but give me a percentage of profits.” Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: And from what I was able to gather, the Yogi Berra was literally, if not the first endorsement done that way, one of the very first endorsements done that way, which really showed innovative thinking because it would be easy to get caught in the, “I can’t afford it” rather than, “Huh, what’s an alternative solution to this problem?” Dave Young: So next time you’re on the Wizard Academy Campus, I think you should bring a couple of bottles of Yoo-hoo and we’ll sip some Yoo-hoo. I don’t know, is it a breakfast drink or is that an afternoon… Because I would for sure make a cocktail out of it. Stephen Semple: Well, then it’s afternoon. Dave Young: I bet it tastes really good with Kahlúa or creme de cocoa. Stephen Semple: I’m sure. You know what? With Kahlúa, it’d be great, I think. Dave Young: Yeah. I think so. I think this is worth exploring is what I’m saying. Stephen Semple: You know what? I think we owe it to the world- Dave Young: We owe it to our audience to- Stephen Semple: … to do a little bit of experimentation on this to determine what is the best way to drink Yoo-hoo. Dave Young: Uh-huh. It can’t just be straight off the shelf because that’s just not how science works. Stephen Semple: It’s not. Well, and if we’re going to do science, we got to do a couple of different iterations. Dave Young: Sure. I mean, is it a whiskey drink? If so, is it an Irish whiskey drink? I feel like that might be good. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Yeah. We’ll give them Baileys, this Irish whiskey. I’m going to say it’s probably more of the Irish whiskey side. Dave Young: That’s probably where it’s headed. All right. Well, I’m looking forward to it now, my first taste of Yoo-hoo. Stephen Semple: We’re taking it from a shelf stable drink to a making us instable drink. Dave Young: When I say my first drink of Yoo-hoo, it makes me sound like that’s a word that you would use to bleep something else out. Right? I hit him right in the yoo-hoo. Oh, what a fun story. I hope he had a wonderful retirement in Florida and I’m looking forward to- Stephen Semple: I’m sure he did. I’m sure he did. Dave Young: … looking forward to raising a glass of Yoo-hoo next time we’re in the same room, Stephen. Stephen Semple: All right. Awesome. Thanks. Okay. Thanks, David. Dave Young: Thanks for listening to the podcast. Please share us, subscribe on your favorite podcast app and leave us a big fat juicy five star rating and review at Apple Podcasts. And if you’d like to schedule your own 90-minute Empire Building session, you can do it at empirebuildingprogram.com.

This week on Born to Watch, it's time for our Air Force One Movie Review, the movie review podcast where we don't take the movies or ourselves too seriously. Whitey, G-Man, and Will the Worky climb aboard one of the most patriotic action films ever made, as Harrison Ford swaps his whip and fedora for the Oval Office and proves that sometimes the President really can save the day.Released in 1997 and directed by Wolfgang Petersen, Air Force One became one of the biggest blockbusters of the year, delivering a simple but irresistible premise. Terrorists hijack the President's plane, take his family hostage and quickly discover they've picked a fight with a Commander-in-Chief who just happens to be a Medal of Honour recipient.The boys dive into whether this 90s action favourite still holds up almost three decades later, or whether nostalgia is doing most of the heavy lifting.Harrison Ford once again proves why he remains one of Hollywood's greatest accidental heroes. Whether he's Han Solo, Indiana Jones, Dr Richard Kimble or President James Marshall, Ford has a knack for making ordinary people believe they can survive extraordinary situations. The team discusses why his grounded style works so well and why he's able to elevate even the most over-the-top action movies.Of course, no discussion of Air Force One would be complete without Gary Oldman. His performance as terrorist Ivan Korshunov is as intense as ever, even if the boys question whether one of cinema's greatest actors deserved a stronger script. Along the way, they celebrate Oldman's incredible career, from Leon and True Romance through to The Dark Knight, Darkest Hour and beyond.As always, the movie quickly becomes secondary to the ridiculous questions that only Born to Watch can ask.Just how many parachutes does Air Force One actually carry?Why is everyone smiling after jumping out of a plane somewhere over Kazakhstan?Does a 1997 satellite phone really keep working at 20,000 feet?Why is there an endless supply of drinks hidden in the cargo hold?And how exactly does one MiG fighter somehow survive an entire squadron attack just so the movie can have one more action sequence?The crew also takes aim at some wonderfully cheesy taglines, debates whether this is one of cinema's greatest presidential action thrillers, and wonders if Australians will ever truly understand America's obsession with the presidency.Elsewhere, G-Man delivers another outstanding Ordinary People segment, covering Harrison Ford, Gary Oldman, Glenn Close and a cast full of "that guy" character actors you've seen in dozens of movies. There's also a look back at the massive year that was 1997, including Titanic, Men in Black, The Lost World: Jurassic Park and Good Will Hunting.Hit, Sleeper or Dud returns with another trio of recommendations, including Wesley Snipes' underrated Murder at 1600, the Spanish original that inspired Vanilla Sky, and one of the greatest movie titles ever discovered in the Dud category.As always, expect plenty of laughs, terrible impressions, completely unnecessary tangents, and more than a few moments where the logic of Hollywood action films is left hanging out the side of the aircraft.So buckle up, secure your tray table, prepare for decompression, and remember one thing...Get off my podcast!If you enjoy what we do, we'd love your support. Subscribe wherever you listen, leave us a five-star review, share the episode with your mates, and follow Born to Watch across social media. Every listen helps us keep celebrating the movies we all grew up with, one ridiculous review at a time.#AirForceOne #HarrisonFord #GaryOldman #WolfgangPetersen #MovieReview #BornToWatchPodcast #90sMovies #ActionMovies #FilmPodcast #GetOffMyPlane

Hot dog! This pitcher from the DR had All-Star stuff, but also got ejected from a World Series game. Card 47 on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JJYNJI8RetroSimba about Joaquin and Whitey: https://retrosimba.com/2019/05/13/whitey-herzog-made-pitch-for-prodigal-son-joaquin-andujar/SABR bio by Malcolm Allen: https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/joaquin-andujar/RetroSimba about Joaquin and Hub: https://retrosimba.com/2015/09/17/how-hub-kittle-got-joaquin-andujar-to-cardinals/Defector article about Starter jackets: https://defector.com/the-rise-and-fall-of-starter-the-coolest-company-on-earthJoaquin in the 1979 All Star Game: https://youtu.be/OMJK6CA6G3Y?si=QU7_fUA2ZuzJFXb8&t=40661982 World Series Game 3 injury: https://youtu.be/zqctfh4zBiM?si=K5N9qdfZixMQoDgk&t=7323Joaquin's warmup in 1982 World Series Game 7: https://youtu.be/veJj5iI4TM8?si=0Psxqtei3BfrMcF2&t=654Joaquin vs Gantner: https://youtu.be/NSt-8-6iUZw?si=cn-UrCJnTcoi7DpJ&t=122Joaquin hits a grand slam: https://www.mlb.com/video/andujar-s-grand-slam?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share Andujar vs Krukow: https://youtu.be/6w_qtEPt92k?si=WbP4kUmfiLNZJ0T4 Joaquin gets tossed from 1985 World Series: https://youtu.be/3LBpIjqR-dQ?si=2eCr9YbM0gTa8vS3&t=8274

The Foul Hooked Whitey returns with Part One of "Dry Fly Failure" ...#flyfishing#eastrosebudflyandtackle#eastrosebud2026#eastrosebudbillings2026#eastrosebudthermop2026

The Foul Hooked Whitey returns with Part Two of "Dry Fly Failure" ...#flyfishing#eastrosebudflyandtackle#eastrosebud2026#eastrosebudbillings2026#eastrosebudthermop2026

The Interstellar (2014) Movie Review has finally landed on Born to Watch, the movie review podcast where we don't take ourselves or the movies too seriously, and this week Whitey, Damo and the G-Man strap themselves into the Endurance to tackle one of Christopher Nolan's most ambitious films.Love it, hate it, or spend three hours trying to figure out what a tesseract actually is, there's no denying that Interstellar is one of the most talked-about science fiction films ever made.Starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Michael Caine and an unforgettable surprise appearance from Matt Damon, Interstellar blends emotional family drama with mind-bending science in a way very few films have attempted before. Black holes, wormholes, time dilation, gravity, fifth dimensions and Hans Zimmer's thunderous score all combine to create a cinematic experience unlike anything else.The boys break down whether Christopher Nolan's space epic deserves its place among the greatest films ever made or asks just a little too much of its audience.Whitey shares why this remains one of the most emotional cinema experiences of his life and admits that even after multiple viewings, he still discovers new details every time. Damo dives deep into the science behind the film, the incredible soundtrack from Hans Zimmer and why this is a movie that rewards repeat watches. Meanwhile, G-Man experiences Interstellar for the very first time, proving that even a three-hour runtime can't stop Nolan from delivering one unforgettable ride.Of course, this wouldn't be Born to Watch without plenty of laughs along the way.The boys debate whether anyone actually understands the ending the first time around, discuss the emotional devastation of Cooper's relationship with Murph, marvel at Nolan's practical filmmaking techniques and question whether they'd leave their own family behind if they were humanity's last hope.There's plenty of appreciation for Matthew McConaughey's career-best performance, Anne Hathaway's emotional turn, Jessica Chastain's incredible work as the adult Murph, and Matt Damon's unforgettable heel turn, which completely changes the direction of the film.As always, the crew dive into the IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes scores, compares Interstellar against some of the greatest science fiction films ever made, revisits the incredible year that was 2014 in cinema and discusses Christopher Nolan's unbelievable run of films, including Batman Begins, The Prestige, The Dark Knight, Inception and Interstellar.Expect plenty of discussion around Hans Zimmer's legendary score, practical visual effects that still hold up over a decade later and why Interstellar continues to inspire audiences every time it's re-released on the biggest screens possible.Naturally, the famous Born to Watch segments return, including Overs and Unders, Critical Thinking, Ordinary People, Hit, Sleeper, Dud, The Snorbs Report, Quickfire Questions and plenty more movie nonsense that somehow still makes perfect sense.Whether you've watched Interstellar once or twenty times, or you're still trying to work out exactly what happened inside the tesseract, this episode is packed with laughs, passionate movie discussion and enough Christopher Nolan appreciation to make even Professor Brand proud.So grab your headphones, set your coordinates beyond Saturn and join the crew for one of the biggest movie discussions we've ever had.Join the conversation! What did you think of Interstellar? Is it Christopher Nolan's greatest achievement? Does Hans Zimmer deliver the greatest movie score of the modern era? Let us know your thoughts across our social channels, and don't forget to subscribe, leave a review and share Born to Watch with your fellow movie lovers.#Interstellar #ChristopherNolan #MatthewMcConaughey #HansZimmer #MovieReview #BornToWatchPodcast #SciFiMovies #FilmPodcast #Interstellar2014 #MoviePodcast

