Laughter Included

Laughter Included

By John McMahon (aka Johnny Mack)ComedySociety & Culture
Download on the App Store

Laughter Included episodes

  • Ski Ball, Side Hustles & Super Bowl Stories (with Duke DeVilling)

    In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we welcome Duke DeVilling—lifelong sports fanatic, entrepreneur, and father of two. Duke takes us through his journey from childhood sports obsession to launching a successful arcade business in New England. We dive into his skeeball league, managing 75 arcade machines, and balancing side hustles with family life. Oh, and did we mention he was there for Super Bowl 51, witnessing the greatest comeback in NFL history?

    We also break down the upcoming Super Bowl matchup and whether anyone can stop Patrick Mahomes, plus some inside stories on managing a championship-winning softball team. This episode is packed with stories, laughs, and a whole lot of sports talk.

    Highlights include:

     • How Duke turned a skeeball hobby into a thriving business
     • The wild world of arcade gaming in bars & breweries
     • The ultimate Super Bowl 51 experience
     • Managing a championship softball team in record time
     • Sports, fatherhood, and balancing it all

    Whether you love sports, side hustles, or just a great underdog story, this episode has something for you.

     

    Timestamps

    00:00 Intro & catching up after a short break

    01:15 Johnny Mack’s 31st wedding anniversary shoutout
    01:35 Introducing Duke DeVilling: sports fanatic & entrepreneur
    02:35 Duke’s childhood & moving from Ohio to North Carolina
    03:38 His father’s football career & Raiders connection
    10:09 College days & joining a fraternity
    13:18 Moving to Boston & embracing the sports culture
    26:31 Being at Super Bowl 51: The ultimate fan experience
    33:14 Managing a championship-winning softball team
    39:50 Turning skeeball into a business & launching SkeeBoston
    46:39 The business of arcade games: 75 machines in 18 locations
    53:04 Balancing work, side hustles, and fatherhood
    1:03:48 Super Bowl predictions & who takes home the trophy
    1:08:48 Next episode teaser: Jack Silva & Mickey Ward boxing stories

     

    Links & Mentions

    In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we welcome Duke DeVilling—lifelong sports fanatic, entrepreneur, and father of two. Duke takes us through his journey from childhood sports obsession to launching a successful arcade business in New England. We dive into his skeeball league, managing 75 arcade machines, and balancing side hustles with family life. Oh, and did we mention he was there for Super Bowl 51, witnessing the greatest comeback in NFL history?

    We also break down the upcoming Super Bowl matchup and whether anyone can stop Patrick Mahomes, plus some inside stories on managing a championship-winning softball team. This episode is packed with stories, laughs, and a whole lot of sports talk.

    Highlights include:

     • How Duke turned a skeeball hobby into a thriving business
     • The wild world of arcade gaming in bars & breweries
     • The ultimate Super Bowl 51 experience
     • Managing a championship softball team in record time
     • Sports, fatherhood, and balancing it all

    Whether you love sports, side hustles, or just a great underdog story, this episode has something for you.

     

    Timestamps

    00:00 Intro & catching up after a short break

    01:15 Johnny Mack’s 31st wedding anniversary shoutout
    01:35 Introducing Duke DeVilling: sports fanatic & entrepreneur
    02:35 Duke’s childhood & moving from Ohio to North Carolina
    03:38 His father’s football career & Raiders connection
    10:09 College days & joining a fraternity
    13:18 Moving to Boston & embracing the sports culture
    26:31 Being at Super Bowl 51: The ultimate fan experience
    33:14 Managing a championship-winning softball team
    39:50 Turning skeeball into a business & launching SkeeBoston
    46:39 The business of arcade games: 75 machines in 18 locations
    53:04 Balancing work, side hustles, and fatherhood
    1:03:48 Super Bowl predictions & who takes home the trophy
    1:08:48 Next episode teaser: Jack Silva & Mickey Ward boxing stories

     

    Links & Mentions:

    New England Gaming Website

    New England Gaming on Instagram
    SkeeBoston Website
    SkeeBoston on Instagram
    Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
    Big Inflatable Pool Bar

     

    Follow us:

    Facebook

    Instagram 

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Twitter

    Join our Newsletter

    Visit the Mack & G Store

    1 hr 10 min
  • Life Before Streaming and Smartphones

    In this episode of The Mack & G Show, Johnny Mack and Ricky G reminisce about growing up in the ‘80s and the simple joys of childhood that shaped a generation. From bike rides and epic arcades to sneaking into movies and school lunch shenanigans, they explore how life then compares to kids’ lives today.

