Last Podcast on the Left Episode: Side Stories: Say It Ain't So
Release Date: April 16, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Side Stories: Say It Ain't So," hosts Henry Zebrowski and Marcus Parks delve into a blend of personal anecdotes, crime discussions, and humorous exchanges. The episode navigates through topics ranging from health updates and movie experiences to intense criminal cases and bizarre news stories. Throughout the conversation, the hosts maintain a dynamic and engaging rapport, balancing dark humor with insightful commentary.

Health and Medication Discussion

The episode opens with Henry and Marcus discussing cardiovascular health, specifically focusing on the medication Repatha (Evolocumab). Marcus emphasizes the importance of monitoring LDL cholesterol levels post-heart attack and introduces Repatha as a supplementary treatment to statins for lowering heart attack risks.

• Marcus Parks [00:15]: "To help know if we're at risk, we should be getting our LDL C, our bad cholesterol checked, and talking to our doctor."

Henry expresses a proactive approach towards his health:

• Henry Zebrowski [00:29]: "Guess it's time to ask about Repatha."

Katie Nolan interjects with a brief advertisement about Repatha, providing essential information on its usage and side effects.

Personal Anecdotes and Movie Experiences

Transitioning from health, Henry and Marcus share personal stories about watching the movie "The Brutalist." They discuss their differing experiences and perspectives on the film's ending, illustrating their unique approaches to media consumption.

• Marcus Parks [02:16]: "They know. They know. The audience knows. They track."

Henry reflects on the blending of their real lives with their show personas:

• Henry Zebrowski [02:15]: "You know what's weird is I have gotten to the point now where this show and our real life are blending."

They humorously recount how Marcus attempted to watch the movie again to grasp the ending, highlighting their intertwined lives and the challenges of maintaining distinct personal and professional identities.

Intense Criminal Case: Lori Valo Trial

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing the ongoing trial of Lori Valo, a suspect accused of multiple murders. Marcus provides a detailed analysis of the courtroom dynamics, emphasizing the complexities of the American legal system.

• Marcus Parks [07:02]: "Court should be scored."

They explore the challenges faced by the prosecution in presenting Valo’s prior convictions without biasing the jury, highlighting Valo's manipulative tactics in the courtroom.

• Marcus Parks [07:39]: "She's allowed to defend herself. She's allowed to go into these scenarios."

Henry and Marcus express their admiration for Katie Nolan as the segment transitions back to their personal banter.

Weather Manipulation and Conspiracy Theories

Shifting gears, Marcus introduces a letter from an expert discussing the reality and limitations of weather manipulation. They debate the feasibility of controlling weather patterns and dismiss conspiracy theories surrounding chemtrails.

• Marcus Parks [13:14]: "Weather manipulation is 100% real. It just sucks."

Henry humorously contributes to the discussion by mocking the idea of chemtrails:

• Henry Zebrowski [16:36]: "Also I'm going to have, I'm going to say chemtrails. Fucking pussies."

Their lighthearted critique underscores skepticism towards unfounded weather manipulation claims, blending scientific facts with comedic relief.

Animal News: Peanuts Law

Henry takes over the "animal news" segment, discussing the case of Peanut, a squirrel involved in a controversial euthanasia incident. They highlight the legislative changes prompted by public outcry over Peanut’s treatment.

• Henry Zebrowski [17:15]: "This is your wheelhouse. I love it."

Marcus adds context about Peanut’s popularity and the resulting law requiring a 72-hour waiting period before euthanizing animals from sanctuaries.

• Marcus Parks [19:25]: "That's a really nice change."

The hosts reflect on the impact of social media in shaping public opinion and influencing legislative actions.

Weezer and Celebrity Stories

The conversation shifts to celebrity gossip, focusing on the band Weezer and the antics of its members. Henry and Marcus critique Weezer's musical evolution and live performances, expressing both nostalgia and disappointment.

• Marcus Parks [25:21]: "You don't like Weezer."

They discuss incidents involving the band’s bassist Scott Shriner and his wife Jillian Lauren, intertwining humor with critique of their public personas and personal lives.

• Henry Zebrowski [26:16]: "He's a nerd."

Alarming News Stories

The hosts delve into disturbing news, covering topics such as a Wisconsin teenager charged with murdering his parents to fund an assassination plot against President Trump. They analyze the psychological and sociopolitical implications of such acts.

• Henry Zebrowski [42:27]: "Authorities say teen killed parents to get money for assassination."

Marcus humorously mocks the teenager’s failed assassination plan, blending dark humor with insightful commentary on extremist behaviors.

• Marcus Parks [43:21]: "He can't seem to get past first stage. Kill mommy, kill daddy, get money."

Bizarre News: Human Toes Sold by Dogs

A particularly bizarre story is discussed where a woman in Australia attempts to sell human toes regurgitated by dogs. Henry and Marcus navigate the grotesque nature of the tale with morbid humor and disbelief.

• Henry Zebrowski [49:11]: "Yes. The woman was working at an animal shelter..."

• Marcus Parks [50:20]: "She' a bone dealer."

Driving Mishaps and Crocs Incident

They recount the story of a Missouri man who blamed his car crash on his Crocs, leading to significant property damage. The hosts use this anecdote to discuss the importance of responsible footwear choices while driving.

• Henry Zebrowski [53:10]: "A driver blames come and go crash on his crocs."

Marcus comments on the absurdity of the situation, emphasizing the legal consequences of leaving accident scenes.

• Marcus Parks [55:01]: "It's kind of amazing."

Listener Engagement and Final Thoughts

The episode concludes with announcements of upcoming live shows and events, encouraging listener participation and engagement. Henry and Marcus promote their meet-and-greet sessions and special performances, fostering a sense of community among their audience.

• Henry Zebrowski [67:29]: "We don't need you to save us, Kasa."

They wrap up with a blend of humor and anticipation for future content, leaving listeners eager for the next installment.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Marcus Parks [00:15]: "To help know if we're at risk, we should be getting our LDL C, our bad cholesterol checked, and talking to our doctor."

• Henry Zebrowski [02:15]: "You know what's weird is I have gotten to the point now where this show and our real life are blending."

• Marcus Parks [07:02]: "Court should be scored."

• Marcus Parks [13:14]: "Weather manipulation is 100% real. It just sucks."

• Henry Zebrowski [17:15]: "This is your wheelhouse. I love it."

• Marcus Parks [25:21]: "You don't like Weezer."

• Henry Zebrowski [42:27]: "Authorities say teen killed parents to get money for assassination."

• Marcus Parks [50:20]: "She' a bone dealer."

• Henry Zebrowski [53:10]: "A driver blames come and go crash on his crocs."

Conclusion

"Side Stories: Say It Ain't So" is a quintessential episode of Last Podcast on the Left, blending dark humor with in-depth discussions on a variety of unsettling topics. Henry Zebrowski and Marcus Parks skillfully navigate through personal stories, intense criminal cases, and bizarre news, all while maintaining an engaging and entertaining dynamic. The episode serves as a testament to the podcast's ability to entertain and inform, catering to listeners who appreciate a mix of horror, humor, and real-life stories.