Podcast Summary: TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live – Episode #887

Title: TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live
Host: Luke Burbank and Jen Fleshman
Description: TBTL is a daily show hosted by longtime friends Luke Burbank and Jen Fleshman, navigating through life's quirky moments and engaging discussions.
Episode: #887
Release Date: August 16, 2011

1. Introduction and Theme of the Day

The episode kicks off with the hosts introducing the day's theme, inspired by a heartfelt letter from listener Sarah in Bothel, penned by her child. This theme delves into the realm of "Kids in Fantasy" and explores the types of letters adults might write to their parents, reflecting on their younger selves.

• Luke Burbank [01:55]: "Based on a hilarious letter that listener Sarah in Bothel submitted to us written by one of her children, we've decided to take a look at kids in fantasy."

Jen shares her experience composing her own letter, effortlessly channeling her inner child to express daily frustrations with her parents.

• Jen Fleshman [01:55]: "I was amazed at how quickly I was in my like 8-year-old body. It was flowing."

2. Copyright Law and Record Labels

A significant portion of the conversation shifts to a pressing issue in the music industry: copyright law changes affecting classic rock hits from artists like Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, and Kenny Rogers.

• Luke Burbank [14:16]: "There's a big story in the New York Times about hit songs from 1978 that are going to probably become the property of the people who wrote them because they've been owned by the record labels."

The hosts discuss how artists are regaining rights to their music, potentially altering the landscape for record labels that have historically owned extensive music catalogs. They humorously speculate on the financial implications for artists and the diminishing control of record labels.

• Jen Fleshman [19:17]: "Michael Jackson's gonna get 'Off the Wall.'"

• Luke Burbank [20:14]: "Sharp Dressed Man is not... they sell 10 million copies. How the fuck did ZZ Top ever get popular?"

3. Sponsor Battle: Chateau St. Michel vs. Northwest Harvest

Luke and Jen engage in a playful rivalry between their sponsor, Chateau St. Michel, and the nonprofit Northwest Harvest. They encourage listeners to vote and donate, highlighting the competitiveness and camaraderie between the brands.

• Luke Burbank [25:45]: "Chateau St. Michel has 1800 votes, and Northwest Harvest is pushing 1700 votes. This is a real nail biter."

Jen emphasizes the importance of community support for both brands.

• Jen Fleshman [25:49]: "You can vote every 24 hours, and you can vote from all your different devices."

4. Listener Letters: Sarah's Letter and Host Compositions

Delving deeper into the theme, the hosts read and discuss listener submissions. Sarah's letter from her son Ed expresses his desire to run away, prompting Jen to share her own experience of childhood rebellion.

• Sarah's Letter [27:16]: "Dear Mom, I would like to tell you that I'm not your son. In two years, you will not see me... Sincerely, Ed."

Jen responds with a heartfelt recount of her own attempts to run away as a child, adding humor and relatability to the discussion.

• Jen Fleshman [29:04]: "I did run away when I was three, and it wasn't that exciting because my grandma lived. We lived in the basement of my grandma's house."

5. Childhood Stories: Running Away and Discipline

The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as both hosts reminisce about their childhood adventures and disciplinary methods. They discuss running away attempts, personal frustrations with parental rules, and their perspectives on spanking as a form of discipline.

• Luke Burbank [33:56]: "Let me ask this. Is it weird that I kind of still believe in spankings? Like, if I have little kids, I'm not going to be crazy with it, but I would swat a kid on the butt."

• Jen Fleshman [37:22]: "If you grew up in a home where spanking was sporadic and always done in love, it wasn't like physical abuse."

6. Day in TBTL History

A segment dedicated to "Day in TBTL History" features a quirky song by Sally Ford and her band. The hosts reflect on past memorable moments and inside jokes related to the show's history.

• Luke Burbank [47:36]: "This is just a night that we fell in love with a lovely young gal on the Internet."

7. Not Random but Unconnected Segment

In this segment, Luke and Jen tackle two distinct topics:

1. Stolen Game of Thrones Scripts: They discuss George R.R. Martin's stolen scripts intended for charity, offering tips to listeners on recognizing and avoiding counterfeit memorabilia.

   • Jen Fleshman [50:35]: "If you see someone trying to sell Game of Thrones scripts, make a citizen's arrest."

2. Modern Family Casting Changes: The hosts express their opinions on the replacement of child actors in the popular TV show "Modern Family," particularly criticizing the decision to use older actors for certain roles.

   • Jen Fleshman [54:06]: "Modern Family has replaced the little girl who plays Lily Mitchell's adopted daughter."

8. Closing Remarks and Technical Jokes

As the episode wraps up, the hosts share light-hearted commentary on technical issues and briefly introduce an upcoming segment. They wrap up with friendly banter and reminders to submit babysitting stories for the next show.

• Luke Burbank [58:36]: "Have a great Tuesday. We'll be back here tomorrow, of course, with much more imaginary radio for you."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Luke Burbank [00:00]: "If they care at all about their children or grandchildren."

• Jen Fleshman [07:54]: "There is no carob in defense."

• Luke Burbank [37:06]: "I seriously feel, though, like... if I ever have little kids again, they're gonna grow up listening to public radio and eating organic and having the most liberal experience... but sometimes they're also gonna get spanked."

• Jen Fleshman [50:37]: "He is asking on his website for people to keep an eye out."

• Luke Burbank [54:06]: "That girl was so cute."

Conclusion

Episode #887 of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live offers a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful discussions ranging from music industry changes to childhood experiences. Hosts Luke Burbank and Jen Fleshman maintain a playful dynamic, engaging listeners with relatable stories and interactive segments. Whether dissecting copyright law or reminiscing about running away as kids, the episode provides a comprehensive and entertaining listen for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.