Chunks & Hunks (w/ Mike Mitchell)

Thu Aug 14 2025

On this episode of Staying Alive, hosts Jon Gabrus and Adam Pally sit down with one of their best friends, actor/comedian Mike “Spoonman” Mitchell, to discuss their journey with semaglutides like Zepbound and Mounjaro, the realities of long COVID, and their glory days (between the ages of 0 and 10). Plus, Gabrus is great at coming to set empty, and Pally admits that he has never “done comedy.” Follow Mike on socials @mynameismitch on Insta Listen to the Doughboys podcast Check out the Doughboys Patreon Full video episodes available HERE. Check out Staying Alive merch at siriusxmstore.com/stayingalive This episode was recorded June 3, 2025 at SiriusXM studios in Los Angeles Special thanks to Jared O’Connell and Brendan Byrnes Staying Alive is produced by Devon Torrey Bryant and Anne Harris Engineered and edited by Devon Torrey Bryant, who also wrote the music Associate producer and video editor is Maddie McCann Executive produced by Jon Gabrus, Adam Pally, Sean Hayes, Will Arnet...

Summary

Staying Alive with Jon Gabrus & Adam Pally: Episode Summary – "Chunks & Hunks (w/ Mike Mitchell)"

In this engaging episode of Staying Alive, hosts Jon Gabrus and Adam Pally welcome Mike Mitchell, co-host of "The Doughboys" podcast and star of "Twisted Metal." The trio delves deep into personal health journeys, focusing on weight management, the challenges of long Covid, and the use of modern medications to improve well-being. The conversation is a blend of heartfelt honesty and the signature humor that fans have come to love.

1. Reconnecting with Friends and Shared Experiences (00:00 - 07:12)

Jon and Adam kick off the episode with their typical banter, discussing humorous encounters in corporate settings. Their lighthearted conversation sets a relaxed tone, paving the way for Mike Mitchell's introduction. Mike shares anecdotes about reconnecting with friends after extended periods apart, emphasizing the importance of these relationships in maintaining mental health.

Notable Quote:

Adam Pally [00:27]: "Every time I walk into a corporate building like this, I get the feeling from the people working there… they're like, you pull up, are you parking there?… all right, fine… they're like, f’ing idiot."

2. Psychedelic Experiences and Mental Health (07:12 - 22:00)

The discussion shifts to the use of psilocybin (mushroom chocolates) as a recreational and therapeutic tool. Adam and Mike recount their experiences at a hotel rooftop pool, where the mushrooms led to prolonged laughter and deep, personal conversations. They highlight how these substances can facilitate meaningful connections and introspection.

Notable Quote:

Mike Mitchell [02:34]: "We did a big… more like a Medi Pro… Mac and cheese."

3. Navigating Long Covid and Its Impact (22:00 - 40:00)

Jon opens up about his struggle with long Covid, detailing debilitating symptoms such as intense brain fog, vertigo, and severe anxiety. He shares his journey through multiple medical consultations, exploring various treatments, and ultimately deciding to use GLP1 medications like Zepbound to manage his weight and overall health. The conversation underscores the challenges of dealing with a condition that is often misunderstood or dismissed by others.

Notable Quote:

John Gabris [10:20]: "...long Covid is the scariest thing in my entire life...no one thinks it's real."
Additional Quote:

Adam Pally [13:24]: "I'm coming over to the Zepp."

4. The Role of Modern Medications in Weight Management (40:00 - 55:00)

The hosts delve into the specifics of using GLP1 medications such as Zepbound and Mounjaro. They discuss the benefits, including significant weight loss and improved mental clarity, alongside the side effects like nausea and the logistical challenges of self-injection. Jon emphasizes the necessity of affordability for these medications, advocating for broader access to enhance public health.

Notable Quote:

John Gabris [30:01]: "Zepbound should be affordable for everyone in the world."
Another Quote:

Adam Pally [36:53]: "Sometimes you're nauseous. It's like walking around with a slight bug."

5. Frustrations with Healthcare Systems and Doctor Interactions (55:00 - 75:00)

Jon and Adam express their frustrations with healthcare professionals who focus solely on weight as the root of health issues, often disregarding other underlying conditions. They advocate for empathetic and communicative doctors who treat patients holistically rather than reducing them to mere numbers on a scale. This section highlights the systemic challenges individuals face when seeking comprehensive healthcare.

Notable Quote:

Adam Pally [27:23]: "You want me to take this Zepp out?"

6. Personal Journeys and Social Perceptions of Body Image (75:00 - 85:00)

The conversation shifts to the societal perceptions of body image and the personal journeys of the hosts in managing their weight. They share candid reflections on how weight loss has impacted their self-esteem, health, and interactions with others. Jon discusses the emotional weight of losing weight, while Adam and Mike offer humorous takes on their own body transformations and the reactions from friends and colleagues.

Notable Quote:

Adam Pally [57:20]: "I don't think of either of you as a big guy. I think of you as a funny guy."
Another Quote:

John Gabris [67:46]: "It's crazy to be in 2025. You don't need to be a doctor to agree that everyone's body is different."

7. Concluding Insights and Encouragement (85:00 - End)

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the importance of open conversations about health challenges. They emphasize the value of supportive friendships and the positive impact of sharing personal struggles to foster a community of understanding and encouragement. Jon shares his commitment to continuing his health journey, inspired by the progress he's made and the support from his friends.

Notable Quote:

John Gabris [69:05]: "A person who gains and this just shows that like some people have crazy metabolisms and can do that and go up in weight and come right back down."
Final Encouragement:

Jon Gabris [70:23]: "Thank you for having us."

Key Takeaways:

Personal Health Journeys: The episode underscores the importance of personal accountability and proactive measures in managing health, especially when dealing with complex conditions like long Covid.
Role of Medications: GLP1 medications like Zepbound and Mounjaro are highlighted as effective tools for weight management and improving overall health, despite their side effects and costs.
Healthcare System Challenges: The hosts advocate for more empathetic and comprehensive healthcare approaches that consider the whole person rather than focusing narrowly on weight.
Social and Emotional Impact: Weight loss and health improvements significantly impact self-esteem, relationships, and daily life, with societal perceptions playing a crucial role.
Community and Support: Open discussions about health struggles can foster a supportive community, encouraging others to share and seek help.

This episode of Staying Alive offers a blend of humor, vulnerability, and practical insights, making it a valuable listen for anyone navigating similar health challenges or interested in the nuanced discussions surrounding modern wellness practices.