TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live
Episode #4474: Bright, Almost Neon Orange Hosiery
Release Date: May 26, 2025
Introduction
In episode #4474 of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live, hosts Luke Burbank and Andrew Walsh welcome special guest Camaro Kev from the Stack of Dimes podcast. Recorded on Memorial Day from the Madrona Hill studio amidst a rain squall, the trio dives into a blend of personal anecdotes, sports updates, and humorous exchanges.
Whirly Ball Adventures
The conversation kicks off with Luke's invitation to a Whirly Ball event, setting the stage for a nostalgic and energetic discussion about the game. Camaro Kev shares his excitement and memories, saying, "I'm running around forking and you're getting flipping. You're getting so excited" [09:28]. Andrew elaborates on the inclusive fun of Whirly Ball, noting, "It's a game that is defined by if you can run faster than someone else or jump higher, you get all the fun of flying around a court. But it's obviously like everyone can have the same amount of fun" [05:33].
Camaro reminisces about being part of a private wedding ceremony held at Whirly Ball in Edmonds, highlighting how the activity fosters effortless small talk and camaraderie: "Everybody was so just like, just an easy, breezy small talk conversation" [06:20]. The hosts express a keen interest in potentially organizing a TBTL Whirly Ball crossover event, with Andrew musing, "I have a feeling that the turnout would be fairly high on that" [10:15].
Dazzling Donor Shout-Outs
Midway through the episode, Luke and Andrew take a moment to thank their donors. They highlight Danielle Greenawalt from Philadelphia, connecting her generosity to Andrew's personal anecdotes about his parents' quirky food habits: "My mother exists mostly on potato sticks, which is a wild thing for like a 71-year-old woman" [16:00]. The hosts also give a heartfelt shout-out to their kids, Chloe and Dashiell, who have been loyal listeners, and humorously address a forged autograph: "That's not really my signature" [18:12].
TBTL Junior Sluggers Update
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to updating listeners on the TBTL Junior Sluggers, their little league baseball team. Andrew provides a play-by-play of recent games, emphasizing the team's spirit despite a challenging season. He recounts a pivotal moment where a young pitcher, Ali, overcomes his nerves with the team's encouragement: "Ali fought through his apprehensions and gave it his all. I'm so proud of the dude for battling through and hanging in there" [27:37].
Camaro adds his thoughts on the importance of maintaining team morale, comparing the Junior Sluggers' dedication to the podcast’s own journey: "They're playing the game the right way, even if we aren't necessarily playing it well. That's like this podcast, Andrew." [37:00]. The hosts reflect on the upcoming postseason, maintaining optimism about the team's potential in the double-elimination tournament despite previous losses.
Listener Interaction and Musical Contributions
The episode features a segment where listeners like Jeremy Merrill share their experiences and contributions. Jeremy expresses heartfelt gratitude, stating, "What you do is so important. Never stop." [22:17]. Additionally, Jeremy provides a musical closing with piano music from his son, enhancing the episode's warm and community-driven feel.
Camaro Kev’s Bar Rescue Tale
In a humorous and relatable segment, Camaro Kev narrates his solo venture to rescue a struggling bar in Vancouver, Washington. He describes the chaotic scene: "Someone behind me just puked on the floor and they took a towel and just put it over the pile" [43:55]. The story highlights the challenges of maintaining hospitality standards, with Ben empathizing over similar past experiences. Camaro reflects on his changing tastes in bars as they age, pondering whether their preferences have evolved or if it's simply the aging process changing their perceptions: "I love dive bars, but this is on another level." [51:09].
Final Thoughts and Closing
As the episode winds down, Andrew and Camaro discuss their future plans, including Andrew's upcoming interview with Metallica and Camaro's journey back from the bar rescue. They share light-hearted banter and express appreciation for their listeners, concluding with a reminder to enjoy the day and a playful sign-off: "Have a great Memorial Day. Please remember, no Mountain Too Tall." [56:10].
Notable Quotes:
- Camaro Kev: "I'm running around forking and you're getting flipping. You're getting so excited." [09:28]
- Andrew Walsh: "It's a game that is defined by if you can run faster than someone else or jump higher, you get all the fun of flying around a court. But it's obviously like everyone can have the same amount of fun." [05:33]
- Andrew Walsh: "Ali fought through his apprehensions and gave it his all. I'm so proud of the dude for battling through and hanging in there." [27:37]
- Camaro Kev: "I love dive bars, but this is on another level." [51:09]
- Andrew Walsh: "Have a great Memorial Day. Please remember, no Mountain Too Tall." [56:10]
This episode of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live blends humor, heartfelt moments, and community updates, offering listeners an engaging glimpse into the hosts' lives and passions. Whether discussing little league triumphs, bar adventures, or expressing gratitude to their supporters, Luke, Andrew, and Camaro create a warm and entertaining narrative that resonates with both regular and new listeners.