Men in Gorilla Suits

To hear it from some people (like, say...an orange-tinged shitlord with a sulfurous-looking hairdo who's presumable in charge of the Western world), white people have it soooooooooo hard!

That a middle-aged (or Baby Boomin') white guy can say with a straight face, "There's no other group who has it worse than Christian white males," says so much about white privilege.

And so, Gorilla Shawn thought two white guys talking about white people would make for a good episode...and it did. (Although, some shitty white people might not agree...)

* * *

We kick it off talking about the first time we noticed the differences between white people and other races or cultures. We discuss what the experience was like, and then we move on to the whitest people we know.

To that point, though...is there even such a thing as "being white," either racially or culturally?

After that, we discuss if anyone should be proud of being white...and if anyone should be ashamed if they happened to be born white?

Find out if we think we see the world in a different manner than someone who's black. (Spoiler: we don't get pulled over when simply driving a decent vehicle.)

Shitty white people sure have been more vocal, lately. We devote some time discussing who's to blame for the rise in white supremacy, lately...and then we chat about ways to fix that problem.

In popular culture, there are things deemed rather white (like really bad dancing). Find out the "whitest" thing we've ever seen...and learn about the whitest things we've ever done.

Finally, we wrap it all up with what the future looks like for white people...

 

Direct download: MiGS_234.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:01pm CDT

Christopher and Shawn are both white dudes (if you didn't already know this, it'll definitely become clear next week), but they're somehow not greedy assholes. That's one of many reasons neither of them will be elected to the Senate, because they're just not greedy enough.

With the new tax bill that just passed with the explicit aim of funneling still more money to the richest one percent of the country, it seemed like a good time to revisit the episode they did way back when (in 1848, I think) about greed!

Sit back and enjoy this episode. It's all yours!

*Also the audio quality on this one isn't great. This might-could have been one of our first Skype episodes ever.

Direct download: migs57_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:37pm CDT

We suppose a party should be held in February, to celebrate the five-year anniversary of the podcast. (Okay, so we really are fine without a party...but you'll see where we're going with this...)

[Many] people love parties -- and many others do not. We devote this week's show to where we stand on the whole party thing...

* * *

First, we go back in time...to the first party we remember attending. (We tell you all about them.) And, also...we tell us about the last parties we've attended!

After that, find out if we are party people! Then: whether we're party people (or not)...we chat about the craziest parties we've ever attended.

Find out if we even like parties...and what the best party or gathering we've ever attended was -- as well as the worst!

We devote some time to birthday party memories...and then talk about if we're good at putting together parties.

Find out if parties are even important to us...and why we think parties are important to others.

And we wrap it all up with this: if we could throw the best parties ever (on our terms), what would they be like?

As always, party it all up in the comments section if that's your kind of thing...

Direct download: MiGS_233.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:09pm CDT

Christopher was a Dragon! Shawn was a Thunderbird! This episode is METAL AS FUCK!

Oh, wait, no it isn’t. Those were their high school mascots. And Shawn’s wasn’t named after the mythical Native American beast, or even the massive car by Ford… nope, it was named after the Air Force Aerobatics team. NERRRRRRDDDDD.

Did the Gorillamen dig high school? Were they the kings of the commons, or the nerds no one talked to? Are they still true to their schools? What stupid voices will Shawn do this show? What traumas from Christopher’s young life with they unearth? You’ll have to listen to find out!*

 

*or have listened in January 2016. Whatever. Dick.

Direct download: migs155_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:15pm CDT

Greetings and Felicitations, noble pod-people! Yes, I think I carried that off quite well. No way I fucked up that greeting! I am totally passing for one of you hew-mans!

Today on the magical internet radiola programme, we're talking about all the times we fucked up! See, there's times when you just don't get it right, and it's kinda your fault. But that's OK! The Gorillamen aren't here to judge, because, as you will learn in this podcast, we're kind of masters of fucking up.

We start, of course, with the first time we remember fucking up, before moving to our most recent fuckups. Then we shift gears a little bit to reminisce about the last time each of us was totally effed up on chemicals or booze or the like, and cover any embarrassing things we did while in our fucked-up states!

Then we move to the last times our bodies fucked up on us, which is pretty recent for at least one of the Gorillamen. We cover our biggest fuckups, our funniest fuckups, and the worst fuckups to which we've borne witness, all before discussing the role of technology in fucking up and (hopefully) coming up with plans to fuck up less in the future.

Got a time when you really fucked up? Share it in the comments!

Direct download: migs232.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:14pm CDT

Apologies for the late post and no new intro to this week's classic episode. It's been a busy week! And due to certain medical issues, it's the first day in a long while your old pal Shawn hasn't had any caffeine. He is addicted to caffeine.

Hmmm.... addiction would make a good episode topic! And if there's one thing about having done 250 episodes or so, it's that you've probably talked about a thing before! So this week, sit back, relax, and enjoy this classic Men in Gorilla Suits episode about addiction.

Direct download: migs82_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:08am CDT

This is Gorilla 4-1 transmitting on frequency 1-1-5. I have no idea if this transmission is reaching you in the intended year of 2016, but be warned: the future is an apocalyptic hellscape now. You remember New York in the 70s? Like that, but with slightly more mutation.

Oh. Well, shit. My scientists are telling me that the furthest back we can reach is 2017. I really wish they'd mentioned that earlier. Sooooooo...

Mmmyep.

That first thing I told you? Eh, go ahead and forget that. It was all...well, it was all true, but you can't do shit about it now anyway. They're saying we have like an hour of transmitting time left, so...I dunno. Here's an old episode of Men in Gorilla Suits. Sucks that they both died when the thing happened...

I've said too much. End transmission.

Direct download: migs95_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:52pm CDT

Non-native woman in "sexy Indian" Halloween costume - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 230: Last Seen…Appropriating CulturesThe Gorillamen took long weekends off work, but they did manage to record their first Skype episode in some time. About Cultural appropriation.

This is what they talked about:

  • When was the first time you heard the term cultural appropriation? What was the context?
  • My iPhone now auto-corrects cultural appropriation. Is that a sign of our times?
  • Have you ever appropriated another culture?
  • What is cultural appropriation to you?
  • Is cultural appropriation a huge problem in today’s world?
  • What’s the weirdest complaint of cultural appropriation you’ve seen?
  • The dumbest?
  • The most egregious example of cultural appropriation you’ve seen?
  • How common is cultural appropriation?
  • Where do we draw the line?
  • How do we fix the problem of cultural appropriation?
Direct download: migs230.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 12:16pm CDT

Chris and Shawn are FUCKED UP, yo.

