This is a brand new episode!

John, Deuce, Joe, and The Duchess dive deep into their love-hate relationships with technology, swapping tales of AI adventures, smart home debacles, and the joys and perils of paying bills the old-fashioned way.

Cannolis are devoured, generational gaps are explored, and no one is safe from a good-natured roasting.

The gang even gets philosophical about the future of AI, tech dependency, and whether a podcast cohosted by a chatbot is a sign of progress or just the latest in John's “shiny object” pursuits. Add in digressions on sex robots, drag queens, their enduring Philly/South Jersey accents, and you’ve got vintage Brand X.

• Embracing (and fighting with) smart tech: from Alexa to AI assistants, and getting “locked out” by your own devices.
• The endless debate: online bill paying convenience vs. the analog joy of stamps, checks, and control
• Why generational differences are overrated—and how they bring the crew together (or not)
• Can a chatbot be a podcast cohost, and why is John considering a whole show with “Denise” the AI?
• Sex robots, wild AI prompts, and the TV/film moments that traumatized (and bonded) this crew forever

In this emotional episode of the Brand X Podcast, John Jamingo and Deuce step away from their usual comedic banter to tackle the tragic events surrounding the Orlando nightclub shooting. With heavy hearts, they dive into the media’s response, gun control debates, and the broader issues of hate and national security. The hosts share personal perspectives on the Second Amendment, explore ideological conflicts, and discuss how leadership and policy shape America’s conversation on tragedy. They challenge both the political left and right, urging listeners to consider the deeper causes behind such violence. This episode is a passionate, unfiltered conversation about current events, the limits of legislation, and what it means to seek real solutions.

In this episode, John and Deuce discuss:

• The media’s rush to frame narratives after mass shootings and its impact on public perception
• Heated debates over gun control, the Second Amendment, and the reality of “gun-free” zones
• The root causes of hate and extremism, including ideological and historical perspectives
• The difference between strong and passive leadership responses to terrorism
• Grassroots political action, the possibility of congressional reform, and the role of local communities in driving change

On this vintage episode of the Brand X Podcast, John Jamingo and Deuce bring their signature humor to everyday oddities and international headlines. From beer pipelines in Belgium to bizarre supermarket incidents and heated debates about parking etiquette, no topic is too strange or trivial for the duo. They tackle outrageous news stories, riff on modern annoyances like self-checkout machines, and even dive into hard-hitting political developments in the Philippines. Buckle up for a wide-ranging conversation that’s equal parts irreverent, insightful, and uproarious. This is classic Brand X—honest, unfiltered, and a little bit unpredictable.

In this episode, Jamingo and Deuce discuss:

• Belgium’s wild plan to pump beer through underground city pipelines for thirsty investors.
• The notorious supermarket “mad shitter” and the pitfalls of self-checkout technology.
• One man’s lifetime ban from Starbucks for defending handicapped parking spaces and the broader debate about accessibility.
• Hacked electronic roadway signs and the most creative (and inappropriate) messages we’d love to see.
• The Philippines’ controversial new president and his shocking directive to encourage civilians to confront and even kill drug dealers.

In this vintage episode of the Brand X Podcast, originally broadcast on May 31, 2016, hosts John Jamingo and Deuce kick things off with light-hearted banter about classic summer foods like grilled hot dogs, potato salad, and especially the beloved Jersey tomato. The duo fondly reminisce about summertime produce and recount funny stories from their youth and experiences working in local food shops, highlighting Jersey tomatoes' messiness—yet unmistakable deliciousness.

The main topic shifts to the highly publicized Harambe incident at the Cincinnati Zoo, where a gorilla was shot after a child fell into its enclosure. John and Deuce passionately debate the ethical considerations of the event, firmly supporting the zoo’s decision to protect the child despite public backlash. They criticize what they see as an overzealous tendency to anthropomorphize animals and challenge the notion that tranquilizing the gorilla would have been a safer or more effective option. The conversation also touches on reactions from political figures and zookeepers, and humor is injected as John suggests stuffing Harambe as a zoo reminder.

The episode also features amusing anecdotes about quirky news stories, such as a man attempting to secure a loan to buy methamphetamines and the outdated use of fax machines. Rounding out the show, John and Deuce discuss a controversial study linking cell phone radiation to cancer, ultimately expressing skepticism and framing it as a cash grab for research funding. They close with their trademark irreverence and calls for listener engagement on social media.

