Verbal Shenanigans

#526- Red Bull Skydiver Jeff Provenzano, The Phanatic's trash family, and Distract or Deploy

We sky dive right into a killer episode this week, with RedBull skydiver, Jeffrey Provenzano.  Jeff, not only a skydiver, but a wingsuit flyer, BASE jumper, HALO jumper, and stuntman, has been an innovator in the sport for decades and is responsible for some of the world's most mesmerizing stunts, ranging from skydiving among fireworks, flying in a wingsuit through Mahattan, or freefalling strapped to a couch.  Jeff is a funny, laid back, guy with tons of funny, crazy stories to tell.  Check it out!
 
We also chat about the mess that is the Philly Phanatic's family, the possible end of Howard Stern, and play another dumb game called "Distract or Deploy."  Have a listen!
 
Jeff "Jeffro" Provenzano (born September 12, 1976)[1] is an American professional skydiver, wingsuit flyer, BASE jumper, HALO jumper and stuntman. He is a member of the Red Bull Air Force, and is considered to be a pioneer of the skydiving discipline of swooping.[1]

#525- Dr. Colleen Fitzpatrick, Vacation Stories, and Scott Clean

Being dumb is in our DNA.  However, our guest has used the study of DNA to solve numerous missing person's cases across the world.  Dr Colleen Fitzpatrick tells us about her career in forensic genetic genealogy which resulted in solving cold cases such as the Phoenix Canal Murders and the Sarah Yarborough Homicide.  Have a listen as Colleen explains her discoveries, working with authorities and the military, and projects like the DNA Doe Project.  Another fascinating guest here on the show. 
 
Scott breaks some interesting vacation stories including tiny showers, pizza dilemmas, car accidents, and hovering hounds.  Mike gives us an update on Shirtless Wood Boy.  Have a listen!

#524-Crazy Legs Conti, Carnival Chaos, and swinging Mike

Ketchup with the show, relish Scott as he calls Burlew a mustard and enjoy our next guest. This week we chew the fat with long time veteran of Major League Eating Crazy Legs Conti. We go over how not getting a Super Bowl ticket led to him setting a record in oyster eating. We also go over the evolution of the Nathan’s Hot Dog competition, his training, his work in film and television, and so much more.
We also talk about carnival memories, Burlew’s trip to a peanut butter and jelly party, and apparently Mike is a swinger.  Have a listen! 

#523- The Machoverse, Wu Tang is Forever, and Wrestling Buddies

Do we have another interesting guest this week? OHHHHHHH YEAHHHHHH! You probably would not know who some random guy named Aaron is,  but you would recognize his cosplay personality the Machoverse who you can see at conventions and wrestling events as Macho Man Randy Savage. We chat about his love of the character and wrestler, dressing up on the streets and vacation, and participating in subway wrestling events paying homage to his favorite wrestler.
 
We also bring on longtime friend of the show, Harry, and discuss a recent Wu Tang Clan concert, look at some movie trailers, and Scott gets a bit of revenge by putting Harry and Mike through his twist on a wrestling game called "Wrestling Buddies."  Another great week.  Have a listen!

#522-Todd Pipes of Deep Blue Something, Cake Sorting, and Conor's Dong

Our podcast pairs wonderfully with breakfast, so let’s have the most important meal of the day together this morning at a little place called Tiffany's. We sit down with the lead singer of Deep Blue Something, Todd Pipes, and discuss making music with his brother, riding the wave of their hit song Breakfast at Tiffany's, frustrations with lawsuits, and returning from their hiatus with their, new album Lunar Phase. 
 
We also talk about Conor McGregor's recent allegations,  the Epstein List, Mike gets terribly distracted, and we discuss names of grandparents.  Have a listen!

#521-John Law, Squirrel Invasions, and the Jersey City Joker

July brings parades, BBQ meat, burning in the sun, and even Christmas, so we got a guest involved in all of that and then some. John Law grew up around art and pranking which led to a grouping of amazing life stories. From the Cacophony Society, to meat parades, to creating Burning Man and Santacon. We barely scratched the surface of this free spirit and his amazing life. Come listen to some amazing stories.
 
We also talk about Scott's squirrel visitor,  Mike rescues a bird, we revisit an old beloved character, and play a game involving unique festivals around the world. Have a listen!

#520-Miles Zuniga of Fastball, Calendar Man, and Fat Boy Sessions

When listening to our show for a few minutes, listeners usually make up their minds and they start packing. However, today is different.  Join us for an engaging episode with Miles Zuniga, guitarist and co-vocalist of Fastball, the band behind '90s hits "The Way" and "Out of My Head." Miles dives into the origin stories behind their iconic songs, navigating the evolving  and sometimes depressing music industry, and finding new avenues for Fastball.  Miles shares some great stories, we share a bunch of laughs, and get a glimpse into what makes Fastball unique. Check out their latest album, Sonic Ranch, today!
 