No, they're not high, or anything. Nothing that would make them seem cool. It's more... well, when Shawn was in middle school, he saw an educational film about conditioning, and this dumb kid kept touching a hot stove burner. Christopher and Shawn are like that stupe, constantly injuring themselves in a vast array of blood and busted limbs.

Also they get sick and sometimes it's not their fault. 

But mainly stupid shit.

Enjoy this classic episode!

Direct download: migs103_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:05am CDT

Like a department store that puts its Christmas shit out waaaaaay too early, we just couldn’t hold our Halloween episode for the appropriate date (and by we, I mean Shawn). Hey, at least it’s in the correct month!

 

Travel back to Year One of Men in Gorilla Suits, and listen as we discuss shitty costumes, awesome candy, irrational fear of the month of October, and more! Probably!

 

BOO!

Direct download: migs39_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:23pm CDT

Creepy hand coming out of the ground - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 228: Last Seen…Talking about Horror MoviesIt's October and -- somehow -- we've not talked about horror movies in hundreds of episodes. So...we remedy that.

* * *

It's a busy week in Gorillamenville, so no real commentary -- just what we discuss this episode:

  • What's the first horror movie you remember seeing? What impression did it make on you?
  • Are you a fan of horror movies?
  • What was the last horror movie you saw?
  • When was the best era for horror movies?
  • The worst?
  • What's the best horror movie you've ever seen?
  • The most fucked-up?
  • What makes a horror movie work, in your opinion?
  • Assuming you are exactly as you are now (no special powers, etc.), which horror movie could you best survive?
  • What's the dumbest horror movie you've ever seen?
  • What's the future of horror movies?
Direct download: migs228.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 7:31am CDT

Beat-up office chair with frayed rope - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 231: Last Seen…Being Laid OffLayoffs are a way of life in America. It seems that one of the easiest ways to make 4th quarter numbers is to cut a bunch of people at the end of the 3rd quarter.

The days of working at a place for 30-40+ years is long gone...today, you're lucky to see five years at a job.

Right now, the company where Christopher works is dealing with more cuts...so...it seemed like a good topic for the week!

* * *

We kick it off with this: who is the first person we remember being laid off from a job? After that, we discuss why we think layoffs have become more common in recent years.

There was a time you walked into a job, were willing to work, and retired at that place. That kind of situation is a thing of the past, however. Find out, if it were possible, if we'd work at a job for 30 years like "the good old days?" -- or if we'd be more like mercenaries and jump to better incomes and different job duties?

We chat about how layoffs factor into job loyalty...or a lack of it -- and then go into how many times we've been laid off. We also share some funny layoff stories, and then talk about whether we've ever been fired from a job...and how that's different than a layoff.

Find out how we prepare for layoffs...and how long we typically work at a job before layoffs come around.

We discuss whether or not layoffs are hard on us -- and why we think they are so hard on some people.

And we wrap it all up with the future, wondering if we will ever stop laying off so many people...or if this is just the way it is today...

Feel free to share your layoff stories in the comments...

Direct download: migs231.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 7:29pm CDT

People in a canoe - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 229: Last Seen…On the WaterSummer's gone, and that means some lakes will soon be covered in ice. Memories of swimming and boating will have to carry some through to next year. But others have warm oceans that offer underwater dreamscapes year-round -- and it's rare in a place like Texas that a lake will ever ice over, allowing for some forms of water recreation any month of the year.

We came from water, so it's no surprise we spend so much time returning to it as well. So, this week, we're talking about water recreation...

* * *

We kick it all off with memories of our first swimming experiences -- as well as our first memories of being in a boat.

Find out if we're big fans of water recreation, or if we like having our feet planted firmly on land.

After that, we talk about the last time we did something on, in, or under water -- and things humans do in water that blow us away.

The cruise industry is pretty ridiculous, and we devote some time to chatting about if we've ever been on a cruise (or would like to).

Find out the dumbest thing we've done in the water -- and the fastest we've ever traveled across it.

Do the Gorillamen SCUBA dive (or would they like to learn)? Find that out -- as well as our most memorable experiences on the water.

Water freezes in some places...and the Gorillamen have lived in those kinds of places. We chat about things we've done on ice -- and then wrap it all up talking about something we'd like to do on, in, or under water someday...

Feel free to share some of your best water memories in the comments section.

Direct download: migs229.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:27pm CDT

What’s creepier than a clown in a sewer that eats children? How about a middle-aged Kentucky Fried Chicken Franchise Operator who kills children, stashes them in his floorboards, and sometimes *dresses* like a clown?

This week, we talk about what Shawn calls Murder Shows, but the rest of the world calls True Crime TV. Marvel at bad impressions, and our heroes treating the most serious of subjects — actual people who were actually murdered — with the same tact and compassion with which they treat everything.

So you *know* that’s not gonna go well.

Direct download: migs135_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:17pm CDT

We come from the water. We change...adapt.

We learn new ways of doing things...more times than not, better ways.

We adapted so well that we now adapt the things we adapted -- a strange mental and biological origami move that we will never stop...everything folding in and over on itself until new forms emerge.

So, with this in mind, this week the upright(ish)-striding Gorillamen talk about adaptations in many various forms...

* * *

We kick it off talking about the first things we remember adapting to...before moving on to how well we adapt to change (and what's been the hardest things we've had to adapt to in life).

Next: people often fume about adaptations of entertainment -- like books to movies. We discuss adaptations better than their original material, our favorite adaptations...and the worst. We also take some time to talk about something we'd love to see adapted from one thing to another.

Find out what animal adaptation we'd take...and how well we believe we -- as a species -- have adapted to technology.

We get a bit more serious in discussing if we think there will ever be a point at which we will all adapt to changes in climate, hatred, and other things that ail us as a species.

Then, we devote a bit of time after that to how well we think humans have adapted to growing as a species...and if we're ready to adapt to life deeper in space.

And we wrap it all up in the future, wondering if we're ready for all it holds.

Direct download: MiGS_227.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:15pm CDT

If Christopher's score this week in Fantasy Football is X, Shawn's score can be equated thusly:

(x/2)+5.51

Which is bad. Because Shawn is bad at Fantasy Football, and he should feel bad. But he doesn't. Because it's all just fun and games, right?

Right?!

The Gorillamen explore these questions and (at least one) more in this week's classic episode!

Direct download: MiGS_102_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:37pm CDT

Americans love junk food. The world loves junk food! We're sure somewhere on other planets, aliens eat junk food (and love it just as much).

The Gorillamen are powered by junk food, so...it's time we discussed everybody's favorite thing!