The Foul Hooked Whitey defines the fly fishing mafia and it's impact...#flyfishing#eastrosebudflyandtackle#eastrosebud2026#eastrosebudbillings2026#eastrosebudthermop2026

The Foul Hooked Whitey continues his discussion on the impact of the fly fishing mafia...#flyfishing#eastrosebudflyandtackle#eastrosebud2026#eastrosebudbillings2026#eastrosebudthermop2026

Lethal Weapon 2 Movie Review is here, and this week we're diving back into one of the greatest action sequels of all time on The Movie Review Podcast, where we don't take the movies or ourselves too seriously. Join Whitey and Damo as they revisit the explosive 1989 classic that proved lightning really can strike twice. With bigger action, bigger laughs, and one unforgettable diplomatic immunity speech, Lethal Weapon 2 remains a benchmark for the buddy cop genre.After the gritty success of the original film, director Richard Donner returned with Mel Gibson and Danny Glover to deliver a sequel that shifted gears without losing what made the franchise special. Instead of doubling down on the darkness, Lethal Weapon 2 leans heavily into comedy while still delivering spectacular action set pieces, memorable villains and the chemistry that made Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh one of cinema's greatest partnerships.Whitey and Damo discuss whether Lethal Weapon 2 is actually better than the original, and why so many fans continue to rank it among the greatest sequels ever made. Is it worthy of being mentioned alongside Aliens, Terminator 2, and The Empire Strikes Back? Or has nostalgia been doing some heavy lifting?As always, the boys break down everything that makes the film unforgettable. From the outrageous opening car chase and the destruction of Murtaugh's family station wagon, through to the South African villains hiding behind diplomatic immunity, every iconic scene gets the Born to Watch treatment.Of course, no discussion of Lethal Weapon 2 would be complete without Leo Getz. Joe Pesci steals almost every scene he's in, introducing one of the franchise's funniest and most quotable characters. Whitey and Damo chat about how Leo changed the series' tone forever, while debating whether the increased focus on comedy was ultimately a strength or a weakness.There is also plenty of appreciation for Mel Gibson at the absolute peak of his powers. Charismatic, reckless and endlessly entertaining, Riggs remains one of the defining action heroes of the 1980s. Danny Glover's dry reactions provide the perfect balance, proving once again why this pairing remains one of Hollywood's greatest double acts.Naturally, the boys can't help themselves when it comes to picking apart the film's logic. Why are the LAPD driving family station wagons during high-speed pursuits? Where did that helicopter suddenly appear from? Why does a caravan explode like it's filled with rocket fuel? And how does every South African henchman seem to carry an entire arsenal beneath a sports coat?The laughs continue with another legendary Snobs Report, a look back at some forgotten gems from 1989, discussion around Richard Donner's incredible directing career, and a celebration of just how good cinema was during the final years of the 1980s. There are plenty of side trips into other classics, including The Omen, Uncle Buck, The Dream Team and more, because one movie conversation is never enough on Born to Watch.As always, you'll get the Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Film School for F-Wits, trivia, behind-the-scenes stories, box office numbers, memorable performances and plenty of arguments over whether the sequel really surpasses the original.Whether you grew up watching Lethal Weapon 2 on VHS, caught it at the cinema back in 1989, or you're discovering it for the very first time, this episode is packed with nostalgia, laughs and classic Born to Watch banter.Join the conversation!Do you think Lethal Weapon 2 is the best film in the franchise? Is it one of the greatest action sequels ever made? Let us know your favourite scenes, quotes and moments by leaving a review, commenting on our socials or joining the Born to Watch community. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss another episode.#LethalWeapon2 #MovieReview #BornToWatch #MelGibson #DannyGlover #ActionMovies #BuddyCop #MoviePodcast #EightiesMovies #FilmReview

7/6/26

This week on Get Canceled, Sheryl and the gang get extra controversial by calling out all the nastiness going on towards white people.  It seems like it's "time's up" on white privilege as people unabashedly call for violence, and in some cases, the extinction of the white race without any blowback whatsoever.  Society has forgotten the powerful words of Martin Luther King Jr., that people will not be judged on their skin color but rather the content of their character.  Today, we look through a prism where skin color is all we see and unfortunately one's merit has been replaced with victim mentality.  This nonsense helps nobody but only serves to further divide our country.  Here at Get Canceled, we say enough.  DISCLAIMER: This show is for entertainment purposes only.  The views expressed by the guests do not necessarily reflect the views of Get Canceled.  All guests remain anonymous.If you enjoy, please rate review subscribe and share!Have you or someone you love been canceled?  Sheryl wants to hear from you! Email: getcanceledinfo@gmail.comX: @GetCanceledPodwww.getcanceled.com             

The Crow (1994) Review is finally here, and the Born to Watch boys are diving headfirst into one of the most iconic cult films of the 1990s. Directed by Australian filmmaker Alex Proyas and forever linked to the tragic death of Brandon Lee during production, The Crow has become far more than just another comic book adaptation. It's a film surrounded by myth, emotion and an unforgettable soundtrack, but does the movie itself still deserve its legendary reputation?Whitey is joined by Gow, Damo and returning fan favourite Adam "Strangles" Strang as they revisit the dark, rain-soaked streets of Detroit to find out whether Eric Draven's tale of love, revenge and redemption still flies more than three decades later.From the opening scene, the boys tackle the elephant in the room. Has The Crow become more famous because of Brandon Lee's tragic passing than because of the movie itself? It's a question that sparks one of the episode's biggest debates as they separate the film from the legend surrounding it.There is no denying the visual impact. Alex Proyas creates one of cinema's most distinctive gothic worlds, drenched in perpetual darkness, flickering fire and endless rain. Whitey argues it could be one of the best-looking films of the decade, while the panel discusses whether the relentless black colour palette enhances the atmosphere or simply makes it impossible to see what's happening half the time.Brandon Lee delivers a performance filled with charisma, physicality and vulnerability as Eric Draven, a murdered musician brought back from the dead by a mysterious crow to seek revenge on the gang responsible for killing him and his fiancée. Along the way, the boys question the film's mythology, wonder why so little is explained about the supernatural rules and debate whether audiences are expected to simply accept everything without asking questions.The laughs continue as the conversation drifts into grandad slippers, Skippy, Video Ezy memories, terrible engagement rings, goth fashion, VHS collections and one of Damo's most detailed Snorbs Reports yet. As always, no tangent is off limits.The cast also comes under the microscope. Michael Wincott's gloriously over-the-top Top Dollar, Ernie Hudson's compassionate Sergeant Albrecht and the unforgettable David Patrick Kelly all receive plenty of love, while the panel reflects on Brandon Lee's short but promising career and imagines what Hollywood might have looked like had tragedy never struck.As the discussion unfolds, comparisons are made to other revenge classics, including John Wick, The Warriors and Darkman, while Whitey questions whether the film spends enough time developing its central love story for audiences to truly care about Eric's mission.The boys also explore the incredible year that was 1994, discussing how The Crow stacked up against cinematic heavyweights like Pulp Fiction, Forrest Gump, The Shawshank Redemption, Speed and The Lion King. It's another reminder of just how stacked one of Hollywood's greatest years really was.Of course, it wouldn't be Born to Watch without the regular favourites. IMDb ratings, Rotten Tomatoes scores, box office numbers, Question Time, the Snorbs Report, hilarious listener interaction and plenty of brutal honesty all feature as the team works towards the all-important final verdict.So, does The Crow still deserve its place among the greatest cult movies ever made? Has its reputation been elevated by tragedy, or is it genuinely one of the defining films of the 1990s? Join Whitey, Gow, Damo and Strangles as they break down every crow, every quote and every questionable fashion choice in another laugh-out-loud episode of Born to Watch.Join the F WitsIf you love movies, nostalgia and four mates who aren't afraid to call out the good, the bad and the downright ridiculous, make sure you subscribe to Born to Watch wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on social media, join the conversation, and let us know whether The Crow deserves its cult-classic status or if the legend has outgrown the film itself.#BornToWatch #TheCrow1994 #BrandonLee #AlexProyas #MovieReview #CultClassic #MoviePodcast #90sMovies #FilmReview #GothicCinema

The Foul Hooked Whitey returns with the rant; “Fly Fishing in AK with the Macho Man” Part One…#flyfishing #eastrosebud2026 #eastrosebudbillings2026 #eastrosebudthermop2026 #eastrosebudflyandtackle

The Foul Hooked Whitey returns with the rant; “Fly Fishing in AK with the Macho Man” Part Two...#flyfishing #eastrosebud2026 #eastrosebudbillings2026 #eastrosebudthermop2026 #eastrosebudflyandtackle

