Podcast Summary: TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live – Episode #961

Release Date: November 28, 2011

Hosts: Luke Burbank and Andrew Walsh

Description: In Episode #961 of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live, hosts Luke Burbank and Andrew Walsh dive into a lively discussion covering Thanksgiving anecdotes, movie reviews, music explorations, Broadway tribulations, and personal stories shared through listener emails. Their trademark humor and camaraderie make for an engaging episode that offers both laughter and thoughtful commentary.

1. Welcome and Opening Banter (00:00 - 02:20)

The episode kicks off with Luke and Andrew engaging in their usual playful banter, establishing their dynamic chemistry. Luke humorously assigns nicknames to Andrew, calling him "the Doubter," while teasing about not knowing each other’s identities outside of the show.

Notable Quote:

Luke (00:32): "Hey, I called dibs on being nicknamed the Bull. Always thought of you, Jen, as the doubter."

2. Thanksgiving Reflections (02:20 - 14:56)

The hosts recount their Thanksgiving experiences, sharing both humorous and heartfelt moments. Luke talks about his parents' notoriously unpredictable shower temperature, leading to lighthearted complaints about the inconsistent water settings.

Notable Quote:

Luke (03:49): "The shower has two settings. Scald your penis off or freeze your penis off. Short version of events. Bad day for penises."

Andrew shares his feelings about maintaining appropriateness during the holidays, culminating in posting an "inappropriate video" to lighten the mood.

Notable Quote:

Andrew (05:41): "I just felt like I needed to get that out a little bit."

The discussion transitions into their family's film nights, where technical issues with DVDs lead to humorous frustrations.

3. Movie Reviews and Media Commentary (06:12 - 15:20)

Luke and Andrew review several films, starting with Michael Mann's Public Enemies. They critique the movie's plot coherence and digital shooting style, with Luke expressing disappointment despite an all-star cast.

Notable Quote:

Luke (06:31): "I just didn't even like the actual film look of it, let alone."

They move on to Fantastic Mr. Fox, sharing their mixed feelings about the scratched DVD, and conclude with a positive note on watching White Christmas, which received unanimous approval.

4. Personal Projects and Media Experiences (08:00 - 10:03)

Luke narrates his experience with a self-made documentary about the Trachtenberg Family Slideshow Players. Despite initial excitement, technical glitches result in a disappointing viewing experience limited to a small, non-responsive audience.

Notable Quote:

Luke (09:58): "This last night I sent it to your in-laws. For some reason, they decided to pass on it."

5. Music Segment: Pandora and Song Reviews (15:20 - 30:08)

The hosts embark on a deep dive into music via Pandora, exploring artists like Steve Winwood and Don Henley. They humorously critique song selections and share personal attachments to tracks like Freedom Over Spill by Steve Winwood and Boys of Summer by Don Henley.

Notable Quote:

Andrew (18:44): "He's back in the high life." Luke (19:03): "He was in some famous band in the 60s."

Their exploration includes playful jabs at the limitations of Pandora’s automated playlists and the endless loop of Henley songs.

6. Sponsorship and Broadway Discussion (30:08 - 40:45)

The episode transitions to a sponsorship segment promoting Chateau St. Michel, the show’s official wine sponsor. Luke enthusiastically describes the winery’s upcoming New Year's Eve event and encourages listeners to join the Vintage Reserve Club for exclusive wine selections.

Notable Quote:

Luke (34:30): "Chateau St. Michel, Woodinville, Washington. Our I would say more than any podcast that's not actually about Broadway, we've probably documented the trials and travails of Turn Off the Dark more than any other."

Following the sponsorship, the hosts delve into an in-depth discussion about the troubled Broadway production Turn Off the Dark. They analyze its massive budget, production issues, and mixed reception, debating whether the show can sustain its financial demands and public interest.

Notable Quote:

Andrew (35:32): "People falling great distances, breaking ribs, people quitting the show. Who doesn't love a good spectacle?"

7. Granny Time: Personal Stories and Listener Emails (42:20 - 66:32)

In the "Granny Time" segment, Andrew shares a poignant story about American students arrested in Cairo during protests, focusing on one student's conspicuous Def Leppard T-shirt. The discussion highlights the unexpected popularity of 80s bands among younger generations and the global distribution of branded apparel.

Notable Quote:

Andrew (42:20): "It's like, Def Leppard could be an ironic idea of a band to them."

Luke and Andrew also tackle sensitive topics such as the portrayal of anxiety in the media and the misleading narratives around positive thinking and cancer survival. They express solidarity with listeners facing similar struggles, emphasizing empathy over simplistic solutions.

Notable Quote:

Andrew (49:46): "I don't think you could affect it in these kinds of ways. It sets up this idea where you can think your way out of it."

Listener Miles writes about Andrew Jackson's physique, sparking a humorous and self-deprecating exchange about body image and aging between the hosts.

Notable Quote:

Luke (61:55): "He goes on to say, I think I look pretty damn good right now. I would be happy to send photographic evidence your way."

The segment concludes with memorable anecdotes from their own lives, reinforcing the show’s blend of humor and heartfelt conversation.

8. Closing Remarks (66:05 - End)

Luke and Andrew wrap up the episode with final humorous exchanges about their dietary habits and personal quirks. They express gratitude to their listeners for tuning in and tease upcoming content, maintaining their signature lighthearted tone.

Notable Quote:

Andrew (66:05): "I did, too." Luke (66:32): "Until then, no mountain too tall."

Key Takeaways:

• Humorous Storytelling: Luke and Andrew effectively use personal anecdotes and witty exchanges to engage listeners.

• Diverse Topics: The episode navigates through various subjects, from family traditions and movie critiques to music analysis and serious discussions on mental health.

• Listener Interaction: Incorporating listener emails adds a relatable and interactive dimension to the show.

• Emotional Depth: Beyond humor, the hosts address meaningful issues, offering empathy and support to their audience.

• Camaraderie and Chemistry: The natural rapport between Luke and Andrew enhances the listening experience, making complex topics approachable and entertaining.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Luke (00:32): "Hey, I called dibs on being nicknamed the Bull. Always thought of you, Jen, as the doubter."

• Luke (03:49): "The shower has two settings. Scald your penis off or freeze your penis off. Short version of events. Bad day for penises."

• Andrew (05:41): "I just felt like I needed to get that out a little bit."

• Luke (09:58): "This last night I sent it to your in-laws. For some reason, they decided to pass on it."

• Andrew (42:20): "It's like, Def Leppard could be an ironic idea of a band to them."

• Andrew (49:46): "I don't think you could affect it in these kinds of ways. It sets up this idea where you can think your way out of it."

• Luke (61:55): "He goes on to say, I think I look pretty damn good right now. I would be happy to send photographic evidence your way."

This episode of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live exemplifies the hosts' ability to blend humor, personal stories, and insightful discussions, offering listeners a multifaceted and enjoyable experience.