Episode Summary: The Wayback #60 | John Farley

Podcast Title: The Wayback with Ryan Sickler
Host: Ryan Sickler
Guest: John Farley
Release Date: February 20, 2025
Duration: Approximately 41 minutes

Introduction

In the 60th episode of The Wayback with Ryan Sickler, Ryan welcomes John Farley, a member of the legendary Farley family, best known for the iconic comedian Chris Farley. The episode delves into John’s nostalgic recollections of growing up in a large family, his experiences at boarding school, and heartfelt stories about his late brother Chris. The conversation is filled with humor, heartfelt moments, and reflections on family dynamics.

Guest Background and Introduction

[00:38] John Farley: "I like this kind of party."

Ryan opens the episode by expressing gratitude to his listeners and introducing John Farley. John humorously references their setting in the "Wayback" as reminiscent of the Farley family station wagon, aptly named the "fucking Farley family Truckster."

John Farley’s Documentary: "Meet Me Where I Am"

[01:42] John Farley: "Meet me where I am means you're meeting somebody. Wherever you are, that's where you should be."

John introduces his documentary, Meet Me Where I Am, a poignant exploration of grief. Available on platforms like Tubi, Apple TV, and Amazon, the film features experts discussing grief's universal nature and the importance of remembering loved ones. John emphasizes that grief affects everyone, regardless of their background, and the documentary offers valuable insights and advice for those navigating loss.

[01:42] John Farley: "It's a great little documentary. It's about an hour and a half."

Growing Up in a Large Family

Family Dynamics and Childhood Memories

[03:07] Ryan Sickler: "So obviously brothers with Chris Farley. You guys have a family of five? Well, seven. Mom and dad. Five siblings. Mom and dad."

John shares anecdotes about growing up in a bustling household with five siblings, including the beloved Chris Farley. He reminisces about the family station wagon, filled with lively interactions and sibling camaraderie.

[04:05] Ryan Sickler: "Do you know?"

[04:06] John Farley: "We had a... I bought one for this show. I'm still got to figure out how to set it up..."

John discusses the use of CB radios in their cars, highlighting the playful nicknames each sibling had, such as his own handle, "Mosquito Hawk," and Chris's "Canon."

[04:35] John Farley: "Kevin went off to college... I went to boarding school."

Vacation Traditions

[05:24] Ryan Sickler: "So you're a big family. When you're vacationing, are you guys a flying family? Are you a driving family?"

John explains the family's vacation habits, typically traveling together to destinations like Florida and Vail. He shares humorous and sometimes harrowing experiences, such as nearly drowning due to his glasses falling into a pool slide.

[06:52] Ryan Sickler: "Your dad was 700 pounds?"

[06:54] John Farley: "Yeah, he's a big guy, so that's really big."

Boarding School Adventures

[08:10] John Farley: "I went to boarding school. Portsmouth Abbey."

John recounts his time at Portsmouth Abbey, an all-boys boarding school in Rhode Island. His stories paint a vivid picture of the strict environment and his mischievous escapades, including sneaking alcohol and staging pranks that led to his temporary expulsion.

[09:09] Ryan Sickler: "Let’s look this up. Kirsten."

John humorously shares the school's administration dynamics, including interactions with the headmaster—a former monk who ultimately quits after individuals get expelled.

[13:02] Ryan Sickler: "The monks had beer in there?"

[13:04] John Farley: "Yeah, for like parties or like, you know..."

Sibling Shenanigans and Family Stories

Growing Up with Chris Farley

[14:33] Ryan Sickler: "Give me some funny, funny Chris stories growing up."

John provides a heartfelt and humorous account of life with Chris Farley. From discussing mischievous pranks to witnessing Chris's entertaining antics, such as dressing up as Santa at summer camp or causing harmless chaos in the family home.

[21:32] John Farley: "Chris was like, we're gonna go kneeboarding. And he was in the back and Kevin gunned it and Chris's swim trunks immediately went off."

A particularly memorable story involves Chris Farley accidentally becoming naked on a jet boat, eliciting laughter from friends and family while creating an unforgettable moment.

Family Antics

[29:25] Ryan Sickler: "Did you guys ever get in fights?"

[29:27] John Farley: "Chris is like, holy..."

John shares stories of sibling fights, often escalating into humorous situations, illustrating the lively and close-knit nature of the Farley family.

Unique Family Traditions

[32:03] John Farley: "We burn things like that. Should be fun."

John reminisces about family traditions, including accidentally causing fires and engaging in playful destruction around the house. These stories highlight the chaotic yet loving environment he grew up in.

Memorable Family Locations

John describes various family homes on Farwell Drive, each with its unique characteristics and stories. From a house with challenging driveways to one with a beautiful lake, these environments provided the backdrop for many of his childhood memories.

[35:10] John Farley: "There was a... There was this concert stunt night where Chris perfected a few funny bits."

John speaks fondly of Red Arrow Camp, where the Farley brothers first showcased their comedic talents, leading to their future in entertainment.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, John reiterates the importance of his documentary, Meet Me Where I Am, encouraging listeners to watch it for those dealing with grief. Ryan expresses his appreciation for John’s candid storytelling and the joy of revisiting such personal and heartfelt memories.

[39:37] John Farley: "I love this backseat of this fucking station wagon. I want one of these. But they're... I'm not buying."

The conversation concludes with promotional remarks from Ryan about his upcoming tours and special events, leaving listeners with a sense of warmth and nostalgia.

Notable Quotes

• John Farley [01:42]: "Meet me where I am means you're meeting somebody. Wherever you are, that's where you should be."

• John Farley [07:10]: "We had a bit of a we problem family."

• John Farley [21:32]: "Chris was like, we're gonna go kneeboarding. And he was in the back and Kevin gunned it and Chris's swim trunks immediately went off."

• John Farley [32:03]: "We burn things like that. Should be fun."

• John Farley [39:37]: "I love this backseat of this fucking station wagon. I want one of these. But they're... I'm not buying."

Final Remarks

Episode 60 of The Wayback with Ryan Sickler offers an engaging and heartfelt glimpse into the Farley family life through John Farley's eyes. Filled with laughter, touching moments, and nostalgic reflections, this episode serves as a tribute to family bonds and the enduring legacy of Chris Farley.

For more insights and stories, visit ryansickler.com and follow Ryan on his social media platforms. Don't miss out on upcoming live shows and specials!