TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live
Episode #4493: Guess Of Honor
Release Date: June 20, 2025
Hosts: Luke Burbank & Andrew Walsh
Introduction and Billboard Hunt
Timestamp [00:00 – 03:24]
The episode kicks off with Luke Burbank issuing a freestyle rap apology regarding the postponement of Payday until the following week. Andrew Walsh joins in with playful rhymes, setting a light-hearted and comedic tone. The hosts reminisce about their setup at Andrew's house in the North Aurora neighborhood, humorously emphasizing the co-ownership of the space.
Luke introduces the primary focus of the episode: the fifth and final clue in the ongoing Great TBTL Billboard Hunt. This interactive game has engaged listeners across America, challenging them to locate the elusive TBTL billboard based on a series of clues released over five weeks.
Notable Quote:
- Luke Burbank [02:58]: "We're getting closer and closer."
Nostalgic Reflections and Weekend Plans
Timestamp [03:24 – 15:43]
Luke shares a nostalgic journey through Seattle neighborhoods, reflecting on changes he's observed over time. He contemplates the possibility of moving back to Seattle, which leads to a humorous exchange about relocating the show’s operations. Andrew fondly recalls their past collaboration at a radio station, highlighting their long-standing friendship and chemistry.
The conversation shifts to weekend plans. Andrew mentions potential activities, including working in his yard, enjoying a Coors Light, and possibly attending bingo if the weather turns rainy—forecasted at an 80% chance.
Notable Quotes:
- Andrew Walsh [15:28]: "It's a bummer."
- Luke Burbank [15:50]: "I've never felt more like a 49 than, like, I just can't get home quick enough to see how the gravel went in because..."
TBTL Billboard Hunt Updates
Timestamp [15:43 – 31:23]
The hosts delve into the details of the billboard hunt. John Sklaroff, TBTL’s audio equipment operator, joins the discussion to provide updates. He outlines the four previous clues leading to the billboard's location, confirming that the state is Wisconsin.
Andrew explains the rules: participants must submit their guesses via email to ensure accurate timestamping for the prize—a miniature reproduction of the billboard, possibly signed by the Biz Boys.
Notable Quotes:
- John Sklaroff [20:13]: "Clue number two."
- Andrew Walsh [23:48]: "We're looking for the place."
The final clue is revealed: "This place is literally the organizing principle of tbtl," which points listeners towards the podcast’s core identity.
Notable Quotes:
- John Sklaroff [28:14]: "This place is literally the organizing principle of tbtl."
- Luke Burbank [28:40]: "It's in the state of Wisconsin and it's in a place that the name of that place is essentially the organizing principle of this very podcast."
Technical Discussion on Billboard Installation
Timestamp [31:23 – 32:52]
The hosts discuss the logistics of the billboard installation, including the flexibility within their contract with Lamar Advertising to install the billboard within a five-day window. John emphasizes the importance of the billboard being up for the duration of the contract to maximize listener engagement.
Notable Quotes:
- Luke Burbank [31:59]: "How cool is that?"
- John Sklaroff [32:52]: "I can say, like, certainly by this weekend, if you just want to drive around the entirety of Wisconsin, you'll come across..."
Personal Anecdotes and Light-hearted Banter
Timestamp [32:52 – 76:33]
The episode transitions into a series of personal stories and humorous exchanges:
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Baseball Memories:
- Luke and Andrew reminisce about memorable baseball moments, including a playoff game where a Mariners player hit a crucial home run. They engage in playful banter about team loyalties and past games.
Notable Quotes:
- Andrew Walsh [35:07]: "In Game 2 of the 1995 American League Division 6 against the Seattle Mariners at Yankee Stadium..."
- Luke Burbank [36:11]: "Their record is now worse than Houston's."
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Voicemail and Personal Stories:
- Andrew shares a story about accidentally getting a splinter under his fingernail, which elicits supportive comments and playful teasing from Luke.
- Luke recounts a childhood incident where he kneeled on a pencil, resulting in a long-term foreign object in his knee, adding to the comedic undertones.
Notable Quotes:
- Andrew Walsh [71:37]: "It was like, I had stopped worrying about it."
- Luke Burbank [73:00]: "I'm 66 years old and it's been in there for 62 years."
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Drug Use Stories:
- The hosts delve into their past experiences with recreational drugs, discussing whippets (nitrous oxide) and magic mushrooms. They reflect on the impact these had on their lives, emphasizing personal growth and the avoidance of addiction.
Notable Quotes:
- Andrew Walsh [60:02]: "If I could have gotten to this guy when he was 15, before he started messing around with this stuff..."
- Luke Burbank [65:53]: "I had migraines. When I was in high school I had a weird bout with migraines."
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Technical and Equipment Talk:
- Luke and Andrew discuss their new Rode computers, sharing tips on maintenance and usage while maintaining their characteristic humor.
Notable Quotes:
- Luke Burbank [46:00]: "You don't even have to win."
- Andrew Walsh [47:32]: "Can I see that? This is one of those. These are really terrible for the environment..."
Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts
Timestamp [76:33 – 78:44]
As the episode nears its end, Luke and Andrew reflect on their shared memories and experiences, both humorous and serious. They express gratitude towards their listeners for engaging with the billboard hunt and encourage continued participation. The hosts wrap up with well-wishes for the weekend, maintaining their signature blend of camaraderie and light-heartedness.
Notable Quotes:
- Luke Burbank [78:31]: "So I'll check and I'm sure I'll have many travel events, adventures to share with all of you."
- Andrew Walsh [78:44]: "And good luck to all. I know what sex means and is. I know about the clubs and drugs Power out."
Key Takeaways
- Billboard Hunt: The final clue points to a location in Wisconsin, directly tied to the podcast’s identity, encouraging listener engagement through an interactive game.
- Nostalgia and Friendships: Hosts share heartfelt and humorous memories, highlighting their enduring friendship and shared history.
- Personal Growth: Discussions about past drug use reveal personal growth and the importance of making positive life choices.
- Community Engagement: The inclusion of John Sklaroff and the interactive segments emphasize the strong community around TBTL.
Conclusion:
Episode #4493 of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live seamlessly blends humor, personal anecdotes, and interactive listener engagement. Luke and Andrew's chemistry shines through as they navigate topics ranging from nostalgic reflections to personal growth stories, all while maintaining an engaging and entertaining dialogue. The episode successfully builds anticipation around the billboard hunt, fostering a sense of community and competition among listeners.