Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona: Episode Summary (07-29-25)

Release Date: July 29, 2025
Host: John Holmberg
Co-Hosts: Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, Dick Toledo
Station: 98 KUPD | Hubbard Radio
Podcast Description: Arizona's #1 Morning Radio Show where John Holmberg engages listeners with entertaining, thought-provoking, and sometimes controversial discussions alongside Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, and Dick Toledo.

1. Movie Spotlight: "Focker in Law"

The episode kicks off with a spirited critique of Robert De Niro’s latest film, "Focker in Law," which co-host Bret Vesely finds particularly disappointing.

• Bret Vesely ([00:08-05:28]):
  Bret expresses frustration over the film's premise and title, arguing that it misses the comedic essence of the original "Meet the Fockers" series. He states, “Focker in Law is no longer the joke that it intended it to be... the joke's not even there” ([03:00]). He laments the loss of the original humor, suggesting that the sequel fails to capture the charm of its predecessors.

• John Holmberg ([02:19-05:28]):
  John adds to the criticism by highlighting De Niro’s career trajectory, remarking, “Robert De Niro. Because that's all he's doing.” ([05:25]), indicating a decline in the actor’s recent choices.

The hosts collectively agree that the movie lacks the comedic impact of earlier installments, with Bret humorously proposing alternate titles like "Godfreaker" to salvage the premise ([03:30]).

2. Hot Releases: Music Segment

Transitioning to the "Hot Releases" segment, the hosts delve into the latest music releases, sharing their candid opinions on new tracks and artists.

• Machine Gun Kelly (MGK):
  Bret criticizes MGK’s evolving image and music style, describing him as "Sheen Gun Kelly... tries to be all like a tough guy" ([07:04]). He expresses disappointment, noting, “Everybody sings the song.” ([07:10]).

• Good Charlotte:
  John updates listeners on Good Charlotte’s new release, "Rejects," expressing surprise that the band is still active. Bret comments on the band’s claymation video, stating, “This is horribly boring.” ([08:12]).

• The Black Keys:
  The conversation briefly touches on The Black Keys’ latest work, with both hosts acknowledging their continued presence in the music scene but remaining lukewarm about the new release. John mentions, “It's no rain, no flowers.” ([09:20]).

• Amarae and AI-Generated Songs:
  The hosts explore the rising trend of AI-generated music, particularly in the country genre. Brett humorously describes Amarae’s music video, which features a car washer buffing a performer’s posterior against a Confederate flag backdrop, calling it “sexy and homoerotic at the same time” ([10:25]). They critique the quality and creativity of AI-produced songs, highlighting tracks like "Big Booty Latinas" and expressing skepticism about their authenticity and appeal ([12:00]-[12:53]).

3. AI-Generated Country Songs: A Debate

The discussion intensifies as the hosts debate the merits and drawbacks of AI in music creation.

• Bret Vesely ([12:00-13:00]):
  Brett underscores the ubiquity of AI in country music, stating, “The best music in the world right now is AI.” He critiques the simplistic and repetitive nature of AI-generated lyrics, questioning their emotional depth and originality.

• John Holmberg ([13:00-13:44]):
  John shares his reservations, noting, “That's why I pulled this up. I'm like, this is ridiculous.” He voices concern over the loss of human creativity and authenticity in music.

The segment concludes with the hosts agreeing that while AI may produce content efficiently, it lacks the nuanced expression that human artists bring to their work.

4. Television and Documentaries: "Hurricane Katrina Race Against Time"

Shifting focus to television, the hosts discuss the new documentary "Hurricane Katrina Race Against Time," which marks the 20th anniversary of the devastating storm.

• John Holmberg ([14:33-18:00]):
  John introduces the documentary, emphasizing its significance in commemorating one of America’s most catastrophic natural disasters. He reflects on the lasting impact of Hurricane Katrina, stating, “It's like 10 years, 20 years old.” ([18:39]).

