InTALLerable

Ep. 62: Hoops, Hits, & High Jinks; Survived Surgery

For the first episode post-op, I was excited to welcome back Josh to Top Shelf. He’s a Phoenix Suns fan, so I figured we could have some lively, good-natured smack-talk. At the time of recording this, the Denver Nuggets had a 2-0 lead on the Suns, heading back to the Valley for game 3. Josh and I were all over the court in this episode so if you’re not a hoops fanatic, worry not. We dribbled from jokes about Denver’s need for their own version of “Lighting the Beam,” a new tradition that the Sacramento Kings debuted this season, to the competitive landscape of baseball, and Josh’s connection to the vibrant solar market in Colorado. Join us; Get ready to dunk that metaphorical golden nugget.  

Our conversation pivots to the raw energy of 1FC fights, an exciting tier of MMA below UFC but pulsating with high-octane action. If you've ever fancied the tingle of smelling salts, we've got that covered too, but keep that hush-hush for the After Hours Show. Need a sweet retreat? We navigate through the nostalgia of OG candy like ZOURS, as Josh puts me on to Mike & Ike Sours. Of course when catching up with Josh, it’s easy to slip into laughs about the simpler times, so we spend a bit reminiscing about college days and Sean’s old radio show at Coe College: ‘Aspiration Exploration; Surviving Human Nature’ 

Brace yourself as we hit the crescendo with Josh’s experience at his first electronic show, the unparalleled charm of Red Rocks concerts, and re-introducing ‘Cake.’ As the music fades, we pause to appreciate the pride in our respective occupations and contemplate the beauty in being “average." Our impacts we leave behind are rarely those through our job “title,” rather it is the impact on people, through our work or otherwise, that leaves a lasting impression. 

We wrap things up in our After Hours Show, reflecting on the diverse landscapes of the U.S., the gems hidden in the Northeast (may or may not exist), and the thrill of strong smelling salts. The world’s strongest smelling salts, actually the very same from JRE. It’s Top Shelf. I’ve got a name to keep up, ya know? Probably the best non-tech expense thus far. In the end, finally after many rejections and re-submissions, Josh finally gets “Heighted.” So sit back, relax, and join us for an episode that's a slam dunk. I’m just happy to have survived the surgery, tell you the truth..

You can follow Josh’s music @royaltyklub on Instagram 

FO&BW 

Ep. 61: Racks, Brunch & Broads; Shelf Space Needed

When Jules & Paige first entered Top Shelf Studios, they may not have been prepared for the roller coaster to follow; Lord knows I wasn’t either. Paige, who left the medical field to seek fulfillment in new areas is wanting to start her own podcast called: “Broads & Brunch.” To be honest I didn’t ask about the ampersand, but it’s too late now.  

We dive into the ever-changing waters of female friendships, the nuanced ebb and flow that is the adolescent journey, and we touch upon that infamous “modern dating labyrinth,” as it were/was/is (cue the collective sigh). Does the 'Hoe Phase' ring a bell? Well, prepare for a conversation that's as real as it gets.

Don't worry, we haven't forgotten about you, fellas under 25! I mean, these ladies certainly have, but me? Never! Brace yourselves as we delve into the mysteries of your undeveloped brains. Buckle up for a no-holds-barred discussion on relationships, not just the ones you strike up on Tinder but also those that form the tapestry of your life.

Be it a hush-hush conversation turned therapy session or diving head-first into the pool of anxiety, we're all about those hard, “human” conversations. We dive into these murky waters only to resurface quicker and lighter than you'd expect.

Now, what's all this got to do with the ethereal realm of ghost vs spirits, you ask? Or the mystical enchantment of crystals? How about a little speculation on our extraterrestrial neighbors? Best listen, lest ‘ye miss the bountiful laughter and lessons therein. Or don’t; I’m no cop. 

You'll also be privy to the 'no politics' rule that Paige so respectfully requested, only to later break. Not like: “Oh my bone, it’s broken!” break. No, rather a: “They’re turning us into robots and nobody will stop them, unless we break into the Washington Monument at Midnight,” kind of ‘break’. So much for a No-Politi-Talk rule. I’ll let the listeners be the judge. Fear not, it's all in good fun, but do keep your flotation devices handy.

This episode is dedicated to everyone out there who ever felt like they were treading water in the sea of life. It's not just about staying afloat, folks. It's about laughing while you're at it! Especially given the certainty of death in the end, for us all. FO&BW

Follow Jules’ new poetry project on Instagram @julesahlwritespoetry & TikTok @julesahl

Check out Paige's new podcast, ‘Broads & Brunch’

Ep. 60: Cutting the Line

Step right up and strap in, folks, because this one is a doozy in the best way. We've got Logan in Top Shelf Studios, a once almost stranger now turned guest, whom I met in the wildest of ways at a Tim Dillon show. The mystery of the slyly handed $20 bill? Yeah, you'll want to hear this.

