John collects some unapologetic wisdom from Big K’s brother, bets on NASCAR, and enjoys all that the State High School Hockey Tourney has to offer. 

It’s State Tourney weekend and John wonders if he’s still a man if he can’t grill, takes inspiration from a hockey coach, and finally gets some appropriate pickleball attire. 

John checks in with a friend from Boston, who breaks it all down: we only have so much time to have a good time. That means no more ticking the box. Plus, Kings of Leon are back and they’re greasy again. 

John shares stories from his KC trip, reminds us to wear red on Valentine’s, and shares strategy from a highly competitive Super Bowl party. He somehow manages to offer us wisdom while staring down the barrel of a couple bags of miniature peanut butter cups. 

John shares some wisdom from Bob Buford’s book “Halftime,” drinks sake, celebrates Stacey’s 50th Fortnight, enjoys the Grammy’s, and reminds us all that like Billy Joel says on his first new song in thirty years, it’s never too late to turn the lights back on. 

SMCD celebrates 200 episodes, and Stacey turns 50. Wow! A lot to cover including a trip to Stewartville, the continued demise of the club sandwich, and wondering if guys shouldn’t go on walks alone. 

John is enjoying the sound of two hands clapping, and hopes you are too. He sneezes from popcorn salt and visits a crowded steam room before sharing wisdom from his pilot brother and finding religion at the Opry. 

John mixes up the format, sharing the wisdom of others, starting with Sweet Lou. He also got an electric blanket and is pretty sure the universe sent him a message via Willie Nelson. 

John responds to some listener feedback on R-E-S-P-E-C-T, realizing sometimes the best response in today’s all too certain world is, simply, “maybe?”  

One week into 2024, John is digging into the batter’s box and trying to see the picture more clearly using discipline to eliminate a few things. He also learns the best way to remove darts from the dartboard.