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Culture & Art
Hobbies
North Woods - Daniel Mason - Episode 92 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies headed up north for their most recent book, into the woods… the North Woods by Daniel Mason. This Pulitzer Prize finalist novel had the Buddies fighting for their lives as their 8th grade reading abilities were really put to the test. It had them chatting about their love of apples, if they believe in ghosts, and Buddy love letters. So, strap in for this one, get your dictionary out, and your trusty ax, as we chop it up with the North Woods.
The Art Thief - Michael Finkel - Episode 91 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies found themselves in an unfamiliar section of the book store this week, as they wandered into the the non-fiction arena. A fellow Buddy/listener recommended The Art Thief by Michael Finkel, and the Buddies had to oblige. The book follows the crazy and somehow true story of Stéphane Breitwieser & Anne-Catherine Kleinklaus, and their torrid stealing spree across Europe. The Buddies got to discussing the pros and cons of stealing 2 billion dollars’ worth of art, why having extra vacation time is bad, and why living by a code like Omar from the Wire is so important. So get your Swiss Army Knife ready, read up on the European legal system, and join us as we take on The Art Thief.
The Three-Body Problem - Liu Cixin - Episode 90 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies are jumping deep into the science fiction world again this week reading, The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin (also a new series on Netflix)! Emphasis must be placed on the science part of this science fiction novel as the Buddies struggled to grasp everything that went on in this one. They had 99 problems and the Three-Body Problem was one of them… Anyway, they got to talking about the benefits of leaving your family in favor of drinking and playing video games, and why Superman (shouts to the Lois & Clark tv show), had it right all-along. So, get your physics textbook ready, learn to love ‘sophons’, and join us as we navigate our way through the Three-Body Problem.
The Blade Itself - Joe Abercrombie - Episode 89 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies re-enter the world of sword and sorcery with the first book in Joe Abercrombie’s First Law Trilogy: The Blade Itself. The Buddies were left wanting more time with the characters in this darker fantasy novel, so there is a good chance they’ll be reading book two in the future. The Blade Itself follows a number of malcontents and dissentients, much like the Buddies and it got them talking about varying topics like: Caleb Williams, nicknames and would you rathers when it comes to morning routines. So gather your ‘named men’, start speaking to the spirits, and join us as we start in on The Blade Itself adventure.
Slaughterhouse-Five - Kurt Vonnegut - Episode 88 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies are going back to school reading popular high school novel, Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut. Things haven’t changed much since high school for the Buddies as they struggled to interpret the true meaning of the novel. The satirical anti-war book did provide the buddies some good talking points, namely: how being negative is a good thing, how life is easier when you’re hung like a horse, and the benefits of being a POW. So re-visit your high school reading assignments, pick up Slaughterhouse-Five and tell us what you think of the novel (or tell us what we were supposed to think).
Shōgun (Chapters 47-End) - James Clavell - Episode 87 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies take their 3rd and final crack at the ‘epic’ Shōgun by James Clavell. It’s been a long journey reading this 1,000+ page book, but if you followed along you’re now ready to dive into the new FX show. In their final installment the Buddies topics were very militaristic: ninjas, sacrificing pawns, pitched battles, and the dangers of pillow talk. So join us for the last Banzai and our last time with our friends Toranaga, Mariko, Anjin, Omi, and Rodrigues.
Shōgun (Chapters 10-46) - James Clavell - Episode 86 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies are back! After a bit of a hiatus (someone selfishly decided to travel), the Buddies are back at in covering books 2 & 3 of Shōgun (chapters 10-46). A lot to cover on this one as the Buddies got into the meat (or the rice and fish if you’re Japanese) of the James Clavell’s epic novel. The Buddies got to talking about scholarly things like: Karma, Religions, relieving yourself outside, and why Star Wars Episode 8 was awful. We hope you’ve followed us on this spiritual journey, jump on in and join us for chapters 10-46, because next week we’ll finish Shōgun and achieve full nirvana.
Dune - MOVIE - Episode 85 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies are still reading through Shōgun (it's 50+ hours so give us a break), so they decided to jump into a different epic story based on a book. On this weeks episode they tackle 2021 Blockbuster, Dune. They are joined once again by their buddy Mikko (@BuddyHive) to talk things over. They got to talking about spices, drugs, Pearl Harbor, and why you can assume anyone from Sweden is a bad guy. So take a little break from Japan (we assume you’re reading Shōgun along with us), and join us in a much dryer scenery as we worm our way through Dune.
