Generation S

Hey, Generation 'S' listeners, it's time for an episode that's packed with excitement, nostalgia, and a surprise that's sure to shake things up! As we embark on the road to WrestleMania, Lou and I have something special in store for you, and trust me, you don't want to miss this.

First off, let's talk about the heart of this episode: WrestleMania 10. This event isn't just another milestone in WWE history; it's a cornerstone of wrestling lore that delivered unforgettable moments and legendary matches. Together, Lou and I dive into each match on the WrestleMania 10 card, dissecting the highs, the lows, and everything in between. While we're not spoiling our favorite picks just yet, let's just say that revisiting these classic confrontations stirred up a whirlwind of emotions and memories.

But that's not all we've got lined up. We're also teasing a big announcement about the future of the Generation 'S' podcast. We've been keeping this under wraps for a while, and we can't wait to share the news with all of you. This announcement is a game-changer, and it's all about making our podcast even more engaging, entertaining, and epic. So, make sure to tune in until the end to catch the big reveal.

As we kick off our journey to WrestleMania, this episode is a celebration of wrestling's rich history, the excitement of looking forward, and a testament to the passion Lou and I share with each of you for the world of wrestling. Whether you're a die-hard wrestling aficionado or just love a good stroll down memory lane, this episode is crafted with you in mind.

So, join us as we step into the ring to relive WrestleMania 10 and gear up for an announcement that promises to take Generation 'S' to the next level. It's a thrilling time to be a part of our community, and we're just getting started.

Remember, your support means the world to us, so hit that subscribe button, share your thoughts on social media, and let's keep building this amazing nostalgia-fueled journey together. Here's to the road to WrestleMania and beyond!

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It's time to plug in our controllers and dive into the digital world of the mid-2000s with a special episode dedicated to the Xbox 360. Lou and I are about to take you on a high-definition journey through the glory days of gaming with one of the most influential consoles of all time.

We start off by setting the scene: the Xbox 360's release in 2005, a time when gaming was transitioning into a mainstream powerhouse. We share our first impressions of the console, the excitement of HD gaming, and how Xbox Live revolutionized the way we play and interact online.

But it wasn't all smooth sailing. No discussion about the Xbox 360 is complete without mentioning its infamous Achilles' heel – the Red Ring of Death (RRoD). Lou recounts his battle with the RRoD, sharing a story that many of our listeners will find all too familiar. We explore what caused these hardware failures and how Microsoft responded to this widespread issue, turning a significant challenge into a testament to customer service and resilience.

Then, we shift gears to a happier topic: the Top 20 selling games of all time for the Xbox 360. This list is a who's who of gaming greatness, featuring titles that have left a lasting legacy on the industry. We discuss each game, sharing our personal experiences, favorite moments, and how these games contributed to the Xbox 360's legendary status. From the groundbreaking adventures of "Halo 3" and "Gears of War" to the open-world wonders of "Grand Theft Auto V" and the kinetic energy of "Kinect Adventures," we cover the spectrum of what made gaming on the Xbox 360 so unforgettable.

We wrap up the episode by reflecting on the Xbox 360's legacy, its impact on gaming culture, and how it paved the way for future generations of consoles. The Xbox 360 wasn't just a machine; it was a gateway to worlds beyond our imagination, friendships across the globe, and countless hours of joy.

So, whether you were a hardcore gamer, a casual player, or just someone who appreciated the cultural phenomenon that was the Xbox 360, this episode is for you. Join Lou and me as we celebrate the console that defined a gaming generation on Generation 'S'.

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In this episode, Lou and I take you on a nostalgic journey back to the magical world of 90s toy stores.

We kick things off by reminiscing about the sheer excitement of stepping into a toy store back in the day. It wasn't just about shopping; it was an adventure. We chat about the giants of the era—Toys "R" Us, KB Toys, FAO Schwarz—and what made each of them special. From Geoffrey the Giraffe welcoming us into Toys "R" Us to the enchanting atmosphere of FAO Schwarz, it’s a trip down memory lane you won't want to miss.  Plus, we don't forget the local and independent toy stores either, praising their unique charm and the personal touch they brought to our childhoods.

As we move towards the end of the episode, we touch on the decline of brick-and-mortar toy stores and how the rise of online shopping marked the end of an era. Yet, it's not all gloomy; we also talk about the stores that have adapted and survived, keeping the magic alive for new generations.

