Episode 41: When Life Hits Like a Bus

Send us a textEver wondered how a case ruled as suicide leaves behind more questions than answers? Join us as we unravel the chilling case of Ellen Greenberg, a Philadelphia school teacher whose tragic death in 2011 continues to puzzle us. With Ben Kissel, Jerii Aquino, and Kyle Ploof at the helm, we dig into the unsettling details, including those 20 baffling stab wounds, and question whether corruption or incompetence played a role in this unsolved mystery. It's a rollercoaster of emotions as we express our disbelief and frustration, all while seeking justice for Ellen.From mysterious deaths to the quirky world of DJ robots, we then pivot to the rise of Phantom, a robotic DJ by Foundation Robotics Labs. This intriguing blend of technology and culture sparks a conversation on the militarization of robotics and the ethical dilemmas that come with it. Could cultural diplomacy possibly work with robotic DJs? And what about the unsettling realities of humanoid robots taking center stage in future conflicts? Through humor and critical insight, we navigate these futuristic waters, imagining a world where a Daft Punk comeback might just be the counterbalance we need.Wrapping up on a lighter note, we reminisce about childhood fears of toys like Furbies while sharing a laugh over a tech party with Phantom at the DJ booth. We highlight the absurdity of human-like expectations placed on machines and muse over Spotify's AI DJ quirks. Despite the chaos of current events, we call for solidarity and community resilience, encouraging listeners to share positive stories and those adorable pet photos that warm our hearts. Together, we look forward to staying connected and supporting each other through unpredictable times.Support the showSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

6 Feb 44min

Send us a textWhat happens when privacy and whistleblowing collide in the digital age? Explore the intense drama surrounding the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority incident, where two staffers find themselves in legal hot water after allegedly leaking sensitive footage. This controversial story sparks a deeper conversation about the fine line between public interest and personal privacy, as well as the high stakes whistleblowers face. We'll also touch on a chilling case from Florida that highlights the darker side of digital security, reminding us of the persistent threats lurking online.Switching gears, we'll venture into the realm of evolving beauty standards and societal expectations with a humorous take on labia puffing, a cosmetic trend that's raising eyebrows. Through lighthearted banter, we uncover the bizarre yet fascinating world of cosmetic enhancements, all while addressing the importance of embracing natural diversity in body types. We'll share anecdotes about the misunderstandings that can arise from a lack of sex education, injecting a bit of humor and camaraderie into the conversation to highlight the absurdity of unrealistic beauty expectations.Finally, the episode takes an adventurous turn with a series of engaging and thought-provoking discussions. From Kyle's amusing fear of thrill rides to the inspiring whistleblowing efforts of Mohamad and Jonathan Savoy, we cover a range of topics that are both profound and entertaining. The courage of an Iranian woman protesting oppressive clothing laws, juxtaposed with the peculiar trend of non-surgical breast enhancements in New York City, showcases the diverse ways people are challenging conventions. Join us as we navigate this rollercoaster of topics, promising our listeners more intriguing and entertaining conversations in future episodes.Support the showSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

5 Feb 45min

Send us a textCan a simple wardrobe change improve your health? Tik Tok stars say swapping out your underwear choices might just be the key to better vaginal health. Imagine our bodies as self-cleaning ovens— we break down how going commando at night and choosing non-compressive underwear can create a healthier, more natural environment. This conversation is full of laughs, as we tackle the often-taboo subject of women's health with the frankness it deserves.Ever wondered what the connection between Groundhog Day and personal hygiene is? We explore this odd intersection while laughing at a memorable incident involving former New York Mayor Bill de Blasio and Puxatawney Phil. The conversation takes a wider look at celebrity antics and their surprising environmental impacts, from Taylor Swift's frequent flights to the unusual presentation of awards at the Grammys. It's a rollercoaster of quirky traditions and social commentary that entertains while sparking thought.Prepare for a wild ride as we share the tale of Ollie, the infamous sea otter, whose dark antics draw uncomfortable parallels with human behavior. From the bizarre case of a cyber farting attack to a shocking murder plot involving a chance encounter on a bus, this episode takes you through a series of unexpected and bizarre stories. With unexpected twists and turns, we delve into the complexities of wildlife behavior and human relationships, leaving you both amused and intrigued by the peculiarities of our world.Support the showSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

4 Feb 48min

Send us a textEver wondered about the unexpected intersections between tragic events and political intrigue? Our latest episode kicks off with a startling helicopter collision with an American Airlines plane, prompting us to speculate, with a dash of dark humor, on which public figures might have been aboard. We also dive into conspiracy theories that often trail such incidents, blending the solemn with the speculative. As always, Ben Kissel, Jerii Aquino, and Kyle Ploof guide you through these murky waters with a mix of empathy and irreverence, offering insights that are sure to provoke thought and chuckles alike.As we transition through the episode, brace yourself for a rollercoaster of topics that swing from the bizarre to the notorious. We share surprising aircraft safety tips, entertain you with tales of cabin odors, and revisit the infamous saga of OJ Simpson. From his football fame to his contentious legal escapades and an odd collection of memorabilia, we paint a picture of a life as curious as it is controversial. And who could resist a chuckle at the absurdities of the "piss bandit" in Pasadena or the jaw-dropping antics of a nurse in Georgia? It’s a wild ride that's equal parts shocking and amusing.Finally, the episode takes a deep dive into the case of Brenda Andrews, the so-called "Black Widow." We dissect the courtroom drama and explore the societal reflections her story provokes, all while weaving humor into the narrative with quirky asides about courtroom attire and men's underwear. And as the Supreme Court reconsiders her conviction, we ponder whether justice might take a surprising turn. Whether you're here for the laughs or the intrigue, this episode promises a rich tapestry of stories that will keep you entertained from start to finish.Support the showSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