* * *

It's a busy week, so here's what we discuss this time around:

  • What is the first junk food we remember eating? Did we like it?
  • Were we caught up in the Healthy Eating Craze of the mid-80s?
  • What's the last thing we ate that we'd consider junk food?
  • What's our criteria that makes a food junk?
  • What's a junk food from our childhoods that we miss?
  • Have we ever had a problem with too much junk food?
  • What is the best junk food of all time?
  • Is there such a thing as healthy junk food?
  • What's our go-to snack? Is it junky?
  • Do we think we're on the verge of another healthy eating craze?
  • What's the weirdest junk food we've ever had? (And the worst?)
  • What junk food we thought was dead suddenly rose from the grave, or is still sold in other states/countries?
  • What's the future of junk food?
Direct download: MiGS_226.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:34pm CDT

You know, there's something about the smooth lines and refined styling of this vehicle that makes me feel that... well, here in my car, I feel safest of all. I can lock all my doors. It's the only way to live.

You know. In cars.

This week (or more accurately, many many weeks ago), we talked about cars! I will most likely be having to buy yet another car soon, so... relevant episode is relevant! Enjoy!

Direct download: MiGS_96_Classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:29pm CDT

Calendar - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 225: Last Seen…Talking about AnniversariesThis is episode 225. Some people would celebrate that. Why? Because humans look for things to memorialize or celebrate.

We remember the dates we're born, as well as the dates that will live on in infamy. Good, bad, and everything in between -- if humans can connect something deemed important to a date or passage of time, it seems we will do so. And, to that end, we decided to make August 23, 2017 the first annual Men in Gorilla Suits podcast about anniversaries...

* * *

We kick it all off talking about cake. Seriously. Our first memories of anniversaries coincidentally involve cake. And then we move on to whether or not work anniversaries mean much to us. Also: find out how long the Gorillamen have been with their wives -- and what we usually do for our anniversaries.

We chat a bit about if it's important to recognize anniversaries -- and if birthdays are important to us.

Some anniversaries are gloomy affairs; we talk a bit about if those kinds of dates are important to remember. But after the gloom, we move on to cheerier things: the strange anniversaries we recognize.

Men in Gorilla Suits started on February 7, 2013. Find out if the upcoming 5th anniversary of the show is an important thing to us. Then we jump over to how some dates of remembrance fall from favor...and why some people get uptight about that. To that point, we devote some time to wondering if there is a time we, as a society, will ever forget 9/11...and if even people a generation or two below us are wrong not to care so much.

And we close it all out with two things: wondering if there are any anniversaries we think should be celebrated...and what we'd love to celebrate in the future.

Direct download: migs225.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 12:01pm CDT

So the opening audio on this week's classic episode sounds shitty, and I'm not changing it. Why? It's the last thing I recorded in the house in which I lived the longest I've ever lived in one place. I bought a place just down the street, but still... feels fitting to record one last MiGS classic intro there.

You know what else we recorded there? This episode about subcultures, three years ago! We spend a lot of time talking about The Gathering of the Juggalos in this episode, which is a harmless subculture, especially compared to the ones we've seen this week.

So, yeah. Might as well remember the good old days when our biggest problems were figuring out who would win in a fight: Juggalos or Goths? (The answer to that one should be obvious.)

Direct download: migs80_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:40pm CDT

House on an island - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 224: Last Seen…Talking about Real EstateThe American Dream has always been tied very closely to housing. The small house in the suburbs is what we were sold, even though -- for many -- it might be owning an apartment in a large city or off the grid in the middle of nowhere. The dream of owning a home has been exploited, leading to financial crisis -- but it's also been an indicator of financial health when all is well.

Entire networks dedicated to house hunting and restoration have popped up on television, and books and magazines (and websites and independent video channels) ensure we can consume our love for real estate any time we want. So it only made sense that we finally talked about buying houses! (Well, that -- and Shawn closed on a house yesterday...and that's been on his mind for more than the last month!)

* * *

We begin with the first time it hit us that people bought houses. After that, we talk about how old our parents were when they first purchased a house. We also chat about whether or not we've ever set out to purchase a home...and share odd stories about our hunts.

We discuss what made us want to buy a house and -- in the case of Christopher -- why he passed on one years ago. Next, we devote some time to what surprised us about the house-hunting/house-buying process...as well as the most annoying aspects of looking for a home.

We pause to describe our ideal dream houses -- and then jump to whether or not we think home ownership is on the decline (and if so, if it's the fault of Millennials...because if headlines tell us nothing else, it's that this may be the last podcast you listen to before nuclear war with Korea...and that Millennials kill all the things!)

And, as always, we wrap it all up with a look toward the future, this time speculating about what the coming years hold for home ownership.

Direct download: migs224.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 1:42pm CDT

Welcome, children. Today we will read from the 47th Psalm of Gorilla. Please open your study bibles to page 3.14159, and have a blessed day.

When two guys like Christopher and Shawn talk about religion and don't immediately burst into flames, they've either done something very wrong or very right. As this is one of our most listened-to episodes of all time, we're going to bet on the latter, though that flame-bursting could be around any corner...

Enjoy this classic episode!

Direct download: migs75_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:39pm CDT

On the Men in Gorilla Suits website, we have a behind-the-scenes look at our old process for putting the show together. It's a bit dated -- we now have mixers, different recording gear, and a few other things -- but we've been told it helped some people take that first step and record something of their own...

There was a time when seeing how things were made was a mystery, but today documentaries, DVD and streaming movie extras, and myriad websites give people a peek behind the curtains of how things are done.

But it's not just entertainment -- humans want to know what governments and others are doing behind the scenes. So...we decided this week's show should be about all those things [and more]...

* * *

We start in the past, with our first memories of information we were originally not privy to, but eventually saw. After that, we talk about how much we enjoy looking behind the scenes of things...and what we think the appeal of those peeks is.

If you've listened to a few episodes, you've probably heard us talk about documentaries. We chat about some of our favorite peeks behind the scenes...going as far as if we've taken tours to get a different look at things.

Privacy and secrecy naturally get our attention. We discuss if we've ever been privy to information very few are aware of -- and what we've revealed about ourselves and the processes we follow. We also tackle this: is it better to be open and share information, or protect it and keep things to yourselves?

In recent years, highly visible cases of whistleblowers and people leaking government secrets has made the news. Find out how we feel about those sharing behind-the-scenes information with the masses -- as well as how much transparency governments and other large groups should have with your average person.

We get back to light-hearted information and chat about something we'd love to see behind the scenes...and we wrap up this week's show talking about if we think we'll see more -- or fewer -- looks behind the scenes of things in the future.

Direct download: migs223.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:40pm CDT

Oh, hello there. Didn't see you come in. You're looking mighty fine in that polyester lesiure suit.