We wrap up the episode by sharing some heartwarming stories from our listeners, who were kind enough to send in their most cherished memories of 90s toy stores. It’s a beautiful reminder of how these places weren't just stores; they were where our imaginations were ignited.

So, join Lou and me as we explore the aisles of the past, reliving the wonder and excitement of the 90s toy store experience. It’s an episode full of laughter, memories, and maybe even a few surprises. Don't forget to hit subscribe and follow us on our social channels to share your own toy store tales. Let's keep the nostalgia alive together on Generation 'S'.

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In this episode, we're diving into the thrilling world of WWE's Royal Rumble events from the 2000s – a decade known for some of the most unforgettable moments in wrestling history.

Join me and Generation 'S' first ballot Hall of Famer Lou Carnevale, as we step into the ring to rank each Royal Rumble event from 2000 to 2009. We'll discuss the iconic matches, the surprise entries, and the nail-biting eliminations that defined an era in WWE. For many of us who grew up in the 90s and early 2000s, these events were not just wrestling matches; they were larger-than-life spectacles that left us on the edge of our seats.

We both agree that the Royal Rumble stands as the second biggest WWE event of the year, only trailing behind the grandeur of WrestleMania. But which year's Rumble took the top spot in our rankings? Which superstar's performance left us in awe? And which Rumble match do we think didn't quite live up to the hype?

A heads-up to our listeners: We faced some technical gremlins while recording this episode, but we've done our best to smooth things out. Hopefully, it's as seamless to you as a well-executed Royal Rumble elimination!

Tune in for a trip down memory lane, filled with bodyslams, high-flying action, and the unmistakable excitement that only the Royal Rumble can deliver. Whether you're a long-time wrestling fan or just love reliving the glory days of the early 2000s, this episode is for you!

Let's get ready to rumble! (Please don't sue me, Michael Buffer)

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In the epic conclusion of our 3-part retrospective on the Sam Raimi Spider-Man saga, Odian Levy and I return for one final web-slinging adventure into "Spider-Man 3." As the closing chapter of a trilogy that captivated a generation, this film brought a tumultuous yet heartfelt ending to the story of Tobey Maguire's Peter Parker.

Under Sam Raimi's visionary direction, "Spider-Man 3" presented a narrative brimming with complexity and controversy. Released over fifteen years ago, it left a distinct impression on both Odian and myself, challenging our expectations of superhero narratives. The film's ambitious attempt to weave multiple storylines and introduce iconic characters like Venom and Sandman has been a topic of much debate among fans and critics alike.

In this episode, we delve into the intricate web of "Spider-Man 3," exploring its narrative choices, character developments, and the emotional weight carried by Peter Parker as he confronts his darkest challenges yet. We analyze the portrayal of heroism and villainy, examining how the movie navigates themes of forgiveness, identity, and the consequences of power and revenge.

As we've done throughout this series, Odian and I share our personal reflections on the film, including how our perceptions have evolved over time. We discuss the broader impact of the trilogy on the superhero genre and its legacy in shaping the cinematic landscape.

So join us as we swing into the heart of "Spider-Man 3" – a film that, despite its polarizing reception, holds a special place in our journey through the world of Spider-Man. It's not just a conclusion to a beloved trilogy, but a testament to the enduring complexity and appeal of one of the most iconic superheroes in cinema.

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In the second installment of our 3-part look back at the Sam Raimi Spider-Man saga, I team up once again with Odian Levy, the soon-to-be best-selling author behind "Hummingbird," to dissect what is widely hailed as the pinnacle of superhero cinema: Spider-Man 2. This sequel didn't just raise the stakes; it set a new gold standard for what superhero movies could be, intertwining heart-pounding action with the all-too-human drama of balancing life's competing demands.

Directed by the horror maestro Sam Raimi, Spider-Man 2 burst onto the scene over twenty years ago, leaving an indelible mark on both Odian and myself. Its blend of thrilling action, deep emotional resonance, and groundbreaking visual effects not only redefined the genre but also resonated with us on a personal level, etching vivid memories of our first viewings (and in Odian's case, the numerous repeat viewings in theaters).

