Summary of "The Basement Yard" Podcast Episode #511 - "The Biggest Show We've Done"
In episode #511 of "The Basement Yard," hosted by lifelong friends Joe Santagato and Frank Alvarez from Santagato Studios, the duo celebrates a monumental milestone—the announcement of their biggest show to date at the legendary Madison Square Garden (MSG) in New York City. This episode blends enthusiastic announcements with their trademark casual banter, touching on various topics from their upcoming show to playful debates about animals and conspiracy theories.
1. Announcing the Madison Square Garden Show
A Monumental Achievement
At the [06:55] mark, Joe and Frank reveal the exciting news: their upcoming show at Madison Square Garden, scheduled for November 13, 2025. Frank exclaims,
"This is the craziest thing that's ever happened to us."
[06:57]
Joe adds his disbelief and excitement:
"Madison Square Garden, it's fucking Madison Square Garden, dude. It doesn't make any sense to us."
[13:54]
Reflecting on Past Success
They reflect on their previous achievement at Radio City Music Hall, emphasizing how quickly their shows sold out:
"Last year we did Radio City. It sold out those two shows very quickly... Now we're doing MSG. It's crazy."
[15:05]
2. Ticketing Information and Promotion
Securing Tickets
The hosts provide detailed information on how listeners can purchase tickets for the MSG show. Joe outlines the pre-sale details:
"July 16th at 11:00am Eastern. Use the code NYCF@thebasemere.com for tickets."
[20:37]
Frank emphasizes the importance of acting quickly due to high demand:
"For these bigger shows, a lot of times they go quickly. I suggest everyone jump in on the pre-sale date."
[21:26]
Final Encouragement
They passionately urge their listeners to support them by attending the show:
"Come support your boys. Let's fucking sell this out."
[22:24]
3. Conversation on Animals
Debating Red Pandas
A significant portion of the episode involves Joe and Frank engaging in a playful debate about their favorite animals. Frank starts by mentioning red pandas being in the news:
"Red pandas are in the news. That's a top five animal for me."
[24:14]
Joe counters, expressing his preference for other animals:
"I like lemurs more than them. Get the fuck out of here. Lemurs are way cooler than red pandas."
[26:01]
Exploring Other Favorites
Their discussion expands to other animals they admire, such as gorillas, lemurs, and chimpanzees. Frank praises gorillas:
"I love gorillas. Love all monkeys."
[26:50]
Joe shares his fascination with chimpanzees' strength:
"Chimps are us. I could wrestle it and win."
[27:05]
Humorous Exchanges
The conversation is filled with humor as they discuss the physical abilities and behaviors of these animals, often exaggerating for comedic effect.
4. Discussion on the Moon Landing and Conspiracy Theories
Moon Landing Beliefs
At [35:47], the topic shifts to the moon landing and related conspiracy theories. Joe asks Frank if he believes in the moon landing video:
"Do you believe in the moon landing? Yeah. The video? Like, you're like, yep. They were there."
[35:47]
Frank responds with skepticism:
"I think it's not outside the realm of possibility that that video is fake."
[36:03]
Conspiracy Theories Mentioned
Joe brings up the theory that Stanley Kubrick directed the fake moon landing footage:
"Stanley Kubrick was the one they said directed it."
[36:31]
Frank discusses the influence of such theories on public perception:
"I think it's not outside the realm of possibility... someone thinks it was staged."
[36:16]
5. Miscellaneous Banter and Light-Hearted Topics
Erasers and Pencil Cases
Throughout the episode, Joe and Frank engage in humorous discussions about everyday items like erasers and pencil cases. Joe shares a funny encounter:
"Last time you saw a raccoon. Look at. That's not real. That's a stuffed animal."
[46:11]
Smells and Sensory Experiences
They delve into conversations about various smells, such as new shoes and crayons, blending humor with personal anecdotes:
"I love the smell of horseshit."
[82:07]
Television and Movies
The hosts casually mention their favorite TV shows and movies, recommending titles like "Ironheart" and reminiscing about "Tarzan":
"I just watched Ironheart. You should watch it. It's pretty good."
[89:36]
6. Reflecting on Past Experiences
Protecting Their Family
Joe shares a personal and introspective story about killing a mouse to protect his family, leading to a deeper conversation about ethics and animal treatment:
"I grabbed that mouse into the garbage... I put it out of its misery."
[73:48]
Frank critiques the action, sparking a humorous yet reflective exchange:
"You are bloodlusted. That's you."
[74:25]
7. Closing Remarks and Final Promotions
Final Encouragement
As the episode winds down, Joe and Frank reiterate the details of their upcoming MSG show, emphasizing ticket sales and encouraging fans to support them:
"Madison Square Garden, July 16th. Pre-sale at 11:00am. Use the code NYCF@thebasementyard.com. Come support your boys."
[90:32]
Acknowledging Support
They express gratitude towards their listeners and patrons:
"Thank you guys for the continued support. It is honestly mind-blowing to us."
[40:46]
Sponsor Promotions
The episode includes brief mentions of sponsors like BetterHelp, Fitbod, and SeatGeek, with specific discount codes for listeners.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Frank on MSG Show:
"We're gonna be at fucking Madison Square Garden, dude."
[13:47] -
Joe on Disbelief:
"I don't think I'm physically, like, have the capacity... to comprehend it."
[18:00] -
Frank on Red Pandas:
"They're the cutest little things."
[25:58] -
Joe on Lemurs vs. Red Pandas:
"Lemurs are way cooler than red pandas."
[26:01] -
Frank on Gorilla Strength:
"I love gorillas. Love all monkeys."
[26:50] -
Joe on Chimpanzees:
"Chimps are us. I could wrestle it and win."
[27:05] -
Frank on Therapy:
"I talk to one every single week."
[34:02] -
Joe on Moon Landing Conspiracy:
"Stanley Kubrick was the one they said directed it."
[36:31] -
Frank on Protecting Family:
"You are bloodlusted. That's you."
[74:25] -
Joe on the Importance of the Show:
"Being able to make a difference to just one person is a luxury."
[65:02]
Conclusion
Episode #511 of "The Basement Yard" masterfully balances major announcements with the hosts' signature humor and candid conversations. The highlight is undoubtedly the unveiling of their biggest show at Madison Square Garden, a testament to their growing popularity and dedication to entertaining their audience. Alongside this, their engaging discussions on a variety of topics—from animals to moon landing conspiracies—provide listeners with both entertainment and a glimpse into the dynamic friendship between Joe and Frank. As they wrap up, their genuine appreciation for their supporters shines through, making this episode a memorable milestone in their podcast journey.