Some might say you're out of date or obsolete, but we would never say that. The Gorillamen invite you to come inside, crack open a Zima, and experience the best -- and the worst -- of things that have gone obsolete in this classic episode.

Also, Shawn used to vomit Two Dogs Malt Beverage. In spades. Real talk.

Direct download: migs116_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:42pm CDT

Hello, friend, and welcome to your place online where we understand what you're feeling. At Men in Gorilla Suits, we consider why you are the person you are -- even if you're an evil super-villain with a swelling brain ready to wreak telekinetic havok on the masses. We're not saying it's right that you want to act out against society because you were never hugged, but some humans who never had a bit of support in life don't know how to be. There, there, Swelling Itching Brain -- come on in for a group hug and all will be right again...

This week, we're talking about empathy...

* * *

We start as we often do, back when we were younger. Find out the first time we felt something for someone else -- as well as if we consider ourselves empathetic individuals. Also: have we gotten more or less empathetic as we've gotten older?

After that, we talk about whether or not the world is harder for empathetic people...before moving on to what the opposite of empathy looks like.

Has the Internet made us more [or less] empathetic? We talk about that -- as well as how the current political climate has affected empathy.

Find out who the most -- and least -- empathetic people we know are. We also cat about the best -- and worst -- examples of empathy in popular culture.

And, as we often do, we look to the future at the end of the show...this time, what the future looks like for empathy.

If you're feeling this episode, let us know in the comments...

Direct download: migs222.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:51pm CDT

You really piss me off, Jim. Human life is far to precious to waste on crazy stunts!

This week's classic episode is all about things that piss Christopher and Shawn off, but, you know, not that much. We're talking about Pet Peeves this week (OK, we talked about them many weeks in the past, whatever). Enjoy this classic episode from the early days of Men in Gorilla Suits, and we'll be back with a new episode next week!

Direct download: migs14_classic.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:58pm CDT

Spiral windowThere is design to this page. There is design in most things you interacted with today...probably without your recognition.

Whether it's advertising or truly functional user experience; the place you live, or even your thoughts...many people put great effort into influencing others with design.

Hell, some people do it all simply for the sake of design.

This week, we're all about the D!

* * *

We begin with our earliest memories of people putting in an extra effort into this thing called design. After that, we chat about how aware we were of the effort put into everyday design. (Shawn's epiphany in and Arby's is rather beautiful!)

We chat about whether or not we've designed cool things...and what those things might be.

How does design affect mood? We talk about that...as well as how environment and upbringing affect design.

We get all hypothetical and chat about if we could be a designer of any sort...what we'd make. Then we talk about our favorite designers and what they've done.

How important is technology to design -- we chat about that! We also chat about how important design is to advertising. (Spoiler: it DRIVES advertising in every way!)

Some people love what they know. Are some designs so sacred that we should never alter them? We talk about that before wrapping it all up with the future of design...

These show notes are designed to filter down to driving people to a call to action in the comments. We understand that there's enough going on in our lives that commenting on a podcast blog is a thing of the past, but if you are so inclined...we will listen!

Direct download: migs221.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 7:36pm CDT

I know what really keeps you up at night. You're wondering, most of all, what two middle-aged white guys think about hip-hop and rap music.

There, there. It's all right. Your brilliant and not unattractive gorillamen are here to help, yo. Christopher and Shawn, the two whitest men on the planet, got together to talk about hip-hop, and now you get to hear it all over again. So pour yourself a gin and juice and enjoy this classic Men in Gorilla Suits Episode.

Word to your mother.

Direct download: MiGS110_classic.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 3:08am CDT

A burning metal rod - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 220: Last Seen…Talking about Metal MusicFor the past couple years, Gorillaman Shawn has done another show -- a weekly look at metal bands and their influences called Metal DNA. While Christopher doesn't listen to much music these days, he was once rumored to rock out to Twisted Sister opening for Iron Maiden on Maiden's Powerslave tour in the mid-ish 80s. So it's a bit surprising that it took 220 episodes to talk about METAL!!!

And, because it must be shared whenever metal is mentioned, there's this:

* * *

We kick it off with the first metal songs we ever heard...as well as how we heard the tune (i.e. who got us into metal). After that, we talk about the best -- and worst -- genres and eras of metal for us.

We devote a bit of time to our all-time favorite metal bands, and then we jump into our fave metal tunes of all time.

Metal fans are a dedicated breed of all kinds of people, but there's definitely a stereotype for metalheads. Do they live up to that stereotype? We chat about that before discussing some metal shows we've seen live. (As well as a story about Christopher's one and only sad blind date.)

We like talking about time machines on Men in Gorilla Suits. Find out what metal concert we'd see if we could go back in time. And in the present, we talk about the most recent metal we've heard.

As [almost] always, we wrap up this episode with a look to the future, discussing what the coming years look like for metal and its fans.

Feel free to rock out in the comments if that's your kinda thing \m/

Direct download: migs220.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 7:55am CDT

In this classic episode, we revisit the far-off land of April 2014, when Shawn was a drone at Microsoft and Christopher was a responsible adult holding down a real job. We get to hear the massive number of jobs the gorillamen have had, revisit their worst jobs, and hear them plug their writing, because that's what they did in the past.

Sho' Nuff!

Direct download: migs63_classic.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:42am CDT

Graveyard - MiGS92 (Classic): Last Seen…Talking about DeathThis classic Men in Gorilla Suits episode is about...Death!

Guess what? One day, you will die.

Shawn will die; Christopher will die.

Everybody dies.

It's such a cheery little topic, we decided to talk about death this week!

We begin by talking about our earliest memories that life one day ends -- and what caused that realization for us. Then we jump to discussing if we've ever been present when somebody has dies...and how it affected us.

Death can come slowly or instantly, and the way it hits people can vary. We dedicate some time to that before moving on to a short question: are you afraid to die?

Next, we take on the roll of a psychic and predict the ways we think we will die. Keeping the snowball of happiness rolling, we ask each other if we've ever thought about taking our own lives and...if we could find out when and how we will die, would we want to know?

As serious as death is, sometimes the way people die is strange...even funny. We talk about some of the stranger and humorous ways we've heard about people dying and then talk about movies.

Death is often the focal point of stories because we've all experienced someone dying. We talk about the best movies deaths we've seen. (We'd love to hear your answers in the comments below.)

There are usually rituals after someone's passing. We ask each other if there's a proper way to mourn one's death, and then talk about what we believe happens to us after we die.

We close out this week's episode by talking about what we would do differently with our lives if we found out we only had a year to live.

As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts about death and this episode in the comments.