Shōgun (Chapters 1-9) - James Clavell - Episode 84 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies start in on the epic historical fiction novel, Shōgun by James Clavell. They start with part 1 (prologue – chapter 9) on their 1,000+ page voyage. With a new tv show coming out on FX in February, the Buddies couldn’t put off D-mans favorite book any longer. The Buddies got to chatting about full sends, baths, and the importance of peeing on things to show dominance. We are even treated to a historical scene setting portion by D-man aka Dan Carlin 2.0. So bring your katana and wakizashi swords, some bubble soap (for the bath), as we soak in everything Shōgun has to offer.
Airborn - Kenneth Oppel - Episode 83 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies are (Matt) Crusing through books so far this year checking off Airborn by Kenneth Oppel from their list. Airborn had a little bit of everything, an alternate world, airships, and pirates. Combine those things with the fact that it is written for younger adults and it adds up to the perfect mix for the Buddies. It got them discussing the love for inanimate objects, big Zepplin, and the advantages of being stranded on a desert island. So check your career ambitions at the door, pack yourself some hydrium, and maybe a weapon or two, and join us as we take-off into Airborn.
Bad Santa - MOVIE - Episode 79 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies are still working hard at deciphering the Cloud Cuckoo Land book, so they decided with the upcoming holidays, they’d watch a wholesome, family oriented, Christmas movie: Bad Santa. The high-brow comedy got the Buddies talking about a lot of important holiday topics: like what makes something a Christmas movie, how young is too young to be drinking mimosas on Christmas morning, and if it’s appropriate to ‘punch-down’ and make fun of someone’s ‘gear’. So, fix yourself some sandwiches and a vodka neat, gather the whole family around, and watch one of the best Christmas movies with your Buddies.
Coded to Kill - Marschall Runge, M.D. (INTERVIEW) - Episode 81 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies were honored to have Marschall Runge, M.D. on the podcast so they could chat about his debut medical thriller, Coded to Kill. Despite being severely outmatched in the IQ and credential department, the Buddies dug into Coded to Kill, discussing EHRs, what inspired the novel, and actors Dr. Runge would cast in the movie. They also were able to settle a few longstanding debates, namely: Texas vs Carolina BBQ, Jordan vs Lebron, and who will win the Michigan vs Washington national championship. So head to your local book store or e-retailer and pick up Coded to Kill, and join us and author Marschall Runge, M.D. for the first episode of 2024.
Matilda - Roald Dahl - Episode 82 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies read their second Roald Dahl book in as many months, this time diving into fan favorite, Matilda. Dahl’s books have proven to be fun, quick reads, with the perfect reading level for the Buddies. To most, Matilda is the hero in this book, but the Buddies saw things differently. They discussed that, plus the intricacies of decorum, psychological warfare, and author rivalries. The Buddies were dishing up a full course of topics on this weeks podcast, and a chocolate cake for dessert. So, bring your appetite as we dig into Matilda by Roald Dahl.
Cloud Cuckoo Land - Anthony Doerr - Episode 80 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies close out the year with a true book club book in Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr. Many said that the Buddies wouldn’t be able to comprehend this book, but many also said the Buddies would never get to 80 episodes, so it appears the haters were wrong (at least for the second one). The Buddies had some spicey topics this week chatting about being attracted to fish, sympathizing with terrorists, and animal deaths in stories. So, join us for the last pod of the year and take in the new years with our buddies Omeir, Anna, Zeno, and Konstance (Seymore can kick rocks).
Separation of Power - Episode 78 - Vince Flynn - Buddy Book Club
We’re getting into winter time, and there is nothing like cozying up by the fire with a good book. Especially if that book is by Vince Flynn. Vinny Flynn as we like to refer to him, is the Buddy Book Club's go to comfort read. This is our 3rd journey with lead character, Mitch Rapp, this time reading Separation of Power. The Buddies got to discussing some interesting topics this week including: Public speaking advice, government audits, and the definition of edging and why it isn’t all its cracked up to be. So join your three favorite Buddies: D-man, Keith, and Mitch Rapp , as we discuss Separation of Power by Vince Flynn.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl - Episode 77 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies were back in the kids section, this time selecting a childhood favorite, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl. Who doesn’t like them some Roald Dahl? He’s like The Beatles of kids books, just hit after hit, after hit. The Buddies thoroughly enjoyed this one, not just because they found a book that matched their reading levels, but it also got them chatting about some important topics. Namely: The actual length of the Gettysburg Adress, the meaning of ‘double entendre’, and the candy invention they would most like to see brought to life by Willy Wonka. So pull out your favorite chocolate bar, bring your pure imagination (or not so pure in the Buddies case), and join us for this blast from the past!
