Podcast Summary: Last Podcast on the Left – "Side Stories: Sincere Stories"
Hosted by: The Last Podcast Network
Release Date: June 11, 2025
Episode Title: Side Stories: Sincere Stories
Description: Exploring the darkest and most bizarre aspects of our world, from supernatural horrors to unsettling human behaviors.
1. LA Protests and Military Presence
The episode opens with Ed Larson and Henry Zabrowski discussing the ongoing protests in Los Angeles. They delve into the tension between protesters and law enforcement, highlighting fears surrounding the imposition of martial law and the presence of military forces in civilian areas.
Notable Quotes:
- Henry Zabrowski [04:04]: "If immigrants weren't here, this entire city would crumble to the ground. They do everything."
- Ed Larson [05:24]: "They sent the army here. This is true fascist shit. That's very scary."
The hosts critique the government's response to the protests, expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of militarized intervention. They emphasize the resilience and organization of the protesters, arguing that the authorities are struggling to control the situation.
2. Update on Grant Harden – The Devil in the Ozarks
Ed and Henry provide an update on Grant Harden, a former police chief and convicted killer known as "the devil in the Ozarks." Harden was apprehended a mere mile and a half from his escape point, surprising the hosts with the ease of his capture.
Notable Quotes:
- Ed Larson [16:44]: "How would they. How hard were they looking?"
- Henry Zabrowski [17:04]: "He was on land. Just in a bush, living a groundhog's life."
They express disbelief at Harden's lack of concealment tactics, contrasting him with historically elusive figures. The discussion underscores the unpredictability of criminal behavior and the challenges law enforcement faces in tracking such individuals.
3. Javelin Incident in Russia
The podcast shifts focus to a tragic incident involving a 13-year-old girl, Anastasia, who was impaled by a javelin during a physical education class in Russia. The narrative explores the negligence of the javelin coach, Vladimir Menko, who failed to supervise the young athlete properly.
Notable Quotes:
- Henry Zabrowski [22:44]: "He didn't release. He didn't say the proper amount of warnings because I guess you're supposed to."
- Ed Larson [24:16]: "So it's like a home game for Russia."
The hosts critique the oversight in the sports environment, pondering the potential repercussions of such accidents on athletic programs and international reputations.
4. The Tale of Flat Creek Floyd – Georgia’s Notorious Alligator
Ed and Henry recount the story of Flat Creek Floyd, an infamous 11-foot, 9-inch alligator residing in Peachtree City, Georgia. Despite attempts by the authorities to remove him, Floyd was ultimately struck by a car, leading to his euthanization.
Notable Quotes:
- Henry Zabrowski [30:00]: "He chose to live under an overpass. And that's a lifestyle."
- Ed Larson [32:03]: "Come and send it on over."
The discussion highlights the unique challenges of managing wild animal populations in urban areas and the emotional connections individuals can form with such creatures.
5. Listener Emails and Side Stories
The episode features a segment dedicated to listener-submitted stories, ranging from mysterious disappearances in national parks to bizarre personal anecdotes.
Notable Quotes:
- Henry Zabrowski [50:44]: "I went into a little bit of a research hole on the Glimmer, man."
- Ed Larson [58:19]: "Did you hear that he might have had an affair with Doris Day?"
One particularly memorable email recounts the harrowing experience of a hunter, Jan Maccabee, who encountered what she believes to be an extraterrestrial entity while hunting. The disturbing tale blends elements of mystery and the supernatural, fitting seamlessly into the podcast's thematic fabric.
6. Sly Stone’s Passing and Musical Legacy
A heartfelt tribute is paid to Sly Stone, the legendary frontman of Sly and the Family Stone. The hosts lament his passing, celebrating his contributions to funk music and his enduring influence on contemporary genres.
Notable Quotes:
- Ed Larson [44:22]: "Sly Stone did lots, lots, lots of crack, you know, which is unfortunate."
- Henry Zabrowski [45:14]: "Sly Stone, they're one of the first groups to really, like, really, like, half of us are white, half of us are black."
They discuss Stone's creative genius, his role in promoting diversity within music, and the tragic decline of his personal life despite his artistic achievements. The conversation underscores the complexities of fame and the often-precarious nature of legacy.
7. Live Show Announcements and Upcoming Events
Ed and Henry conclude the episode by promoting their upcoming live shows across various cities, including Salt Lake City, Asheville, Kansas City, Redway, and Columbus. They encourage listeners to attend these events for an immersive and entertaining experience.
Notable Quotes:
- Ed Larson [67:59]: "You can see us live every 6pm PST on last stream on the left on our Patreon."
- Henry Zabrowski [68:52]: "Hail Satan."
The hosts blend humor with promotion, maintaining their signature irreverent style while engaging with their audience.
Conclusion
"Side Stories: Sincere Stories" offers a blend of dark humor, unsettling tales, and poignant tributes, staying true to the show's commitment to exploring the horrifying and bizarre facets of reality. Through engaging dialogue and a mix of listener interactions, Ed Larson and Henry Zabrowski provide a captivating episode for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts or visit siriusxm.com/podcastsplus for ad-free and early access through SiriusXM Podcasts+.