Any Given Sunday Review | Born to Watch PodcastOur Any Given Sunday Review takes the Born to Watch boys back to 1999 for Oliver Stone's chaotic, testosterone-fuelled dive into the world of professional football. Featuring Al Pacino, Jamie Foxx, Dennis Quaid and peak Cameron Diaz, Any Given Sunday promised everything a sports movie fan could want. But does it still hold up, or is this one all style and no substance?Whitey, Dan and special guest Will strap on the shoulder pads and revisit Oliver Stone's divisive NFL epic. What starts as a love letter to sports movies quickly turns into an examination of shaky cameras, over-the-top editing, giant egos and one of the most exhausting viewing experiences the boys have tackled in a while.Al Pacino brings his trademark intensity as veteran coach Tony D'Amato, desperately trying to hold together the Miami Sharks while battling a ruthless owner, rebellious players and a rapidly changing game. Jamie Foxx bursts onto the scene as Willie Beamen, the backup quarterback who suddenly becomes a superstar, while Dennis Quaid delivers a solid performance as ageing veteran Cap Rooney.Along the way, the boys discuss why Oliver Stone seems determined to assault your eyeballs with every editing trick imaginable. From subliminal gladiator imagery to frantic camera work and changing film stock, Whitey wonders whether the movie is trying too hard to be profound. Dan compares it to Natural Born Killers and argues that Stone's style overwhelms the actual story.The conversation naturally branches out into memories of 1999, drunken phone calls, encounters with Elizabeth Berkley, backup quarterbacks becoming heroes, and whether there is a more pressure-filled position in sport than an NFL quarterback.There's also plenty of appreciation for the stacked cast. James Woods shines as the dodgy doctor, LL Cool J delivers one of the biggest dickheads in sports movie history, and Lawrence Taylor proves real athletes can occasionally act. Meanwhile, Cameron Diaz splits the room, with Whitey refusing to give prime Diaz a quickfire vote despite the objections of everyone else.As always, the boys go deep into the IMDb ratings, box office numbers and critical reviews before throwing around comparisons to Varsity Blues, Office Space, American Beauty and other classics from the legendary year of 1999.But the biggest question remains. Is Any Given Sunday a genuine sports classic, or is it simply a two-and-a-half-hour migraine wrapped in slow motion and Kid Rock?One thing is certain. Whether they're discussing football strategy, Oliver Stone's obsession with gladiators or the horrors of professional athlete fashion, Whitey, Dan and Will once again prove that no movie is safe when it lands on Born to Watch.Join the TeamLove movies? Love ridiculous debates? Join the Born to Watch community and become part of the conversation. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on social media for new episodes, movie polls and plenty of laughs. Because at Born to Watch, we don't take movies or ourselves too seriously.#BornToWatch #AnyGivenSunday #OliverStone #AlPacino #JamieFoxx #DennisQuaid #SportsMovies #MoviePodcast #FilmReview #NFLMovies

(00:00-21:45) Michael Wellington sitting in for Doug today. Chairman rocking a Sophie Cunningham jersey today. Jackson likes a tall woman. Comparing Cardinal run totals for getaway day and Sunday games compared to all others. Let's fix the sinkhole, then get an NBA team. Roycroft's struggles. Whitey getting tossed so he could go fishing. Jackson wants the Padres fined for starting an 'opener' the other night and their grey pinstripe pant.(21:53-51:28) Opening round of the US Open underway. Wellington was right behind Phil Mickelson for that infamous putt with the ball moving. Play suspended this morning at Shinnecock. Tim's still waiting on Alex Smalley to break through. Golf Nerd Question. Blue feet. The Harrisburg Heat. A new thickness. Playing yesterday's Sally Weatherby email for Wellington. Women on TikTok are loving Navy Caps on the Road.(51:38-1:18:05) Some are comparing Chairman Kurt's album NCOTR to the Thriller album. Chip Caray's son, Stefan will get some time in the booth coming up. Amarillo Sodbusters. They go low, we go high. The core of the Cards is the same but people are much more on board this year. Mike Shildt. Taking bullets for ownership. Tony Vitello learning on the fly in San Francisco.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Michael Wellington sitting in for Doug today. Chairman rocking a Sophie Cunningham jersey today. Jackson likes a tall woman. Comparing Cardinal run totals for getaway day and Sunday games compared to all others. Let's fix the sinkhole, then get an NBA team. Roycroft's struggles. Whitey getting tossed so he could go fishing. Jackson wants the Padres fined for starting an 'opener' the other night and their grey pinstripe pant.Opening round of the US Open underway. Wellington was right behind Phil Mickelson for that infamous putt with the ball moving. Play suspended this morning at Shinnecock. Tim's still waiting on Alex Smalley to break through. Golf Nerd Question. Blue feet. The Harrisburg Heat. A new thickness. Playing yesterday's Sally Weatherby email for Wellington. Women on TikTok are loving Navy Caps on the Road.Some are comparing Chairman Kurt's album NCOTR to the Thriller album. Chip Caray's son, Stefan will get some time in the booth coming up. Amarillo Sodbusters. They go low, we go high. The core of the Cards is the same but people are much more on board this year. Mike Shildt. Taking bullets for ownership. Tony Vitello learning on the fly in San Francisco.The parking at Shinnecock. Players back on the course at the U.S. Open. The goose is loose. Sweet Sweet Ky being accosted by a lesbian. Will Jackson sign at his appearance on Friday? Will viewership for Friday's USMNT game be as big as last Friday's? Australia parking the bus. Iggy's rider. JR and Rizz will be joining us on tomorrow's show. Jackson likes a good winter scarf. Doug's Quarter Zip is on the phone lines. Brad Thompson advocating for a chant in the Tarps Off section. Debuting an Irish Pub folk song. P1s know Jackson's affinity for a sea shanty.Who doesn't love a good sea shanty? Audio of the call of Ghana scoring in stoppage time to break the nil-nil tie. Which men are Jackson attracted to?The country just isn't paying attention to Jordan Walker chasing down Bonds's homerun record. Larry Mize wouldn't have enjoyed that text. Don't give it oxygen. Cardinals have won the first 2 games of a 3 game home series 5 times. 1-4 record with 12 total runs. Oli Marmol talking about Burleson "killing it" and hoping he stays in the conversation for the All Star game. Over/Under 1.5 more seasons at SLU for Schertz?Cardinal broadcaster, Brad Thompson joins us despite Jackson playing the opening for Chris Kerber. Brad can give us some Blues thoughts. Kansas City is a sports mecca right now with the World Cup going on. The Tarps Off Boys chanting for Brad. What a difference a year makes. The roster moves the Cardinals have made so far this year. Talking bullpen starts.US Open update. We're behind and it's Wellington's fault. The guy in the crow's nest looking out for icebergs ahead. Our boat is split.Design Aire Heating & Cooling EMOTDJackson's got some audio he's excited about. Tennis player, Corentin Moutet can't stop saying the F word in his post-match interview despite the interviewer asking him not to. Jackson is the Mike Martz of broadcasting. What's Jackson's favorite song to dance to at weddings. Welly's down on Bruno Mars.Welly only came in today to see ATMA up close. Audio of José Fermín talking about going to watch Ecuador take on Curaçao in KC this weekend. Would you rather watch Team USA Basketball in the Olympics or watch Messi play in the World Cup? And the winner of the Design Aire Heating & Cooling EMOTD is...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hey Doc,As Juneteenth approaches, I've been thinking a lot about freedom.Not the big, abstract kind we usually talk about. The everyday kind.The freedom to be a child.The freedom to love your beautiful brown skin without anyone planting doubt in your mind.The freedom to be curious, imaginative, and just a little bit weird.In this episode, I'm sharing some of the moments that make me grateful for the life my husband and I have intentionally created for our children. From my daughter proudly celebrating her beautiful brown skin to my son's innocent toy names that accidentally sparked a conversation about race, this episode is really about what happens when children are given space to simply be themselves.I also talk about homeschooling, socialization, and why I've never been convinced by the argument that children need more exposure to the world when so much of what adults struggle with comes directly from the messages we've absorbed from it.This isn't a debate about homeschooling.It's a celebration of freedom.And as we honor Juneteenth, that feels especially important.In This Episode:Why I proudly call my children "little weirdos"The difference between confidence and conditioningThe first racist experiences my son had as a preschoolerWhat my daughter taught me about beautiful brown skinWhy the socialization argument doesn't move meThe surprising lesson behind toys named Blackie and WhiteyWhat freedom looks like inside our homeThis episode is a love letter to Black childhood, intentional parenting, and creating environments where our children can thrive before the world tells them who they should be.