    With candid stories and hilarious reflections, they ponder whether today’s childhood is safer but less adventurous. Highlights include:

     • Biking mishaps and Evel Knievel-inspired jumps

     • Arcade memories: Donkey Kong, Galaga, and Grand Prix
     • The magic of shared TV moments like Happy Days and SNL
     • School lunches and the cookie girl mystery

    Whether you’re nostalgic or just curious, this episode is a trip back in time!

     

    Timestamps

    00:00 Welcome to Episode 15: Nostalgia Wars

    00:39 The city kid vs. country kid perspective
    01:33 Biking adventures: From BMX tricks to epic wipeouts
    04:55 Inside the world of ‘80s arcades and the table game revolution
    09:00 Sneaking into movies and the backdoor hustle
    17:02 Football memories: Tackles, rivalries, and neighborhood legends
    23:30 School lunches, family dinners, and the cookie girl legacy
    34:22 Shared TV culture: Why ‘80s TV brought us together
    42:15 What we’d bring back—or take away—from childhood today

     

    Links & Mentions

    80's Prime Time TV Schedule

    Aladdin's Castle Vintage Tee
    David Letterman Book of Top Ten Lists
    Dragon's Lair (1983) | Full play-through
    Mississippi Street Football Rush Explained
    Mylec Street Hockey Store
    Stranger Things Vintage Bikes
    The TRUTH About Little Mikey and Pop Rocks
    Wheels Plus Facebook Group
    Wireless Retro Gaming Console (20,000+ Games!)X Saves the World: How Generation X Got the Shaft but Can Still Keep Everything from Sucking

     

    Follow us:

    Facebook

    Instagram 

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Twitter

    Join our Newsletter

    Visit the Mack & G Store

    57 min
  • The Best (and the rest) In Streaming

    In this episode of The Mack & G Show, John and Rick break down some of the best streaming shows you should be watching right now. From the dystopian depths of Severance to the twisted games of Squid Game, we explore what makes these series binge-worthy. Plus, we tackle Taylor Sheridan’s ever-expanding universe and the mockumentary genius of What We Do in the Shadows.

    We share personal anecdotes about binge-watching and debate the ultimate question: binge or weekly drops? Packed with humor, insights, and genuine recommendations, this episode is your go-to guide for your next streaming marathon.

     

    Timestamps

    00:00 Welcome to The Mack & G Show, episode intro

    03:28 Streaming shows we’re covering today: quick preview
    06:40 Diving into Severance: slow start, big rewards
    11:38 Squid Game: why the thrill continues
    18:14 Breaking down The Lioness: Taylor Sheridan’s action-packed series
    23:35 Landman: Billy Bob Thornton shines in Taylor Sheridan’s latest
    27:10 Shrinking: Finding humor in grief with Harrison Ford
    31:36 What We Do in the Shadows: A hilarious take on vampires
    39:35 Binge vs. weekly drops: which do you prefer?

     

    Links & Mentions

    Here is Subzero. Now Plain Zero (Arnold in Running Man)

    Rotten Tomatoes Website 
    Stephen Colbert's Hilarious Severance Appearance
    Step Brothers: Sweet Child of Mine (Singing in the Car)
    Squid Game Reality Show
    What We Do in the Shadows: Each Character's Funny

     

    Follow us:

    Facebook

    Instagram 

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Twitter

    Join our Newsletter

    Visit the Mack & G Store

    46 min
  • NFL Playoff Madness, Disney Magic, and Coaching Chaos

    In this episode of The Mack & G Show, John and Rick kick off the new year with a jam-packed discussion about life, football, and everything in between. John recounts his Disney World adventures, complete with laughs, mishaps, and a little bit of magic. Then, the duo dives into the NFL’s wild playoff picture, surprising coach firings, and predictions for who might come out on top.

    Whether you’re a football fanatic or just love a good story, this episode has something for everyone. Get ready for insights, banter, and a whole lot of fun!

     

    Timestamps

    0:00 - Intro: Welcome to Episode 13 of The Mack & G Show!

    1:52 - Disney adventures: John’s surprise trip, park antics, and the most crowded day at Epcot.
    8:58 - NFL playoffs are here: Predictions and reactions to the end of the regular season.
    12:04 - Coaching chaos: Breaking down the firings and future moves.
    13:38 - Patriots drama: Reflecting on the season and what’s next for New England.
    27:24 - Playoff matchups: What teams need to do to win this weekend.
    39:44 - Super Bowl predictions: Who will face off and who we want to see win.
    41:15 - Wrapping up: Listener support, upcoming episode ideas, and more!