Direct download: migs92_classic.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 2:54pm CDT

Gears turning clockwise and counter clockwise - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 219: Last Seen…Lashing BackIt seems one can't go more than a day without seeing somebody react to something out of a backlash reflex.

Why, you might even be saying, "I am tired of sweeping generalizations like that!" -- backlash responses are not that common!

(Thank you for proving our point.)

We all push back for so many reasons...or at least enough to put together an episode of Men in Gorilla Suits about backlash.

* * *

We begin by talking about our earliest memory of backlash -- and then move on to something we once liked, but no longer do, because of a backlash reaction.

We chat about why we think people push back at things over time. After that, we discuss whether or not we've experienced backlash over something we liked or did.

How important is backlash to politics -- and even society? We talk about that a bit. We also devote a bit of time to how social media has affected backlash.

We also discuss ways in which backlash is dangerous...as well as awesome -- and we talk about something we'd like to see face backlash.

Sometimes backlash is just a weird thing...you never know what will set someone off. We chat about that, and then wrap up this week's show with the future of backlash.

(In response to us asking you to leave a comment, be sure not to leave one, just because you're tired of being told what to do by people online...)

Direct download: migs219.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 7:51pm CDT

Anxious man - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 218: Last Seen…Being AnxiousBecause the last couple episodes have been loaded later in the week, we figured we'd load this one early. Here's why:

Sometimes we record episodes and, while making the damn thing, we know it's going to be a bit better than most episodes. Sometimes we're actually funny; other times, we're quick to thoughts and sound like we know what we are doing. Sometimes, we are very open about things -- maybe even too open for some.

This episode might be a bit of all those things as we talk about something not unknown to the world: anxiety!

* * *

We begin with this: have we ever had problems with anxiety? (That anxiety is this week's topic, the answer should be pretty evident.) After that, we talk about the first person we knew who struggled with anxiety.

Find out what makes us panic...and if we've ever had all-out panic attacks. Then we talk about how we deal with anxiety.

We're guessing we all know somebody who struggles with anxiety to various degrees. We chat about what we do to try to help those people...and then discuss the dumbest things that have caused anxiety in our lives.

Lives eventually end. Death is a source of stress for many people. We talk about whether or not we often think about death -- and if it makes us anxious when it's on our minds.

Finally, we wrap it up with this: what is the cure for anxiety (or does a cure even exist)?

As always, feel free to comment on this week's episode below.

Direct download: migs218.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 8:50am CDT

Old Christopher and Shawn - MiGS 123 (Classic)

This Men in Gorilla Suits Classic episode is about aging...

As you read this sentence, you're getting older. Now you're even older than when you started reading this entry. You can step away and turn your head, hoping to not be reminded that you are aging, but time marches on.

Forward...

Always...

This week, we're talking about aging!

We begin by talking about the first time we realized that childhood was temporary -- that one day we would become adults. But aging is not all bad...we discuss the first time we were aware of our bodies aging in positive ways. After that, though, we talk about some negative things we're felt or experienced as we've aged. We also talk about age-related problems we've noticed...and age-related problems that scare us.

Hundreds of years ago, we'd probably be dead by now. We devote some time to the positive and negative effects of longer lifespans in modern times -- and then talk about how old we want to live to be.

We also chat about some benefits of getting older and whether we consider ourselves old, middle aged, young, or something else entirely.

We wrap up this episode on the front lawn (chasing off those damn kids!) to discuss whether or not we are, indeed, getting "too old for this shit!"

As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts about aging in the comments.

Direct download: migs123_classic.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 9:51am CDT

Two women talking - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 217: Last Seen…Talking about AdviceFrom a young age, most of us heard advice. Maybe some of it was actually good. But there comes a time when, later in life, you've either figured things out or you're simply not going to. And there are enough people doing marginally better than you who love to tell you and others how to live life...because they aren't doing such a great job with the adulting thing themselves. Knocking you makes them feel better about their lives.

And then there's us, two guys who offer one bit of advice at the end of every show. We don't expect you to take it, though...as you'll hear, we're not the biggest fans of advice...

* * *

Christopher is headed into the storms of East Texas for the annual writing retreat he does with a friend. So, in an effort to get the episode out, here's what we discuss this week:

  • What is the first advice you remember hearing?
  • Why do you think people like giving advice?
  • How do you go about giving advice?
  • Do you like receiving advice?
  • What's the best advice you've ever received?
  • What's the worst advice you've ever received?
  • What are your thoughts on unsolicited advice?
  • Where (or who) do you go for advice?
  • Has advice ever changed your life or the way you look at things?
  • How has the Internet -- particularly social media -- changed advice?
  • What are some problems with giving or receiving advice?
  • If you could give your younger self one bit of advice, what would it be?
  • Is there one bit of advice you'd give for society in general?
Direct download: migs217.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 11:04pm CDT

This Men in Gorilla Suits Classics episode goes back to Episode 55: Urban Legends...

* * *

The stories often seem too perfect ("...and then the doberman was choking...on the burglar's finger!"); the reassurance it's fact is shoddy at best ("I'm serious -- it's true! It happened to my cousin's best friend's boss' daughter's tuba instructor!")

The urban legend.

What is it that makes some stories endure for lifetimes, and how does the Internet play a part in their spread today? That's what we're talking about this week.

We begin the episode by discussing the most recent urban legend we've heard; in Christopher's case, it was told the night before recording this episode, proving that far-fetched stories are definitely not a thing of the past. In fact, we discuss how we live in the golden age of half-truths and bogus stories; in part, because they are so easy to share through social media. After discussing why we believe urban legends are so easy to spread, we talk about how urban legends can still endure when sites like snopes.com and other sources for answers exist.

Urban legends endure despite how ridiculous many of the stories are -- belief is more important than fact where they are concerned. We ask (and answer): "What human need do urban legends serve?" Then we step back in time and share the first urban legends we ever heard.

Some urban legends cross the line and become not just stories to share, but deep beliefs people insist are true to the end. Dispute these people's claims or present facts and it doesn't matter -- they are all in and nothing can change them. After devoting some time to that, we discuss a couple urban legends we've believed, if only for a short time. Moving on from there, we share the craziest urban legends we've ever heard.

It's clear urban legends are a big part of the human experience. Many tales, even before the age of the Internet, spread and became things people insisted were true all around the world. With Shawn and Christopher both moving about in their youth, they saw it first hand: almost every town seemed to have their own weird killers killing in the same manner as the town where they lived before, and on the outskirts of those towns there always seemed to be railroad tracks where -- if you turned your car off and sat on the tracks as a train came your way (usually at midnight) -- ghostly children who died in a bus crash would push your car to safety. We close out the episode asking each other if urban legends will ever die?