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsorsNeed to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERELaunch your tool game to the next level with Launch Tech USA! HEREIn this Jaded Mechanic Podcast episode, Jeff sits down with Canadian technician Daniel Whitey to discuss his journey through the automotive trade. Daniel shares how a Chrysler co-op program at Centennial College led to an apprenticeship, dealership experience, and eventually a move into fleet maintenance. They discuss the realities of flat rate pay, mentorship, shop culture, tool investments, diagnostics, and why Daniel ultimately chose the stability of a straight-time fleet position. The conversation also explores technician mental health, career development, and advice for new technicians entering the industry.Timestamps 00:00 Welcome  00:51 Meet Daniel Whitey 03:48 Career Origins and Licensing 09:09 Centennial Chrysler Co-op 10:58 Chrysler Dealer Experience 21:30 Mentorship and Flat Rate Life 35:12 Diagnostic War Stories 42:04 Hybrids and EV Discussion 44:15 Leaving Chrysler 50:46 Transition to Hyundai 56:45 Hyundai Challenges 01:01:34 Fleet Shop Life and Benefits 01:08:38 Daily Fleet Pressures 01:18:53 Leaving Dealerships Gracefully 01:21:11 Saturday Flat Rate Grind 01:25:35 Recall Day Stories 01:35:46 Advice for New Technicians 01:46:44 Licensing and Competency 01:52:37 Mental Health and Closing Thoughts Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

This week on Born to Watch, the boys boldly go where they rarely venture, into the world of brand-new cinema, with their Project Hail Mary Movie Review. Based on Andy Weir's bestselling novel and directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, this 2026 sci-fi epic arrives with huge expectations, a massive budget, and one very important question: can modern Hollywood still make crowd-pleasing blockbuster entertainment that leaves audiences smiling?Whitey, Damo and special guest Will the Worky strap themselves into the Hail Mary spacecraft and dive headfirst into one of the biggest films of the year. With Ryan Gosling leading the charge as Ryland Grace, a reluctant hero tasked with saving humanity from extinction, the crew break down a film that combines hard science, emotional storytelling, spectacular visuals and a surprising amount of humour.The boys discuss their experiences seeing the film on the big screen and whether Project Hail Mary is exactly the kind of cinematic event modern audiences have been craving. In an era where many blockbuster films come and go without leaving a lasting impression, this one feels different. It has heart, humour, intelligence, and a genuine sense of wonder that recalls the classic Spielberg and Lucas adventures of decades past.One of the major talking points is Ryan Gosling's performance. Already one of Hollywood's biggest stars, Gosling continues to prove that he can effortlessly jump between drama, comedy and action. From The Nice Guys to Barbie, he has become one of the few modern actors who are completely willing to take the piss out of themselves, and the Born to Watch crew debate whether anyone in Hollywood currently does it better.Of course, no discussion of Project Hail Mary would be complete without talking about Rocky. The mysterious alien engineer quickly became a fan favourite after the book's release, and the boys examine why Grace and Rocky's relationship forms the emotional core of the entire film. What could have been a simple science-fiction adventure evolves into a story about friendship, sacrifice and finding the courage to do the right thing when everything is on the line.Will brings his unique perspective to the conversation after recently finishing the novel, comparing key elements of the book and film while highlighting what made Andy Weir's source material so compelling in the first place. The team also dives into the science behind the story, exploring the concept of astrophage, interstellar travel and whether the movie's scientific ideas hold up under scrutiny.As always, the discussion goes far beyond the movie itself. There are debates about modern cinema, movie-going habits, blockbuster filmmaking, favourite Ryan Gosling performances, German stoicism, Bunnings sausage sandwiches and plenty of classic Born to Watch chaos along the way.The boys also explore the emotional journey of Ryland Grace, from a brilliant scientist hiding from responsibility to a man willing to sacrifice everything for a friend. It is this character arc that elevates Project Hail Mary above standard blockbuster fare and transforms it into something genuinely memorable.So is Project Hail Mary the best movie of 2026 so far? Does it belong alongside modern sci-fi classics like Aliens? And can a giant alien rock really make grown adults emotional?There is only one way to find out.Join the MissionHave you read the book?Did the movie live up to your expectations?Is Ryan Gosling the most likable movie star in Hollywood?Where does Project Hail Mary rank among the best sci-fi films of the last decade?Let us know in the comments and join the conversation.If you love movie reviews, blockbuster debates, sci-fi adventures and plenty of laughs along the way, subscribe to Born to Watch wherever you get your podcasts.#ProjectHailMary #ProjectHailMaryMovieReview #RyanGosling #BornToWatch #MovieReview #SciFiMovies #AndyWeir #RockyTheAlien #FilmPodcast #MoviePodcast

This week on Born to Watch, the boys take on one of the most iconic psychological thrillers ever made in this The Sixth Sense 1999 Review. Released in the legendary movie year of 1999, M. Night Shyamalan's breakthrough film became a cultural phenomenon, launching a career, creating one of cinema's most famous twists, and leaving audiences speechless as they walked out of theatres around the world.Whitey, G-Man and Damo dive deep into the movie that turned Haley Joel Osment into a household name and gave Bruce Willis one of the most memorable performances of his career. More than 25 years later, does The Sixth Sense still hold up? Does the twist remain effective in an era where spoilers dominate social media? And is this actually M. Night Shyamalan's best film?The crew discuss their memories of first seeing the movie back in 1999, when audiences had the rare opportunity to experience a genuine cinematic surprise before the internet ruined it. They explore how The Sixth Sense became the second-highest-grossing film of the year, behind only Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, and why it remained one of the most talked-about movies of its generation.Of course, the discussion turns to Bruce Willis and whether this represents the finest acting performance of his career. Known primarily as an action star through films like Die Hard, The Last Boy Scout and Armageddon, Willis took a very different path with Dr Malcolm Crowe. The boys examine how his understated performance anchors the film while allowing Haley Joel Osment to steal almost every scene he appears in.Speaking of scene-stealers, there is plenty of love for Haley Joel Osment. The team revisits his incredible performance as Cole Sear and debates his ranking among the greatest child actors in movie history. From his emotional vulnerability to the maturity he brought to the role, it is easy to see why he received an Academy Award nomination at such a young age.The conversation also shines a spotlight on Australia's own Toni Collette. Her heartbreaking performance as Cole's mother remains one of the emotional centres of the film, and the boys discuss whether she was unlucky not to walk away with Oscar gold. The famous car scene receives particular attention, with everyone agreeing it remains one of the most powerful emotional moments in modern cinema.As always, Born to Watch goes beyond the movie itself. The crew look back at the incredible films released in 1999, discusses where The Sixth Sense sits among the all-time great thrillers, and compares it with other famous twist-ending films that followed in its wake. They also explore how Shyamalan's success with this movie may have created impossible expectations for every project that came afterwards.Along the way, there are plenty of laughs, stories, random tangents, movie trivia and classic Born to Watch chaos. From airline horror stories to debates about movie awards, nothing is safe once the boys get rolling.So does The Sixth Sense deserve its reputation as a modern classic? Is the twist still one of the greatest reveals in cinema history? And where does it rank among the best films of 1999?There is only one way to find out.JOIN THE CONVERSATIONWhen did you first see The Sixth Sense?Did you figure out the twist before the ending?Is this M. Night Shyamalan's best movie?Where does Haley Joel Osment rank among the greatest child actors of all time?Let us know your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion.If you love movie reviews, nostalgia, classic cinema debates and a few completely unhinged tangents along the way, make sure you subscribe to Born to Watch wherever you get your podcasts.#TheSixthSense #TheSixthSenseReview #BornToWatch #MovieReview #BruceWillis #HaleyJoelOsment #ToniCollette #MNightShyamalan #1999Movies #PsychologicalThriller

