The Ben Maynard Program

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Four decades can pass in the blink of an eye, especially when the soundtrack is this good. Take a musical journey back to 1985, a year that delivered some of the most influential albums in rock history, now incredibly turning 40 years old. From commercial juggernauts to artistic breakthroughs, these fifteen albums helped define not just a year, but an entire musical era.

The mid-80s represented a perfect moment where artistic expression and commercial viability created generation-defining masterpieces. Phil Collins' "No Jacket Required" dominated airwaves with five hit singles and 25 million copies sold worldwide. Dire Straits' "Brothers in Arms" revolutionized production standards while moving 30 million units globally. And who could forget Heart's self-titled comeback that delivered four top-10 hits despite the Wilson sisters' later misgivings about their glamorous image makeover?

This episode also celebrates remarkable career revivals—John Fogerty returning triumphantly after a decade with "Centerfield," Aerosmith reuniting their classic lineup on "Done With Mirrors" to launch their massive comeback, and Simple Minds capitalizing on "The Breakfast Club" success with "Once Upon A Time." We explore how MTV's growing cultural dominance shaped these albums' trajectories, helping transform bands like Mötley Crüe, INXS, and Mr. Mister into household names. And discover why The Outfield's perfect power-pop debut "Play Deep" deserves more recognition beyond their hit "Your Love." Whether these albums formed your teenage soundtrack or you're discovering them for the first time, their influence remains undeniable. Subscribe to the Ben Maynard Program wherever you get your podcasts or on YouTube, and help us reach 500 subscribers this year!

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What happens when a podcast host consumes nine shots of tequila over two hours while tracking every change in his speech, coordination, and blood alcohol level? Ben Maynard's "Drunk Show" delivers a raw, unfiltered look at alcohol's progressive effects on the human body and mind — creating perhaps the most authentic public service announcement about responsible drinking you'll ever witness.

With St. Patrick's Day approaching, Ben transforms his regular Friday night livestream into a sobering demonstration with his daughter Tess serving as both observer and safety monitor. The episode unfolds as a real-time experiment: one shot every ten minutes, breathalyzer tests charting his journey from 0.007 to 0.12 BAC, and a field sobriety test that removes any doubt about alcohol's impact on motor skills.

What makes this episode particularly powerful is watching Ben's transformation. Early on, he maintains his typical conversational style while discussing music, sharing stories, and engaging with viewers. But as the shots accumulate, viewers witness his speech pattern slow, his thought process become fragmented, and his movements grow increasingly uncoordinated. By the ninth shot, even Ben acknowledges, "Forget about it. I'm blitzed."

Beyond the experiment itself, Ben delivers heartfelt warnings about drinking and driving, the dangers of lowered inhibitions, and how alcohol affects different body types differently. "Ladies, I'm looking out for you," he emphasizes, explaining how someone smaller than his 202-pound frame would feel the effects much faster.

Whether you're planning St. Patrick's Day celebrations or just want to understand alcohol's real effects, this episode offers valuable perspective without preaching. Subscribe to The Ben Maynard Program wherever you get your podcasts, and remember his parting message: "I do this so you don't have to."

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Thanks for listening! Follow me on Instagram: benmaynardprogram 
and subscribe to my YouTube channel: THE BEN MAYNARD PROGRAM
I also welcome your comments. email: [email protected]

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Join me in this energetic episode of the Ben Maynard Program as we launch into a lively Friday Night Live filled with laughter and community interaction. Kicking things off is a warm welcome, followed by the thrilling Malort Challenge—a test of daring for those brave enough to join in on the fun. You’ll hear not only playful banter and surprising anecdotes, but also a deeper discussion on responsible drinking, especially as we prepare for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

During this episode, we touch on celebrity birthdays, reliving notable moments through both fun and enlightening facts. A highlight comes from my recent experience as a guest on Larry Reedy’s podcast, where I share insights into the joy of community conversations. The chat adds a layer of connection, making us realize that these exchanges matter.

We culminate with a special announcement about next week’s "drunk show," aimed at delivering an important message on alcohol awareness right before the festivities kick off. You won’t want to miss this engaging and thought-provoking episode! Remember to subscribe, tune in, and join our vibrant community discussions through comments, likes, and shares. Your thoughts and stories are what make this experience meaningful for everyone involved—let’s raise a glass to that!

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Thanks for listening! Follow me on Instagram: benmaynardprogram 
and subscribe to my YouTube channel: THE BEN MAYNARD PROGRAM
I also welcome your comments. email: [email protected]

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What if a simple shot of Malort could change the course of your Friday night? Welcome to a packed episode of the Ben Maynard program, where we tackle everything from technical glitches to new camera angles, all while keeping you entertained with the infamous Malort Challenge and our fan-favorite music trivia game, Stump the Chump. Whether you're tuning in on YouTube or Instagram, your engagement fuels the fun as we navigate through this live session with laughter, antics, and maybe a few unpleasant sips of Malort.

Join me and my buddy Spaz as we celebrate the legends nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, including iconic names like Bad Company, Mariah Carey, and Oasis. We'll also toast to memorable birthdays, from the late, great Alan Rickman to my cousin in West Virginia, all while reminiscing about the significance of National Margarita Day and George Washington's birthday. With Spaz's uncontainable enthusiasm adding an extra spark to our conversations, this episode brims with personal anecdotes and a vibrant celebration of musical nostalgia.