• [00:00:05] Episode introduction and vintage Brand X banter
• [00:01:11] Listener appreciation and early show milestones
• [00:02:01] Memorial Day food traditions and Jersey tomato appreciation
• [00:08:03] Discussion of the Harambe gorilla incident at Cincinnati Zoo
• [00:23:13] Social media reactions and teachable moments from Harambe event
• [00:29:26] Quirky news: Man tries to get a loan to buy meth & fax machine humor
• [00:40:33] Cell phone radiation study linking usage to cancer and skepticism
• [00:55:40] Show wrap-up, listener engagement, and episode sign off

Welcome to a vintage episode of the Brand X Podcast, originally broadcast on May 27, 2016! Join hosts John Jamingo and Deuce as they take a hilariously irreverent look at what it means to embrace your manliness in a world that seems determined to tone it down. In this episode, the guys reminisce about the glory days of wild “steak fests,” shooting skeet, epic hiking trips, and the legendary Brand X pancakes—moments that defined their unapologetic approach to living life to the fullest.

But the real adventure begins as they set their sights on the infamous Heart Attack Grill in Las Vegas, a restaurant that celebrates excess with hospital-themed hijinks, sky-high calorie counts, sexy “nurse” waitresses, and a menu that’s as tongue-in-cheek as it is artery-clogging. John and Deuce dig into the controversies, the marketing genius, and the sheer absurdity of a place where a burger with eight patties and 40 strips of bacon is just the starting point—and getting spanked by a nurse for not finishing your meal is all part of the fun.

Along the way, they get nostalgic about their early radio days, debate pop culture trends, and swap witty observations about manhood, modern life, and the changing social landscape. Whether you’re craving a laugh, a trip down memory lane, or want to know what happens when podcast hosts try to outdo each other in outrageous stories, this episode has it all. Pull up a chair, prep your appetite, and get ready to embrace the madness—Brand X style!

- 00:00:05 - Vintage episode intro and weekend banter

- 00:01:23 - Weather complaints and impacts on activities

- 00:01:33 - Phillies vs. Braves recap; sports frustration

- 00:01:52 - Hollywood speech vs. historical accuracy in shows

- 00:02:32 - Vikings and Game of Thrones discussion

- 00:04:05 - Embracing manliness and societal views on masculinity

- 00:06:09 - "Hammer" drink and steak fest stories

- 00:07:10 - Cabin trips: hiking, shooting, and camaraderie

- 00:08:08 - Brand X pancakes and epic eating memories

- 00:09:10 - Shooting skeet and hunting stories at the cabin

- 00:11:12 - "Everything tastes like chicken"; food banter

- 00:11:19 - Gluttonous meals and spicy pasta sauce disasters

- 00:13:19 - Discovery of Heart Attack Grill; themed restaurant intro

- 00:16:08 - Heart Attack Grill’s nurse outfits and legal drama

- 00:17:06 - Health controversy and restaurant’s business model

- 00:18:11 - Cooking with lard vs. vegetable oil health debate

- 00:19:01 - Eight-patty burger and the spanking nurse

- 00:21:01 - Heart Attack Grill deaths debate and media coverage

- 00:22:20 - Supersized portions and obesity in modern life

- 00:23:14 - Morbid marketing: keeping ashes at the restaurant

- 00:24:38 - Restaurant fatalities and questions of responsibility

- 00:25:06 - Critique of media bias and comparisons to fast food giants

- 00:27:16 - Owner's messaging: "food for thought" and health awareness

- 00:28:42 - Death as marketing and the “honesty” angle

- 00:29:01 - Quirky features: mini-ambulance and new spokespeople

- 00:30:47 - Comparison shopping Heart Attack Grill menu prices

- 00:34:50 - “Vegan menu” as unfiltered cigarettes joke

- 00:36:31 - Transition to “Back in the Day at DBK” segment

- 00:37:04 - College radio misadventures and station tales

- 00:40:15 - Legendary on-air rebellion and technical takedown

- 00:43:35 - Upgrading radio studio equipment and budget talk

- 00:45:00 - Record companies sending promo albums to college radio

- 00:46:07 - Playing (and hating) hit songs like “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”

- 00:47:10 - Arguments for college radio playing Top 40 vs. alternative

- 00:48:42 - The changing landscape of music genres and radio programming

- 00:49:26 -...

Welcome to a vintage episode of the Brand X Podcast! Originally broadcast on May 18, 2016, this episode is packed with classic storytelling, candid conversations, and a dose of nostalgia. Hosts John Jamingo and Deuce kick things off with a look back at their week – including John’s fun guest stint on another comedy podcast.