     

    Links & Mentions

    Disney Lightning Lane Explained

    New Year’s Eve at Epcot Fireworks Highlights
    NFL Playoff Bracket 2024
    Aaron Rodgers Documentary Trailer
    Tim Robinson NFC North Instagram Post

     

    Follow us:

    Facebook

    Instagram 

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Twitter

    Join our Newsletter

    Visit the Mack & G Store

    44 min
  • Leading the Force and Beyond (with Steve Mazzie)

    In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we’re joined by Steve Mazzie, recently retired Chief of Police from Everett, Massachusetts. With over three decades in law enforcement and a third-generation legacy, Steve reflects on his unique journey—from walking the beat to leading his department as the youngest chief in Everett’s history.

    We also explore life after the badge, including his passion for driftwood art and adventures traveling the globe. From gripping stories of danger and politics to his creative pursuits in retirement, Steve offers a compelling perspective on a life of service and reinvention.

     

    Timestamps

    0:00 - Intro to Episode 12 and Steve Mazzie

    3:21 - Michael Bublé for Christmas Music.  Yes or No?
    4:14  - Steve’s Family Legacy: Three Generations in Law Enforcement
    7:48  - Stress and its Impact on Life Expectancy
    17:25 - The Impact of the Encore on the Metro-Boston Area
    21:44 - The Politics of Being Chief
    27:25 - The Dangers of Being a Police Officer
    30:05 - Steve's Toughest Decision as Police Chief
    35:28 - Best TV Police Shows
    38:10 - Funny Police Moment - Wrong Place, Wrong Time for Woman
    45:25 - Driftwood Art as a Creative Outlet
    56:03 - What About the Drones?
    59:01 - Travel Stories: From Europe to Lessons Learned in the Air
    1:04:20 - Steve's Hail Storm Take-off from Milan
    1:13:35 - Closing Thoughts and Looking Ahead

     

    Links & Mentions

    Encore Boston Harbor Hotel

    Over 50s Travel Bucket List
    Simply Wood: Home Projects with Found Wood
    Steve's Hail Flight from Milan

     

    Follow us:

    Facebook

    Instagram 

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Twitter

    Join our Newsletter

    Visit the Mack & G Store

    1 hr 19 min
  • The Mack & G Christmas Special!

    In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we celebrate the season with our Christmas Special, bringing you a holiday-filled conversation packed with festive laughs and unforgettable moments. From cherished family traditions to hilarious Yankee Swap stories, we’re diving into the joys and chaos of Christmas. Whether it’s debating the best (and worst) Christmas movies or reminiscing about magical Santa moments with the kids, this episode is your ultimate holiday companion.

    We also tackle the challenges of surviving the season, from COVID Christmas chaos to last-minute flat tire adventures. With practical gift ideas for dads, a few good rants, and plenty of humor, we’re here to keep the holiday spirit alive and well. Grab some eggnog, settle in by the fire, and enjoy a dose of candid conversation and holiday cheer!

     

    Timestamps

    0:00 - Episode Intro and Spoiler Alert

    1:20 - What We’re Covering: Traditions, Movies, Music, and More
    2:00 - Shoutout to Jack Silva: Christmas Haircuts and Boxing Stories
    5:02 - Family Traditions: The Seven Fishes, Flat Tires, and Santa Memories
    10:25 - Childhood Christmas Surprises and Star Wars Toys
    14:35 - COVID Christmas: When Plans Go Sideways
    16:42 - Santa Visits and Magical Moments for the Kids
    19:38 - The Responsibility of the Elf on the Shelf
    21:22 - Christmas Movies: The Best, Worst, and Controversial Picks
    30:22 - Christmas Music Debates: Classics, Michael Bublé, and What Drives Ricky Nuts
    37:28 - Gifts for Dads: Practical Ideas and Funny Red Sox Rants
    46:35 - The Great Christmas Debate: Trees, Lights, and Inflatable Yards
    1:00:05 - Things that Annoy Us around Christmas Time
    1:04:36 - Yankee Swap Shenanigans: The Good, Bad, and Awkward
    1:08:38 - Christmas Fun Facts: The Truth About Santa’s Red Suit
    1:12:17 - Wrapping Up: Merry Christmas!

     

    Dad's Christmas Wish List

    Amazon Echo Show 8

    BBC Maestro World-Class Online Courses

    CHAMBERLAIN myQ Smart Garage

    Google Nest Learning Thermostat

    MEATER Plus: Smart Bluetooth Wireless Meat Thermometer

    PGA Tour Superstore

     

    Links & Mentions

    Feast of the Seven Fishes

    Four Christmases on Amazon Prime

    Lionel Trains

    Mack & G's Top Ten Christmas Movie List

    How to Wrap a Present Perfectly Every Time


    Follow us:

    Facebook

    Instagram 

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Twitter

    Join our Newsletter

    Visit the Mack & G Store

    1 hr 15 min
  • Leker Crafting Meals, Muscles & More

    In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we sit down with Ryan Leaker—chef, nutritionist, real estate investor, and former Massachusetts powerlifting record holder. Ryan shares his incredible journey from culinary school in Florida to developing foods you see on grocery store shelves and investing in multi-family properties. Along the way, we dive into hilarious food stories, powerlifting milestones, and what it’s like raising two boys while managing it all.