Country artist and entertainer Chuck Wicks stops by the Try That In A Small Town podcast for a wild, honest, and surprisingly emotional ride.Chuck opens up about his journey from small-town farm kid and college baseball player to Nashville recording artist, radio host, entrepreneur, and autism dad. He shares the real story behind Stealing Cinderella, what it was like to be turned down by RCA the first time, and how he fought his way back to a record deal.Chuck also talks candidly about raising his nonverbal autistic son Tucker, early intervention, therapies, and the emotional roller coaster of getting an autism diagnosis at Vanderbilt. He explains how that journey has changed his priorities and why he and his wife Cassie (Jason Aldean's sister) feel called to help other parents find resources.From there, the guys dive into:- Chuck's relationship with Jason Aldean and what Jason is really like offstage - How Melorosa Wine was born from Cassie's Cuban family story - Building Shiners, a wild Cirque-style, adults-only residency show in downtown Nashville - The stress of chasing country radio, the power of authenticity, and artists taking shots at radio - The infamous “DipShidiot” segment: road rage, gas station etiquette, youth sports parents, and more Chuck also teases his upcoming movie on Great American Family Network and Amazon Prime, where he sings multiple songs and steps deeper into acting.If you love real Nashville stories, songwriting, small-town values, and unfiltered conversations about parenting, business, and faith, this episode delivers.Subscribe and share if you enjoy the show, and check out the member-only bonus segment for extra songs and stories.3:06 Early mornings, syndicated radio, and sleep routines 5:05 Family trip out West: Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, elk and bison 7:48 Buffalo vs bison and bear talk 10:00 Hunting, backlash on social media, and eating what you kill 13:44 Health, wild game, and clean eating 14:17 Chuck on being 47, staying in shape, and raising his autistic son 15:12 Tucker's autism journey: early signs, testing at Vanderbilt, and therapies 18:49 Nonverbal progress, speech breakthroughs, and hope 19:37 Faith, calling, and why parenting Tucker matters more than career 20:00 Connecting with other autism parents (Joe Don Rooney story) 22:19 Treatments, Lucavorin, red light therapy, and access to resources 24:50 “We wouldn't trade him for anything” – embracing Tucker's journey 26:17 Belt obsessions, airplane routines, and sensory quirks 26:28 Chuck's early life: small-town farm kid and college baseball player 28:46 Discovering his voice in college, almost joining a pop group 31:45 First trip to Nashville, meeting RCA's Jim Catino and singing a cappella 33:56 Development deal, not getting picked up, and starting over 36:18 Four years of grinding, learning to write, and finding his sound 42:40 Second chance: Clint Higham, Chesney camp, and full RCA deal 45:47 Writing Stealing Cinderella from a personal love story 50:00 Singing Stealing Cinderella at Coach Fulmer's daughter's wedding 51:37 Realizing the power of a song to move strangers 52:57 The stress of chasing radio hits and perspective with time 53:18 Other cuts and hits, including Jason Aldean's Don't You Wanna Stay (context: Aldean cut with Thrash) 56:03 How Chuck met Cassie, realized she was Jason Aldean's sister, and dating into the Aldean family 1:00:13 The day after: Jason Aldean's “blessing” phone call 1:02:30 Why Cassie's three kids changed how Chuck approached relationships 1:03:58 Blended family life: ages of the kids and how fast time moves 1:05:25 What Jason Aldean is really like offstage: loyalty, mystery, and staying the same guy 1:06:29 Jason's laugh, tight inner circle, and “it could all go away” mindset 1:08:01 Melorosa Wine: starting a wine company with Jason Aldean 1:09:00 Where to find Mellorosa (online, Kroger, ABC, Princess Cruises, Dubai) 1:09:33 The Cuban family story behind the name and “toast to freedom” 1:10:59 Shiners: Cirque-level, adults-only, comedy show in the historic Woolworth building 1:13:35 Writing Shiners during Covid and building a Nashville residency 1:16:10 The history and civil rights importance of the Woolworth building 1:20:20 What to expect at Shiners: moonshiners, aerial acts, crowd work, and “if you're easily offended…” 1:22:02 DipShidiot segment: explaining the bit 1:22:33 Gas station chaos: Bucky's pump hogs and parking-lot etiquette 1:25:29 Red velvet “Whitey” vs “Witty's” custard mix-up 1:27:31 Red Clay Strays controversy: “radio is dead” comment and why radio still matters 1:30:39 Burning bridges you haven't crossed yet and respecting country radio 1:35:05 Youth sports parents losing their minds vs just being a dad 1:38:01 CMT Awards “edit the chorus” story and learning to be grateful 1:41:03 Road rage story: 75 in a 70 and killing them with kindness 1:43:45 Locker room etiquette: naked close talkers and lifetime fitness stories 1:45:44 Manscaping, gym talk, and ridiculous visual bits 1:46:00 Chuck's upcoming movie: Great American Family Network & Amazon Prime 1:47:04 Coloring hair, beard guard settings, and aging on camera 1:50:02 Closing: Melorosa Wine, Shiners, Chuck's music, coffee collab, and podcast wrap ______________________________________________________________________________________________SPONSORS: The Try That in a Small Town Podcast is powered by e|spaces!Redefining Coworking - Exceptional Office Space for Every BusinessBook a tour today at espaces.comFrom the Patriot Mobile studios:Don't get fooled by other cellular providers pretending to share your values or have the same coverage. They don't and they can't!Go to PATRIOTMOBILE.COM/SMALLTOWN or call 972-PATRIOTRight now, get a FREE MONTH when you use the offer code SMALLTOWN.Original Brands - Our original sponsor since the beginning!!Original brands is starting a new era and American domestic premium beer, American made, American owned, Original glory.Join the movement at www.drinkoriginalbrands.comPeacemaker Coffee CompanyFounded by retired police officer/chief Chris Morris, Peacemaker delivers clean, low-acidity coffee while supporting police, firefighters, EMS, military, veterans, teachers, dispatchers, and medical personnel through donations and programs.https://www.peacemakercoffeecompany.com/________________________________________________________________________________________________Follow/Rate/Share at www.trythatinasmalltown.com -For advertising inquiries, email info@trythatinasmalltown.comProduced by Jim McCarthy and www.ItsYourShow.coSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, host Gary Jenkins, a retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective, sits down with author and mob expert Springs Toledo and discusses the Boston Winter Hill Gang and its notorious members. Springs' book, “Don’t Talk About Joe Mac: The Life, Wars, and Secret History of the Man Behind the Winter Hill Gang” Springs Toledo provides an exhaustive look at Joe McDonald aka Mac, a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in the Boston criminal landscape, especially during the 1960s-1990s. Springs, a Boston native, brings a unique perspective and personal anecdotes that enrich our understanding of the intersections of crime, family, and community within the city. They explore Joe Mac’s early life and how his background shaped his role in organized crime. Springs shares how Mac was an elder statesman in the underworld, feared and respected for his ability to organize the rackets in Somerville and maintain a significant network of relationships across various neighborhoods. Joe Mac's methods of operation were emblematic of a time when the Irish underworld was gaining ground in a city dominated by Italian crime families. Springs discusses the stark differences in these organizations, from their cultural practices to their hierarchies. Springs also highlights the complexities of Joe Mac's personal life, discussing his relationships with his family, especially his daughter Jacqueline. Their conversations reveal a side of Mac rarely seen in crime stories — a devoted father struggling with his dual identity as a loving parent and a cold-blooded criminal. Throughout the episode, Springs captures the essence of Mac's character, noting that while he was involved in heinous acts, he also exhibited genuine love for his family, a contradiction that adds depth to his narrative. As the conversation unfolds, we examine the dynamics within the Winter Hill Gang, particularly the relationships among Joe Mac, prominent figures like Whitey Bulger, and Howie Carr. Springs shares fascinating insights into Mac's cautious nature and strategic approach to power. He articulates how Mac operated in the shadows, steering clear of public scrutiny while effectively managing the group's criminal enterprises. The episode paints a vivid portrait of a gang operating amid violence, betrayal, and survival. In addition to discussing the various criminal exploits, Springs shares some gripping anecdotes that illustrate the real-life implications of this lifestyle. His stories about Joe’s attempts to balance family life while dodging law enforcement showcase the constant threat that loomed over their lives, encapsulating the dangerous allure and traumatizing consequences of organized crime. We also touch upon the significant events that defined the gang wars in Boston, including Joe Mac’s suspected involvement in notorious hits and how the landscape of crime shifted in response to law enforcement's increased focus on organized crime. Springs dives into the enigmatic character of Joe Mac, unraveling his military background, his unyielding commitment to the underworld, and how he managed to stay a step ahead of rivals and authorities alike. In closing, Springs reflects on the motivations behind his book—his desire to portray the human side of a man branded a monster while exploring the broader themes of morality, family, and the haunting legacy of crime. As we wrap up, it becomes clear that “Don’t Talk About Joe Mac” is not just a biography of an infamous crime figure, but a complex narrative that invites readers to ponder the true cost of a life steeped in organized crime. This episode is a riveting exploration of character, culture, and crime, offering audiences an engaging glimpse into the storied history of Boston organized crime, the Winter Hill gang through the lens of one of its most pivotal figures, Joe Mac. Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer @ganglandwire Click here to “buy me a cup of coffee” Subscribe to the website for weekly notifications about updates and other Mob information. To go to the store or make a donation or rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click here To rent ‘Brothers against Brothers’ or ‘Gangland Wire,’ the documentaries click here.  To purchase one of my books, click here. Springs Toledo JOe mac Gary Jenkins: [00:00:00] hey, all your wire tappers out there. Gary Jenkins back here in the studio of Gangland Wire. I’m a retired Kansas City Police Intelligence unit detective, doing a podcast mainly about organized crime. We might stray into drugs every once in a while, but primarily about Italian based organized crime or, and then sometimes we get into Irish based organized crime. I’ve done a story on the Westie in the past and a few other stories like that. So today we’re gonna talk about the. Crossing of the Irish and and the Italians in Boston area, which is a really well known, famous story. A lot of great characters. And I have with me a man who wrote a book about this. Springs Toledo, welcome Springs. Springs Toledo: Thank you very much, Gary. Happy to be here. Gary Jenkins: Great. Now guys, the books is, don’t Talk about Joe Mack the Life Wars and Secret History of the Man Behind The Winter Hill Gang. And I’ve always wondered about this Winter Hill gang. I’ve always heard of it and Whitey Bulger came out of that and was so famous, but I’ve never really. [00:01:00] Seen anything or know anything about the background of it. And Springs, Toledo has somebody, a guy called Joe Mack that was involved in that and he’s really gone into it in depth. Springs, tell us a little bit about yourself, how you got into this. Springs Toledo: I’m a native of Boston, which did help, the accent helped open doors. Gary Jenkins: We can tell. Springs Toledo: But I don’t even try to hide it anymore. And I have a background in, in boxing, which also helps, that’s a breeding ground for, leg breakers and enforcers. Historically, in Boston, a lot of ex fighters became gangsters or, involved in that life. I went to Northeastern got a graduate degree in criminology. And I I didn’t, I never became a police officer. I worked with, actually with juvenile delinquents and troubled youth for many years. I’ve written several books some about boxing, some about an historical figure named John Brown, who’s an abolitionist, so I’m running the gamut. But Joe McDonald was a name that I heard whispered for many years, growing up. He had a very long criminal career over five decades.