This week, the guys get real about quitting jobs, tough boss decisions, and the complicated etiquette around giving notice – complete with personal tales from both sides of the employer-employee divide. They reminisce about the childhood thrill of chasing down the Mr. Softee ice cream truck, funny mailbox mishaps, and how those carefree days compare to raising children today.

The conversation then takes a thought-provoking turn into the world of bullying—then versus now—as John and Deuce discuss old-school playground justice, the changing definition of bullying, and a new approach in Wisconsin that aims to hold parents accountable for their kids’ bad behavior.

Rounding out the episode is a lively discussion on the quirks of American politics, with theories about the Clintons, presidential primaries, and a few wild news stories—including Yoko Ono’s surprising claim about Hillary Clinton. Along the way, they keep things light with sidebar stories, plenty of laughs, and genuine rapport that shows why Brand X is a listener favorite.

Settle in for a trip down memory lane, some serious talk, and plenty of laughs as the Brand X crew brings you their unfiltered take on everything from quitting jobs to ice cream memories, bullying, and beyond.

- [00:00:05] Introduction and vintage episode setup

- [00:00:32] Banter about Seattle weather and Three is Comedy Podcast

- [00:01:43] News of the week and podcast recording stories

- [00:02:08] Nephew’s dilemma about quitting a job without notice

- [00:03:40] Employer/employee relationships and quitting etiquette

- [00:05:10] Younger employees' attitudes toward work and references

- [00:09:33] Managing employees and firing experiences

- [00:09:58] Mr. Softee topic: Jingle composer’s passing and ice cream truck memories

- [00:13:13] Childhood ice cream stories and mailbox prank

- [00:16:24] Mailman’s reaction to melted banana split prank

- [00:18:26] Discussion: Wisconsin fining parents for kids’ bullying

- [00:20:33] Bullying definitions and changes over time

- [00:21:50] Is there an upside to bullying? Handling bullies growing up

- [00:23:44] Childhood fights, standing up to bullies, and personal anecdotes

- [00:30:18] Bullying now: group dynamics and modern issues

- [00:31:47] Role of families and parenting changes in bullying

- [00:33:13] Parenting styles, helicopter parents, and letting kids grow up

- [00:34:37] Podcast promo break: Classy Little Podcast

- [00:36:41] Politics: Discussion of Hillary Clinton, Trump, Bernie Sanders, and elections

- [00:41:11] Trump’s business-government conflicts and government contracts

- [00:43:08] Halliburton, government work, and conflict of interest

- [00:44:03] Election scenarios: independent runs and youth vote

- [00:45:16] Primary voting age and debate about 18 vs. 21

- [00:49:25] Primary scheduling, state rights, caucuses vs. primaries

- [00:52:00] How caucuses work, Democratic vs. Republican process

- [00:53:36] Superdelegates, party control, and election frustration

- [00:55:02] Kennedy-Nixon debate, media influence, and visual politics

- [00:56:03] Populism, Bernie Sanders’ support, and superdelegates

- [00:57:21] 1992 election, Ross Perot, and electoral consequences

- [00:57:38] Listener feedback, podcast recommendations, and in-jokes

- [00:58:34] Returning to topic: Yoko Ono and Hillary Clinton rumor

- [01:00:32] Yoko Ono's press statement about...

In this lively episode of the BrandX Podcast, hosts John Jamingo and Deuce are joined by the long-awaited return of Maak, along with Diane, who provides background commentary and laughter. The conversation kicks off with stories about retirement, including Maak’s recent transition into retired life and reflections on what it means to leave the workforce after decades on the job.

The episode's heart dives into hilarious and sometimes outrageous stories from their years in sales, particularly focusing on their interactions with a cast of memorable colleagues and bosses—most notably, their eccentric former boss Herb. Tales of office politics, “inner circles,” and questionable management decisions are exchanged, with the hosts’ signature banter and good-natured roasting.

Throughout, the group shares laugh-out-loud anecdotes: from Herb’s penny-pinching ways and awkward attempts at office camaraderie to sales reps skirting the rules, “milk runs,” and the infamous “crew work” trips to the Jersey Shore. Stories about office romances, misguided attempts at matchmaking, and the hazards of team dinners (including Herb pocketing cash and double-dipping expenses) paint a vivid picture of the quirks and camaraderie that shaped their office culture.

Amidst the laughter and tales of misadventures, the episode also touches on personal growth, the bonds of long-term friendship, and the way nostalgia colors memories. It’s a mix of behind-the-scenes antics, workplace wisdom, irreverent humor, and storytelling only old friends can pull off.

