Podcast Summary: The Basement Yard - Episode #498: The Morning Routine

Introduction In Episode #498 of The Basement Yard, hosted by Joe Santagato of Santagato Studios, Joe and co-host Frank Alvarez dive deep into their recent European adventures, explore the concept of morning routines, and engage in their trademark humorous banter. Released on April 14, 2025, this episode offers listeners a blend of travel stories, philosophical musings, and light-hearted exchanges that capture the essence of The Basement Yard.

1. Returning from Europe: Travel Tales and Cultural Observations The episode kicks off with Joe and Frank reflecting on their whirlwind trip to Europe, which included performances in Glasgow, London, and Dublin. Their discussions paint a vivid picture of the cities they visited, the local culture, and the memorable experiences they had.

• Glasgow and London Performances:

  • Frank (00:54): “We had three shows in three different countries. First stop was in Glasgow, Scotland, and then we went right over to London.”
  • The hosts express enthusiasm about performing abroad, noting how the atmosphere in European cities like Glasgow and London differs markedly from what they're accustomed to in the U.S.

• Dublin and Guinness Factory Visit:

  • Joe (05:02): “Do you think we had a good time there?”
  • Frank (05:27): “We went to the Edinburgh Castle and there was, like, this was built in 1130.”
  • The duo shares their excitement about visiting iconic sites such as Edinburgh Castle and their immersive experience at the Guinness Factory.
  • Joe (33:07): “We went to the Guinness factory, which was amazing. If you guys are ever out in Dublin, go to the Guinness factory. It's like Willy Wonka and the Guinness factory.”
  • They describe the vibrant environment of the factory, complete with colorful displays and the interactive experience of pouring their own Guinness.

2. Pub Culture: A Comparative Study A significant portion of the conversation delves into the differences between European and American pub cultures, highlighting the social norms and behaviors observed in places like Ireland and the UK.

• Socializing and Atmosphere:
  • Frank (35:33): “The pub culture out there is very different. Americans, like, when you drink, you drink to go. Over there, it's very casual. For lunch, they'll have a pint or two and then go back to work.”
  • The hosts appreciate the relaxed and communal atmosphere of European pubs, where enjoying a drink doesn't necessarily spiral into excessive drinking.
  • Joe (36:03): “I also just love how, maybe, there are so many women outside the Irish pubs drinking beers. Because I feel like that's not something you really see.”
  • They contrast this with the more solitary drinking habits often seen in America, noting the inclusivity and social engagement present in European settings.

3. Morning Routines: Hypotheticals and Realities Transitioning from their travel stories, Joe and Frank engage in a lively discussion about morning routines, inspired by the broader topic circulating on social media platforms.

• Time-Travel and Morning Routines:

  • Frank (09:00): “I would like to hang as myself. Like as a 6-year-old, you know.”
  • The conversation takes a whimsical turn as they ponder what their ideal morning routines would look like if they could time-travel or drastically change their daily habits.
  • Joe (12:01): “Have you ever done a cold plunge?”
  • They explore various morning practices, from cold plunges to unconventional skincare routines like rubbing banana peels on the face, blending humor with genuine curiosity about health and wellness trends.

• Celebrity Routines and Societal Pressures:

  • Frank (54:49): “Because there is less pressure on me as a man to age. So, like, that is a real thing.”
  • A segment of their dialogue touches on how societal expectations influence personal grooming choices, particularly the differing pressures faced by men and women regarding aging and appearance.

4. Food Adventures: Irish and British Cuisine Food remains a central theme as Joe and Frank recount their culinary explorations across Europe, providing humorous takes on traditional dishes and their personal preferences.

• Irish Breakfast and Local Specialties:

  • Frank (31:00): “Black pudding, which is like pig's blood and stuff, and then white pudding, which is just like fat and animal balls.”
  • They discuss the richness of traditional Irish breakfasts, appreciating the variety and uniqueness of the dishes, while also poking fun at some of the more unusual ingredients.
  • Joe (32:55): “How old those places are. And that's the thing that is so cool about Europe too, like, and why you...”
  • Their enthusiasm for Irish cheeses and other local delicacies underscores their appreciation for authentic European flavors, even as they humorously critique certain culinary practices.

• Cultural Misunderstandings and Anecdotes:

  • Frank (43:08): “I just think it's a big part of the breakfast, dude.”
  • The hosts share amusing stories about misunderstandings and playful thefts of syrup at American chains like Cracker Barrel, indulging in nostalgic reflections on family and food.

5. Reflections on Fame and Public Recognition Towards the episode's conclusion, Joe and Frank reflect on the unexpected recognition they received during their European tour, discussing the surreal experience of being recognized in foreign cities.

• Experiencing Fame Abroad:

  • Joe (73:45): “What that felt like. It's a crazy feeling, honestly. And I just wanted to say thanks. It was really cool.”
  • They express gratitude and astonishment at the positive reception from European fans, highlighting how widespread the impact of their work is.

• Sociocultural Perspectives:

  • Frank (55:07): “Because there is less pressure on me as a man to age. So, like, that is a real thing.”
  • The conversation subtly weaves in observations about cultural differences in attitudes toward aging and self-care, adding depth to their light-hearted exchanges.

Notable Quotes:

• Frank Alvarez (00:33): “No, you're gonna look like this.”
• Joe Santagato (05:02): “How many Guinnesses do you think that you had?”
• Frank Alvarez (09:00): “I would like to hang as myself. Like as like a 6-year-old, you know.”
• Frank Alvarez (33:07): “We went to the Guinness factory, which was amazing. If you guys are ever out in Dublin, go to the Guinness factory. It's like Willy Wonka and the Guinness factory.”
• Frank Alvarez (54:49): “Because there is less pressure on me as a man to age. So, like, that is a real thing.”

Conclusion Episode #498 of The Basement Yard offers a rich and engaging exploration of Joe and Frank’s European escapades intertwined with musings on morning routines and cultural observations. Their dynamic interplay, marked by humor and genuine reflection, provides both entertainment and insightful commentary for listeners. Whether reminiscing about soaking up the pub culture in Dublin or contemplating the hypothetical benefits of time travel, Joe and Frank deliver a memorable episode that resonates with both avid fans and newcomers alike.

For those who haven’t yet tuned into The Basement Yard, this episode exemplifies the podcast’s ability to blend personal anecdotes with broader societal topics, all while maintaining an entertaining and relatable tone.