Episode #4456: Jax The Menace – A Rollercoaster of Pranks, Tributes, and Fast Food Fiascos

In episode #4456 titled “Jax The Menace” of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live, hosts Luke Burbank and Andrew Walsh embark on a multifaceted journey through high-profile prank calls, heartfelt tributes, intricate discussions on fast food marketing, and personal anecdotes that highlight their enduring friendship. Released on April 30, 2025, this episode exemplifies the show's blend of humor, insight, and spontaneous camaraderie.

1. NFL Prank Call Scandal

The episode kicks off with a deep dive into a recent scandal involving a prank call made to NFL draft prospect Shador Sanders. Andrew recounts, “We were talking yesterday about this prank call... the NFL is fining the dad $100,000” ([02:17]). The prank was orchestrated by Jax Ulbricht, son of Jeff Ulbricht, the defensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons. Jax accessed Shador’s private draft phone number from his dad’s iPad and impersonated a general manager to message Sanders.

Notable Quote:

“This could be somebody trying to kind of own the Sanders family.” – Luke Burbank ([62:00])

The hosts explore the implications of the incident, emphasizing the hefty fine imposed on Jeff Ulbricht and speculating on the motivations behind the prank. They discuss how such actions could tarnish both personal reputations and professional standings within the NFL community.

2. Tribute to David Johansson

A poignant moment arises when Luke and Andrew pay homage to their late friend, David Johansson, known for his work with the New York Dolls and his alter ego, Buster Poindexter. Luke humorously struggles to recall Johansson’s full identity before correctly identifying him:

Notable Quote:

“Who’s the other guy’s name? David Johansson.” – Luke Burbank ([02:59])

This segment underscores the hosts’ deep camaraderie and the impact Johansson had on their lives, blending humor with heartfelt remembrance.

3. Fast Food Marketing Insights

A substantial portion of the episode is dedicated to analyzing recent marketing strategies by fast-food giants, particularly focusing on Subway’s introduction of "foot long nachos." Andrew expresses his frustration:

Notable Quote:

“I’m obsessed with this idea of restaurants... how can we make it subway adjacent?” – Andrew Walsh ([08:00])

They critique the trend of fast-food chains attempting to expand beyond their core offerings, comparing Subway’s foot long nachos to Pizza Hut’s oversized cookies and Taco Bell’s foot long nachos. The discussion highlights the challenges brands face in maintaining their identity while trying to innovate.

Notable Quote:

“Subway is the reason that Sun Chips are still in business.” – Luke Burbank ([09:33])

This exchange underscores the interconnectedness of fast-food products and the difficulty in diversifying without alienating core customers.

4. Listener Engagement and Personal Stories

Listeners play a significant role in this episode, with Andrew sharing a personal mishap involving a faulty Marina Time Watch. Luke provides a detailed recount of his struggles with winding the watch and dealing with a broken strap:

Notable Quote:

“I have to wind it today, I’ll start wearing it again and I’ll update you and the listeners as to how it’s going for the next couple of days.” – Luke Burbank ([29:15])

This segment adds a relatable personal touch, showcasing the hosts' ability to weave everyday frustrations into their broader conversations.

5. Mustard Museum and Far Side Inspirations

The conversation takes a quirky turn as the hosts discuss the Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin, and their fascination with Far Side cartoons. Luke praises the museum founder, Barry Levinson, for his unique storytelling:

Notable Quote:

“I love this guy's ability to spin a yarn. I don't, I don't trust any of it as far as I can throw it.” – Luke Burbank ([73:06])

Andrew shares his own creative inspiration drawn from consuming Far Side comics, leading to humorous imaginings of anthropomorphic kitchen utensils:

Notable Quote:

“I could totally see a Far Side cartoon where you see a fork using the restroom. And written on the wall, it says, 'for a good tine call,'” – Andrew Walsh ([48:39])

These lighthearted exchanges highlight the hosts' shared love for quirky humor and cultural references.

6. Instagram Mishaps and Social Media Woes

Towards the end of the episode, Luke recounts an embarrassing incident involving a misinterpreted Instagram post about Steven Spielberg. He reflects on the challenges of managing social media interactions and the pitfalls of online communication:

Notable Quote:

“I thought it was my job to blow this whole thing up by writing something to the effect of 'Steven Spielberg dropped out of College in the 60s and Jurassic Park wasn't released as a book until the 1990s.'” – Luke Burbank ([81:35])

Andrew sympathizes with Luke’s predicament, emphasizing the sometimes-overwhelming nature of social media engagement.

7. Upcoming Topics and Wrap-Up

As the episode concludes, the hosts tease upcoming segments, including a segment about garbage bin pickups and humorous plans for gift card apologies:

Notable Quote:

“Tomorrow is the day that the garbage collector is coming to pick up my bins for the first time since...” – Luke Burbank ([85:03])

Their banter leaves listeners eagerly anticipating future episodes, blending anticipation with their signature humor.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• George Newman: “This job really sucks.” ([00:02])
• Luke Burbank: “You know, these heavy mental bands in LA don't have the market cornered.” ([01:04])
• Melissa McCarthy’s Character: “There’s going to be a cash reward for the best piece of feedback.” ([06:32])
• Luke Burbank: “Have you noticed that Amy Poehler is the new voice of Subway?” ([07:23])
• Andrew Walsh: “I’m obsessed with this idea of restaurants... how can we make it subway adjacent?” ([08:00])
• Luke Burbank: “Subway is the reason that Sun Chips are still in business.” ([09:33])
• Luke Burbank: “This could be somebody trying to kind of own the Sanders family.” ([62:00])
• Luke Burbank: “How can you even say that? How can you say definitively it's the most sought after US Coin.” ([32:14])
• Andrew Walsh: “Let me see if I can play this without losing the music?” ([05:39])
• Luke Burbank: “I just love it. It's a thing.” ([06:25])
• Andrew Walsh: “That cash could really get me out of a couple of jams.” ([02:20])
• Andrew Walsh: “Thanks, Kevin. And by the way, Kevin, great job on the pronunciation help there.” ([40:33])
• Luke Burbank: “I have to wind it today, I’ll start wearing it again and I’ll update you and the listeners as to how it’s going for the next couple of days.” ([29:15])
• Luke Burbank: “This could be somebody trying to kind of own the Sanders family.” ([62:00])

Conclusion:

Episode #4456, “Jax The Menace,” masterfully balances serious discussions about NFL controversies with lighter, personal stories and humorous takes on everyday challenges. Luke and Andrew’s dynamic showcases their ability to engage deeply with topical issues while maintaining the playful, goofy spirit that defines TBTL. Whether dissecting the complexities of fast food marketing or navigating personal tech woes, this episode offers something for every listener, ensuring that even those who haven’t tuned in before will find the conversation both entertaining and enlightening.