We'd love to hear the craziest urban legends you've ever heard -- share away in the comments!

Direct download: migs55_classic_04.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 8:54pm CDT

Hand plane and curled wood - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 216: Last Seen…Doing It ThemselvesOn February 7, 2013 we decided to do something on our own: start a podcast. In that time, we've started other shows, made things, and learned new stuff.

With access to so much information, it's fairly easy to learn the basics of even difficult repairs and builds. Maker culture seems to hang in the air; we, as a species, simply like making and repairing things.

Consider the many TV channels dedicated to home improvement. Hell, there's a channel called DIY.

DIY is not simply an 80s punk ethic. Every day, so many people make and repair things on their own...or with the help of a community of like-minded people. Doing it yourself is the topic of this week's show.

# # #

Here's what we talk about this week:

  • When's the first time you did something yourself that someone else usually did for you?
  • Do you consider yourself DIY?
  • Is DIY synonymous with thriftiness? Are all DIYers cheap?
  • What's the coolest DIY project you've ever seen?
  • The worst?
  • What was the thing you tried to do yourself that you really shouldn't have? Were you successful?
  • What was your most successful DIY project?
  • What's something you've never done yourself that you think you could easily do, but don't for whatever reason?
  • What's one project you'd like to try doing for yourself?
  • Does technology make DIY easier?
  • What's the future of DIY?
Direct download: migs216.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 7:27am CDT

Flower w/ Inspirational Saying - MiGS38 (Classic): Last Seen…Helping ThemselvesOh, hello there, you wonderful, magical being, you. What's that sour face for -- don't believe us? You are magical...and...if you have just $99.99 to spare for our 20-cassette self-help system, you'll realize your full potential! Don't buy it, and continue to be miserable: the choice is yours. Salvation is just a credit card number away...

This week, we're all about self help! Now, we should clarify that there's nothing wrong with wanting to better yourself...even pay for help if needed. It's just, if you're going to take that step, it would seem a professional therapist might be a bit better than someone making up a pile of bullshit about how quantum physics works in an effort to sell you on yet another self-help system...

We begin the episode by talking about what image comes to our minds when we mention "self help." Then, we discuss whether or not any self-help book or system has ever helped us. After that, we leap into self-help things we've been subjected to in some manner. (It's probably pretty clear at this point that we're not the biggest fans of people preying on desperate people and selling them "help" in Holiday Inns across the country. In fact, Christopher is one degree away from someone fairly well known who "helps" people, but is really just out to take people's money...so we speak from some certain experience.)

While on the subject of self help, why not talk about Scientology and other religions that are little more than a pyramid scheme? Are they really out to help people, or is it all about pushing their own agenda? On a smaller level, we ask if there are self-help gurus who actually want to help people more than they want their money. Then we ask if self-help systems have a high percentage of success, or if they are just a scheme to help those running a system make a lot of money.

Then it's time to talk about some of the more outrageous claims made in the self-help industry. You could probably call this section of the podcast, "It's no secret how Christopher and Shawn feel about The Secret!" While hammering those who know nothing about science (but use junk science to back their claims), we roll all over certain health gurus who also make ridiculous claims in their grab for cash.

But while we don't spare the majority of an industry from ridicule, we do acknowledge the marketing machines behind the self-help industry...and how they have used social media to expand their empires. After discussing how easily people are swayed by "facts" that aren't facts, we ask the biggest question of all: "Is there any value at all in the self-help industry?"

We'd love to hear what you think about self help in the comments, and...we hope this episode of Men in Gorilla Suits helps you. If nothing else, we offer it for free!

Direct download: migs38_classic_03.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 11:53am CDT

Empty swing - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 215: Last Seen…Being ChildlessA very busy week, so we'll get right to it. This week we are talking about being childless...

* * *

Here's what we talk about (Shawn made Christopher seriously laugh so hard he cried in this episode):

  • Who was the first childless couple (or person) you knew?
  • Did it strike you as strange that they didn't have children?
  • When you were younger, did you think you'd have children when you got older?
  • We are both childless. Are you childless by choice or because of biological issues?
  • Have you encountered people who INSISTED you'd have children? (And how did you react?)
  • Have you ever been told, "But you can still adopt?"
  • Do you think your life lacks anything with the absence of children?
  • What are some advantages (and disadvantages) of not having children?
  • Millennials in America have been knocked for things as ridiculous as a decline in sales of bar soap. And a BIG criticism is they are not having children as much as previous generations. Why do you think that is?
  • Is it greedy to not have children?
  • Why do you think some are so insistent that others have children?
  • In the future, do you think we'll see more or fewer childless people?
Direct download: migs215.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 10:42am CDT

Dinosaur among ruins - MiGS32 (Classic): Last Seen...Talking History

We once stepped back in time for this classic episode...

And, for those of you wondering, "When will Christopher be done with his damn book?!" it's flowing...but new chapters are happening as well. So...who knows. (But words are piling up!)

* * *

This isn't a boring history lesson, or an episode chock full o' trivial things like, "Hey, did you all know the first person to kill at the Battle of Hastings -- in 1066 -- was a juggler?" (<----- That's for real, right there! Don't mess with jugglers!) This episode is about our relationships with history. What many deem to be a boring subject really isn't when you consider how much the human mind lives in the past, whether it's a head full of nostalgia or thinking about your place in the universe...that's all history!

We begin the episode with a bit of personal history, discussing the first time we remember even thinking about the topic. Also, who (or what) got us interested in history? With that beginning, we move on to our favorite periods of American history and world history. Many "man on the street" interviews make it look like Americans know very little about history...we spend some time discussing if that's true before moving on to what history even is.

History takes hold more when it's presented as a story rather than a bunch of dates and events we must commit to memory. We talk about how this affects our perception of history, and then move on to how history is covered: is history really written by the winners, or are there places one can go to find all sides of a story? What are the best sources for understanding history -- and what are the worst? Where do we go when we're in a mood to take in some history? We close it out with the best representation of history -- and the worst -- we've seen in popular media.

If you're a history buff, we'd love to hear your thoughts about history...and if you think history is just a boring subject, we just might change your mind...

Direct download: migs32_classic_02.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 8:08pm CDT

A field of Bluebonnets - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 214: Last Seen…Talking about TexasIf you've lived in Dallas long enough, you see a certain pleasure in this episode about Texas being #214 (the classic Dallas area code). But is Dallas indicative of the Lone Star State, or for a true taste of Texas does one need to gaze upon a field of longhorn cattle? Is Ft. Worth more "Texas" than San Antonio, or must we all bow before the capital of Austin? Or is Texas something else entirely?

