Podcast Summary: "Brooks Wheelan Disobeys Bridger"
I Said No Gifts! A Comedy Interview Podcast with Bridger Winegar
Release Date: January 2, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of I Said No Gifts!, Bridger Winegar welcomes comedian Brooks Wheelan to his backyard for a lively and humorous conversation. As per the podcast's unique twist, Bridger requested "No gifts," but, as always, Brooks brings not one but three wrapped presents, setting the stage for entertaining banter.
Car Purchase Adventures ([03:00] - [04:23])
Brooks kicks off the conversation by sharing his recent escapade of buying a car from a friend, bypassing traditional dealerships.
- Brooks: "I just wrote a check, a normal check, minutes ago for $18,500. And you can just do that." ([03:57])
Bridger expresses skepticism about buying cars from friends, highlighting the trust factor.
- Bridger: "I wouldn't trust him with a car." ([03:06])
Despite the challenges, Brooks navigates the process smoothly, albeit humorously lamenting his hectic day of car-related tasks.
Cycling in LA and Accidental Mishaps ([04:24] - [09:04])
The duo delves into Brooks' passion for biking in Los Angeles, discussing the dynamics between cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers.
- Brooks: "I love riding bikes, man. It's my favorite way to get around town." ([05:22])
However, Brooks recounts a recent biking accident where he hit a pothole, leading to a visit to the emergency room and the shocking discovery that his health insurance had lapsed due to industry strikes and the pandemic.
- Brooks: "I feel dumber that I don't have health insurance than anything." ([08:47])
Pro Wrestling Passion ([09:04] - [17:37])
Brooks shares his enthusiasm for professional wrestling, reminiscing about events like the lucha libre matches in LA and recalling iconic matches from his youth.
- Brooks: "I've been to, yeah, I love pro wrestling." ([14:42])
They discuss the political leanings of wrestling legends like The Undertaker and the positive transformations of former wrestlers like Diamond Dallas Page, who now runs a successful yoga program.
The Rocky Cave Tour Guide Experience ([17:37] - [36:25])
A significant portion of the episode focuses on Brooks' tumultuous experience as a cave tour guide at Crystal Lake Cave in Iowa. He humorously details his disdain for the job, the strict and unpleasant manager, and the peculiar incidents that occurred during his tenure.
- Brooks: "It was such a trigger. And this woman, every time she pissed me off, I made a rule. I'm like, I'm fucking stealing something from her." ([30:08])
Bridger and Brooks laugh over stories of stolen cave artifacts, encounters with mischievous squirrels, and the overall misery of the job, painting a vivid picture of a less-than-ideal workplace.
Camping and Outdoor Escapes ([36:25] - [51:42])
Transitioning from cave tours, Brooks discusses his love for camping and outdoor activities as a means of escaping stress and seeking solitude.
- Brooks: "At least once a month." ([27:03])
They exchange stories about camping mishaps, wildlife encounters, and the therapeutic benefits of nature, with Bridger admitting his fears of animal attacks despite Brooks' adventurous spirit.
Expired Mustard Gift Unwrapping ([39:15] - [43:10])
True to the podcast's theme, Brooks presents Bridger with a set of expired mustards, leading to a humorous examination of their questionable flavors.
- Bridger: "I feel like this is not a thing." ([67:16])
- Brooks: "They're slightly different variations." ([39:19])
The duo taste-tests the mustards—Belgian ale, spicy sriracha, and honey pineapple—and debates their potential uses, ultimately agreeing that these expired condiments are more of a comedic curse than a useful gift.
Gift or Curse Game ([61:08] - [83:25])
Bridger and Brooks engage in a playful game segment called "Gift or Curse," where they evaluate listener-submitted scenarios.
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Vow Renewals ([63:58] - [65:01])
- Bridger: Rates it as a gift, appreciating the sentimental value despite potential underlying relationship issues.
- Brooks: Initially thinks it's a curse but is corrected by Bridger.
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Server Asking for Dressing Without Listing Options ([66:51] - [68:05])
- Bridger: Declares it a gift, finding humor in the guessing game and the waiter’s assumption of the diner's preferences.
- Brooks: Agrees, enjoying the interactive challenge.
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Calling Your Partner "The Boss" ([68:50] - [70:44])
- Bridger: Labels it a gift, embracing the playful dynamic.
- Brooks: Supports the idea, albeit with comedic reservations about workplace relationships.
Throughout the game, Bridger and Brooks infuse humor and relatable insights, engaging listeners with their witty exchanges and diverse perspectives.
Listener Q&A: Family Therapist Seeking Non-Capitalist Activities ([79:05] - [82:55])
Bridger and Brooks tackle a listener's heartfelt question from a family therapist struggling with limited resources due to organizational greed. They offer satirical and comedic solutions, suggesting community service and creating a common enemy to foster family bonding.
- Bridger: "Maybe a little more protection. Well, it's also the country's fault." ([09:04])
Their responses blend humor with a touch of social commentary, providing an entertaining take on a serious issue.
Conclusion and Final Banter ([82:55] - End)
As the episode winds down, Bridger and Brooks reflect on their enjoyable yet chaotic day filled with mustards, wrestling tales, and campfire stories. They reiterate the podcast's core theme of "No Gifts," despite the funny violation, and sign off with light-hearted remarks about future activities and interactions.
- Bridger: "Thank you for being here. And throw these in the cupboard and see what happens to them." ([83:09])
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Brooks on Health Insurance: "I feel dumber that I don't have health insurance than anything." ([08:47])
- Brooks on Pro Wrestling: "I love riding bikes, man. It's my favorite way to get around town." ([05:22])
- Brooks on Cave Tours: "It was such a trigger. And this woman, every time she pissed me off, I made a rule. I'm like, I'm fucking stealing something from her." ([30:08])
- Bridger on Gift Unwrapping: "I feel like this is not a thing." ([67:16])
Closing Remarks
This episode masterfully intertwines Brooks Wheelan's comedic anecdotes with Bridger Winegar's sharp wit, delivering a rich and engaging experience for listeners. From car purchases and cycling woes to wrestling passions and the misadventures of cave tours, the conversation flows seamlessly, punctuated by humorous insights and memorable quotes. Despite the "No Gifts" rule, Brooks' thoughtful (albeit expired) presents add an extra layer of fun, embodying the podcast's true crime comedy spirit.
Subscribe to I Said No Gifts! on your preferred podcast platform and follow Bridger on Instagram @isaydonogifts for behind-the-scenes glimpses and updates.