We're touching all the bases in this - the compelling dance between purpose and happiness, the way curiosity can either fuel us or drive us a bit mad, and the religious roots that have shaped Logan's outlook. This man is more than just a history major; he's a deep thinker, a night-time ponderer, a teller of tales both hilarious and heart-touching.

You'll get a peek into the life of a college wrestler who traded the mat for intellectual pursuits in Gunnison, CO. You'll hear about Logan's passion for a creative outlet and his casual flirtation with golf. Just when you think it can't get more authentic, we discuss Midwestern lingo that might just leave you scratching your head.We're not shying away from the tough stuff either. Logan opens up about his experience during the Arapahoe school shooting, a tragedy that he navigated with comedy.

Of course, no 'InTALLerable' episode would be complete without an official 'heighting' at the end of the episode. Logan's spiritual stature? Spoiler alert - Big Dog. So, if you're up for a rollercoaster ride of deep thoughts, hearty laughs, and authentic connections, you're in the right place. 

Folks, tell your friends and family you love them. Heck, even call your parents if you're lucky enough to still have them. I hear Mother's Day is right around the corner...

Ep. 59: This One’s for Jesus

Verily, verily, I say unto thee, join us for a wondrous discourse with our high-school youth group leader and wise mentor, Clayton Vance. We journey through the valley of purpose and happiness, seeking the answers to life's profound questions with a touch of mirth.

Can one find happiness without a purpose? How do we bear witness to tribulations and rejoice in the bountiful moments? Clayton shares his testimony, from his own pastor's prophetic counsel to the beguiling tale of the Ruby Ridge incident. Prepare thyself for a spirited dialogue and the whimsical inquiries of our brother Chris.

As we traverse subjects such as the dissonance of the mind, the arena of modern sports, and the sacred bond between faith and carnal desires, expect a lively, laughter-filled gathering. We shall also ponder Clayton's unique views on the Messiah, the challenges of modern Faith, and the scrolls of Wikipedia. 

Lo and behold, this episode shalt be a delightful union of earnest connections and divine wit. Miss not this enlightening and entertaining pilgrimage through the realms of purpose, happiness, and all that lies betwixt.

Forget not to declare thy love and gratitude unto those who are dear to thee this day – for in the sharing of love and laughter, the world becometh a more blessed place. 

Ep. 58: Backdoor Entry w/ Makanacast

A meeting of the minds was necessary. If you've been a loyal listener or have been lucky to check out his new show: Makanacast, then I'd hope you're prepared to welcome this wild man back into Top Shelf Studios. Makana graces us all with his free speech and thought crimes for a short, but spicy episode.

We discuss the illusion of freedom, get some good 'ol fashion satirical ranting 'bout the 'Gov'ment while touching on the backslide of democracy in the name of (REDACTED), and even find time to received an unexpected, but always appreciated, compliment from Makana. Folks, that's like finding a rare pokemon, or getting your first kiss; priceless. 

Will China steal the show in the global political theater? Are your friends squandering their potential? Have you had trouble breaching a difficult conversation with a close friend? Well come on down to Ep. 58 and grab your most comfortable support plushies, cause this is a throwback to the early days. 

Sean offers Makana a chance to escape the service industry rat race. Will he take it?!? 

Tell someone how much they mean to you today. FO & BW

Ep. 57: JLE - Jacob Larson Experience

Ladies and gentlemen, I am so excited to catch up with another old friend, someone who has an unshakeable spirit and positively overflowing with energy, filling up any room he occupies. Jacob Larson is the lead-singer for his 10 piece funk & soul ensemble - The Jacob Larson Band. You can check out their new album: 'Totally Legal' which was released late fall 2022.

We talk about Jacob's musical journey, managing the 'luck' and 'timing' elements of the creative process, and how the events that he performs are changing with time. This may be one of the only private performances, if you can call Top Shelf Studios a performance, that he will do in 2023 — Lucky us!

Jacob tells me about his fight against COVID. He was an early case in 2020 and caught it badly enough to be intubated for over two weeks. Jacob made a complete recovery, but this put their album on hold as he had to relearn vocal work after leaving the hospital. I am so thankful Jacob hasn't lost an ounce of the spark I remember from so many years ago when he performed at the Fox Theater in Boulder. 

Thank you to the JLB, Jacob, and all the supporters who listen to learn from Jacob's young wisdom.

You are loved far greater than you realize! 

FO & BW.

Ep. 56: Patrick Richardson

Grab a Golden Girls box set and put on a poncho, because it’s Golden Hour in Top Shelf Studios as Patrick “Piss” Richardson joins InTALLerable. Patrick is a nine-year practicing Stand-Up Comic from Greeley, CO. He hosts two hilariously unique podcasts, “The Cobos & Patrick Podcast,” a riff-based show with co-host Matt Cobos, and “Certified Cinephiles,” a fake-movie-review show. Besides comedic endeavors, Patrick is a musician and videographer. Most-importantly though, he’s just a genuinely nice and hilarious dude.

