Podcast Summary: The Bobby Bones Show – "Mike D’s Movie Passion Origin, Having Kids, & Romantic Dates"
Release Date: July 19, 2025
In this engaging episode of The Bobby Bones Show, host Bobby Bones sits down with Mike D, a passionate movie enthusiast and podcaster, to delve into Mike’s journey with cinema, his experiences dealing with online criticism, his thoughts on starting a family, and heartfelt anecdotes about his romantic relationship. Skipping the promotional segments, the conversation between Bobby and Mike offers listeners a deep and personal look into Mike’s life and passions.
1. Mike D’s Movie Passion: Origins and Podcast Development
Mike D traces the roots of his love for movies back to 2007, during the era of DVD rentals through Netflix's mail service. This period was pivotal, allowing him and his brother to explore a vast array of films they previously hadn't seen. Reflecting on this transformative time, Mike shares:
"I think that's where I kind of developed my passion just for loving them." (04:01)
By 2015, Mike transitioned from a movie enthusiast to a movie critic, beginning to review films which soon became a significant part of his identity. His dedication culminated in launching his own movie podcast in 2019, a passion project that Bobby Bones encouraged by featuring Mike's initial reviews on the radio show.
"I started the podcast in 2019... that was my first ever real review." (04:46)
2. Favorite Movies and Movie-Centric Habits
When discussing his favorite films, Twister stands out as Mike’s all-time favorite, evoking nostalgic memories from his youth. Currently, he is revisiting the Transformers series, appreciating the blend of CGI advancements and the escapism these movies provide.
"They just take me back to a really specific time in my life." (07:20)
Bobby Bones echoes the sentiment, expressing his own fondness for the Transformers franchise and defending it against common criticisms:
"I don't think they deserve a lot of the hate that they get." (08:15)
Mike elaborates on the series' impact, highlighting his anticipation for the Bumblebee movie, which reignited his love for the character.
3. Dealing with Online Criticism and Fan Interactions
Transitioning to the challenges of maintaining a public persona, Mike discusses the difficulties of handling negative feedback, especially on platforms like YouTube. He reveals the emotional toll of receiving harsh critiques not just about his content but also personal attributes.
"You have a lot more nastiness coming out through comments in general." (11:30)
Bobby offers empathetic advice, sharing her own experiences of dealing with negative comments by choosing to ignore or respond minimally to toxic interactions.
"I just delete it. I'm like, ignore it, Morgan." (12:10)
Mike admits his coping mechanism involves addressing criticism head-on, sometimes with self-deprecating humor, to defuse tension.
"You're right, I am an idiot. Thank you." (12:35)
4. Considerations on Starting a Family: Desire, Timeline, and Identity
A significant portion of the conversation shifts to personal aspirations regarding starting a family. Mike and his wife openly discuss their desire to have children, weighing the joys and challenges it entails. They reflect on their original timeline, set three to four years prior, now feeling the approach of their intended timeline by about two years.
"Once you get to that mark it starts to feel a little bit more real." (18:11)
Mike shares introspective thoughts on how having children might alter personal timelines and identities, pondering the deep changes that childbirth can bring.
"I feel like that's your timeline ending... and suddenly the person you create is, like, spreading out and creating a whole new timeline." (20:24)
Bobby adds to this reflection by discussing how parenthood can shift one's identity and priorities, emphasizing the importance of communication with one's partner to navigate such profound life changes.
"It's all a matter of the conversation you have with your wife genuinely is where you're going to find that answer." (23:36)
5. Romantic Moments and Personal Stories with His Wife
Closing the episode on a warm note, Mike shares touching stories about his relationship with his wife. Their first date at Matt’s El Rancho in Austin holds sentimental value, leading them to recreate it on their one-year anniversary despite challenging weather.
"She was three minutes late, which I still give her crap to for this till this day." (25:18)
Mike recounts the humorous yet bittersweet memory of losing the receipt from their first date, symbolizing the imperfect yet memorable moments that define their relationship.
"I could never find it because at that time I would have to keep a lot of receipts for work." (25:37)
Bobby encourages Mike, expressing excitement for his new chapters ahead and appreciating the authenticity of his stories.
"New chapters are beginning, but also just on your own time." (20:21)
Conclusion
This episode of The Bobby Bones Show offers a multifaceted glimpse into Mike D’s life, blending his passion for movies with personal reflections on relationships and future aspirations. Through candid conversations and heartfelt anecdotes, listeners gain an intimate understanding of Mike’s journey, challenges, and the values that drive him both personally and professionally.