The Midnight Library - Matt Haig - Episode 76 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies stayed up late and visited the Midnight Library by Matt Haig. The book was surprisingly philosophical and dealt with darker real-life subjects. So who better to chat about it than two immature barely literate buddies? The Buddies delved into the power of correcting people, the benefits of being in a coma, and once again explain the quantum mechanical theory of Schrödinger's cat perfectly. Choose a life where you listen to this podcast and become a life long Buddy, press play on this episode, that is what Mrs. Elm would want you to do.
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark - Alvin Schwartz - Episode 75 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies revisited a child hood favorite for Halloween, Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Shwartz. The horror filled book meant for kids, is still scary to this day in large part due to Stephen Gammell drawings. The Buddies got to reminiscing about childhood fears, and chatting about when negging goes too far, Halloween Games, and how to properly cook your big toes. So don’t walk, but run to your nearest podcast player and throw this episode on… if you dare.
Killers of the Flower Moon - David Grann - Episode 74 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies take a stroll down the non-fiction aisle this week, reading Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann. The new Leonardo DiCaprio/Martin Scorsese film of the same title got them jazzed up to read this popular book. The Buddies tried to keep things light despite the shockingly true story of the Osage Murders of the 1920s. They got to chatting about Wizzbang, Oklahoma, moonshine, prison sentencing/capital punishment, and showing up to negotiations naked. So before you go to the movie, let the Buddies fill you up with knowledge (read: useless ramblings)!
Leviathan Wakes - James S. A. Corey - Episode 73 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies are back in the sci-fi world, this time venturing out into the great unknown, or one might say, The Expanse… as they took on book one of The Expanse series, Leviathan Wakes by James S.A. Corey. The Buddies were quite agreeable on this one, as they discussed giving mass-murders seconds chances, the benefits of rioting, and the spot-on historical accuracies of films like U571 and The Patriot. So wake up, expand your mind, and join the Buddy Book Club AKA, the Leviathan (Wakes) of podcast.
Swordfish - MOVIE - Episode 72 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies were all goosed up to watch the 2000’s action movie Swordfish. The Buddies are currently reading the lengthy, Leviathan Wakes (and in the midst of the NFL season), but wanted to discuss the controversial movie for all the listeners that have been begging for it. The Buddies discussions/arguments got them talking about the name ‘Stanley’, the cleanliness of tequila shots, and the 60 second countdown. So live a life where nothing is beyond you. Do what only other fantasizes about, and join the Buddies as they discuss the epic/horrible (depending on who you ask) action thriller Swordfish.
Anxious People - Fredrik Backman - Episode 71 - Buddy Book Club
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman was recommended by one of the thousands of Buddies/listeners out there, and it did not disappoint. A super original funny, sad, clever, novel that flew by. The Buddies got into a few arguments on this one, but they did find common ground when it came to a few topics, such as: Swedish pizza toppings, unethical business dealings, and wanting to go to Swedish prison. So check out Anxious People and keep the recommendations coming!
The Deadly Deal - J. Lee (INTERVIEW) - Episode 70 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies were thrilled to welcome J. Lee, author of the newly released thriller: The Deadly Deal. The Buddies got a chance to ask J. some hard hitting questions such as: What is his go to McDonald’s order, what conspiracy theories he believes in, and they got to quiz him on his Seinfeld knowledge. They also of course asked him about his new page-turning thriller, and were even able to get him to reveal the original alternate ending. So don’t walk, run to your nearest bookstore/internets and purchase The Deadly Deal which is out today, then join us here at the Buddy Book Club.
Fifty Shades of Grey - E.L. James - Episode 69 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies made it to episode 69, nice! As promised, they delivered reading their favorite (and only) erotic romance novel, Fifty Shades of Grey by E. L. James. Beside talking about the birds and the bees, they also chatted about contract loopholes, the importance of biting your lip, and the true meaning of “inner goddess”. So pick out your finest undies, get a cold bucket of water ready, and submit to the Buddy Book Club’s will, as we read Fifty Shades of Grey.
