For this holiday special, Danielle Aubuchon joins me for a warm and nostalgic conversation about two heartfelt Christmas classics. We chat about the gentle charm of “Santa and the Three Bears” and the found-family spirit of “It Happened on Fifth Avenue” while sipping Irish Coffee and exploring themes of kindness, compassion, and the joy of holiday storytelling.

Settle in, pour a cup, and enjoy this cozy holiday episode.

Guest

Danielle Aubuchon

Where to Watch

Santa and the Three Bears (1970)

It Happened on Fifth Avenue (1947)

Where to Buy the Pairings

Redbreast Irish Whiskey

Baileys Irish Cream

Peet’s Coffee

Nespresso Arpeggio Pod

Listen to Reel Beans

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iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-reel-beans-276782796/

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Featuring supporters Casey Haltom & Allen Stafford

In this holiday-themed episode of Reel Beans, we dive into John Hughes’ 1987 comedy classic Planes, Trains & Automobiles — a chaotic, heartfelt journey through travel nightmares, unexpected alliances, and the meaning of connection during the holidays.

Ben revisits the film for the first time, unpacking its blend of humor and tenderness, while supporters Casey and Allen return to offer their own insights on everything from Del’s lovable chaos to Neal’s stressed-out unraveling. Along the way, we take a Coffee Break to explore the history and culture of coffee-to-go, and how our on-the-run relationship with coffee mirrors modern travel—and the movie’s frantic energy.

We also explore one of the film’s most meaningful themes: chosen family. For those who may not have close biological family, or who have lost or been separated from loved ones, the connections we choose can be just as powerful. This theme ties beautifully into the emotional core of the film and into the legacy of John Candy, whose performance as Del Griffith remains one of his most tender and unforgettable roles.

Grab your travel mug, buckle up, and enjoy the ride.

JustWatch Listing (U.S.):

Wikipedia – John Candy:

IMDb – John Candy Filmography:

The disposable cup crisis: what’s the environmental impact of a to-go coffee?

Brewing Change: Transforming the Disposable Coffee Culture (LSE Study)

Coffee Culture and Enjoying Your Routine (University of Texas Abroad Blog)

The Evolution and Influence of Coffee-To-Go

Finding Connection Through Chosen Family — Psychology Today

Where Can I Be Loved and Accepted? The Importance of Chosen Family for LGBTQIA+ Individuals

What “Chosen Family” Means — And How to Build Your Own — Healthline

Podbean:

Apple Podcasts:

Spotify:

Instagram:

Support page:

Merch:

This episode of Real Beans explores the 1994 film adaptation of Little Women, explaining why the host found it deeply moving. It highlights standout performances (Winona Ryder, Claire Danes), Gillian Armstrong’s direction, Thomas Newman’s score, and the film’s quiet realism.

The conversation also examines the story’s themes—sisterhood, independence, identity, sacrifice—and includes personal anecdotes about loss and why certain scenes earned genuine tears. The episode pairs the discussion with a tasting of La Colombe’s Corsica blend and points listeners to where they can watch the film.

We’re sipping La Colombe’s “Corsica” — a bold, chocolatey roast with timeless warmth.

Stream or rent on:

Amazon Prime Video: https://www.amazon.com/Little-Women-Winona-Ryder/dp/B000I9VFBG

Apple TV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7zE6ZjPWz8

Vudu: https://reelbeans.podbean.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4uSX1SA7pQSJiafI4gOHDF

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reel-beans/id1809155140

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reelbeans

Library of America, The Moviegoer – Classic Hollywood’s Little Women:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576813017049

Website: https://reelbeans.com

Merch: https://reelbeans.com/merch

Support: https://reelbeans.com/support

Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (1960) gets the Reel Beans treatment: a tight synopsis, why the shower scene hits differently for modern (desensitized) audiences, and a look at Hitchcock’s storytelling craft and the Marion→Norman shift. Plus, a cozy Coffee Break on Nespresso—how in-room espresso became a symbol of modern hotel comfort—and closing thoughts with first-time reactions from Casey, alongside Allen’s insights. Sip. Watch. Repeat.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reel-beans/id1809155140

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4uSX1SA7pQSJiafI4gOHDF

Podbean: https://www.youtube.com/@reelbeans

Website: https://www.instagram.com/@reel_beans

Peacock: https://www.amazon.com/primevideo (search “Psycho 1960”)

JustWatch (check your region): https://www.nespresso.com/

Nespresso Machines (US): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psycho_(1960_film)

Nespresso Pro (Hotels overview): https://www.nespresso.com/pro/us/en/hotel-coffee-machines