And as usual we get real weird and talk about Mike's multitude of dog voices, Diddy opening Christmas presents, some crazy things Scott's son said, and the sad reality of having a fat boy session.  Have a listen!
 
 
 

#519-Jock Bartley of Firefall, Ethnic Salsa, and Dissecting a Psychopath

In this episode, Jock Bartley, founding member and guitarist of the legendary 1970s soft rock band Firefall, joins the show to discuss the band's storied career, including hits like "You Are the Woman" and "Just Remember I Love You." Bartley shares insights on Firefall’s latest albums, Friends & Family and Friends & Family 2, which feature covers of classic songs by bands like Fleetwood Mac and The Byrds, reflecting their deep musical connections. Jock was a funny, laid back guy with tons of insight on the music industry to share.  
 
In one of the craziest episodes to date, we dive deep into Mike's voices, a pretzel story, a game about the Burlew household, and Mike needing his dad, Big Wild Hank's help, only to be gifted rotten chicken.  Insane episode.  Have a listen!

#518- Travis Stever of Coheed and Cambria, and Visiting the Devil Down in Georgia

So excited to bring this one to you today.  For the second time, Travis Stever, guitarist of Coheed and Cambria and L.S. Dunes, joins us on the podcast.  Travis is both hilarious and intelligent, and one hell of of guitar player.  We dive deep into everything from balancing two bands, balancing personal and family life while touring, the creative process, and what the state of of Coheed is over 20 years later.  We even squeeze in some great fan questions.  Go check out Coheed and Cambria's Vaxis III: The Father of Make Believe along with L.S. Dunes new album, Violet, today!
 
In addition to interviewing a member of Scott's favorite band, the guys finally meet in person as they dive into some of Scott's trip to visit Mike.  If you thought Mike was insane before, strap in and have a listen!

#517- Lumberjack Matt Slingerland, Bionic Stooges Part 1, and the loss of Brian Wilson

Today, we have a lumberchat with Matt Slingerland, a competitive lumberjack and standout competitor at the STIHL Timbersports U.S. Championship. We dive into a whole lot with Matt, including growing up in a lumberjack legacy, the life of a competitive lumberjack, the future of the sport, preparing to compete, and what it's like to be on team USA.  Matt was a great interview, and fun laid back guy.  Can he top Burlew on describing some difficult lumberjack terms?  Have a listen and find out!
 
We also chat about the loss of Brian Wilson, and dive into an amazing story written by a young Burlew  nearly 4 decades ago, entitled, The Bionic Stooges Part 1.

#516- Monique Powell of Save Ferris, Church Chatter, and But Stuff

This week is sure to make you start skanking in your living room.  In this vibrant episode, we chat with Monique Powell, the spirited frontwoman of ska-punk icons Save Ferris. Monique dives into the band’s journey from DIY roots to their ‘90s hit “Come On Eileen,” sharing tales of legal battles, their triumphant return with new singles like “Get Dancing,” and her enduring passion for music. A must-listen for fans and ska enthusiasts!
 
We also talk about Scott being a giant phony in church, Mike losing his title of lordship, and Scott plays a fun game involving But Stuff.  Have a listen!

#515-Chris Thorn of Blind Melon, Full Frontal Football, and Buying Buckethead

People say that listening to our show is like watching bottles gather rain.  But not today! Join us for an exclusive chat with Christopher Thorn, guitarist and co-founder of '90s alt-rock legends Blind Melon! We dive into the band’s rise with hits like “No Rain" and why it was a double edged sword, the creative process behind their iconic albums, and the legacy of Shannon Hoon. Christopher shares stories from the road, insights on the All I Can Say documentary, his work at Fireside Sound Studio, and the rebirth of Blind Melon.  Chris was such a great interview, and an even better guy.   A must listen for all Blind Melon fans, past, present, and future. 
 
We also talk about Burlew holidays, Mike's trip to UFL football,possibly purchasing a piece of history, and play a ridiculous game called, "Is it blind or melon?"  Have a listen!

#514- Lord Buckethead, Nada Chair, and The Quest for Lordship

We are going out of this world this week as we sit down with Lord Buckethead, the galaxy’s favorite bucket-wearing political satirist! Out of retirement for our show, Lord Buckethead joins to chat about taking on UK prime ministers to viral fame, he shares cosmic wit, manifesto gems, and intergalactic takes on Earth’s chaos.    David Hughes, writer and film critic, who is the current Lord Buckethead, let's us on in how he became his Lordship, his podcast and movie review work, and his work for Empire and Time Out.  
 
We also get weird as always as Mike talks about attending a freak off, something called Nada-Chair, and Mike must play a game to see if he too could be considered a lord.    Have a listen!
 