    Ryan’s candid insights on work-life balance, achieving big goals, and taking risks will inspire and entertain. Plus, we chat about food trends, crazy cooking techniques, and even get his thoughts on the infamous spatchcock method. Don’t miss this fun and inspiring conversation that’ll leave you thinking about your next big move—whether in the kitchen, the gym, or life.

     

    Timestamps

    0:05 - Introduction to Episode 10 and holiday prep discussion

    1:23 - Ricky’s anniversary story (and Zeus eating his Red Sox hat)
    2:11 - Guest intro: Meet Ryan Leaker, a chef, dad, and powerlifting record holder
    3:10 - Crazy food stories and culinary beginnings
    4:15 - Moving from the South to New England: Ryan’s upbringing
    6:50 - Finding winter hobbies: From misery to mastering skiing
    14:25 - Culinary school to product development: Transitioning careers
    25:55 - Behind the scenes of food development for grocery shelves
    34:00 - The Great Oreo Debate
    39:04 - Breaking state powerlifting records: Ryan’s fitness journey
    50:45 - Real estate investing during the pandemic: Lessons learned
    1:00:00 - Balancing life, work, and fitness: Ryan’s advice
    1:02:12 - Closing thoughts and teaser for the next episode

     

    Links & Mentions

    Guide to the Spatchcock Cooking Method

    Michelin Guide history
    Python found in toilet
    Rounders - Teddy KGB and Oreos
    Top Culinary Schools in the U.S.

     

    Follow us:

    Facebook

    Instagram 

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Twitter

    Join our Newsletter

    Visit the Mack & G Store

    1 hr 4 min
  • Skirvin on Finance, Fitness & Fun

    In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we welcome Jesse Skirvin, a Connecticut native with a fascinating story. Jesse shares his journey from being a state athlete in track and field to a successful 15-year career in finance, before making a bold leap into IT and software sales. A certified nutrition coach since 2022, Jesse is passionate about health and fitness, combining his knowledge with personal experience to inspire others.

    Join us as Jesse talks about growing up in Connecticut, lessons learned from managing banks, and the challenges of career transitions. We also delve into his nutrition coaching journey, practical tips for middle-aged men, and fun stories about travel, pets, and history. Don’t miss this engaging and insightful conversation!

     

    Timestamps

    00:30 - Welcome and Intro

    01:54 - Jesse’s Background: Growing up in Farmington, excelling in sports, and lessons from his dad’s Olympic journey
    08:33 - Jesse's sports allegiances
    10:18 - Career Stories: Managing banks and finance horror stories
    17:58 - The leap into IT and sales
    22:27 - Health & Fitness: From intermittent fasting to practical nutrition tips for middle-aged men
    36:18 - Fun & Personal: Jesse’s favorite historical destinations, bucket list travel spots, and hilarious pet stories
    44:25 - Favorite bands and front-men
    46:52 - Best New Haven pizza: Frank Pepe's, Sally's or Modern?
    47:52 - Connecticut Trivia: Test your knowledge with Jesse as we dive into quirky facts about the Nutmeg State
    55:30 - Closing Remarks: What’s next for Jesse and a promise to support his health and fitness journey

     

    Links & Mentions

    Epic Pork Rinds – Jesse favorite pork rinds

    Hippeas Chickpea Puffs, Blazin' Hot
    How The World’s First Burger Was Made At Louis’ Lunch
    Konami Track & Field video game - The Javelin
    LMNT Zero Sugar Electrolytes - Jesse's favorite electrolyte drink mix
    Nature's Way Organic MCT Oil - Jesse’s favorite MCT oil
    Previous YouTube Episode on Fasting
    Riverside.fm - the platform we use for remote recording

     

    Follow us:

    Facebook

    Instagram 

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Twitter

    Join our Newsletter

    Visit the Mack & G Store

    1 hr
  • Mailbag Madness: Tyson, Yellowstone, and Thanksgiving Picks

    Episode 8 is here, and we’re doing something new: our first-ever Mailbag Episode! Join Johnny Mack and Ricky G as they tackle listener questions with their usual humor and charm. From Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul to the chaos of cheerleading competitions and nostalgic family stories, it’s a mix of laughs, hot takes, and heartfelt moments.