This week we're talking about Texas in all its glory (well, most of its glory). Like any state, it has its problems -- but a place so large really is like a country unto itself full of many wonderful things...

* * *

We begin with a simple topic: when did we first move to Texas? We each moved to Texas young enough to have experience with Texas public schools. Find out if we were impressed with the educational quality of the schools we attended.

After that, we chat about the various parts of Texas we've lived in...and visited. Keeping with that theme, we also devote time to the best town in Texas in which to live...and the best place to visit.

People from other places have their own ideas about what Texas is like. When they visit, it's often up to people living in the state to show them the "true" side of Texas. Find out where we take people to show them what the Bluebonnet State is all about.

After that, we talk about the best -- and worst -- things about living in Texas. And we wrap it all up with the weirdest thing about the state.

Direct download: migs214.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 12:05pm CDT

Classic Episode: MiGS16: Last Seen...Working Obsolete Jobs

Welcome to Men in Gorilla Suits Classic: an old episode as Christopher finishes a book...and while Shawn gets even more buff at the gym.

Oh, sure, Shawn might play the humble card and be like, "No big..." but he's lifting closer to 20 tons a night than 15 -- enough that Christopher started lifting puny weights on work breaks today.

Speaking of that Christopher guy...thanks to all those who understand that him finishing his book is important. He really hates missing a week of Men in Gorilla Suits. In fact, he ALMOST posted the episode recorded a couple days ago and was then about to email Shawn saying, "If we get back to getting things done by mid-week and even double up on episodes, we can stick to the weekly thing!"

Because this IS a pretty impressive unbroken chain.

At the very least, you get this old episode...

Thanks for understanding...

* * *

Ah, to live the life as a National Hockey League rover, or to entertain the cigar-rolling masses as a Lector. To pump gas or serve as the director of photography on pornographic movies. To open your own Blockbuster Video store franchise or manufacture cassette tapes. These are jobs...some totally obsolete, some on their way out...

This week, it's all about jobs that no longer exist: some long gone, and some we've seen die in our own time. We talk about jobs that are fading, many jobs shoved into one catch-all job, and even discuss why outsourcing may not be the evil many believe it to be. (We might not be in the majority on this one.) We discuss how the "Good ol' days," were only good for some, and why our jobs these days is to simply figure things out. Of course, Shawn works Star Trek into the discussion, and Christopher entertains what a future in which computers write novels might be like. (Smash Gerbils reference goes to Deacon McClendon.)

We wrap it up by discussing how the Internet and nostalgia have brought some obsolete or dying jobs back -- kind of a grudging praise for...the Hipster! Also, wanna be a blacksmith? It's still a better option than many jobs that are on the way out! Don't believe us? Then give this episode a listen!

Note: This episode was recorded under the influence of copious amounts of caffeine (Shawn) and a couple Martinis (Chris). It's a bit frantic and wacky, and that, dear listeners = fun!

Direct download: migs16_classic_01.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 8:32pm CDT

Tea leaves and a cup of coffee - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 213: Last Seen…Drinking Coffee and Tea6:00 a.m.

You wake up in the dark. You don't want to get out of bed. You move in silence to the kitchen to remedy all that ails you with coffee.

Ah, the afternoon. The morning's coffee has worn off. Some return to coffee, but many others resort to tea.

Tea and coffee are the most popular drinks in the world following water. (And, some will argue, behind milk.) But even before sodas and juices, coffee and tea are kind.

Coffee and tea often fuel the Gorillamen, so...we dedicate this week to the beverages of the gods...

* * *

Before we get to coffee and tea, though, a quick note. After 213 episodes, we're temporarily moving Men in Gorilla Suits to an every-other-week schedule. Christopher is moving his other podcast, Not about Lumberjacks, to an every-other-month schedule as he gets his current novel into readable shape. To allow him a bit more focus, we're adjusting the Men in Gorilla Suits schedule until Christopher is done with the book.

And then things will resume as usual.

* * *

What we discuss this week:

  • What's your first memory of coffee?
  • What's your first memory of tea?
  • When was the first time you remember having coffee?
  • When was the first time you remember having tea?
  • Do you have a preference: coffee or tea?
  • Why do you think coffee and tea are such popular drinks?
  • What's the best cup of coffee you've ever had?
  • What's the best cup of tea you've ever had?
  • Have you ever gone a long time not drinking coffee?
  • When it comes to iced tea: sweetened or unsweetened?
  • Do you think people rely on coffee and tea a bit too much?
  • What's the future look like for coffee and tea?
Direct download: migs213.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 3:37pm CDT

Lightbulb - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 212: Last Seen…Talking about IdeasMen in Gorilla Suits started with an idea: "We should do a weekly podcast."

Then we came up with a variety of names...just random things that sounded cool. Shawn liked Christopher's idea to call the show "Men in Gorilla Suits." And that triggered an idea in Shawn: to name every episode beginning with "Last Seen..." as though we are not only Men in Gorilla Suits, but FUGITIVES ON THE RUN in Gorilla Suits.

That's it...that's the idea behind it all. Well, that and, "We can just talk about a geeky topic a week..."

Of course, that idea could have gone nowhere without effort. But 212 episodes into the show, we're finally talking all about ideas!

* * *

Here's what we discuss this episode:

  • What's the first original creative idea you remember having?
  • Where do you get your ideas?
  • Do you do anything with most of your ideas?
  • I've heard people say the ideas are the important part (i.e., I have the idea, you write the book, and we split the profits!). Do you agree?
  • How important are ideas?
  • What's the best idea you've ever had, creatively?
  • What about in life?
  • What's the worst, creatively?
  • In life?
  • Has anyone ever stolen your ideas?
  • What was the last idea you executed on?
  • What's more interesting: ideas or execution?
Direct download: migs212.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 9:21pm CDT

Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 211: Last Seen…Being Weird

Balloon faced woman - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 211: Last Seen…Being WeirdA list of the weird things we talk about this week...as we talk about...weirdness:

  • When did you first become aware of weirdness or weird people?
  • Have you ever been called weird?
  • Do you think you're weird?
  • I've met people who try to be weird. What would motivate a person to be weird – and does weirdness for the sake of weird work for you?
  • Who is the weirdest person you know?
  • What is the weirdest thing you've ever experienced?
  • Why are people attracted to weird things?
  • What are some of your favorite weird things?
  • Describe yourself when you were at your weirdest?
  • Can weird things ever become normal or even mainstream?
  • Over time, have you become more normal or more weird? (Why?)
  • Will there come a point where nothing is weird anymore?
Direct download: migs211.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 2:36pm CDT

Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 210: Last Seen…Talking about Talent

Violinist - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 210: Last Seen…Talking about TalentThis week's talking points:

  • What was the first talent you discovered you had?
  • What was the first talent you wish you had?
  • Can talent take the place of hard work and practice?
  • Can hard work and practice eventually trump talent?
  • Who is the most talented person you know?
  • Who is the hardest worker you know?
  • Is there one that's better than the other (talent vs. hard work)?
  • Which do you possess more of? Talent Or work ethic?
  • Is it better to be lucky than good?
  • Is it better to be good than prepared?
  • Is it better to be prepared than trained?
  • What's one talent you'd like to develop?
Direct download: migs210.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 12:19pm CDT

Shawn as Dumbledore and Christopher as Snape - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 209: Last Seen…Talking about Fan FictionBusy week this week, but there was still time to turn us into Dumbledore and Snape for the episode art! Here's what we're talking about this week: Fan fiction!