This episode dives deep into the rich tapestry of Spider-Man 2, exploring how Peter Parker's juggling act between his duties as a student, photographer, friend, and masked vigilante strikes a chord with anyone who's ever struggled to find balance in their life. We peel back the layers of this cinematic gem, discussing its complex characters, innovative visuals, and the compelling narrative that elevates it from a mere superhero flick to a cinematic tour de force.

As always, we sprinkle in anecdotes of our own experiences with the film and wax nostalgic about our enduring love for everything Spider-Man – from the comics and video games to the beloved 90s animated series.

So kick back, relax, and join us on this journey through Spider-Man 2 – a film that not only epitomizes the thrill and burden of great power and great responsibility but also continues to swing high as a beacon in superhero storytelling.

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In part 1 of our 3-part retrospective discussion on the Sam Raimi Spider-Man movies, I'm joined by future best-selling author, Odian Levy (author of Hummingbird, which you can check out here), as we dive deep and dissect what many consider to be the true kick-off point to modern superhero movies, and the reason that we have the vast superhero-centric cinematic universes that we do today (for better and for worse, mind you).  

Directed by Sam Raimi, who, at the time, was mostly known for his works in the horror genre (including the Evil Dead films), Spider-Man was released in theaters over TWENTY years ago, in the summer of 2002.  Yep...it's been that long.  

This was a film that, for me, and for Odian, had such an impact on us, with vivid memories of seeing it for the first time (plus Odian reveals just how many times he actually went to see it in theaters).  

We also kicked things off by sharing our love of our favorite friendly neighborhood hero, including the comics, the video games, and of course, the wildly successful animated series from the 90s.  

There's a lot to cover in this one, and I think we did a pretty good job.  So kick back, relax, and enjoy hearing all about what happens when you have great power, and great responsibility.   

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Happy New Year!  We're kicking off 2024 with a discussion on the BEST-SELLING video game console of all time, and it's not even close.  A few weeks back, Lou and I had a great conversation all about the original Sony Playstation, and this time around, we're talking about the all-around glow up that was the Playstation 2, along with my buddy Derek. 

This was a console that was near and dear to all three of us (and was in fact the first console that I purchased with my own money), so we start off going through some of the first games we owned, and then talk about some of the crazy accessories, including funky controllers, the infamous PS2 Network Adapter to play online and the multi-tap that allowed for up to 8 players at a time. 

We then dove into some listener feedback on their favorite PS2 games, and finally wrap things up with a look back at the Top 20 PS2 games of all time, from a sales perspective.  

I couldn't think of a better way to kickstart the New Year, so kick back and enjoy!

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In the grand finale of Generation 'S' for 2023, your hosts Lou and [Your Name] are taking a trip down memory lane and exploring the hidden treasures within the toy chests of the 90s. Thanks to the expertise of Eric Rodriguez at One37pm.com, we've compiled a list of the 25 most valuable toys from that beloved era.  You can check out the complete blog post here.

As we dive into the nostalgia, we can't help but reflect on the possibility that many of us might have owned these valuable gems without realizing their potential worth. It's a fascinating journey through the playtime of our past, discovering the toys that not only provided joy but could now be a financial gold mine for collectors.

Join us as we reminisce about the games, action figures, and dolls that defined our childhoods and discuss how some of these items have become sought-after collectibles. Could you be sitting on a gold mine without even knowing it?

As we bid adieu to 2023, Lou and [Your Name] express their heartfelt gratitude to the listeners who have been a part of this incredible podcast journey. It's been a blast sharing stories, memories, and laughter with you all. We can't wait to see what unfolds in the coming year and look forward to more shared moments and discoveries.

So, grab a seat, tune in, and let's wrap up the year in style with a celebration of the most valuable toys from the 90s on Generation 'S'!

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Join Lou and I this week as we take a trip down memory lane in another holiday-centric  episode of Generation 'S'! This time, we're diving headfirst into the world of action figures from the glorious 90s - a time when ripping open wrapping paper to reveal your favorite hero or villain was the ultimate holiday thrill.

As the snow falls and the scent of gingerbread cookies wafts through the air, Lou and I reminisce about the golden era of action figures that defined our childhoods. From the mighty G.I. Joes to the heroic Power Rangers, we share our fondest memories of tearing into those boxes and unleashing the imagination that came with each new toy.

