Unsubscribe Podcast Episode 212: The Gang Goes To War With The Buffalo School System

Hosts: Zach, Brandon Herrera, Eli Doubletap, Cody, and Donut Operator
Release Date: May 12, 2025
Duration: 122:52

I. Introduction and Setting the Stage (00:00 - 01:00)

The episode kicks off with the hosts engaging in their characteristic banter, establishing a lighthearted and humorous tone. Brandon Herrera welcomes listeners and introduces the co-hosts Eli Doubletap (a "veteran with a sign"), Donut Operator, and himself.

II. The Buffalo School System Controversy (01:00 - 05:00)

Brandon Herrera (00:40):
"We've been going through some crazy stuff lately. We just wanted to jump on here and talk to you guys about it."

The primary focus of the episode centers on significant turmoil within the Buffalo school system. The controversy erupted when Rich, a former Special Victims Unit investigator, spoke out on the podcast, leading to severe legal repercussions for a Buffalo school official.

Eli Doubletap (00:55):
"Cody killed a guy."
Brandon Herrera (00:56):
"I killed a man."
Eli (00:57):
"That really got out of hand really quick."

Rich's revelations exposed misconduct, resulting in the elevation of charges from misdemeanors to multiple felonies. This swift legal escalation underscores the impact of speaking out against systemic issues.

Eli (02:16):
"Imagine a dude trying to kidnap kids and then it's just misdemeanor. A single misdemeanor charge for, I think trespassing or something."

The officials' actions, initially perceived as minor infractions, were reevaluated, highlighting the severity of the attempted abduction of elementary school children.

III. Interviews and Insights: Teachers and EMTs (06:11 - 12:00)

The hosts delve into interviews with teachers and EMTs who shed light on the mishandling of emergency situations within Buffalo schools.

Cody (06:11):
"Admitting like she's on..."
Eli (06:11):
"Cause now the principal was like no, don't call the police. Get the parent involved..."

A teacher recounts a harrowing experience where emergency protocols were bypassed, forcing her to manage a critical situation without proper medical intervention. This revelation points to a broader pattern of negligence and obstruction within the administrative hierarchy.

IV. Community Support and Personal Impact (30:00 - 39:00)

The discussion shifts to personal stories, particularly focusing on Patrick, a community member battling cancer.

Cody (17:33):
"Patrick's been fighting cancer... he has three to five days left to live."

The hosts express deep empathy and support for Patrick and his family, emphasizing the strength and resilience of their community in facing such challenges.

Brandon Herrera (19:08):
"That's one of the things that feels hard about fighting cancer, you can't lose the fight."

V. Being a Cheer Dad and Family Life (30:00 - 50:00)

Zach shares his experiences as a "cheer dad," attending multiple cheerleading championships and managing the stresses that come with supporting his daughters.

Zach (27:01):
"I'm just going to support. I'm just gonna hold the camera and be the pack mule."

Anecdotes about long wait times, early mornings, and the competitive nature of cheerleading paint a vivid picture of the dedication required to support young athletes.

VI. Discussions on Police Practices and Qualified Immunity (73:00 - 85:00)

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to dissecting police practices, particularly the concept of qualified immunity.

Brandon Herrera (73:14):
"Qualified immunity means that the cop can't be sued individually. You have to sue his agency."

The hosts debate the implications of qualified immunity, clarifying misconceptions and discussing its impact on accountability within law enforcement. They highlight the balance between protecting officers and ensuring they are held accountable for misconduct.

VII. Mental Health and Personal Struggles (85:00 - 110:00)

Zach opens up about his personal battles with mental health, detailing his journey through burnout, substance abuse, and eventual recovery with the aid of ibogaine and DMT.

Zach (97:00):
"I did ibogaine and DMT through the mission within as a part of healing, and it changed my life hands down."

The conversation underscores the importance of mental health support, especially within the veteran community, and challenges the stigma surrounding seeking help.

Cody (111:06):
"It's okay to reach out, talk to people. You are never a burden."

VIII. Personal Anecdotes and Lighthearted Moments (50:00 - 120:00)

Interspersed throughout the episode are numerous personal stories and humorous exchanges among the hosts. Topics range from building decks with Nick, dealing with faulty pool leveling, to humorous takes on everyday challenges.

Zach (89:08):
"I'm pulling this up, doing this like this, and it wasn't paying attention, and he literally knocked me unconscious."

These segments provide a glimpse into the camaraderie and friendship that binds the hosts, adding warmth and relatability to the episode.

IX. Closing Remarks and Community Messages (120:00 - End)

In the concluding segments, the hosts reinforce messages of support, encourage listeners to seek help if needed, and express gratitude towards their community.

Eli Doubletap (110:56):
"Don't be a burden. You're never a burden. Just fucking reach out to your buddies if you're in a tough time."

Cody (111:06):
"Join over 12 million men who trust Manscaped..."
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The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks and reminders for listeners to stay connected and supportive of one another.

Notable Quotes

• Zach (03:28):
  "As a father especially, I could not be, like, more proud of all of you..."

• Eli Doubletap (04:25):
  "Rich embodies doing what is right, not what's convenient. And it's fucking rad to see."

• Brandon Herrera (12:22):
  "The exact definition of Brady lists, also known as liars lists..."

• Cody (17:33):
  "Patrick's been fighting cancer... it's looking like he has three to five days left to live."

• Brandon Herrera (73:14):
  "Qualified immunity means that the cop can't be sued individually. You have to sue his agency."

• Zach (97:00):
  "I did ibogaine and DMT through the mission within as a part of healing, and it changed my life hands down."

• Cody (111:06):
  "It's okay to reach out, talk to people. You are never a burden."

Conclusion

Episode 212 of the Unsubscribe Podcast offers a compelling mix of serious discourse and personal storytelling. The hosts tackle significant issues within the Buffalo school system, explore the complexities of police accountability, and share deeply personal journeys related to mental health and community support. Balancing these heavy topics with lighthearted anecdotes, the episode provides listeners with an engaging and multifaceted listening experience.