TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live – Episode #850 Summary

Host/Authors: Luke Burbank and Jen Flash Andrews
Release Date: June 28, 2011
Description: In Episode #850 of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live, Luke Burbank and Jen Flash Andrews navigate through a blend of humorous banter, listener interactions, and topical discussions. From debating the intricacies of personal professionalism to delving into the controversy surrounding a provocative children's book, this episode is packed with engaging content.

1. Opening Banter and The Four P’s Debate (00:00 – 01:20)

The episode kicks off with Luke and Jen embroiled in a light-hearted argument over the "four P's" and an added "B," humorously misnaming them as "Ron Donald Don'ts."

Notable Quote:

• Luke Burbank (00:00): “Ron Donald Don’ts. Okay, the four P's and one B. Politeness, professionalism, perfectionism, Proactive. Be on time.”

This playful exchange sets the comedic tone for the episode, highlighting the hosts' chemistry and penchant for wordplay.

2. Health Talk: Susie's Sun Damage Concerns (01:20 – 10:24)

The conversation shifts to a more personal topic as Susie, Luke's mother, discusses her recent dermatologist visit due to sun damage.

Notable Quotes:

• Luke Burbank (01:20): “There is a controversy brewing, apparently about a new children's book, ... which is really bullshit.”
• Susie (03:04): “Okay, the best case scenario would be take this pill, and it will all go away, preferably with wine.”
• Susie (05:16): “I don't want to hear that.”

The hosts delve into Susie's worries about her skin health, sharing anecdotes and humorous takes on medical procedures like laser treatments and mole removals. Luke empathizes with Susie's fears while injecting his own anxieties about personal health issues, such as his receding hairline and the associated social perceptions.

3. Book Controversy: "Go the Fuck to Sleep" (12:44 – 22:43)

A significant portion of the episode criticizes media backlash against the children's book "Go the Fuck to Sleep." The hosts defend the book's intended humor and cathartic release for parents, countering arguments that it promotes violence.

Notable Quotes:

• Jen Flash Andrews (13:03): “The cats nestle close to their kittens... Please go the fuck to sleep.”
• Luke Burbank (15:12): “Shut up. You're missing the point.”

They dissect a CNN and Huffington Post commentary that links the book to parental violence, arguing that the majority of buyers are typical parents seeking a humorous outlet rather than endorsing violence. The hosts emphasize the book's role in providing stress relief for parents grappling with bedtime routines.

4. Sponsor Segment: Chateau St. Michel Wine (22:43 – 24:29)

Luke promotes Chateau St. Michel as the official wine sponsor of TBTL, highlighting listener testimonials and encouraging listeners to try their sparkling wines for events like graduations and parties.

Notable Quote:

• Luke Burbank (22:43): “Save yourself some hassle, grab a bottle of Chateau St. Michel.”

The segment is delivered with enthusiasm, blending seamlessly into the show's narrative while maintaining sponsorship clarity.

5. Listener Feature: Nathan’s Artistic Roller Skating Journey (24:29 – 43:56)

Listeners are introduced to Nathan from Fort Wayne, Indiana, who shares his passion for artistic roller skating. The hosts explore Nathan's journey from a novice to a competitor, discussing the challenges and humorous aspects of the sport.

Notable Quotes:

• Luke Burbank (27:13): “Are you in Fort Wayne yet, or are you in St. Louis still?”
• Nathan (29:26): “I personally can't. I have tried. I can, on a good day, do a single.”
• Susie (38:23): “Now that you've explained the situation, though, I am concerned that you don't have enough rhinestones.”

Nathan elaborates on different categories within artistic roller skating, such as freestyle and dance, and his aspirations to compete at nationals. The conversation is laced with humor, especially when discussing the elaborate and often extravagant outfits required for competition.

6. Listener Emails and Show Numbering Confusion (45:29 – 51:00)

The hosts address listener emails, primarily focusing on confusion over episode numbering. Susie clarifies that the numbering discrepancy was due to a miscount but reassures listeners that no episodes were missed.

Notable Quotes:

• Susie (49:32): “I forgot what that website was. And so what I did was I went back to June 2nd...”
• Luke Burbank (50:56): “We could be a lot mathier.”

This segment showcases the hosts' responsiveness to their audience and their ability to handle technical hiccups with humor and transparency.

7. Upcoming Segments and Conclusion (51:00 – End)

Towards the end, Luke and Jen tease upcoming segments, including a conversation with Jenny O and a collaboration with the Sporkful podcast. They also promote their "Call Makers" segment, inviting listeners to participate in future episodes.

Notable Quotes:

• Luke Burbank (52:00): “And we'll also try to catch up with our friends from the Sporkful podcast.”
• Susie (52:10): “And good luck to all.”

The episode wraps up with well-wishes and a reminder of the next day's content, maintaining the show's personable and engaging atmosphere.

Key Takeaways:

• Humor and Authenticity: The hosts consistently use humor to discuss personal and topical issues, making the content relatable and entertaining.

• Listener Engagement: Through segments like the listener feature and addressing emails, TBTL fosters a strong connection with its audience.

• Topical Discussions: The episode navigates through varied topics—from health concerns and controversial books to niche hobbies like artistic roller skating—demonstrating the show's versatility.

Overall, Episode #850 of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live exemplifies the show's blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and engaging discussions, making it a valuable listen for both regular and new audience members.