Podcast Summary: The Wayback #73 | Kirsten Schwickerath

Title: The Wayback with Ryan Sickler
Host: Ryan Sickler
Guest: Kirsten Schwickerath
Release Date: May 22, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 73 of "The Wayback with Ryan Sickler," host Ryan Sickler welcomes a very special guest, Kirsten Schwickerath, the producer behind both "Honeydew with y'all" and "The Wayback." This episode delves into Kirsten's personal life, her journey with Ryan, and a collection of nostalgic and humorous anecdotes from her childhood and family experiences.

Early Collaboration and Professional Journey ([02:08] – [08:02])

Ryan Sickler begins by introducing Kirsten Schwickerath, highlighting her pivotal role in the production of the podcast and Patreon content. Kirsten reflects on how she transitioned from being just a fan to becoming an integral part of the team.

• Kirsten Schwickerath shares her initial connection with Ryan:

  "I was actually planning to write you in my honeydew with y' all submission to just try and get on the Patreon. And instead I had just graduated, so I thought, I'll reach out." ([02:59])

Ryan recalls the early days of their collaboration, mentioning how Kirsten's prompt response and dedication impressed him immediately.

• Ryan Sickler reminisces:

  "You were never late. I think you even interned for free at first." ([04:06])

Kirsten discusses her family's connection to the automotive salvage business, providing a glimpse into her upbringing around salvage yards and the quirky memories associated with it.

• Kirsten Schwickerath elaborates:

  "I think you said baptism by fire and kind of took off running." ([04:37])

Childhood Memories and Family Dynamics ([09:48] – [38:16])

Salvage Yard Adventures and Sledding Stories

Kirsten shares vivid memories of her father's work at a salvage yard and the unique family dynamics that came with it. She reminisces about sledding using car hoods, a playful and adventurous family activity.

• Kirsten Schwickerath:

  "Every Christmas we had a pretty good hill in our yard... we'd just take it sledding all." ([10:07])

Ryan adds his own memories of similar activities, creating a shared sense of nostalgia between the host and the guest.

Sibling Games and Pranks

Kirsten recounts the imaginative games she played with her siblings and friends, such as "Handicraft Town," a role-playing game where they pretended to be paralyzed kids with a butler named Petito.

• Kirsten Schwickerath:

  "It was called Handicraft Town... we have this butler named Petito." ([12:13])

She also shares hilarious stories of prank-calling QVC with her friend Jesse, highlighting their mischievous childhood antics.

• Kirsten Schwickerath:

  "We got in a lot of trouble... cops are coming. This is harassment. Do not call us again." ([18:24])

Family Structure and Relationships

The conversation delves into Kirsten's complex family structure, including step-siblings and the blending of families. Kirsten provides insights into her relationships with her biological and step-siblings, emphasizing the familial bonds despite the complexities.

• Kirsten Schwickerath:

  "All three of us. I mean, in thinking of doing this list and stuff..." ([16:02])

Pet Stories and Personal Reflections

A poignant segment revolves around Kirsten's love for animals, particularly her cat Cheese, and the emotional story of how Cheese seemingly returned after being thought lost.

• Kirsten Schwickerath:

  "He was our little guy. Until I get the call that Dad's like, hey, Cheese got killed... And they bring me out to the house and I see Cheese." ([27:00])

Embarrassing High School Moment

In a heartfelt and humorous turn, Kirsten shares an embarrassing incident from her high school years where she accidentally urinated on stage during a play.

• Kirsten Schwickerath:

  "I pissed my pirate pants. And then I went on saying, great. No one even knew." ([34:38])

Ryan empathizes with her, drawing parallels to his own fears before performances.

• Ryan Sickler:

  "I get nervous before every stand up show. It's a 50 50. I could ship myself every show." ([36:10])

Expressions of Gratitude and Mutual Respect

The episode concludes with heartfelt exchanges of gratitude and appreciation between Ryan and Kirsten. Kirsten expresses her admiration for Ryan, highlighting the supportive work environment he fosters.

• Kirsten Schwickerath:

  "You make... for being mentally ill, you're my favorite one. You treat me so great." ([37:02])

• Ryan Sickler:

  "I really do. I'm so grateful to have you here. You're killer." ([36:21])

Notable Quotes

• Kirsten Schwickerath:

  "We would just fly down this hill into our cornfield and then he would be hauling it back up the hill with one and a half arms." ([10:44])

• Ryan Sickler:

  "Come see Kirsten. Good girl." ([11:22])

• Kirsten Schwickerath:

  "I am 26. Almost 27." ([02:47])

• Ryan Sickler:

  "We used to find weird. We found one time we found dentures, like a full pair..." ([08:08])

Conclusion

Episode 73 of "The Wayback with Ryan Sickler" provides an intimate look into Kirsten Schwickerath's life, showcasing her invaluable contributions to the podcast and her rich tapestry of personal experiences. From childhood shenanigans to heartfelt moments, Kirsten's stories offer listeners a blend of humor, nostalgia, and genuine emotion. Ryan's appreciative and respectful interaction with Kirsten underscores the strong bond they share, making this episode a memorable installment in "The Wayback" series.

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