    We’re also diving into Yellowstone’s latest season, debating the NFL MVP race, and sharing an incredible story of risk and reward that will leave you inspired. Plus, we wrap it all up with Thanksgiving traditions and your favorite holiday side dishes. Tune in now to see if your question made it to the show!

     

    Timestamps:

    0:30 - Welcoming you to Episode 8 and our first Mailbag episode.

    1:22 - Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul: Breaking down the fight and its aftermath.
    7:55 - Family Guitar Stories: From Fender guitars to childhood music memories.
    11:03 - Cheerleading Competitions: Dad moments, nerves, and rooting etiquette.
    15:50 - Local Fires: Dealing with wildfires and strange theories.
    19:50 - Growing Our Following: A plea for Facebook followers and insights.
    22:20 - Yellowstone Debate: What's great, what's not, and the state of the show.
    31:45 - An Incredible Business Story: Risk, luck, and success in the cable industry.
    40:02 - NFL MVP Debate: Who's leading the charge this season?
    45:32 - Thanksgiving Rapid Fire: Cranberry sauce, stuffing, and family traditions.
    48:39 - Favorite Movie Picks: What we'd watch forever and why.

     

    Links & Mentions

    Best Beginner Guitars on Amazon

    Get Us Over 100 Followers on Facebook

    How to Make Thanksgiving Turkey That Actually Tastes Good

    Kelsey Asbille (Monica from Yellowstone) in Fargo

    Mike Tyson Training Video

    NFL MVP Odds & Stats

    Step Brothers: Are you saying Pan or Pam? Clip

     

    Follow us:

    Facebook

    Instagram 

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Twitter

    Join our Newsletter

    Visit the Mack & G Store

     

    Disclaimer – The opinions expressed in this podcast are for entertainment purposes only and do not constitute professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Some links provided may be affiliate links, meaning we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase. These commissions help support the channel and allow us to continue creating content. Copyright © 2024 The Mack & G Show.

     

    51 min
  • Big Love in Maine: Nicknames, Skiing, and the Perfect Pour

    In this episode, we sit down with John Sorenson, a Maine native whose life story is filled with fascinating twists—from fraternity antics and college nicknames to competitive skiing and a dynamic career in energy consulting. John shares memorable tales of growing up in Camden, Maine, mastering the ‘perfect pour’ at the Guinness Factory, and his ongoing commitment to the University of Maine’s alumni community.

    Join us for a lively and candid conversation as we explore John’s adventures, his love for giving unique nicknames, and his deep ties to Maine’s rugged culture. Plus, we put his local knowledge to the test with a fun round of Maine trivia. It’s a lighthearted and engaging episode packed with stories you won’t want to miss.

     

    Timestamps:

    0:38 - Intro and Welcoming Jon Sorenson

    2:00 - Discussing Maine’s Geography and Common Misconceptions
    3:45 - Growing Up in Camden, Maine
    10:25 - Jon's College Decision
    14:20 - Delta Tau Delta Fraternity
    16:45 - Jon's Fraternity Visits the Tufts Chapter
    20:15 - How Good of a Skier was Jon?
    28:05 - Continued Involvement with UMaine
    31:09 - Helping the Kids
    31:32 - College Nicknames
    36:30 - The Origin of Big Love
    38:42 - Kids Nicknames
    41:00 - Mastering the Perfect Guinness Pour and a Trip to Dublin
    45:32 - Maine Trivia Showdown
    54:10 - Call to Action to our Listeners - Get Involved!
    56:08 - Show Closing

     

    Links & Mentions

    Boston Executive Club of the University of Maine

    Camden, Maine Tourism Guide

    Guinness Storehouse Tour (Dublin, Ireland)

    Jack Sorenson Fitness (Instagram Account)

    University of Maine Alumni Association

     

    Follow us:

    Facebook

    Instagram 

    YouTube

    TikTok

    Twitter

    Join our Newsletter

    Visit the Mack & G Store

     

    Disclaimer – The opinions expressed in this podcast are for entertainment purposes only and do not constitute professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Some links provided may be affiliate links, meaning we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase. These commissions help support the channel and allow us to continue creating content. Copyright © 2024 The Mack & G Show.

    57 min

About Laughter Included

From the publisher's feed

Laughter Included (formerly The Mack & G Show) is a podcast about real life, real laughs, and finding the funny in the chaos of everyday adulthood. Hosted by John McMahon — aka Johnny Mack — and producer Matt Moramarco, the show blends humor, honesty, and a little bit of dad-life chaos.