I greatly enjoyed picking Patrick’s brain. We discussed his Patreon, “Birthday Piss” and his creative process in both his stand-up and his podcasting. Of course we also took time to squash some beef live on the air, ask Patrick his thoughts on the meaning of life, revel in the temporary joy of last-minute canceled plans, and much more. 

Do you or someone you love enjoy laughs? Catch Patrick every Wednesday night at Ratio Beer Works in Denver for a stand-up show! Watch out for this “Greelebrity” at your local supermarket and be sure you stop and ask him for a picture. Support his Patreon so he can buy Denver Nuggets NBA Finals tickets this Summer.

Nikola Jokic is Basketball Jesus. 

FO & BW

Ep. 55: BA303 - The Opposite

BA303 returns with his crew for a silly-goose-time in Top Shelf Studios. Full of everything from exchanging positive praise to Preston teaching Sean about this supposed cultural practice, a "Tax Loophole" if you will, in Mormon culture for pre-marital activities with a lover. Hint, put it in neutral.

Along the way, we learn about Brandon's development since his last appearance, both personally and in his musical endeavours. BA303 released his latest single, "The Opposite" Ft. Dizzy Wright, in January of 2023.

Brandon teases what is coming on the horizon and even makes Sean try to guess a feature by another massive artist in the works! Be sure not to miss this one if you're a fan of BA303, music, or if you like a wild ride. I will say we had some energy of the early days Episodes recording this one. Wild and untamable with the jokes and speech. Good think Makana is still "chained up" (his words) on the soundboard, even if he isn't here for this one physically. 

Thank you to Brandon for coming down and for your fun-loving, free energy and heart. It is clear your passion will be a foundation for your continued efforts, even during the tough parts of this journey. 

P.S. and yes I will drive the jacket you forgot at the studio back up to you, because you matter to me and don't you forget it. If you're not Brandon, and you're still reading:

Checkmate. You may have stumbled here and you're reading this for the first time saying, what the even heck? Well here it is. 

You matter too. Don't forget to tell your friends and family you love them. Like right after this, hey, don't even go listen to the show initially. Go call your parents if you're lucky enough to still have them here with you. Go meetup with that friend you haven't seen in awhile. 

This episode is dedicated to the memory of Ryan Kauffled. 

Ep. 54: Patrick Miskella

“I’m Retired,” he told us after we invited him to Top Shelf Studios. Patrick Miskella is a retired English teacher. After a thirty-seven year tenure of teaching in Wisconsin, Washington, Guam, New Mexico, and Colorado, Mr. Miskella wrote a novel, ‘Out of Time.’ Safe to say, he's been dealing with “the kids these days,” for longer than Sean has been one of "the kids these days."

Sean was a student in Patrick Miskella’s Language Arts class at Monarch High School, where he taught from 1998 until his retirement in 2014. He is a legend in the MOHI community. Buy his book: ‘Out of Time,” a coming-of-age story about Sean McGowen, searching for the father he never met and spurring him to reconsider his perceptions of free will, love, time and self. He signed a copy live during our recording, what a guy. 

We discuss Patrick’s upbringing through Catholic school and how he started his path in teaching before diving into the fun “thought experiment” stuff like: ‘Prove to me you’re Real,’ Etc. etc. From the power of religion, to camaraderie among boxes, to the results and implications of social media across generations; this episode truly has the goods. Don't miss out. 

I’m humbled that Mr. Miskella was so generous with his time and so kind with his words and praise. Thank you, Pat.

BUY HIS BOOK FOLKS!!!

FO&BW

Ep. 53: St. Nick Christmas Cast

Nick Guidera is truly “Heighted” — Every time he comes back to Top Shelf Studios, he drops some serious wisdom on the mic. Honestly, this one took so long to release because it was so raw and real, I was left reflecting on Nick’s thoughts as I edited this episode. We began this episode talking about the challenges of reaching out when you need help.

Do not be scared to reach out, people truly care about you. Disagree? You’re welcome to come on and (try to) convince me otherwise.

From undressing the stereotype of a “buttoned-up” emotionless man, to telling the story of a drunken challenge to swim across a frozen pond; Saint Nick gives us a ton to be grateful about in our lives. We discussed a few heavy topics, breaking the taboo that these things aren’t as common as we think they are, especially in America with our social media obsession. We also have plenty of fun discussing how ChatGPT and other AI will threaten “good” writers and artists. This episode focuses on Gratitude, so Saint Nick was the perfect guest for this joyous Christmas episode. We end this episode with a speed round of gratitude, you won’t want to miss it.

Don’t fall into complacency; tell the people you love how much they mean to you.

Much love to all, and to all a goodnight…