Live Wire with Luke Burbank: Episode Featuring Ira Madison III & Riki Lindhome
Release Date: March 14, 2025
Host: Luke Burbank (PRX)
Guests:

• Ira Madison III: Cultural critic, writer, and podcaster
• Chuck Klosterman: Cultural critic and author
• Riki Lindhome: Emmy-nominated actress, comedian, and musician

Introduction

In this vibrant episode of Live Wire with Luke Burbank, host Luke Burbank engages with cultural critic and writer Ira Madison III to delve into his latest essay collection, "Pure Innocent Fun." The conversation explores the nostalgic charm of VHS-era Disney movies, focusing not just on their content but intriguingly on the actual VHS cases they were housed in. The episode takes an unexpected and delightful turn when Chuck Klosterman, a significant influence on Ira's career, makes a surprise appearance. Additionally, Riki Lindhome joins to discuss her new solo comedy album and perform a humorous song titled "Don't Google Mommy."

Best News Segment

[03:07] Ira Madison III & Luke Burbank discuss Heartwarming Stories

1. Auntie Mary's Heroic Act in Shropshire, England

   • Narrative: Mary Karen, a 42-year-old martial artist, thwarted a robbery attempt with her impressive self-defense skills while wearing high heels.
   • Quote: "Auntie Mary, buying chocolates for her nieces in her high heels is a badass." — Ira Madison III [05:27]
   • Outcome: The assailant was apprehended as part of a larger ring of robberies, earning Auntie Mary a commendation from the West Mercia police.

2. Jerry Parkin's Legacy at Burger King, North Branch, Minnesota

   • Narrative: At 91 years old, Jerry Parkin was a beloved patron of a local Burger King. In a touching tribute, the staff attended his funeral, bringing his favorite engraved chair as a symbol of his cherished daily visits.
   • Quote: "This is a really, really emotional moment, of course, for his family to sort of have this understanding of how much he meant to these folks at this Burger King." — Luke Burbank [08:42]
   • Impact: Demonstrates the profound, often unrecognized impact individuals can have on their communities.

Interview with Ira Madison III

[09:42] Introduction of Ira Madison III

Ira Madison III discusses his new book, "Pure Innocent Fun," which is a meditation on significant pop culture elements that shaped his upbringing and worldview.

Exploration of Pop Culture's Role

• Discussion on Pop Culture as Pedagogy

  • Quote: "Whether we're talking about race or class or gender, popular culture is where the pedagogy is. It's where the learning is." — Opening quote from bell hooks [10:00]

• Chuck Klosterman's Influence

  • Ira highlights how Chuck Klosterman's work, particularly "Sex, Drugs and Cocoa Puffs," inspired his own career and perspectives on pop culture.

Deep Dive into Disney Renaissance VHS Cases

• Nostalgia for Disney VHS Cases
  • Reading by Ira Madison III: Discusses the tactile appeal of Disney's pillow-style VHS cases during the Disney Renaissance era, emphasizing how these physical artifacts contributed to the enduring love for classic Disney films.
  • Quote: "The simple truth is I don't need that kind of luxury in my life." — Reflecting on the necessity of owning specific items [19:16]

Conversation on Cultural Criticism

• Balancing Opinions with Respect

  • Quote: "Don't yuck anyone's yum." — Emphasizing the importance of respecting others' tastes while maintaining personal critiques [15:23]

• Comparison with Roger Ebert

  • Quote: "You look at the intent of something, that's how you can love a Scorsese film." — Chuck Klosterman [16:36]

Surprise Appearance by Chuck Klosterman

[25:12] Chuck Klosterman Joins the Show

Chuck Klosterman makes a surprise appearance, engaging in a friendly quiz with Ira Madison III about his own book, "Sex, Drugs and Cocoa Puffs." This segment not only serves as a playful competition but also underscores the mentor-mentee relationship between Ira and Chuck.

Quiz Segment Highlights

1. First Question:

   • Prompt: "The author states that he would sooner have his kids deal crystal meth than do what we do."
   • Answer: Ira Madison III correctly identifies the answer as "have my kid play soccer."
   • Timestamp: [28:30]

2. Second Question:

   • Prompt: "According to the book, what is the first step in the indoctrination of future hipsters?"
   • Answer: "They hoard their cereal," referencing the Trix Rabbit.
   • Timestamp: [30:39]

3. Third Question:

   • Prompt: "What is the item the author hopes never to own, despite societal expectations?"
   • Answer: A bed.
   • Timestamp: [32:15]

• Prize: A signed first edition of "Sex, Drugs and Cocoa Puffs."
• Quote: "I do a lot of drugs." — Chuck Klosterman in response to a quiz question [30:14]

Musical Guest: Riki Lindhome

[40:21] Introduction of Riki Lindhome

Riki Lindhome, known for her work in Garfunkel and Oates, discusses her first solo comedy album, "No Worries if Not," highlighting the themes of vulnerability and humor tailored for a middle-aged audience.

Performance: "So Long Farewell"

• Song Concept: A comedic breakup anthem from the perspective of Baroness Schrader from The Sound of Music, reimagining her feelings of betrayal and frustration.
• Performance Highlights:
  • Humorous Lyrics: "So long, farewell, albeito Saint adieu to you and you and you and you and you and you."
  • Creative Storytelling: Blending classic musical elements with sharp, witty commentary on relationships and societal expectations.

[51:44] Riki's performance encapsulates her unique blend of comedy and music, offering a fresh take on beloved characters and narratives.

Audience Interaction

[36:01] Audience Questions

Listeners are invited to share the first TV show, movie, book, or song that made them feel understood. Responses highlight the profound impact of media on personal identity and emotional growth.

• Charles from Fargo: "The movie Singles... as one of the best movie soundtracks in history."
  [37:00]

• Holly from Hollywood: "The movie Fried Green Tomatoes for queer representation."
  [37:18]

• Whitney: "The book Jitterbug Perfume by Tom Robbins for its playful literature."
  [38:55]

Upcoming Episodes Preview

Luke Burbank teases future guests and topics, including conversations with writer Shalom Aislander and poet Simon Shea, as well as performances by singer-songwriter Kara Jackson, ensuring listeners have exciting content to anticipate.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks to guests Ira Madison III, Chuck Klosterman, and Riki Lindhome. The Live Wire team acknowledges their dedicated members, Ed and Ann Galen, for their support. Luke invites listeners to participate in the annual survey to help shape future programming.

Final Note: Ira Madison III's "Pure Innocent Fun" is highly recommended for those interested in a deep, nostalgic exploration of pop culture's influence on personal and societal levels.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Ira Madison III: "Auntie Mary, buying chocolates for her nieces in her high heels is a badass." [05:27]

• Luke Burbank: "My best news comes from North Branch, Minnesota..." [06:14]

• Chuck Klosterman: "I think that you watch that show, though, because it's still a television show, and like, the crux of a TV show is drama is conflict." [17:00]

• Elena Passarello: "I'm just saying what everyone's thinking. But then he gets romantic and says, you're the one that saved me." [48:19]

This episode of Live Wire with Luke Burbank is a rich tapestry of cultural critique, personal stories, humor, and musical talent, making it an engaging listen for both regular followers and newcomers alike.