• Bret Vesely ([20:05-23:20]):
  Bret provides a deeper analysis, lamenting how modern media handles infamous figures. He compares past notoriety, such as John Wayne Gacy and Jeffrey Dahmer, with contemporary cases where names and stories fade quickly in the public consciousness. He muses, “You can't become infamous from it anymore…” ([22:07]).

The discussion highlights concerns about collective memory and the societal fascination with notoriety, pondering whether the information overload of the digital age dilutes the impact of such events.

5. Sports and Entertainment: "WWE Unreal"

The conversation then shifts to sports entertainment, specifically the new series "WWE Unreal."

• Brady Bogen ([18:13-21:57]):
  Brady praises the series for revealing the athleticism behind professional wrestling. He emphasizes, “They're the most amazing athletes.” and expresses excitement about behind-the-scenes insights, stating, “We don't know how you can't fall in love with a business.” ([19:14]).

• Dick Toledo and Bret Vesely:
  The hosts discuss the authenticity and physical demands of WWE performers, appreciating the series' portrayal of their dedication and skills.

6. Video Games: "Twisted Metal Season 2" and "Grounded 2"

In the gaming segment, the hosts review the latest releases in the video game industry.

• Twisted Metal Season 2:
  Brett introduces the new live-action series adaptation of the popular video game, starring Anthony Mackie. He anticipates its appeal to fans, stating, “Twisted Metal's a blast.” ([23:07]).

• Grounded 2:
  Dick Toledo and Bret discuss "Grounded 2," a sequel bringing players into a miniature world inhabited by bugs. They compare it to "A Bug's Life," with Brett humorously noting, “But you are a real person somehow in this.” ([16:07]).

The hosts express enthusiasm for these adaptations, highlighting their potential to captivate both gamers and general audiences.

7. Current Events: "Son of Sam Tapes"

The episode delves into recent news surrounding Rabid Hat Crime and the renewed interest in infamous criminal cases.

• Bret Vesely ([20:05-23:20]):
  Bret discusses the "Son of Sam Tapes," a documentary series revisiting the notorious serial killer’s case. He reflects on the societal obsession with such figures, saying, “In the old days... we remember his name, that guy.” ([21:11]).

• John Holmberg and Dick Toledo:
  They engage in a conversation about the fleeting nature of infamy in the digital age, debating whether modern media’s saturation dilutes the impact of such crimes.

8. Conclusion: Upcoming Attractions and Final Thoughts

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts briefly mention upcoming attractions and final thoughts on the discussed topics.

• Twisted Metal and WWE Unreal:
  Brett and Dick express optimism about future episodes and releases, encouraging listeners to stay tuned for more in-depth discussions.

• Final Remarks ([24:43-25:23]):
  John Holmberg and Bret plug local businesses and upcoming events, promoting Action Ride Shop’s new location and services, emphasizing community engagement and support.

Notable Quotes

• Bret Vesely on "Focker in Law":
  “Focker in Law is no longer the joke that it intended it to be... the joke's not even there.” ([03:00])

• John Holmberg on MGK:
  “Robert De Niro. Because that's all he's doing.” ([05:25])

• Brett on AI Music:
  “The best music in the world right now is AI.” ([12:00])

• Bret on Infamy Today:
  “You can't become infamous from it anymore...” ([22:07])

Key Takeaways

• Film Critique: The hosts are disappointed with the new "Focker in Law" movie, feeling it fails to capture the original's comedic essence.

• Music Industry Insights: There is skepticism towards AI-generated music, with concerns about authenticity and creativity being compromised.

• Media and Memory: Discussions highlight how modern media consumption affects collective memory, especially regarding infamous events and figures.

• Entertainment Reviews: Positive anticipation surrounds new releases in television and video games, with particular enthusiasm for adaptations that honor their source material.

• Community Engagement: The episode underscores the importance of supporting local businesses and staying connected with community events.

This episode of "Holmberg's Morning Sickness" offers a blend of critical reviews, candid discussions on contemporary issues in entertainment, and light-hearted banter, making it a comprehensive and engaging listen for fans seeking insightful commentary and humorous takes on current trends.