This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von - Episode E572: "Pickle Chili"
Release Date: April 1, 2025
Host: Theo Von
Podcast Description: Exploring the events of the past weekend and sometimes delving into happenings from other days.
1. Personal Adventures and Anecdotes
Chili Cook-Off Antics
Theo kicks off the episode by recounting his recent experience at a local chili cook-off. Expressing his unconventional taste, he shares his quest to find a vendor willing to add pickles to chili—a combination he passionately supports. The encounter becomes comical when the chili vendor balks at the idea of "pickles on chili," highlighting Theo's unique preferences.
"You like pickles on your chili? Yeah. My mother came in town for my birthday..." [05:30]
A Broken Toe and Fire Department Encounters
Nearing the midpoint, Theo narrates a humorous yet heartfelt story about breaking his toe while navigating the bustling streets of New York City. Sporting a special shirt from the Bronx Fire Department, he unexpectedly finds himself at a fire department party. The event, filled with camaraderie and festivities, allows him to connect with firefighters celebrating a promotion, culminating in him receiving an exclusive shirt and a pack of vintage matches.
"Once you sever your spinal cord, man, you can't even bust a nut. I haven't busted a nut since I fell from that balcony." [67:30]
Touring the Pacific Northwest
Theo reminisces about his recent tour in the Pacific Northwest, particularly a massive show in Seattle. While the venue's size initially overwhelms him, the vibrant atmosphere and interaction with fans leave a lasting impression. Additionally, he shares a quirky moment at the Seattle Fish Fair, where he partakes in catching a fish—a memory that underscores the diverse experiences of touring.
"Victoria island, which is a beautiful, fascinating little... just great people, man. Canadians." [32:10]
2. Engaging Listener Calls
Matt Tyberg’s Harrowing Survival Story
One of the most gripping segments features a call from Matt Tyberg of Calgary, Alberta. Matt shares a series of life-threatening incidents, including being stabbed ten times, hit by a train, and a dramatic fall from a seventh-floor balcony. His resilience is evident as he humorously recounts these events, earning the moniker "Big Dog."
"I got me some chili. And they had one place... you want pickles on your chili?" [08:15]
Matt details his survival after being stabbed multiple times and surviving a severe train accident while intoxicated. His candidness about his struggles with addiction and the resultant physical challenges—now a tetraplegic—adds depth to the conversation. Theo offers compassionate advice, encouraging Matt to view his experiences as miracles and to embrace his purpose despite the hardships.
"You're a damn survivor, dude. You're a damn. You know, I'm saying you're a damn. A gravity monkey, dude." [66:20]
Willie Bones on Addiction
Another poignant call comes from Willie Bones, who seeks guidance on overcoming cocaine addiction. Theo responds with empathy, outlining practical steps such as seeking detox programs, joining recovery groups like Cocaine Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous, and finding a sponsor for support.
"If you're pretty bad off, first you need to go to a detox. And then once you're clean, then you need to get into a recovery program." [71:20]
Eleanor’s Birthday Wishes and Reflections
Eleanor from Florida reaches out with heartfelt birthday wishes for Theo. She praises him as a beacon of laughter, love, and compassion, encouraging him to continue shining his light.
"You're a very special person, shining light of not only laughs, but of so much love and compassion." [74:06]
Young Father’s Dilemma
A 16-year-old listener shares his anxiety about getting his girlfriend pregnant. Theo offers reassurance, emphasizing that reaching out for help is a sign of maturity. He advises the young father-to-be to seek support from family, consider the responsibilities ahead, and view the situation as an opportunity for growth.
"Don't future trip like that. The fact you care about this much already, I think you're probably gonna be a pretty caring guy." [45:20]
3. Theo’s Reflections and Future Plans
Throughout the episode, Theo delves into personal reflections about purpose and community. He discusses his ongoing efforts to establish a foundation aimed at aiding those in recovery, highlighting his commitment to making a positive impact. Additionally, he touches on balancing podcast episodes with guest appearances, underscoring the importance he places on his listener community.
"I want to land in a space that I'm going to feel motivated to keep doing, you know?" [72:50]
Theo also expresses gratitude towards his fans and announces potential additions to his tour schedule, signaling exciting developments for the future.
4. Concluding Thoughts
As the episode wraps up, Theo reiterates the significance of community support and personal resilience. He underscores the metaphor of "putting your own pickles on your chili" as a call to take proactive steps in one’s life, regardless of external circumstances.
"There's a light out there for all of us, man." [74:30]
Theo thanks his listeners for their continued support and encourages them to reach out via the hotline for further engagement.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- "You like pickles on your chili? Yeah. My mother came in town for my birthday..." [05:30]
- "You're a damn survivor, dude. You're a damn. You know, I'm saying you're a damn. A gravity monkey, dude." [66:20]
- "If you're pretty bad off, first you need to go to a detox. And then once you're clean, then you need to get into a recovery program." [71:20]
- "Don't future trip like that. The fact you care about this much already, I think you're probably gonna be a pretty caring guy." [45:20]
- "There's a light out there for all of us, man." [74:30]
Conclusion
Episode E572 of "This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von" titled "Pickle Chili" offers a rich tapestry of personal stories, listener interactions, and heartfelt reflections. Theo's unique blend of humor and empathy provides a compelling narrative that resonates with listeners, making it a memorable installment in his podcast series.