Tasting Table — Hotels with Nespresso in room: https://www.tastingtable.com/1954405/hotels-with-nespresso-machine-in-room/

Quartz — “Nespresso is ruining hotel coffee” (critical take): https://qz.com/quartzy/1170284/nespresso-is-ruining-hotel-coffee

Nespresso Pro — Sofitel partnership (case-style page): https://www.nespresso.com/pro/ca/en/sofitel-nespresso-partnership

Nespresso Story (brand timeline): https://nestle-nespresso.com/about_us/story

Sustainability Magazine — Hospitality priorities (Nespresso survey): https://sustainabilitymag.com/articles/nespresso-survey-sustainability-high-on-hospitality-agenda

Stelliers — On hotel sustainability with Nespresso: https://stelliers.com/news/boost-your-hotels-sustainability-with-nespresso

Host: Ben Schneider

Guests: Casey Haltom, Allen Stafford

Film: Psycho (1960), dir. Alfred Hitchcock

Coffee Pairing: Nespresso

Host Ben Schneider and guest Danielle Aubuchon dive into Halloween nostalgia in this episode, chewing over favorite candies, the cultural pull of the pumpkin spice latte, and two cult animated features: the psychedelic short Witch’s Night Out and Rankin/Bass’s Mad Monster Party.

They break down voice cast highlights, stop‑motion craftsmanship, seasonal traditions, and why these quirky specials still resonate—an invitation to grab a costume, a bowl of candy, and a warm cup for a cozy, spooky watch‑along.

Sip. Watch. Repeat.

Danielle Aubuchon:  https://www.danielleaubuchon.com/

Witch’s Night Out (1978) — cult cartoon about a witch helping kids become their Halloween costumes

Mad Monster Party? (1967) — Rankin/Bass stop-motion classic starring Boris Karloff

Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Ground Coffee (Walmart):

Peet’s Pumpkin Spice Ground (Instacart):

20 Fun PSL Facts (Starbucks): https://about.starbucks.com/stories/2023/hbd-psl-20-fun-facts-about-starbucks-pumpkin-spice-latte

Pumpkin Spice Latte (Wikipedia): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pumpkin_Spice_Latte

Podbean: https://reelbeans.com

2b68a87d11b39bbb562fb424aa2f3d7c0206e9c5

“No Michael Myers. Just masks. And mayhem.”

In this episode of Reel Beans, we dive into one of horror’s most infamous cult classics: Halloween III: Season of the Witch. Joined by special guests Kathryn Horan and Rob Kyle, we discuss the cursed masks of Silver Shamrock, the bizarre mix of witchcraft and sci-fi, and why this Myers-less sequel was reviled in 1982 but has since earned a loyal cult following.

To pair with the film, we’re sipping on Door County Coffee’s Autumn Spice, a nostalgic, cinnamon-clove seasonal blend that warms up the chilly vibes of this VHS-era oddity.

📚 Research & Sources

Den of Geek – Halloween III: The Inside Story of a Cult Classic (2022)

CinemaBlend – I Understand Why Halloween III Was Hated Upon Release, But Here’s Why I Wish It Became a Hit (2025)

Wikipedia – Halloween III: Season of the Witch (Production, Reception, Legacy)

Roger Ebert – Original 1982 review of Halloween III

The New York Times (Vincent Canby) – 1982 Review

Door County Coffee – Company History & Autumn Spice blend

Door County Coffee Wholesale – Bean Grading & Roasting Info

☕ Coffee Pairing

Door County Coffee – Autumn Spice

🎧 Listen & Subscribe

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reelbeans

Podbean: https://reelbeans.podbean.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reel-beans/id1809155140

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4uSX1SA7pQSJiafI4gOHDF

☕ Support & Merch

Official Website: https://reelbeans.com

Merch Store: https://reelbeans.com/merch

Support Reel Beans: https://reelbeans.com/support

📲 Follow Reel Beans

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel_beans

#ReelBeansPodcast #ReelBeans #HalloweenIII #CoffeeAndFilm #PodcastCommunity #FilmPodcast #ClassicFilms #halloween #Sisterhood #FeministFilms #NowStreaming #johncarpenter

Good evening, and welcome to Reel Beans. In this episode, we sink our teeth into Hammer Films’ Horror of Dracula (1958), where Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing redefined Gothic horror for a new generation. We’ll explore how Hammer blended raw menace with Technicolor elegance, much like the blend of Robusta and Arabica beans in today’s featured brew: Death Wish Coffee’s Dark Roast.

