Bellied Up Podcast: "Why Does Everyone Hate Ohio?" Episode #125 Summary

Release Date: November 7, 2024

In episode #125 of the Bellied Up podcast, hosts Charlie Berens and Myles "You Betcha" Miles dive into the pervasive Midwest jest of disliking Ohio. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, humorous banter, and engaging listener interactions, they explore the roots of this regional ribbing while celebrating Ohio's unique attributes.

1. Introduction of the Voicemail Feature

At [00:00], Miles announced a new voicemail line for listener calls:

Miles: "We now have a voicemail line... listen to the voicemails, then line up calls with the ones that we love."

This addition aims to streamline audience interaction, ensuring more voices are heard and featured on the show.

2. Personal Anecdotes and Frustrations

Early in the episode, the hosts share personal stories about losing items:

Charlie: "I have prescription sunglasses, and I haven't been able to find them for... seven months now... I've continued to buy cheapo pairs."

Miles: "I do that with sunglasses all the time... you're gonna bring it back to me."

Their camaraderie highlights common frustrations with losing possessions and the hopeful belief that lost items will miraculously return.

3. Toxic Positivity in Golf

At [02:01], Charlie expresses irritation with overly positive golf enthusiasts:

Charlie: "I don't like the toxic positive golfers. I don't like you. I know what you're doing."

Miles: "The timing, I think, is the issue."

The discussion evolves into a playful critique of individuals who offer unsolicited praise immediately after a poor performance, leading to a deeper conversation about social dynamics in sports.

4. The "Testicle" Golf Ball Company Joke

Midway through, the hosts brainstorm a fictional golf ball company:

Miles: "We make the balls tan or a tanned Version. And we call them testicles."

Charlie: "No, they come in sets of two... a black cow... we just can't call it coke float because of the '80s."

This segment showcases their trademark humor, blending absurd business ideas with wordplay.

5. Listener Call #1: Ava on Overly Talkative Fiancé

At [11:10], listener Ava shares her dilemma about her fiancé Greg's incessant chatter during flights:

Ava: "When my fiancé gets on an airline, he starts talking and talking... I just like, okay, am I just mean or is he just..."

Charlie: "So that would drive me nuts."

The hosts empathize with Ava, delving into Greg's "golden retriever" personality—friendly yet sometimes overwhelming. They discuss balancing social dynamics within relationships, offering lighthearted advice and relatable insights.

6. Listener Call #2: Max on Ohio Hatred

At [21:07], Max (Nate Tokarski) questions why Ohio is often the target of Midwest jokes:

Max: "What's all the slack that Ohio is getting lately? Seems like all you Midwesterners and everybody hates Ohio."

Charlie: "I think Ohio's a very respectable state. I do."

The ensuing debate becomes a humorous tug-of-war, with Charlie defending Ohio's merits—such as producing multiple U.S. presidents and housing Cedar Point amusement park—against the hosts' playful jabs about Ohio's stereotypes, like oversized cornfields and Lake Erie. Notable exchanges include:

Miles: "They think that they're better than the rest of the Midwest."

Charlie: "They have the rock and roll hall of fame there."

The conversation highlights the exaggerated rivalry between neighboring states, balancing mock criticism with genuine appreciation.

7. Listener Call #3: Ava from Spain on Reconnecting with an Old Acquaintance

At [39:02], Ava reaches out from Spain for advice on rekindling a relationship with a girl she met in eighth grade:

Ava: "I met a girl a couple years ago, back in eighth grade... she's going to be doing a semester over here... I just don't want to, like, try and then if it doesn't work out..."

Charlie: "You just gotta go out there."

The hosts encourage Ava to take the leap, emphasizing the importance of living in the moment and not fearing potential rejection. Their supportive yet comedic guidance aims to empower listeners facing similar situations.

8. Fan Mail and Final Thoughts

Towards the episode's end, Charlie and Miles address fan mail, offering humorous solutions and shoutouts:

Myles: "There's one common thing, Charlie. I think that will bring a family together."

Charlie: "Tippy Cow, folks. That's the way to unite your family this holiday season."

They also discuss potential future adventures, like touring Europe with the podcast, blending their signature humor with genuine enthusiasm for connecting with listeners.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Miles [00:00]: "We know that it can be frustrating to call in and wait for a long time... enjoy the episode."

• Charlie [02:30]: "I just have a last pair of binoculars right now that I'm hoping that."

• Miles [15:12]: "A good relationship's always got one person that will talk in social situations and the other person who just sits back and lets them do all the talking."

• Charlie [25:35]: "Give us some more evidence, Nate. Give us some more evidence."

• Miles [37:10]: "It's Tippy Cow."

• Charlie [47:10]: "You can visit the place they faked the moon landing."

Conclusion

Episode #125 of Bellied Up masterfully intertwines relatable personal stories, humorous banter, and engaging listener interactions to explore the lighthearted contention surrounding Ohio's reputation. Through their authentic chemistry and comedic prowess, Charlie Berens and Myles Miles create an entertaining and insightful conversation that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers alike.