[00:02:00] And, so he was considered something very serious. But what I began to notice as the book started coming out after John Madano became a cooperating witness, as he’d say. Is that not much was known about this individual. What I knew is that he was about 20 years older than everybody else. So he’s an elder statesman in that world. So I started poking around. I know some guys who were involved in that life. I know some other guys who were very connected to very serious individuals who were active in the Boston Underworld during these years, the sixties, seventies, eighties, into the nineties. Yeah. So I started, asking around and the things I started to hear were very downright alarming about who this man was and that he was the guy not Whitey Bulger. There was what they’ll all tell you the deeper you get into the operators in that world is that Whitey Bulger is. Largely a mythology. And that in Somerville especially, he wasn’t really that respected. Joe Mack, however, was Joe Mack was, he [00:03:00] was the go-to guy. And upon doing all kinds of research, field research, but also I’m trying to corroborate everything. People are saying you can’t just take what people have to say at face value, especially if they’re, underworld figures. Yeah. A lot of ’em have a self-interest as so what I would do, I had a little strategy. What I would do is I would talk to one guy in Southie if I heard a story that sounded intriguing or something about Joe Mack, what have you, and then I’d try to find another guy in Somerville or East Boston or Hy Park who didn’t necessarily know that individual. And if the stories match, I’d look into it further. For instance, I wanna make sure the guy wasn’t in prison at that time, that he’s allegedly known to have done something. So that’s how I began to put together a picture. And what the u unanimously what I found out is that Joe McDonald was really the, he’s the one that put together organized crime in Somerville, centered in Winter Hill. He organized the launch sh the rackets loan, sharking booking, sports betting, all of that. And he was a very feared individual.[00:04:00] He looked like a building superintendent. He was balding. He, no, he was nothing flashy about him. He was family man. But so I started digging deeper and I got his military records, and then the picture really started to come together because of what he went through during World War II in the South Pacific and the trauma that he suffered. I didn’t wanna write a straight True crime book. So I wanted to do something different. I didn’t want it to be ordinary. I wanted it to be get underneath the behavior. It’s the, the criminology major is, was showing it’s yeah. Was coming to the fore. So I wanna get underneath it. So I consider this book more of a nonfiction noir. ‘Cause if you watch those old movies, a lot of ’em have a theme where you have, the main character, the anti-hero. These are movies from the forties, all black and white. All shadowy. Yeah. They come back from World War ii and they’re troubled. They’re shell-shocked. JoEM, Joe Mack came back and he’s marred. Something about his personality had changed and he’s one of the few individuals that I’ve encountered who [00:05:00] actually age into crime. He didn’t age out of it like everybody else. He aged into it. But he was very good at what he did. He was a brilliant individual. Very strong-willed. Someone said that I talked to, they said that, all the fear, whatever fear he had was knocked out of him, in SVO sound. When his ship went down, which was a USS Quincy with his brother on it. So he became a, began to emerge as a fascinating figure. But what. Made me decide to write the book was when I was hooked up with his daughter by TJ English. I reached out to him and he, he told me about Jackie McDonald. I reached out to her and I said, I’m thinking about writing a book about your father, Joe McDonald. I don’t think that the the literature on him now really got him right. And she said, give me a night to drink about it. Yeah, so the next morning she told me she was she’ll tell me everything she knows and she was the right person because first of all, she was named for the brother that he lost in SVO sound that he never got over his little brother. Her name’s [00:06:00] Jacqueline. And like her father, she’s absolutely brilliant. She’s charismatic. She is incredibly honest. If she’s not sure about something she’d say. So nothing in it was, what she told me was about herself. It was nothing was ego driven. She wanted to tell the truth of her father. And what I began to realize early on is that you know this, you have victims of guys like Joe McDonald who killed dozens of people professionally, but he was a murderer. There’s no doubt about it. And you have a lot of victims, including in his own family. Not that he intended to hurt his daughters and his son, but his, who he was and what he was, did a lot of damage to his own family and she was the perfect person to talk to because she was so honest. She’s also very funny if, you read about her in the book, she comes across as a real character, very charismatic. So her story runs parallel with his, she comes out about the middle of the book. I trace her life alongside with his, and she had a memoir that she did many years ago and she shared that with me. [00:07:00] She’s she really is a force of good, if you will, in the book. She’s the one to cheer for, she’s the one to root for. Joe McDonald is a formidable figure, but he’s a dark and shadow. We figure. I do bring him out as much as I can and he is fascinating, but. I felt like I needed someone to root for the reader, yeah. And also, it’s women who love true crime the most. Yeah. Gary Jenkins: That’s so Springs Toledo: had to give nod to them, they’re gonna buy it. Gary Jenkins: That is true. And a story like this will will attract men and women both, sometimes those just straight, kill ’em all and let God sort ’em out. Of true crime books are not really attractive to women. That’s really interesting that. You’re showing the human side of this guy instead of just the crime side, which there every one of these guys that are professional criminals in this life have a human side. They, that’s what one thing that fascinated me about ’em, even way back when I started, went into the intelligence unit is these guys all had families and they had kids going to St. Pius up here and they played football and the families all showed up [00:08:00] when their kids played football and they were in little league and all that kind of normal stuff. On one hand, but yet they came over into the CI city in here. They came from the suburbs over in the city and were these gangsters all night long, and then went back home to their suburban homes. So that family side. That’s really interesting. I’m glad you did that. Springs Toledo: That’s compartmentalization. And Joe was the best at it. But there was something unusual about this case and that is that. Joe told nothing to anybody. His Winter Hill partners barely knew about his personal life. They didn’t know much about him. Yeah, nobody knew much about him. ’cause he didn’t confide in anybody. He did it the way you’re supposed to do it. As an organized, if you’re gonna get into organized crime, you want to follow his lead. And he lived a tough life. It’s nothing to get into in terms of choosing that as an occupation. However, he did confide in his daughters. He trusted them and he told them an awful lot, which he didn’t realize was traumatizing them. But. Jackie McDonald is blessed with a very good memory, so she was able to fill in [00:09:00] a lot of blanks about some of which were cold case murders and other just, real eyebrow raising incidents that happened. I think this book would’ve been invaluable to the FBI. Right up to the early nineties interest because of the stuff that came out, several cold case murders. I think I solved them. And, they were attributable, well attributed. I attribute them to Joe, a few. I know he did. But, people didn’t know, and he was a, excuse my saying, but he had. He was a real talent for that. He knew how to get you. He knew how to find you. He knew how to get you. And he also, like I said, he didn’t have any fear, so there was nothing holding him back. And that’s a difference from Whitey Bulger. What people don’t realize is that Whitey Bulger was a very careful man. And that’s why a lot of murders attributed to Whitey Bulger. He didn’t do, it doesn’t even, it, it offends his personality. He was the kind of guy, if he’s gonna kill you, you’re gonna be in the basement tied to a chair, or you’re gonna be a woman. He’s not on Northern Avenue in Boston in broad daylight, killing Brian Halleran. It’s not true. That’s not Whitey [00:10:00] bulge, that’s not how he operated. Joe Mack was a different beast altogether, and yet he was never indicted for murder. He was questioned maybe for one of them. And the title is really a reason for that because you didn’t talk about Joe Mack. That’s actually, that’s that’s. I like the title a lot. It took me a long time to get to that title. First title was Hey Joe, ’cause of the song. And I was like, ah. Nobody said, Hey, Joe to him. Where you going with that gun in your hand, huh? That’s right. You’re good. Yeah. Jimmy Hendrix. And then another title was the Wars of Joe Mack. That was a little too masculine that works, but it was too masculine. Yeah, don’t talk about Joe Mack really captures, what he was and how he operated. Gary Jenkins: Springs set the geographic scene. I’ve always been a little bit confused about this in Boston. IU Boston is unlike Kansas City, for example, what I’m familiar with. It has these really distinct areas in neighborhoods. Set the scene, the Italians African Americans, the Irish what set that up for us? [00:11:00] Springs Toledo: Okay, this is the, fifties, sixties, seventies that, that’s where most of the book is occurring. Especially 60, 70, actually into the eighties. Boston first of all it’s basically back then was an Irish Catholic city. Yeah. There were other ethnicities, but it was overrun with the Irish and there were neighborhoods. So you had. You had neighborhood crews, you had crews that were operated out of East Boston. That’s Barboza, south Boston was several of them. Jamaica Plain, the North End obviously was where the mafia was. Sented La Ostra. Somerville, Charlestown. And a lot of, most of these guys who were got into criminality. Not only did they have families, they also had occupations. They were long showmen, they were roofers. They had jobs. I’m a policeman. And back then policemen, you didn’t make a lot of money. So you were encouraged to supplement your income. Oh yeah. Some of these guys were, they were detectives by day and they’re doing heists at night and that was not uncommon. And. Over time, certain organizations [00:12:00] became more organized and the Irish, remember, were barely organized. They were more like, it was more like the old West when things got hot. It was also a whiskey driven, a lot of the heinous acts and the murders that started to happen with that, the Irish gang war in the sixties, everybody was drunk. Some of these guys were really nice guys and then they got to the whiskey and forget it. They become monsters. Not everybody, but but. Boston was also very segregated. Not like the south. It was, there was natural neighborhoods, I was in Hy Park, that’s where I came up. If I went to Southy, there was a problem ’cause I didn’t know a lot of people there. If somebody from Southie went to the North End, it’s a problem. You are Irish, you shouldn’t be here. You didn’t cross boundaries. Mattapan was Jewish and then it became black. Same thing. So everybody congregating together is very tribal in that sense. Less so now, but there are still pockets, what’s upsetting to me is that you barely hear the accent, and you’re walking through Boston, you don’t hear the accent too much anymore. You have to get