From the paranoia of vampire epidemics to the artistry of Hammer’s sets and costumes, join me for a moody journey into the Gothic and the caffeinated. Whether you’re a longtime fan of classic monsters or just stepping into the crypt for the first time, this is the perfect gateway into Hammer Horror.

So pour yourself a strong cup — this one lingers, bold and unforgettable.

Podbean: https://www.youtube.com/@ReelBeansPodcast

Learn more: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dracula_(1958_film)

Arabica vs. Robusta Coffee: https://www.foodandwine.com/arabica-and-robusta-coffee-differences-11737998

Official Website: https://reelbeans.com

Coffee Recommendations: https://reelbeans.com/support

Instagram: https://instagram.com/reel_beans

In Part Two of Reel Beans Episode 10 – Nitro Beams & B-Movie Dreams, Ben and guest co-host Danielle Aubuchon return to the strange and wondrous world of This Island Earth. Picking up where Part One left off, they dig deeper into the film’s alien encounters, behind-the-scenes stories, and lasting influence on the sci-fi genre. All while sipping on smooth nitro cold brew. If you missed Part One, please listen here. 

This finale also explores other iconic and cult 1950s sci-fi films, including:

• RISE Brewing Co. – Nitro Cold Brew

• Learn more about nitro coffee

• This Island Earth (1955) – Directed by Joseph M. Newman

• Danielle Aubuchon – Official Website

• Danielle Aubuchon – IMDb

• Podcast Website: https://reelbeans.com

In this milestone 10th episode of Reel Beans, host Ben Schneider is joined by special guest and fellow film enthusiast Danielle Aubuchon. Together, they dive into the 1955 sci-fi cult classic This Island Earth, exploring its groundbreaking visuals, peculiar alien designs, and enduring cultural legacy.

As they sip on smooth, nitrogen-infused coffee from RISE Brewing Co., Ben and Danielle discuss everything from interocitors and Metalunans to the film’s surprising influence on future sci-fi. Whether you're a die-hard fan of 1950s cinema or just here for the nitro brew, this episode is a caffeine-fueled journey to the stars.

☕ Part one sets the stage for a nostalgic, otherworldly conversation, so don’t miss part two next week!

• RISE Brewing Co. – Nitro Cold Brew

• Learn more about nitro coffee

• This Island Earth (1955) – Directed by Joseph M. Newman

• Danielle Aubuchon – Official Website

• Danielle Aubuchon – IMDb

• Podcast Website: https://reelbeans.com

#ReelBeans, #CoffeeAndFilm, #PodcastEpisode10, #ThisIslandEarth, #1950sSciFi, #CultCinema, #ClassicSciFi, #BNovies, #RiseBrewingCo, #NitroColdBrew, #CoffeePodcast, #FilmPodcast, #RetroSciFi, #Metaluna, #MovieBuffs, #SciFiFans, #CaffeineAndCinema, #SciFiNostalgia, #AlienInvasion, #DanielleAubuchon

We’re stepping into the glittering yet crumbling world of 1930s high society with George Cukor’s Dinner at Eight (1933), a witty screwball comedy featuring an all-star cast: Jean Harlow, Marie Dressler, Billie Burke, Lionel Barrymore, and John Barrymore. In this episode, I explore the film’s themes of social facades, dinner party politics, and the symbolism of an elaborate aspic dish that holds everything together, until it doesn’t.

For our coffee pairing, we’re brewing Allegro’s Moka Java in a French Press, a centuries-old coffee blend with rich notes of chocolate and spice, perfect for savoring over dessert.

We’ll talk about scene-stealing performances, the art of the dinner party, the cultural history of aspic, and how glamour can sometimes be a coping mechanism.

Allegro Coffee: https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/product/allegro-coffee-mocha-java

Bodum French Press: https://www.bodum.com/

Amazon French Press Selection: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=french+press+coffee+maker

Amazon Prime Video: https://www.amazon.com/Dinner-at-Eight-Lionel-Barrymore/dp/B0026LYP1K

Apple TV: https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/dinner-at-eight/umc.cmc.1ds3x6q5z2d3fwk5v7rku33h1

DVD/Blu-ray on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dinner-at-Eight-Lionel-Barrymore/dp/B00006L957

Mocha Java Coffee – A Comprehensive Guide (Weaver’s Coffee):

Dinner at Eight (1933 film) – Wikipedia:

Mocha Java Coffee – The World’s Oldest Coffee Blend (Volcanica Coffee):

Wikipedia – Aspic: for its origins, definition, and culinary uses.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/reel_beans

Merch: https://reelbeans.com/merch

Support: https://reelbeans.com/support

Listen on Podbean: https://reelbeans.podbean.com