Shift (Silo Series: Book 2) - Hugh Howey - Episode 68 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies are back! We had a brief hiatus, that may or mayn’t have been related to our next book and a certain medical condition that lasted over four hours. Nevertheless, the Buddies turned the page to Book 2 of the Silo Series, Shift by Hugh Howey. Unbeknownst to them, this book is actually a prequal so naturally the Buddies discussed The Phantom Menace, Ted Williams death, and why it’s good to be soft as baby poop. So forget everything you know about Juliette and all our friends from Wool, read up on Austin Powers and cryogenic chambers, and join us for the second instalment of the Silo series.
The Rage of Dragons - Evan Winter - Episode 67 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies love them some revenge stories like Red Rising and Gladiator; The Rage of Dragons by Evan Winter, is a combination of both. The book which takes place in a war-torn fantasy world, had the Buddies getting into some heated battles themselves. Topics ranged from the brain enhancements of being ambidextrous to the pros and cons of getting intimate in a bath house. So pack your armor, your dual swords, and join us as we read The Rage of Dragons, a top-10 podcast book.
Silo - TV SHOW - Episode 66 - Buddy Book Club
Nothing is more exciting than seeing a book you enjoyed turned into a movie/TV Series, and although the Buddies were new to Wool/the Silo Series, neither have disappointed. The Buddies cruised through all 10 episodes of the Apple TV Series and discussed their love/hates, and the TV show and book difference. They were joined (for the third time!) but special guest Magic (@nicoitaliano13), who also read and watched the show (but in reverse order). They tackled some controversial topics like: Gender changing, PETA, and Grandpa Joe from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. So fill up your water bottle (yourself), read up on the pact, work on your American Accent, and join us as we discuss the Silo TV Show.
Wool (Silo Series: Book 1) - Hugh Howey - Episode 65 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies enter into book 1 of the Silo Series, Wool by Hugh Howey, and it did not disappoint. The dark, futuristic dystopian story was right up the Buddies' alley, and certainly scratched the itch (the doctors are still working on those other itches). Plus, Apple TV just released the first season of the show to pair with it. Per usual the buddies had some deep conversations about sociology and governance, plus opposable/disposable thumbs, germs being all mental, and why it isn’t always good to be the main character. So stay inside, breakout the StairMaster, read up on the Anaconda Plan, and join us as we tear through Wool.
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - C.S. Lewis - Episode 64 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies venture into the world of Narnia, rereading a child hood favorite, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. They touched on some interesting topics, such as: is this book is suitable for kids, is this book a religious indoctrination story, and is Turkish Delight more addictive than heroine. Find out all the answers to these important questions in the most recent episode. So pack your winter jacket, your Christmas wish list, your sword and shield, and fawn/faun over this book with us.
Wrong Place Wrong Time - Gillian McAllister - Episode 63 - Buddy Book Club
It’s officially summer (for all our northern hemisphere listeners), so the Buddies are jumping into some beach reads. They kicked things off with Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister. The time jumping murder mystery thriller, had the Buddies discussing Instagram’s 'for you' section, interview questions, and how they would have made the book ending a lot darker. So don’t respond to that work email, read up on your physics, and jump into the Buddy Book Club time-loop as we read Wrong Place Wrong Time.
Mistborn: The Hero of Ages - Brandon Sanderson - Episode 62 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies close out Brandon Sanderson’s epic Mistborn trilogy with book three: The Hero of Ages. It just felt right being back in the Mistborn world and revisiting old friends Vin, Elend, Sazed, TenSoon, and (our favorite) Spook. The Buddies got into deep conversations about the book and the ending of the series, as well as deeper more meaningful conversations about life in general. They discussed topics like if it’s normal to drink milk regularly, clothing metaphors, and why dictators can be good sometimes. So stock up on your metals, read up on your political theory, and join us as we burn through the final Mistborn chapter.
Saving Silverman - MOVIE - Episode 61 - Buddy Book Club
The Buddies are in the midst of finishing the epic Mistborn series, so while they're waiting they decided to check out a lighthearted 2001 comedy from their youth, Saving Silverman. Why did they pick this movie? Not sure. But it got them talking about Sweet Caroline and the Red Sox, girlfriend interventions, and reading books at the bar. So if you’re looking for lighthearted childish humor with limited plot check out this podcast. If you’re looking for the same, but at least with Jack Black in it check out Saving Silverman.