to Dorchester. That’s their accent’s. 10 times worse than mine, [00:13:00] and mine’s pretty bad but Joe Mack was Joe Mack was born in Medford, Massachusetts. He then, he was in Somerville by about 1950. His mother had moved there as as clan, if you will. Had moved there, his sisters and brothers. And so he was in Somerville in Winter Hill, and that’s where he started to operate and that’s where he started to put things together. Gary Jenkins: Interesting. You say Winter Hill. So let’s talk about the beginnings or this Winter Hill gang. I’ve heard of this. Many times. And Whitey Bulger of course popularized it. So tell me about the Winter Hill gang and Howie Carr. And there’s a famous picture that see on internet or on Facebook with our Underboss Tuffy Luna and this guy that was the head of the Winter Hill gang and a couple other gangsters from New York. So tell us about the beginning of this Winter Hill gang. Springs Toledo: We deserves a lot of credit. He’s the one that really brought the stuff out beginning in the eighties. He had the guts to mention Joe Mack in print. That’s high risk. I’m not sure how much he did it, but he was really [00:14:00] attuned to it early. And he had some great books, but winter Hill’s a neighborhood in Somerville. It’s not South Boston. You talk to guys who were associated with the Winter Hill Gang, what they called the Hill. Really? It was called The Hill by those who were a part of that organization. They get very resentful about Whitey Belgium and some of them will say that Whitey Belger wasn’t Winter Hill. Whitey Belgium was a partner, but he was South Boston. Okay. Once, and it’s a big story, but once he, it’s all in the book. But once he betrayed his partners in 79. With Fleming and all the partners just about were either they were all indicted except for about this big horse racing scheme that was going on, across several states. But Whitey and Fleming were unindicted co-conspirators, and that was hint number one that prompted Joe to go to Howie Winter, who was the face of the organization and say, I’m gonna kill them both. He was talked out of it because it’d be too much heat because Whitey had some very serious connections. You can’t take that away from him. And so he was a high [00:15:00] risk hit. Joe would’ve done it anyway and would’ve probably made him disappear or threw it at another organization to get the heat off the hill. But he was restrained, which was, I thought was a big mistake, but who can tell then? But after he cleared the field of his rivals, who. Where his partners in the Winter Hill gang he ostensibly should have taken over the rackets in Somerville, but that wasn’t really the case. He had salty that was his turf. He was a local guy. Salty was really where he was. He was no longer really welcome is my understanding from guys who I talked to were there, he was basically chased out of the Marshall Motor’s garage in Somerville in Winter Hill, and that’s when he went to the Lancaster garage in, on North End, which is closer to home, closer to his. Space of operations. Yeah. But Whitey was very treacherous and he was Machiavellian in his methods. Joe at the time was already on the lamb because I don’t think Whitey would’ve survived that if Joe was close and saw what he was doing. So it’s a lot of what could have been, if Joe wasn’t in the wind because of several other crimes and murders he was [00:16:00] doing at the time, he was actually on the FBI’s 10 most wanted on 76, long before Whitey was on it. Gary Jenkins: Interesting. So then the relationship between Howie Carr and Joe Mack how was that, how did that shake down? Springs Toledo: Howie Winter, you mean, Gary Jenkins: or Howie Winter, I’m sorry. Springs Toledo: Yeah. Howie Winter was mentored by Joe Mack. See, Joe Mack was really, he was like the general, he was like the general on the field. The Irish don’t operate in a hierarchy. That’s an Italian thing. There’s no ring kissing in an Irish pub. It’s just a different culture. What they were partners. You had one guy up front. He was the face of it. That’s Howie. Howie was the face of it before Howie’s buddy McClain. In the early, in the early sixties. Joe though, the guy in the shadows, he used to say, I’m at the back of the bus. He’s at the back of the bus, but he’s the one with the map. He’s the go-to guy. The guy up front is the guy that gets hit. That’s the guy that gets indicted. So Joe was astute enough to, just stay in the [00:17:00] background, let the kids have it. But they were. Very close, very close. During the war they were, very tight-knit organization. These were friends. They were very affectionate with each other. They took care of one another. This is before Whitey came in. He was, he poisoned the well. But Joe and Howie and Buddy McClean and they, anos when they come in, they were very close. It was a kind of a band of brothers in a way. But Joe still made. Maintain that, everybody was at arms length with him. He was careful about everybody. There was a rift between Howie and Joe later in their respective lives in the in the eighties, into the nineties. I’m told that it was healed. I don’t think it was, and that’s unfortunate. But they were close to most of their lives, they literally went to war together on, on the street, you’re gonna form strong bonds when you know you’re looking at this guy and you gotta rely on him to watch your back. And Gary Jenkins: yeah, Springs Toledo: that’s what was happening. Gary Jenkins: So Irish, they didn’t kick up, if you will, to somebody above them. Everybody was a kind of a independent operator. If you got a piece of action and you had something going that you didn’t have to kick up to [00:18:00] somebody to be part of the Winter Hill gang, if you will. Springs Toledo: That was where the, there were a lot of crews around. They were called independents. And there’s a lot of them around in Boston in the sixties. But if you got too big and you started making real money, Patri was a power in Boston. Gary Jenkins: Yeah. Springs Toledo: Raymond Patri, he was a power in Boston. There’s no doubt about that. But there’s two schools of thought. Some believe that Winter Hill had to always kick up to them, kick to Providence. Others say? No, not really. Because first of all, he loved Buddy McClean. Buddy McClain was he was a very charismatic guy, very tough guy, and he was a man of his word, so they really liked him. So there’s the other school of thought is that, they liked Buddy, they gave him a pass on that. But every now and then they’d have to do him favors, maybe do some hits, things like that. Yeah. Yeah. But again, but in, in Boston it’s, like I said, it’s mostly Irish, it’s not set up like New York where the Italians are a real power that’s right there. He, one guy, matter of fact a name of one of the chapters in the book where I get into the Gangland war. Is Boston was [00:19:00] overrun with sick bastards, quote unquote, because there was just so many dangerous guys. There wasn’t a few here and there, like the gallows or it, there was hundreds of guys and there was damn near psychopathic they were called and underworld polls. There was savages, they go right to your house. And it was too many. This, one guy actually several believed that if there was a problem between Rhode Island. The Boston Underworld, meaning Boston Writ Lodge, including Somerville, Medford, Malden, all that. That. The Italians would’ve come to the table. ’cause the Irish underworld, the Boston Underworld here would’ve made it very much not worth it. Not worth the blood and the treasure. So it’s, yes, with very interesting culture here. What you couldn’t control the Boston underworld. They would just, Boston itself has a reputation. You don’t wanna invade this place. Gary Jenkins: Yeah, just ask the English, huh? Springs Toledo: Exactly. Yeah. We go way back with that stuff. Yeah. Gary Jenkins: Yeah it’s, I was at I went into the north end and looked around at Prince Street and all the place where [00:20:00] Jerry Angelo and all that was going on, and that is such a small. Discreet little area in that then, so you, they just operated and he was not any kind of a real power. It didn’t seem to be like, compared to patriarchal. He was under patriarchal of course. And he didn’t really, it’s like the Irish all had their own thing all around him. All, and he didn’t really have didn’t, I didn’t find any, anything I’ve ever seen where there was much to do between those two. Was there, did he have anything about that? Springs Toledo: He had he had two guys joe Russo, he was a killer. He was a very serious individual and a guy who has two names. Some call him Byi, some call him Zino. Larry was his name. Very serious guy. But that’s two guys. The other dangerous guys in the north end. They were getting up there in age. Meanwhile, like you just alluded to, this sur this surrounded, by these, these crazy guys. Yeah, but they, they did. There was some interplay, there was some contracts would be given to the Hill, for instance. That happened several times. The Hill would borrow [00:21:00] money from Angelou and Jou had a lot of money. They’d borrow money from him. Whitey Belger borrowed money from him with Fleming and actually didn’t pay it back. And then Joe Mack got out of the can. This is 80 late 86, 87, and him and Howie went to Fleming and Whitey and said, listen, you’re paying them back. Matter of fact, you’re paying them back a million because you made us look bad. We pay our debts, you pay him, you pay in back 1 million. And they did. They Whitey Bulger. Yeah. Whitey Bulger did not step two, Joe McDonald. In other words he wasn’t the power that Johnny Depp would have us believe. Gary Jenkins: Interesting. So let’s go back to the family just a little bit. His daughter Jack Le, so when he went to prison, did she talk about that? I have a friend who went to prison for several years and he talks, tells me a lot about his kids coming to visit him in prison. Did he talk about that? Did she talk about that? How that affected her? Springs Toledo: She she talks about her whole life and how he was a shadow in her life. She loved him, [00:22:00] but he brought a lot of chains behind him and a lot of ghosts and a lot of fear of FBI raids and things like that. Even when he was on the run from the FBI was on the, top 10 most wanted, it’s only six o’clock news all over the place in every post office. He would just show up and see her. He thought he was being a dutiful father. He’s showing up. He’s got these black sideburns, glued onto his face and she could see the ink dripping. He got his rug on his head he startled her a lot. So she. He was a cause of great anxiety. And then she became a mother, and then things started to change. She had to protect her boys. And while, he looked like he could be a good grandfather, he was an extremely dangerous man. And when he went away to prison, she tried to be a good daughter. She would send him clippings. Matter of fact, she sent him a clipping of I think it was a national examiner because her father was in it. It was about the top 10. FBI fugitives. And she pointed out she was into astronomy and she astrology and she pointed [00:23:00] out that Joe Mack and another guy named Leo Corey had the same birthday, July 14th. So she thought he’d get a kick outta that. He gets outta prison a few years later, and he shows up at her house with Leo Corey. Who’s still on the top 10 most wanted. And she, he opens the door. He said, do you remember this guy? And she turned, that, that was a scary, that was a very scary moment for her. Yeah. He’s bringing very, this is a convicted murderer. It’s a multiple murderer. She’s got bringing, he’s bringing it to her house like he’s an old friend. So that kind of stuff happened a lot. It almost show off like that. Look what I can do. Yeah. So she had, I, she did love him and she has since forgiven him. And I think this book is part of her process to forgive, what he put her through and what he put his other children through. Not intentionally, he tried to be a good father, but how can you. In that position. Gary Jenkins: Yeah. Yeah. When you bring that violence into the home, and you can’t help but bring that aura of [00:24:00] violence with you. When you live that life and when you come back into the home, there’s still that edge of violence that, that unspoken communication, you jump every time, somebody pulls up out in front and you’re running to the window to see who it is and there’s just always, always on edge. I, that