31 Jan 48min

Send us a textWhat if the symbols of hatred are closer to home than we think? Our latest episode opens with a chilling report from eastern Tennessee, where listener Bradley alerts us to disturbing KKK-endorsed flyers. We confront the implications of these materials, potential police involvement, and the unnerving targeting of white Protestants. The conversation intensifies with a controversial statement from Donald Trump about undocumented immigrants, prompting a deep dive into the dangerous rhetoric affecting marginalized communities. Amid the gravity, we lighten the mood with an unexpected consumer alert about chocolate you won't want to miss.Switching gears, we pose a serious question: is there a weight bias in rideshare services? A recent Lyft incident involving passenger Deja Blanding gets us talking about discrimination, body image, and societal standards. We examine the driver's refusal of service, dissecting the thin line between personal judgment and professional duty. With a touch of humor, we compare today's body image perceptions to the music industry, with shout-outs to larger-than-life figures like Dank DeMoss and Biggie Smalls, while keeping the conversation both thought-provoking and entertaining.Lastly, we tackle the escalating tensions in school environments—raising questions about safety and support systems. From a Texas teacher dodging a flying chair to chaotic school parties in Florida, we highlight the unexpected trials educators face. The intrigue grows with mysterious "Help Trafico" signs appearing in Los Angeles. Initially linked to human trafficking, we uncover their true connection to community displacement issues. With each story, we shine a light on the untold challenges and complexities within our schools and communities.Support the showSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

30 Jan 52min

Send us a textEver pondered how a whale's flatulence could be mistaken for a submarine threat? Join us on OK! Bud as we navigate the bizarre yet entertaining twists of modern life, from drones over New Jersey to the latest antics involving Chris Christie. Our banter kicks off with a playful jab at the generational divide, spotlighting the young White House press secretary, Caroline Levitt, and her pop culture references that might leave you scratching your head. We also share a Kentucky father's bold stand against drone surveillance, throwing privacy concerns into the spotlight in a world where technology feels more "Black Mirror" than ever.As we venture into the realm of futuristic warfare, imagine a drone battling it out with a robot dog. It's a spectacle that raises both eyebrows and questions about the autonomy of machines in combat scenarios. Just when things start to take a turn for the serious, we lighten the mood with a tale from the UK Navy involving a whale and mistaken drone identity. Our conversation reflects on the strange unpredictability of technology while maintaining a humor-infused lens on the headlines that shape our world today.Family drama takes center stage as we unravel the chilling, yet absurd, case of Simon Vickers and his daughter's tragic end, followed by anecdotes of family feuds erupting over eulogies. Childhood mischief turns dark when Vickers' defense of "mucking around" fails to hold water in court. We round off our chat with a playful take on Valentine's Day, debating Texas Roadhouse's bread bouquets and the sticky topic of digital-age relationships. Whether subscribing to OnlyFans is akin to infidelity sparks a lively discussion, as we humorously weigh this against the bizarre potential of AI sex robots. Buckle up for an episode that's equal parts whimsical and thought-provoking!Support the showSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

28 Jan 51min

Send us a textThis week’s episode blends tribute and humor as the hosts discuss the life and impact of Norbert, a beloved therapy dog who recently passed away, alongside bizarre news stories involving unexpected incidents and political antics. They navigate through heartwarming and hilarious narratives that question societal norms while encouraging listeners to reflect on the stories that shape our lives. • Tribute to Norbert, the therapy dog, and his legacy • Discussion of the bizarre incident involving a man’s penis stuck to icy pavement • Overview of a politically charged arrest of a drag queen linked to Trump • Exploration of statistics on penis size evolution and future implications • Culinary highlight featuring the Bonnie Blue burger named after a viral sensationSupport the showSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

27 Jan 44min

Send us a textEver wondered why Taylor Swift's appearances could warrant a penalty in the NFL? Tune in to our latest chat where we mix our love for sports with a dash of humor, critiquing the Kansas City Chiefs' favoritism and diving into the playful rivalry between Swifties and Chapel Roan fans. Plus, we kick off with a heartwarming shoutout to our listener Angel, whose email led to some nostalgic laughs about a Boston-accented sunfish video. From sunfish to sports, it's a rollercoaster of light-hearted banter and laughter that promises to leave you in stitches.Support the showSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

24 Jan 44min