Episode #4496: The E Line Of Cities
Release Date: June 25, 2025
Hosts: Luke Burbank and Andrew Walsh
Podcast: TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live

Introduction: Robots and Unlikely Insurance

The episode kicks off with Luke and Andrew diving into a humorous discourse about the omnipresence of robots in modern society. Luke quips about their unconventional solution to potential robotic threats:

Luke Burbank [00:11]: "Darren and I have a policy with Old Glory Insurance that covers us in case we're attacked by robots."

Their playful banter introduces a fictional advertisement featuring Sam Waterston, who humorously endorses "Old Glory Insurance" for safeguarding individuals over 50 against robot attacks.

Sam Waterston [00:28]: "Old Glory will cover you with no health checkup or age consideration. You need to feel safe, and that's harder and harder to do nowadays because robots may strike at any time."

Personal Anecdotes and Light-Hearted Banter

As the conversation flows, Luke and Andrew engage in witty exchanges, showcasing their long-standing friendship and knack for humor. They touch upon amusing personal mishaps and playful jabs, setting a relaxed and entertaining tone for the episode.

Andrew Walsh [01:56]: "Was my underwear showing when I was climbing down the tree? I wore my Thursdays because my Saturdays had a case of the Mondays."

Exploring Las Vegas: Billboards and Unseen Sidewalks

Luke shares his recent experience jogging in Las Vegas, highlighting the stark contrast between the vibrant Strip and the more subdued neighborhoods off it. He comments on the ubiquity of billboards, drawing a parallel to their own show's billboard campaign.

Luke Burbank [02:27]: "I feel warm and I'm levitating. Got out for a little early morning jog here."

Andrew praises their billboard design, noting its positive reception despite its quirky nature.

Andrew Walsh [05:02]: "The reaction has been this is amazing and totally useless. And I think that is honestly not a bad iTunes review you could leave for us."

Technology Troubles: The Frustration with Intrusive Prompts

The hosts vent their frustrations about intrusive technology, particularly criticizing Microsoft's aggressive marketing and AI integrations that disrupt their user experience.

Andrew Walsh [07:17]: "Microsoft, I know this is a huge shift in the conversation. [...] that is sleazy. We have crossed a line, Microsoft."

Luke Burbank [09:04]: "Every time that you and I dial up this little Internet connection to talk to each other, it tries to activate my camera."

They discuss the annoyance of persistent prompts and the deterioration of user interface experiences, emphasizing a desire for more streamlined and less invasive technology.

Social Media Encounters: From Digital to Reality

Andrew shares an awkward encounter with an online acquaintance from a Mariners fan group, illustrating the challenges of translating digital relationships into real-life interactions.

Andrew Walsh [21:24]: "That's one of the most awkward interactions I've ever had."

Luke empathizes, reflecting on similar experiences and the complexities of modern online friendships.

UFC Coverage: Beyond the Profile

Shifting gears, Luke delves into his assignment to cover Dana White and the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He expresses concerns about the potential focus on Dana White as an individual rather than exploring the broader cultural impact of the UFC.

Luke Burbank [45:21]: "We are going to be back here tomorrow [...] Go Mariners and Twins."

Andrew supports Luke's decision to concentrate on the UFC's cultural influence over personal profiles, highlighting the nuanced approach needed for such coverage.

Andrew Walsh [58:48]: "But, being someone not into physical fighting sports, I just don't like seeing flesh hit flesh like that."

They discuss the ethical and strategic considerations of covering aggressive sports phenomena and the fine line between entertainment and exploitation.

Flight Fiascoes: Stressful Encounters in the Sky

Luke recounts a particularly stressful flight experience involving a passenger violating safety protocols by using the bathroom during landing. The incident escalates as the passenger nonchalantly returns to their seat amidst tumultuous landing maneuvers.

Luke Burbank [42:00]: "There is a person in the bus shelter who looks like she's probably, you know, maybe coming down off of something."

Andrew adds color to the story, comparing the passenger's calm demeanor to the chaos unfolding during the landing process.

Andrew Walsh [44:46]: "I was like, that's a flex."

The Evolution of Slap Fighting: From High School to Power Slap

A discussion emerges about the origins of slap fighting, tracing its roots from a high school game to its portrayal in popular media like "How I Met Your Mother." Andrew speculates on the cultural transmission of such aggressive pastimes into organized entertainment like "Power Slap."

Andrew Walsh [58:38]: "Does history remember this show? Is this, like, well known?"

Luke Burbank [63:23]: "Every guy in Power Slap is named Butch, by the way."

This segment underscores the trivialization and commercialization of aggression in modern entertainment, prompting reflections on societal values.

Closing Remarks: Balancing Humor and Insight

As the episode draws to a close, Luke and Andrew reflect on their discussions, appreciating the blend of humor and thoughtful commentary that defines their show. They tease upcoming content and reinforce their commitment to providing engaging conversations for their listeners.

Luke Burbank [64:22]: "Please remember, no mountain too tall."

Andrew Walsh [64:33]: "Luck to all. Power out."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Luke Burbank [00:11]: "Darren and I have a policy with Old Glory Insurance that covers us in case we're attacked by robots."

• Andrew Walsh [01:56]: "Was my underwear showing when I was climbing down the tree? I wore my Thursdays because my Saturdays had a case of the Mondays."

• Andrew Walsh [05:02]: "The reaction has been this is amazing and totally useless. And I think that is honestly not a bad iTunes review you could leave for us."

• Andrew Walsh [07:17]: "Microsoft, I know this is a huge shift in the conversation. [...] that is sleazy. We have crossed a line, Microsoft."

• Luke Burbank [09:04]: "But I also got a new computer over here. And every time that you and I dial up this little Internet connection to talk to each other, it tries to activate my camera."

• Andrew Walsh [21:24]: "That's one of the most awkward interactions I've ever had."

• Luke Burbank [45:21]: "We are going to be back here tomorrow [...] Go Mariners and Twins."

• Andrew Walsh [58:48]: "But, being someone not into physical fighting sports, I just don't like seeing flesh hit flesh like that."

• Luke Burbank [42:00]: "There is a person in the bus shelter who looks like she's probably, you know, maybe coming down off of something."

• Andrew Walsh [44:46]: "I was like, that's a flex."

• Andrew Walsh [58:38]: "Does history remember this show? Is this, like, well known?"

• Luke Burbank [63:23]: "Every guy in Power Slap is named Butch, by the way."

• Luke Burbank [64:22]: "Please remember, no mountain too tall."

• Andrew Walsh [64:33]: "Luck to all. Power out."

Conclusion

In this episode of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live, Luke Burbank and Andrew Walsh navigate a tapestry of topics ranging from the humorous implications of robot insurance to the gritty realities of Las Vegas life. Their candid discussions on technology frustrations, social media dynamics, and the cultural nuances of the UFC offer listeners a blend of laughter and insightful commentary. The hosts' ability to intertwine personal anecdotes with broader societal observations underscores the unique charm of their daily show. As always, Luke and Andrew leave their audience with a smile, eagerly anticipating the next episode's adventures.