 

#513-Paul Rappaport, The Shirtless Wood Boy, and Turtle Peanuts

We've never used a blimp to promote our show, but our guest certainly has used one to promote his. Only, his show featured Pink Floyd.  Today, we are joined by the legendary, Paul Rappaport, aka "Rap".  With over 30 years at Columbia Records, Paul has worked with everybody from Pink Floyd, to Bob Dylan, to Bruce Springsteen, to the Rolling Stones.  We cover a lot with Paul from his early career, to playing on stage with Pink Floyd, to shooting a high powered laser across LA, and breaking Alice in Chain's "Man in the Box".  Paul had tremendous stories, which many can be found in his great new book, Gliders Over Hollywood: Airships, Airplay, and the Art of Rock Promotion.  
 
We also learn about a very strange music festival Mike attended, Mike brags about his sperm, and Scott's son has some interesting theories on turtles.  Another great week.  Have a listen!

#512- Luke Marzec, The Refrigerator Dog, and Rocket McQueen the Sperm King

We love bringing on young, up and coming artists on the show, and this week, we do just that with England's own, Luke Marzec.  Luke is a multitalented musician,  who plays saxophone, violin, piano, and more, who also possesses the voice of an old soul.  His music is both unique and familiar at the same time, and is sure to gain traction with new audiences.  Hear all about Luke's upbringing, his music influences, what it's like to live on a boat during Covid, and his love for something called "The Egg Game".   Check out Luke's Something Good Out of Nothing (Part A) today!
 
We also learn that Mike has reincarnated his dog into a refrigerator, we learn about the Australian Emu War of 1932, and dive in a new sporting event known as Sperm Racing.  A typical, ridiculous week of Verbal Shenanigans.  Have a listen!

#511-Ye Banished Privateers, Truth Balls, and Skippy the Squirrel

Arrr you ready for another wild week?  This week, we are joined by Björn "Bellows" Malmos, a founding member of the Swedish pirate themed band, Ye Banished Privateers.  Björn does just about everything from vocals to accordion, to harmonica, to various percussion.  The band has transformed their live show into an amazing display of pirate songs, history lessons, and tradition, with up to 30 members performing at any point of the show.  Bjorn gave us a great, unique interview. Make sure to check out Ye Banished Privateers new album, Til the Sea Shall Give up Her, Dead today!
 
We also let review evidence that Mike is a serial killer, get roasted by AI, and Mike reveals another treasure trove of Burlew facts for the audience.  Have a listen!
 

#510-The Great Throwdini, Pope Pajamas, and the Defense of Ye'

Would you wear Jeffrey Dahmer's glasses? Could you throw knives and not hit a spinning, moving  human target?  Well, we know a guy can do both.  Dr. David Adamovich was a professor of physiology, and at the age of 50,  decided to change his career. He became the Great Throwdini, a knife thrower with over 40 world records to his name. We find out about the journey including getting permission from Castro to perform in Cuba. David also has the largest collection of murder memorabilia in the world and we’ll hear why he obtained it and his newest set of glasses for the collection. 
 
We also break down what we think the life of a pope looks like, and Mike has to defend his boy, Kanye West.  Have a listen!

#509-The Bomb Chica, Sun Ham, and Space-Hab

Shenanigans are really swell, stupid banter and a big story to tell (Side effects of Shenanigans include questioning the choices in your life). This week’s show gives the sweet and talented Deanna Colón. This singer and entertainer has performed with and for Diana Ross and Patti Labelle, been on America’s Got Talent & Masterchef, and been in commercials like Bad Bunny’s Pepsi ad and the Jardiance jingle. We get to learn about who the “Bomb Chica” is and hear about her life.
 
We go off the rails as always and discuss Mike's signature dish, whether or not we'd go to space, and Scott tells a a cray story about one of the worst intro's in comedy show history.  Have a listen!

#508- Cazzy Louis Cereghino, Tiny Strippers, and VerbaMania

Slam, Dah Duh Duh, Dah Duh Duh! The podcast is revving up for WrestleMania this week and in honor of this we are joined by Cazzey Louis Cereghino. Along with his writing, music, and stunt work, Cazzey who played Bruiser Brody in the Iron Claw. We chat on his multifaceted career, doing wrestling work in the movie, and what is was like have Danny Devito feed him on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia .
Scott retells a crazy wrestling themed bachelor party story, and is later put through a grueling game of "Verbamania" against a long time listener.   Have a listen! 

#507- Nothing More, Garage Hot Tubs, and "Beautiful Tariffs"

Listeners are always saying there is "nothing more" irritating then the Verbal Shenanigans Podcast.  However, today, Daniel Oliver, bassist of Nothing More, joins us on the show.  We delve into the DIY history of the band, the growth of Nothing More, the band's current tour with Disturbed, what it's like to build insane stage contraptions, and the band's latest album, Carnal.  Check out Daniel and Nothing More on tour or all streaming platforms today.
 
We also dive into tariffs, wooden races cars, and how Burlew got his bubbly garage.  Have a listen!