In this installment of Blowing Smoke, we tackle Mad Men’s fifth episode of season one, 5G. Don Draper’s carefully crafted life begins to crack as a figure from his mysterious past reappears, threatening the foundation of his new identity. Meanwhile, Pete Campbell finds himself grappling with jealousy and ambition as Ken Cosgrove’s unexpected literary success stirs up rivalries within the office. Along the way, we highlight the standout moments (good, bad, and ugly) in our awards segment. Come for Don’s unraveling, stay for a glimpse into the Charlie Fiddich publication dynasty.

Intro theme music composed by Dar Golan.

As always, please like, subscribe, rate, and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever else you listen! Got thoughts or questions? Email us at [email protected].

Welcome back to yet another edition of Blowing Smoke! In this installment, we’re diving into Mad Men’s fourth episode of season one, New Amsterdam. Pete Campbell is juggling the chaos of newlywed life and his first big campaign pitch—spoiler alert: it’s a bumpy ride. Meanwhile, Betty finds herself playing confidante to a neighbor in need, navigating the tricky complexities of suburban life. We break down the power plays, awkward moments, and cultural expectations that seem to keep all of our characters in the tightest of chokeholds. Along the way, we hand out our awards for the best (and most cringeworthy) moments. Come for Pete’s so-so attempts at success, stay for his father Andrew’s memorably horrible single-scene appearance. But have no fear, Andrew-hive—he more than makes his mark.

Intro theme music composed by Dar Golan.

As always, please like, subscribe, rate, and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever else you listen! Got thoughts or questions? Email us at [email protected].

In the latest installment of Blowing Smoke, we delve into Mad Men’s third episode of the first season, Marriage of Figaro: Don Draper’s enigmatic past begins to surface amidst a backdrop of suburban parties and workplace relationships. From Don’s disconnection at Sally’s birthday celebration to Peggy’s growing curiosity about her role in the office, join us as we explore how the episode blends the personal and professional worlds seamlessly. Along the way, we unpack the cultural undercurrents of 1960s suburbia while highlighting key moments in our awards segment. Come for the surprise introduction of Polly (doggy), stay for a piece of Sarah Lee cake (just one though).

Intro theme music composed by Dar Golan.

As always, please like, subscribe, rate, and review us on all of our channels, which include Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Contact us at [email protected] with your questions and comments.

In this new installment, we delve into Mad Men’s second episode of the first season, Ladies Room, where personal and professional tensions simmer beneath the surface at Sterling Cooper. From Betty Draper’s mysterious struggles to Peggy Olson’s evolving role in the office, we explore how the show deepens its character dynamics and themes. Along the way, we unpack the cultural undercurrents of 1960s gender norms and highlight key moments in our awards segment. Have no fear, new winners and losers emerge!

Intro theme music composed by Dar Golan.

As always, please like, subscribe, rate, and review us on all of our channels, which include Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Contact us at [email protected] with your questions and comments.

In our commentary for the pilot episode of Mad Men, we’re introduced to the dazzling yet cutthroat world of the Sterling Cooper Advertising Agency. Join us as we meet Don Draper and the rest of the iconic cast for the first time, unpack the themes and aesthetics that set the tone for the series, and dive into the creative chaos of 1960s advertising. Plus, we debut our recurring awards segment, highlighting standout moments, performances, and, of course, the best smoke-filled scenes. Light up and listen as we kick off our journey into the world of Mad Men.

Intro theme music composed by Dar Golan.

As always, please like, subscribe, rate, and review us on all of our channels, which include Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Contact us at [email protected] with your questions and comments.

In the premiere episode of Blowing Smoke: The Officially Unofficial Mad Men Podcast, we introduce you to the show’s format and discuss what you can expect from this deep dive into one of television's most iconic series. Hear about how we were first introduced to the show, what drew us to its world of sharp suits, sharper dialogue, and the haze of 1960s advertising culture, and how the show's themes continue to resonate with us to this day. We also share our hopes and expectations for revisiting and rediscovering the series episode by episode. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Sterling Cooper, this is the perfect starting (or should we say jumping off) point for our journey through the smoky, stylish world of Mad Men.

Intro theme music composed by Dar Golan.

As always, please like, subscribe, rate, and review us on all of our channels, which include Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Contact us at [email protected] with your questions and comments.