But wait, there's more! In the spirit of the season, we're unwrapping some forgotten gems, thanks to a curated list from 90stoys.com. Ever heard of Street Sharks? Remember the Crash Test Dummies? What about the eerie and fantastic Skeleton Warriors? Join us as we explore these lesser-known but equally awesome action figure lines that deserve a place in the nostalgia hall of fame.

Prepare for laughter, anecdotes, and maybe a few embarrassing stories of childhood playtime gone awry. So grab some hot cocoa, cozy up by the fireplace, and relive the joy of the 90s holiday season with Lou and me as we unwrap the memories of our favorite action figures. It's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and celebrate the magic of a truly action-packed era.

Happy holidays and happy reminiscing!

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This week, we interrupt your regularly scheduled broadcast of Generation 'S' for a good ole' fashioned CROSSOVER episode!  A few weeks back, I had the privelege of joining Sean and Ty on the Whiskeylodeon podcast, which combines two of my favorite things on this planet: booze and cartoons. You may in fact remember Ty from some previous episodes of this podcast, and so I finally had the chance to return the favor, and talk some old school Nickelodeon.  

This time around, we covered one of my favorite episodes of Are You Afraid of the Dark, as well as the pilot episode of a COMPLETELY forgotten gem from the early 2000s, The Journey of Allen Strange.  

It's a bit of longer episode, but it's because we had SO MUCH FUN.  Hopefully it comes through in our episode, so kick back and enjoy!  

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Is your house on fire Clark?  

In this episode, Lou and I dive headfirst into the snowbank of hilarity with our discussion on what is undoubtedly one of the greatest Christmas movies of all time—National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.

Get ready for a festive rollercoaster as we jump all over the place, unpacking the Griswold family's holiday escapades. From the chaotic Christmas tree hunt to the blinding brilliance of Clark's holiday light display, we dissect it all with a side of laughter and a sprinkle of nostalgia.

Join us as we reminisce about Cousin Eddie's quirky antics, Aunt Bethany's memorable quotes, and the downright absurdity of the Jelly of the Month Club. We'll explore why this movie is a timeless classic, dissecting the mishaps and misadventures that make it a staple in our holiday movie marathons.

But that's not all—discover why National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is a gift that keeps on giving. Lou and I share our thoughts on how the film gets even better with each viewing, like unwrapping a present that somehow gets more delightful every year.

What sets this movie apart? It's not just the slapstick comedy or the heartwarming moments; it's the fact that every scene is infinitely quotable. Join us in reciting our favorite lines, and we bet you'll find yourself wanting to add a little "Griswold flair" to your own holiday festivities.

So, grab your eggnog, cozy up by the fire, and join us for a sleigh ride through the snowy landscape of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Spoiler alert: You might just find yourself reaching for the remote to press play one more time after this festive and fun-filled episode!

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In the next part of our X-Files chat, Beth and I dive deep into the '98 and '08 movies, breaking down the nitty-gritty of the plots, characters, and vibes that make them quintessentially X-Files. We also touch briefly on 2016 series revival, and share the good, the bad, and the ugly (SPOILER ALERT: it's mostly ugly). 

We're throwing some love to a few more of the unsung heroes of the X-Files world – those supporting characters who are the unsung MVPs. We noticed we missed a few in our last chat, so we're setting the record straight. Join us for a chill conversation where we unravel the layers of this iconic series, giving credit where credit's due and celebrating the X-Files magic that keeps us hooked. Grab a snack, hit play, and let's casually geek out over the fantastic world of Mulder and Scully

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Join Beth and I this week as we delve into the mysterious world of The X-Files, a groundbreaking sci-fi series that captured the hearts and minds of a generation. In Part 1 of our two-part special, we reminisce about the show's debut 30 years ago, exploring its chilling atmosphere (even though every city in America looked like Vancouver), iconic '90s fashion, and the fascinating blend of technology that now feels like a blast from the past.

We also take a deep dive into the series' primary and secondary protagonists, celebrating the dynamic duo of Mulder and Scully and unraveling the enigmatic character of the Cigarette Smoking Man. We share personal memories of the show's impact on our lives and discuss its enduring themes that continue to resonate.

We wrap things up with the exploration of the Scully Effect, a phenomenon that inspired a generation of women to pursue careers in science, medicine, law enforcement. Beth also reflects on her own journey influenced by Dana Scully's character and the empowering ripple effect it had on her life choices.