* * *

  • When did you first become aware of fan fiction?
  • Why do you think people create and consume fan fiction?
  • Do you consume much fan fiction? Why or Why not?
  • Have you written fan fiction?
  • If you could only write fan fiction -- and only from one property at that -- what would you choose to focus on?
  • Fan fiction has a bit of a reputation as being sub-par writing. Do you find that to be true?
  • More than a couple writers have taken issue with fan fiction from their work...while others don't care. As a writer yourself, where do you stand on that?
  • How much does emotion play into the success of a work of fan fiction?
  • All right, let's go there. Slash/shipping/whatever we're into this year. What's up with that?!
  • A lot of people have consumed fan fiction and not known it. Any examples of mainstream pieces of fan fiction.
  • What's your favorite work of fan fiction?
  • What's the future look like for fan fiction?
Direct download: migs209.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 8:54am CDT

Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 208: Last Seen…Talking about Other Dimensions

Crisis of Infinite Earths art - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 208: Last Seen…Talking about Other DimensionsChristopher might be writing this from Earth-13. But in Earth-27, Shawn is Christopher...but he might be a minotaur in a trenchcoat who starred in Earth-975's version of Highlander. Because really, that's all I (I mean Shawn) has ever aspired to being (and doing).

But in Earth-4,285,792, everything happened exactly like this, but Christopher is a black lab hoping you believe that Shawn is a minotaur.

The best thing about Earth-4,285,792? Obama is still president...and Abe Vigoda is still alive. (Almost as great as Earth 7,926, where Abe Vigoda is president!)

This week, we're talking about other dimensions...

* * *

We kick it off talking about our understanding of the Mandela Effect, and then jump to discussing if we believe in parallel universes/multiverse theories.

Find out how we conceive alternate realities, and find out if we believe we are all moving among different realities all the time.

Then we talk about something we can prove is real: stories about alternate realities. (At least in the dimension/reality in which you are listening to this. Unless it's a dimension where you can listen to podcasts from other dimensions. Anyway...) We talk about the best, worst, and silliest works of alternate realities fiction.

After that, we chat about what advice we'd hope other versions of ourselves would offer us if we somehow visited other dimensions where other versions of us exist.

Then we discuss whether or not we find much credibility in the conspiracy theory that "aliens" are from an alternate dimension (disclaimer: credibility AS COMPARED TO the conspiracy theory where they come from other planets)?

We talks about what the best -- and worst -- versions of ourselves might be doing in other dimensions. And we wrap it all up with a discussion about our belief (or disbelief) that science will find a way to not only prove, but view/visit other planes in the multiverse?'

In another dimension, you've already left a comment below, but in this reality you have not. Feel free...we do not bite!

Direct download: migs208.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 8:20pm CDT

Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 207: Last Seen…Talking about Architecture

Empire State Building - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 207: Last Seen…Talking about ArchitectureIn honor of talking about architecture this week, we share with you the framework this episode was built upon:

  • When did you realize there was this thing called architecture?
  • What is your favorite thing about architecture?
  • Your least favorite?
  • Do you have a favorite architectural period? When?
  • What are some of you favorite architectural works (or even architects)?
  • Neither of us live in architectural masterpieces, but...there are cool things about where we live. What are some of your favorite architectural aspects of your home and neighborhood?
  • If money and location were no issue, what would your dream home look like?
  • Does architecture matter? i.e. Why make something visually appealing vs. simple boxes?
  • Has the architecture of a place of employment ever affected the way you looked at work?
  • Places like Dubai are known for its architecture. But can such grand places be sustained for decades to come?
  • Amazon filed a patent for floating distribution centers. How do you think advances in technology will affect architecture in the near future?
  • What is the future of architecture?
Direct download: migs207.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 6:29pm CDT

A cardinal on a branch in the snow - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 206: Last Seen…Talking about WinterFriday, it even snowed in Texas. (It was enough that many blow-hards who ignored recent days in the low to mid 80s are saying, "Haw haw haw, to much for climate change!")

Much of the nation, all the way down to Florida, is in the grip of cold and snow and ice.

It seemed like a good time to talk about winter.

* * *

We kick this week off talking about the first winters we remember, and then leap to where winter ranks for us compared to other seasons. After that, we talk about the worst -- and best -- winters we remember. Sticking to best and worst, we also share our favorite winter memory...as well as a winter horror story.

Find out the coldest winter weather we've ever experienced...and what we like most -- and least -- about winter.

We discuss how winters have changed for us since childhood before chatting about some of our favorite winter activities...and the winter activities we aren't so fond of.

And we wrap it all up with why we love (or hate) winter.

You're probably cold and maybe even snowed in; it's a good time to leave a comment below...

Direct download: migs206.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 10:26am CDT

Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 205: Last Seen…Talking about 2016

Dumpster fire - Men in Gorilla Suits Ep. 205: Last Seen…Talking about 2016According to many people, 2016 was a dumpster fire. A lengthy election season in the US and a bunch of dead celebrities didn't help matters. Others didn't see it as bad.

For our first episode of Men in Gorilla Suits of 2017, we take a look back at the year that was...

* * *

We begin with how we rang in 2016. From there, we jump right to our best memory of 2016.

A lot of celebrities died in 2016. We talk about the celebrity death that hit us hardest -- and then we chat about how we plan to deal with the results of the 2016 election this year...and beyond.

We discuss things we discovered in 2016, and then devote some time to our favorite -- and least favorite -- things about the year.

We talk about things we brought into our lives in 2016...and some things we shed.

After that, we talk about our favorite accomplishments of the year...and chat about some of the trips we took.

As nice as it is looking back, we like to end by looking toward the future. We wrap up the episode with our feelings about 2017 holds.

How was 2016 for you? Any resolutions or plans for 2017?

Direct download: migs205.mp3
Category:Pop Culture -- posted at: 1:37pm CDT

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