would be it. Springs Toledo: Here’s a good story. So he’s on the run. This is in the I think it’s the late sixties. Joe’s on the run. She’s at home and Joe set his wife and kids up in Malden and a house on the hill. And originally he was gonna live there too. And it’s a, it is a great place. He’s up, he’s on a corner. He’s on a hill. You can see Boston from it. So it’s got a great vantage point for kind of a, a paranoid damaged war veteran. Yeah. So a call comes into the house. Voice says, you know who this is. She’s about 11, 12 years old. Voice says, you know who this is? Yes. Meet me at the bottom of the hill. So she gets her sister Patty and they meet their dad at the bottom of the hill. He takes them bowling and saga. He’s got the disguise on. Yeah. He’s got so many IDs, fake IDs, and he’s they [00:25:00] go to they, they go bowl and. You gotta wait for Lane. So he’s sitting there like this, he got his arms out. He’s feeling good about himself. He’s a good dad. He got his two teenage girls here and one of ’em, one of ’em, almost a teenager. And suddenly over the intercom, Thomas Campbell, your lane is ready. And he’s just sitting there. Thomas Campbell, he’s just sitting there. Finally his daughter says, pat says, dad, that’s you. Oh. And off he goes. So he wasn’t even sure who he was half the time. Yeah. So he’s my heart went out to him in that sense because here’s a man who made some very dark life choices and he’s trying to be a conventional father. Meanwhile, he’s gotta keep his eye on the clock, on the door, on the phone and everything else, all day long. Not to mention the fact that, there’s, it was dangerous lifestyle. But, his daughters, I, his daughters, they idolize him and they loved him. They didn’t fear him, he never raised his hand to them, never raised his hand to them, but they feared what he brought with ’em. Yeah. And that’s a theme book. Gary Jenkins: Yeah. Interesting. Yeah, that’s a, that’s that is so interesting. Think about this [00:26:00] era or of violent violence. I think somewhere in the book I noticed I was going through it where he may have been possibly one of the suspects on the Joe Barbosa head out in San Francisco when they finally got him and in. Springs Toledo: That’s fascinating because actually I had to take out ’cause of the publisher, I take about 15,000 words, but I really get into that. But that had to go. But what happened was. He had to go out there and kill a federal witness. And this guy was a civilian. This guy looked like a grandfather. And but he was gonna be a fence for some rear stamps that Joe had taken a million dollars worth of rear stamps. And this guy was gonna be the fence. He was a rear stamp collector out in Sierra Madre. Long story short, in January of 1976, Joe Mack drives out there, shoots him in the head five times in front of his wife, and then in February, that’s when Bob Bozer is killed February, 1976. This is January, 1976. Now, what I heard from two sources, and they’re pretty good, is that Joe did not go from Sierra Madre, [00:27:00] California back to Somerville. What he did was he went to Laurel Canyon and that’s where Alex Rocco was staying. Alex Rocco du played Mo Green in The Godfather. Oh, Gary Jenkins: yeah. Yeah. Springs Toledo: Yeah, he was a Winter Hill guy and Joe stayed with him on the lamb for so many weeks. I don’t know if it’s true. I couldn’t chase that down. No way you’re gonna find that out. But it was an intriguing little tidbit. So then in in February Bob Bozer is killed. Now when that news hit a bar in Boston called Clocks was a mob hangout. The bartender who knew all these guys. He got off the phone and he yelled out to the bar that Bleepity bleep stool pigeon. Animal Barbosa is dead and gone. God bless Joe Mack. That’s what he said. He just assumed Joe Mack did it. So what I’m trying to chase that down and what happens is so I’m talking to guys, who’re talking to guys. What I [00:28:00] found out is that one guy said no, this that, that wasn’t Joe that was kept in-house among the Italians because Bob Bza really took apart the Italians influences Yeah. In Boston. Yeah. He took them apart with lies. And however, there were three people in that van. I got these I got freedom of information documents and. What I was told by a made guy actually, is that it was Russo and Byi Zino. They’re the ones that took out Bob Bozo with a shotgun from a van. The van two seats were taken out of the van. The windows were painted black. This. Side windows were painted black and peeps were drilled into the side door and the back, so they worked hard to get ’em, but there was a third man in the van, so that’s a little intriguing. Could it have been Joe? I don’t know. Probably not. I’d have to say probably not, but nice story. And then from there, and then literally just a few weeks after that, Joe was in disguise. Remember now he’s already on the news as a as a top 10 fugitive. The FBI’s looking [00:29:00] for, and where is he? He’s in Walpole. How did I find out? I got everybody’s prison records. I could, and Brian Halleran, who turns up later in the book and then turns up dead later in the book. He’s in prison. Joe visits him. How do I know? It’s Joe’s Alias? John A. Kelly, that was his alias at the time. So he’s wanted by the FBI, he’s on the news and literally a week or two later. He’s visiting somebody in Walpole State Prison. From there, I trace him to Montreal. What’s he doing in Montreal? He’s sticking, he’s holding up a an ahed car robbery. With the Montreal Express, they had a great program, the Montreal Express. And Somerville, what they would do is they would just swap guys to do these big highs, get these ika, get these banks, and then just return. So it was awfully hard to catch ’em ’cause they’re just doing like a swap off. Yeah. Joe Mack. Was up there. And what he was doing was, and he, it was a white van, which raises an eyebrow, another white van. And the Amed car, the guy wouldn’t open the door. So they open up the [00:30:00] door of the back doors of the white van. And there is a World War II Browning anti-aircraft gun. And guess who’s behind it? Joe Mack. So this is a very busy man, and he should be, he’s retirement age but did he kill Boba? Probably not, but there was a third guy there. I would not be surprised. I know the Italians used him. Gary Jenkins: You brought something to Montreal Express Now what’s that? I, that I’m not from, I’ve not heard that term before. Springs Toledo: I wasn’t either, but that a lot of guys told me they Gary Jenkins: back heard your story there. Springs Toledo: Yeah, there is. Yeah. They were they were up, they were they were bank robbers. They went for the armor trucks. That was their forte. Very well organized. Very skilled. They were specialized and they would swap off with, winter Hills, sometimes with Southie and South Boston, I should say. South Boston and Somerville would, they were very close, they were very much aligned. They would swap off. I think one of ’em was the brother of a Bruins hockey player. Yeah. Gary Jenkins: Interesting. These guys, they got their connections. I found out more and more after I since I started doing this podcast, how many connections people [00:31:00] had between cities and even within a city connections to regular look like Square John, businessmen and just connections all over the place. It’s Springs Toledo: all over the place. Matter of fact, Joe was Joe was in contact with the guys who escaped from Alcatraz. I couldn’t prove it, but I heard that, he was sending them money and, and supporting them. I pro I didn’t find nearly 50% of what Joe was up to, but that’s more than anybody else. I think before this book, we knew about 2% of what he was up to. Yeah. Gary Jenkins: It was Springs Toledo: pretty guy. Sure. Yeah. He was a footnote in the most of the books. Just a footnote, if that. So Gary Jenkins: that’s the smart one, the one that keeps his head down and keeps out of the papers and everything. Did that, did you talk to John Ano? Springs Toledo: Yes. Yeah. Gary Jenkins: Interesting. Springs Toledo: I did. He was he loved, first thing he said was how much he loved him. All these guys, very serious guys. They’re very powerful guys in the underworld. And when I brought his name up the ones who were close to him, they would say I love that. I love that man. Loved him. They loved and [00:32:00] revered him. Other guys who were not as close to him, but who were very, operatives in the bus world. I bring his name up now, he’s been gone since 1997. And they’d look around like this. And they say, oh gee. So you know, his name is still enough to and matter of fact, I was told early on when I was poking around that I’m poking around in dangerous places and Joe still has friends and you don’t wanna cross these guys, so even now his his shadow still looms, if you will, but I think it approve of what I did because, what I heard is that he’s very honest. He would not want any biographer to pull a pull punches about who and what he was. I didn’t, yeah. But some of his friends warned me. They were, you gotta be careful with this, but I call it bachelor’s privilege. I’m not married, I have no kids. If I end up in a ditch, who cares? So I can take risks. Gary Jenkins: Yeah. That’s some truth. It’s just that last few minutes before you’d done the dish, you go, oh shit, I wish I was anywhere but here. I, Springs Toledo: I would ask to talk to a priest. Let me get a confession. That what you gotta do, Gary Jenkins: you Springs Toledo: know, Gary Jenkins: you’d be like I think it was Tony Citro. Supposedly the story was he [00:33:00] wanted to know if he could say a quick prayer before they did him in, but Springs Toledo: I hope they let him, Gary Jenkins: I don’t know. Steve Fleming, we met, you’d mentioned about Steve Fleming, the Rifleman, who was whitey’s buddy and you, I think you mentioned you had a story about Steve Fleming. Springs Toledo: Steve Fleming was it’s interesting he doesn’t appear too much in the book. One of the things I had to do with this, I had to do my best to keep the names down. One of the a fatal flaw in a whole lot of Boston and Underworld books than any underworld books is there was just 8,000 names. Too many names. There’s too many names. So I, so I mentioned him a few times ’cause you have to, but I’m not focused on Fleming, but I can tell you that Joe was very suspicious of Fleming as early as he was very suspicious of Whitey. He respected him. Fleming was a killer. More of an ambush killer than than a Savage or a guy who took a lot of risks. He was a lot like Whitey, like that. But no, Joe didn’t trust him because. He had a long bid and he got out early, and that’s always a cause for concern among those guys. Why are [00:34:00] you out early? They got a story and the stories backed up by the government. They were already in cahoots. Gary Jenkins: Yeah. Springs Toledo: But with the names, there was one guy, this is an example. He was actually an MDC cop who was part of the Winter Hill gang in the early sixties, and his name was Russ Nicholson. I don’t wanna keep saying Russ Nicholson, the cop. So I shortened it to Russ the cop. Yeah. And then as things went on and the, police department realized that this guy’s involved in the rackets, they forced him to resign. So then I started calling them Rust, the ex cop. Then Rusty ex-cop gets clipped probably by Georgie McLaughlin. He’s dead, so now he’s Rust the dead ex-cop. So I’m trying to be polite to the reader and keep the names down. Gary Jenkins: Interesting. That’s a good idea that I know about that, that people say I love what you did, but there’s too many names. I got confused who was who. So it’s Springs Toledo: yeah, Gary Jenkins: it’s always a problem with these deals. All right, Springs, Toledo. [00:35:00] Let’s see. All of a sudden I like there it is. There you go guys. And guys, I will have your his link to for all his books and the show notes and of course links to my books too, but links to all of these guy, these books. You had some even about John Brown. You wanna go back into little Civil War history? Why check those out too. Guys, thanks so much for coming on the show. Springs Toledo: My pleasure.

Whitey is back on the moon, my bathroom falls out of scope, new places to put velour, Fat Libs, Johnny Rocket launches SUPERKILLERs, a mob of bicyclists are arrested, a new opening act, Germany starts to go to war, and Maddox proposes a solution to slow down the rotation of the Earth; all that and more this week on The Dick Show!