Podcast Summary: TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live Episode: #4431 Well I’ll Be Spranged
Release Date: March 26, 2025
Hosts: Luke Burbank and Andrew Walsh

1. Opening Banter and Host Interactions

The episode kicks off with Andrew Walsh delivering a humorous and intricate variation of the classic "Fool me once" proverb, showcasing his playful banter with Luke Burbank.

Andrew Walsh (00:00): "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. Fool me three times, twice as much shame on me..."

Luke responds succinctly, reinforcing the show's casual and friendly dynamic.

Luke Burbank (01:08): "TBTL."

2. Adventures and Anecdotes

Andrew's Recent Travels: Andrew shares his recent trip to New Haven, Connecticut, where he visited the PEZ factory and visitor center. He recounts the challenges of traveling, including unusual Lyft rides and interactions with a particularly cranky Lyft driver who exhibited signs of mental distress.

Andrew Walsh (00:00 - 00:00): "I took the train, which involved... two weirdest Lyft rides I've had in a long time."

Luke's PEZ Factory Insights: Luke delves into his passion for collecting VHS tapes, particularly those capturing unique programming from the early 1990s. He discusses his efforts to digitize and upload PEZ commercials to their YouTube channel, highlighting the nostalgic appeal of these vintage ads.

Luke Burbank (04:21): "I was going through old VHS tapes... I upload all the commercials to our after these messages YouTube channel."

3. Deep Dive into PEZ Candies

History and Evolution of PEZ: The hosts explore the origins of PEZ candies, tracing back to their inception in Austria by Edward Haas III. They discuss the company's transition from anti-smoking mints to a beloved children's confectionery by introducing character-themed dispensers.

Andrew Walsh (46:04): "The name PEZ comes from the German word for peppermint..."

PEZ Factory Tour: Andrew provides a detailed description of the PEZ manufacturing process in Orange, Connecticut. He marvels at the machinery used to produce the candies and the meticulous process of packaging them into dispensers.

Andrew Walsh (54:57): "It's like a pharmaceutical pill press machine that they've modified to make PEZ candies."

Collector’s Perspective: The conversation highlights the enthusiasm of PEZ collectors, mentioning large-scale conventions and the existence of rare and unique dispensers, such as those themed after the "Stand By Me" movie.

Andrew Walsh (70:17): "I worshiped it like an Easter Island head."

4. Listener Contributions and Stories

Tribute to Sarah Settlemeyer: The hosts pay heartfelt tribute to Sarah Settlemeyer from Carlisle, Pennsylvania, who recently lost her husband, Tim. They express their condolences and acknowledge how their show has provided comfort during her difficult year.

Danny (36:45): "Sarah says Tim and I. Tim was her husband... We love you both."

Anthony Krunk's Contribution: Anthony from Newark, Delaware, shares his humorous yet touching appreciation for the show, blending it with a playful reference to their show dynamics and listener engagement.

Danny (38:39): "We need TBTL and have John on a little more frequently..."

Barry Bonds Cycling Anecdote: Listener James from Oakland recounts his encounters with Barry Bonds while cycling in Marin County. He describes recognizing Bonds by his distinctive, high-end bike and witnessing him being pulled over for speeding.

James (73:20 - 73:12): "I knew that was Barry Bonds... then I saw him being pulled over for that speed trap."

5. Pop Culture References and Humorous Exchanges

PEZ in Media: Andrew and Luke discuss the appearance of PEZ dispensers in movies, notably Daniel Craig's Queer and their integration into various pop culture scenarios, blending nostalgia with contemporary references.

Andrew Walsh (66:06): "They had a PEZ toy gun that was rented by the production company..."

Humorous Host Interactions: The episode is peppered with witty exchanges between Luke and Andrew, including playful teasing about PEZ conventions and the challenges of maintaining professionalism while indulging in their shared interests.

Luke Burbank (72:01): "I allow my half of the show from the PEZ convention?"

6. Closing Remarks and Listener Engagement

The hosts encourage listeners to engage with the show by submitting voice memos and emails, fostering a sense of community and interaction. They wrap up the episode with well-wishes and a reminder to stay positive.

Andrew Walsh (79:24): "If you utilize that. Exactly. If you..."

Luke Burbank (79:37): "And good luck to all. Power out."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Andrew Walsh (00:00): "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me..."
• Danny (36:45): "Sarah says Tim and I. Tim was her husband... We love you both."
• James (Listener) (73:20): "I knew that was Barry Bonds... then I saw him being pulled over for that speed trap."
• Andrew Walsh (46:04): "The name PEZ comes from the German word for peppermint..."
• Luke Burbank (72:37): "I want to hear more about that."

Conclusion

In this episode of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live, Luke Burbank and Andrew Walsh blend humor, nostalgia, and personal anecdotes to explore their adventures, particularly focusing on the whimsical world of PEZ candies. Through engaging storytelling and heartfelt listener tributes, the hosts create a rich and entertaining narrative that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners alike.