Next week in Part 2, we'll be discussing the two feature films and the intriguing last two seasons from the 2010s.   Remember, the truth is out there, and we're just getting started.

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In the world of gaming consoles, before hyper-realistic graphics, but after charming 2-D pixel  graphics, there existed a charmingly ugly era of gaming in the mid 90s.  It was the start of 3-D graphics in video games, with the release of consoles like the Nintendo 64 (which we have discussed here on the podcast in a past episode), and console that is the focal point of today's episode; the Sony Playstation.  

Lou and I kick off this week's episode by reflecting on the unique magic that was the Playstation, from it's iconic (and goosebump-inducing) startup sound to the vast amount of games you could try out on those amazing demo discs you got out of gaming magazines (or from your local Pizza Hut, if you were lucky).  

We jump into some listener feedback, where we share some of your memories with this incredible system, including games like Spyro the Dragon, Metal Gear Solid, Crash Bandicoot, and of course, Twisted Metal.  

We also go through the Top 10 Bestselling PS1 games of all time, and share our thoughts on them.  Do any of them hold up today?  Let's find out!  Pop in your memory card, kick back and enjoy this week's discussion on one of the best video game systems of the last 30  years!

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In this Halloween-themed episode, Lou and I are back to dive deeper into the world of the Simpsons, this time focusing on the infamous Treehouse of Horror episodes. 

Whether you're a Simpsons fan, a Halloween enthusiast, or simply someone with a sweet tooth, this episode is a perfect blend of spooky stories and sweet treats. Join us for a ghoulishly good time filled with laughter and Halloween memories

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So in this episode of the podcast, Lou and I try and answer a question that has plagued society for quite awhile at this point:  When did the Simpsons NOT suck?  

Get ready as we dive headfirst into the iconic golden years of The Simpsons. From hilarious family dynamics to classic gags that still make us laugh, this episode is a trip down memory lane that any Simpsons fan won't want to miss.

But that's not all! We'll also explore the world of Simpsons video games, from Bart vs. the Space Mutants to Hit & Run, reminiscing about the good, the bad, and the downright bizarre games that have graced our screens.

And to wrap things up, I throw Lou into the spotlight to see how he does with some Simpsons trivia questions!

So, grab a donut, kick back on your favorite couch, and join us for another memorable episode of your favorite Simpsons podcast!

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We've got merch!

Check out the site for some awesome Gen 'S' swag :)

It's a crossover episode, ladies and gentlemen!  So, you may or may not know this, but I host a SECOND podcast, called Beer Before Fear, where my buddy Erik and I review craft beer and horror movies.  

You can check the show at this link to listen to all of the other episodes as well (beerbeforefear.buzzsprout.com) 

So, to kick off the spooky season, I thought it might be fun to share an episode where Erik and I discuss possibly one of the greatest horror movies of the 90s, Scream.  To say it revolutionized and re-invigorated the slasher genre would be an understatement.  This movie twisted, manipulated and exploited almost every slasher movie cliche you could think of, and made something amazing out of it.  

So enjoy this week's episode, and feel free to check out our other Beer Before Fear episodes as well, if it's your thing! 

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In this captivating episode of Generation 'S', we dive deep into the world of espionage, thrilling narratives, and the legacy of the Bourne movies. Join me as I sit down with (future) best-selling author Odian Levy to discuss his highly-anticipated debut novel, "Hummingbird."

To check out the novel for yourself on Amazon, click here.

"Hummingbird" is a pulse-pounding spy thriller that has been making waves in the literary world. Odian shares the inspiration behind the book, the process of crafting a gripping spy narrative, and what readers can expect from this exciting debut.

But that's not all. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as the duo explores how the Bourne movies, particularly  the original Bourne trilogy, played a pivotal role in revitalizing the spy movie genre in the early 2000s. They delve into the impact of Jason Bourne as a character, the visceral action sequences, and how these films transformed the way we view espionage on the silver screen.

From the pages of "Hummingbird" to the iconic scenes of the Bourne series, this episode is a thrilling exploration of the spy genre's evolution and its enduring appeal. Whether you're a fan of gripping spy novels or action-packed movies, this conversation promises to leave you with fresh insights and a renewed appreciation for the world of spies.

Tune in to Generation 'S' for a captivating discussion that bridges the gap between classic espionage and modern storytelling, all while uncovering the secrets behind "Hummingbird" and the Bourne legacy.

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