Topics:

• [00:00:25] Reunited hosts and the return of Maak; Diane joins as background commentator
• [00:01:07] Maak discusses early retirement and the adjustment period
• [00:04:11] Introductions to old workplace characters and division “inner circles”
• [00:07:12] Workplace legends: flaky sales reps and unique colleagues like Lafrieda and Becker
• [00:12:13] Remembering classic boss Leo’s “thanks a lot” retirement speech
• [00:16:04] Office politics and prepping for management evaluations
• [00:17:41] Clandestine support during workplace reviews
• [00:19:04] Unfair relocation offers and refusing bad deals
• [00:20:39] Herb's obsession over expense money and attempts to control staff
• [00:22:26] Office matchmaker fails: Herb gives out Diane’s number secretly
• [00:25:09] Anecdotes about workplace gambling syndicates
• [00:27:17] Odd part-timers and infamous “milk runs” in sales territories
• [00:31:00] Sales ethics: homegrown business strategies and stretching rules
• [00:35:00] Cigars, product placement, and consignment sales tricks
• [00:43:34] Chain-store dealings: schmoozing clients and time-wasting meetings
• [00:46:56] Herb's micromanagement and backhanded praise
• [00:54:01] Sales scams: forced overstock and strong-arm tactics
• [01:08:21] Infamous office coffee recipe and breakroom rituals
• [01:11:39] Workplace health woes: stress, diabetes, and getting older
• [01:20:02] Podcast rage quit story and viral “donut donut donut” sound bite
• [01:34:41] Social geography: North, Central, and South Jersey debates
• [01:43:36] Listener call-in featuring the Duchess
• [02:12:54] Discussion about hosting and producing independent podcasts
• [02:43:38] Classic “Herb story”: the Crab Trap dinner scam
• [02:51:01] Reflections on decades of friendship, office social life, and closing thoughts

Welcome back to the Brand X Podcast! In this vintage episode from May 11, 2016, hosts John Jamingo and Deuce dive into a hilarious and relatable mix of everyday annoyances and nostalgic observations. Kick back as John shares his “grumpy old man” adventures, from enduring parking lot gridlock on Mother's Day—complete with two clueless security guards—to unleashing the power of Twitter when customer service falls flat. Deuce adds his flavor, reflecting on how social media has transformed how we talk, connect, and—sometimes—argue while recounting his reluctant adoption of smartphones and the epic autocorrect fail story you’ll have to hear to believe.

The duo also riffs on the modern decline of discourse, swapping stories about political clashes on Facebook, debates about personal boundaries, and their gripes with pushy solar salesmen. In addition to the laughs, they get nostalgic about how things used to be done—letters to the editor, face-to-face disagreements, and finding common ground even when opinions differ.

Whether you’re struggling with autocorrect, sick of traffic jams, or embracing your inner grumpiness, this episode will make you laugh and maybe even nod in agreement. So, tune in for a blend of banter, sharp commentary, and a good dose of old-school personality.

- Brand X Podcast intro and hosts’ banter [00:00:05]

- Getting haircuts and Mother’s Day supermarket chaos [00:00:49]

- Traffic gridlock and security guards mishandling parking [00:01:24]

- ShopRite, customer service complaints, and using Twitter for results [00:07:09]

- Social media platforms and reluctance to join Twitter [00:12:25]

- Facebook, reunions, and classmate anecdotes [00:17:34]

- Dealing with toxic people and cyberbullying on Facebook [00:20:11]

- Political polarization and business refusing service over politics [00:24:20]

- Friendships despite political differences; social media’s effect on discourse [00:26:00]

- Letters to the editor and anonymity online [00:27:17]

- The coarsening of public debate due to social media [00:30:10]

- Outrage culture and the overreaction to public mistakes [00:31:38]

- Liberal vs. conservative views; intolerance and protests [00:32:53]

- Aggressive environmental/solar sales pitches [00:34:01]

- Rudeness in business and lessons in customer service [00:36:13]

- Podern Family and podcast cross-promotion [00:38:01]

- Smartphone learning curve and old-school tech nostalgia [00:41:03]

- Autocorrect mishaps and hilarious texting fails [00:42:28]

- Deuce’s friend’s “why are you so fat?” autocorrect story [00:45:05]

- Drawing art for podcast episodes and social media headers [00:50:57]

- Wrapping up and social media plugs [00:52:24]