Podcast Summary: TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live – Episode #4452 "May The Hand Of Marriott Guide You"

Release Date: April 24, 2025
Hosts: Luke Burbank and Andrew Walsh
Location: Chicago, Illinois

I. Introduction and Episode Context

The episode kicks off with Luke Burbank and Andrew Walsh welcoming listeners to the 4,452nd episode of TBTL, broadcasting from Chicago. They set a lively tone with humorous anecdotes and playful banter, immediately engaging the audience with their trademark humor.

Notable Quote:

Luke Burbank [00:58]: "This is a show for people about dogs, starring one dog and one dirt."

II. Mariners' Music Tradition

a. Original Tradition

Luke and Andrew delve into a significant topic concerning the Seattle Mariners' in-game traditions. Historically, the Mariners played "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the seventh-inning stretch, seamlessly transitioning into "Louie Louie" by The Kingsmen—a beloved tradition cherished by long-time fans.

Notable Quote:

Listener [07:13]: "We salute you. The Mariners. For my whole like that I can remember, like, childhood and adulthood."

b. Switch to Macklemore's Song

A few seasons prior, the Mariners attempted to modernize their musical selections by replacing "Louie Louie" with Macklemore's "Ceiling Can't Hold Us." Both hosts express disappointment over this change, characterizing Macklemore's choice as an attempt to attract younger fans without preserving the team's cherished traditions.

Notable Quote:

Andrew Walsh [09:44]: "I think, generally speaking, I find his music to be very cringy and his lyrics to be very cringy."

c. Reaction and Criticism

The hosts criticize the Mariners' decision, suggesting that the choice of a contemporary song like Macklemore's failed to resonate with the established fanbase. They highlight the superficial nature of the change, implying it was more about appearing trendy than honoring longstanding traditions.

Notable Quote:

Andrew Walsh [09:07]: "I'm not a huge fan of Macklemore... his music felt like such an attempt by this ball club to say, hey, we're trying to attract younger people."

d. Return of Louie Louie and Remixes

Recently, the Mariners announced the return of "Louie Louie," though with a modern remix. Luke and Andrew explore this development, discussing whether the remix maintains the essence of the original and how it balances nostalgia with contemporary appeal. They note mixed reactions from fans and speculate on the Mariners' motivations, including distancing from Macklemore's controversial statements.

Notable Quote:

Andrew Walsh [13:05]: "They worked with a few local DJs to remix the song with a new energy that keeps the essence of the original Kingsmen track."

e. Considering Mariners Event

Inspired by the Mariners' musical evolution, the hosts contemplate organizing a Mariners-themed event, aiming to celebrate and perhaps critique the team's cultural choices. They express enthusiasm about engaging with the Mariners community and fostering discussions around team traditions.

Notable Quote:

Listener [27:00]: "I'm pretty sure that it was a remix, right? And it sounds like Greg says it is, too."

III. Listener Messages and Support

The episode features heartfelt messages from listeners celebrating birthdays and personal milestones. Notable mentions include Ian Kohler congratulating himself and his spouse Steph on their marriage and home purchase, as well as Rachel Sizer sharing her long-term support for the show.

Notable Quote:

Listener [28:08]: "Happy Blurs Day, Michael. Kevin says, and this is our final blurs day..."

IV. TV Show Critiques

a. Severance

Luke and Andrew discuss their viewing experiences with the TV show "Severance," expressing challenges in keeping up with its complex narrative and emotional depth. They reflect on how the show has impacted their engagement and mental state, highlighting the intense storytelling as both compelling and overwhelming.

Notable Quote:

Listener [38:40]: "I feel like you take your television viewing when it's a complicated show... And that feels like homework to me."

b. The Pit

The hosts critique "The Pit," a show starring Noah Wiley, which they perceive as a flawed reboot of "ER." They discuss plot inconsistencies and character development issues, using specific examples to illustrate their frustrations with the show's execution.

Notable Quote:

Listener [43:15]: "I almost turned it off, dude. This is what I'm telling you."

V. Miscellaneous Discussions

Fantasy Baseball Frustrations

Andrew shares his struggles with fantasy baseball, expressing a desire to underperform to avoid the emotional rollercoaster of high competition. Luke sympathetically relates, discussing the competitive pressures and personal strategies to mitigate stress.

Notable Quote:

Andrew Walsh [62:04]: "If I just stay in the top half of the standings... it almost might feel like a gift to me."

Hotel Environmental Policies Critique

The hosts critique modern hotel practices, particularly the environmental initiatives that they feel are more cost-saving measures cloaked in green rhetoric. They humorously mock the overly sentimental language used by hotels to justify reduced laundry services.

Notable Quote:

Listener [37:02]: "A little hanging thing that just says where every drop is cherished."

VI. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with more listener messages and playful interactions between Luke and Andrew. They reiterate their appreciation for their audience, encourage listener engagement, and tease future topics. The hosts sign off with their signature humor, leaving listeners anticipating the next episode.

Notable Quote:

Andrew Walsh [68:57]: "Hello and welcome to Top Story... But then there's something about gravitas."

Listener [67:10]: "Well, no, no, no, Andrew, I don't want you..."

Final Thoughts:
Episode #4452 of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live offers a blend of sports commentary, listener interactions, and critical discussions on contemporary media. Luke and Andrew's dynamic chemistry and candid opinions provide an engaging listening experience, balancing humor with insightful critiques.