Good Guys Podcast Summary
Title: LA, We Love Ya
Host/Authors: Josh Peck & Ben Soffer
Release Date: January 16, 2025
1. Fires Ravage Los Angeles
The episode opens with Josh Peck and Ben Soffer addressing the devastating fires that have recently struck Los Angeles. Both hosts express their deep concern and sorrow for the affected communities.
- Josh Peck [01:08]: “It's my city. We love it. It will survive. We will stand tall again. But it's a total tragedy what's going on.”
- Ben Soffer [01:58]: “People of Los Angeles, I am so sorry. Not that I can do anything. I'm sorry, though. It's awful. What I'm seeing is awful, terrible, terrible.”
They discuss the unprecedented scale of the fires, comparing the acreage burned in LA to the entirety of Manhattan, underscoring the sheer magnitude of the disaster.
- Ben Soffer [03:31]: “I saw a comparison that showed that the amount of acreage burned was equivalent to all of Manhattan.”
2. Infrastructure Struggles and Hydrant Issues
Josh and Ben delve into the logistical challenges faced by firefighters, particularly focusing on the allegations that fire hydrants lacked adequate water supply due to reservoir management aimed at environmental conservation.
- Ben Soffer [04:15]: “I did hear that these reservoirs, for environmental reasons, were drained. I read that you had reservoirs and there was something going on where if we didn't drain these reservoirs, it was impacting some wildlife.”
- Josh Peck [05:39]: “All 114 city water supply tanks were fully stocked pre fire. A 15-hour surge at 4 times normal demand reduced water pressure.”
The hosts debate the validity of claims regarding water shortages, with Josh highlighting information that counters the notion of hydrant failures being due to reservoir mismanagement.
3. Insurance Woes Amidst Disaster
A significant portion of the conversation centers on the fallout in the insurance sector, specifically how State Farm canceled numerous policies in fire-affected areas, leaving many residents uninsured.
- Ben Soffer [07:09]: “The budget is 830 million... They still had 813 million to prepare for this over the last eight months. So, whether it's her, whether it's... something here is amiss.”
- Olivia [09:12]: “70% of State Farm insurance holders in that area had their insurance canceled in July of 2024.”
Josh emphasizes the dire consequences for homeowners who suddenly find themselves without insurance coverage, exacerbating the tragedy.
4. Personal Stories and Community Support
Josh shares a personal anecdote about a friend who considered staying with him during a nearby fire scare, highlighting the importance of community and support during crises.
- Josh Peck [14:33]: “Imagine the goodwill that I've amassed with this guy for doing nothing. Zip. The best kind of favor.”
- Ben Soffer [15:18]: “Nothing better. Nothing truly. Nothing better.”
5. New York City's Own Challenges
Shifting focus to New York, the hosts discuss issues like the recent stabbing spree on the subway, the implementation of the congestion tax, and the overall congestion woes plaguing the city.
- Ben Soffer [17:25]: “They're scanning your E-Z Pass and sending you a $9 toll to go from 60th street to 61st Street.”
- Josh Peck [21:02]: “If you spend $9 a day extra wouldn't affect me whatsoever. It's a terrible inconvenience that I will complain about.”
They critique the effectiveness of the congestion tax, questioning whether it genuinely alleviates traffic or merely adds financial strain on commuters, especially those already burdened by high living costs.
6. Listener Interaction: Advice on Parenthood
A listener sends in a heartfelt message seeking advice on when to start a family, considering factors like age and housing.
- Listener [43:24]: "We're both 35 years old... We're just trying to figure out when the best time to do it."
- Ben Soffer [44:24]: “If you're even debating it... lady, freeze your eggs. Just in case you are dilly dallying.”
- Josh Peck [45:00]: “It sounds like she just wants to try the old fashioned way... do it now, do it yesterday.”
The hosts encourage taking proactive steps toward parenthood, emphasizing that there's no perfect time and that waiting could complicate the process.
7. Gripes and Gripe Campaigns: "What Are You Nuts?"
In their signature segment, Josh and Ben air various pet peeves, blending humor with genuine frustrations.
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Savory Donuts:
- Josh Peck [47:27]: “Basil eggs Benedict donut is what are you nuts? It's not necessary.”
- Ben Soffer [47:51]: “That's vile. I'm sorry. Especially if you're serving a savory donut now.”
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State Farm Policies and Karen Bass:
- Ben Soffer [07:28]: “But yeah, State Farm canceled all you need to cancel.”
- Josh Peck [10:27]: “Who's getting canceled? Karen Bass. You know where she was during all of this.”
- Ben Soffer [10:43]: “I am literally revoking de Blasio and Karen Bass citizenship.”
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Starbucks Straws:
- Ben Soffer [48:30]: “What are you nuts? Release the straws. What do you think I'm going to do? Take 15 of them?”
- Josh Peck [49:17]: “It's pretty spectacular.”
These exchanges showcase the hosts' playful banter while addressing issues that resonate with their audience.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Josh Peck [01:08]: “No days off. We have our priorities right.”
- Ben Soffer [04:48]: “There has to be a hierarchy. There have.”
- Josh Peck [15:53]: “Chinos. Chinos. Chinos.”
- Ben Soffer [22:19]: “You need to buy an ambulance. But think about how much you get.”
- Josh Peck [35:03]: “He's ultra lean and he's a squeak. He's a small frame boy.”
- Ben Soffer [36:15]: “I have a lot of shoulder hair. I have back hair. I have belly hair.”
Conclusion
Josh Peck and Ben Soffer navigate through pressing issues affecting Los Angeles and New York with a blend of earnest discussion and comedic relief. From natural disasters and infrastructure challenges to personal stories and light-hearted gripes, the "Good Guys" deliver a comprehensive look at contemporary urban struggles, all while maintaining their trademark humor and camaraderie.
For more insights and discussions, tune in to the "Good Guys" podcast every Monday and Thursday.