Explore the intricacies of the fan voting process for the Rock Hall and the notable omissions that always stir up debate. We'll share insights on why artists like Ted Nugent and Iron Maiden have been overlooked and bring you a glimpse into my collaboration with Larry Reidy on his podcast, "Larry Reidy's America." As we swap lists of top songs and movies, you'll also hear about my top 10 rock favorites, perfect for energizing your day. From celebrating past triumphs with my baseball team, the Tough Guys, to offering a fresh tour of the studio filled with personal memorabilia, we promise a lively adventure in this episode.

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Thanks for listening! Follow me on Instagram: benmaynardprogram 
and subscribe to my YouTube channel: THE BEN MAYNARD PROGRAM
I also welcome your comments. email: [email protected]

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How can an artist as influential as Chubby Checker not be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? Join us on a heartfelt journey as we reconnect with my dear friend Spaz and ponder this and other mysteries surrounding the 2025 nominees. We reminisce about our past collaboration celebrating Foreigner's induction, and this Valentine's Day episode adds a special touch to our discussions. With our cherished bi-monthly meetups bridging the miles between us, we share stories of friendship and the music that binds us all. 

We dive headfirst into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's nomination process, shining a spotlight on bands like Bad Company, who, despite their monumental contributions, have yet to receive a nod. Spaz and I share our thoughts on potential candidates, exploring the unique cases of artists like Mariah Carey, whose rock music connections stir debate, and Oasis, whose reunion reignites their relevance. We examine the complex dynamics of the Hall of Fame, from hip-hop's inclusion with Outkast to the overlooked brilliance of bands like REO Speedwagon and Styx.

As we wrap up, we champion the legacies of icons like Loverboy and Rick Springfield while making a compelling case for Phil Collins' solo recognition. Our passion for rock music shines through as we express our goals for growing the Ben Maynard Program, emphasizing the importance of community and connection. Despite the absence of financial motivation, our dedication to celebrating music and fostering listener engagement remains our driving force. Tune in for a journey through rock history, personal stories, and the enduring power of friendship and music.

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Thanks for listening! Follow me on Instagram: benmaynardprogram 
and subscribe to my YouTube channel: THE BEN MAYNARD PROGRAM
I also welcome your comments. email: [email protected]

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This episode highlights the importance of personal connections, reflecting on a recent work trip to Seattle, memorable moments with family, and commemorating the legacy of musician John Sykes. We celebrate friendship and impending life changes, while discussing the joys of being asked to be a best man at 59 and the impact of building community ties. 
• Reflecting on a work trip to Seattle and family connections 
• Remembering the musical legacy of John Sykes 
• Celebrating friendship and life at 59 as best man 
• Sharing cookies and laughter during a brewery event 
• The significance of reconnecting with childhood friends 
• Exploring plans for future podcast content and audience engagement

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Thanks for listening! Follow me on Instagram: benmaynardprogram 
and subscribe to my YouTube channel: THE BEN MAYNARD PROGRAM
I also welcome your comments. email: [email protected]

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Have you ever wondered what it's like to juggle a bustling work trip while keeping up with a 36-week workout streak? Join me, as I broadcast live from the unexpectedly sunny Seattle, where I've embarked on a two-week work adventure that might just stretch into a month. From recording in a hotel room with less-than-ideal lighting to indulging in local delicacies like donuts and Philly cheesesteaks, this episode is packed with tales of adaptation and exploration. We even toy with the idea of spicing up next week's stream by hitting a bar and grill. Your subscriptions, notifications, and comments fuel our energy, and I'm thrilled to share my Seattle escapades with you.

Switching gears, we journey into the world of sports nostalgia, celebrating the legendary George Foreman's incredible boxing comeback at 45, and marvel at his post-boxing success with the George Foreman Grill. However, it's not all celebratory as we confront the serious and pressing issue of fires ravaging Southern California. Sharing a personal connection to the area, I express my frustration over the lack of preventive measures and the disappointing local political response—underscoring the need for accountability in disaster management. Balancing moments of joy with a call for change, this episode promises laughter, reflection, and a heartfelt plea for better solutions. Stay tuned for more real-time updates, and don't miss out on our future live streams! #tellyourstory #familymatters #thebenmaynardprogram #podcast #syscoseattle #californiawildfires #prayforsocal

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Thanks for listening! Follow me on Instagram: benmaynardprogram 
and subscribe to my YouTube channel: THE BEN MAYNARD PROGRAM
I also welcome your comments. email: [email protected]

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What a whirlwind of a year it has been! As we stand on the brink of 2025, join me, Ben Maynard, for a special New Year's Eve edition where we reminisce about the monumental moments from 2024. From reaching the 50th episode milestone around Father's Day to celebrating our 75th episode just in time for New Year's Eve, it's been an incredible journey. Whether you're partying the night away or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this episode promises to be a delightful companion as we reflect on the past and eagerly anticipate the future.

Looking ahead, I'm thrilled to share some exciting news—I'll be broadcasting from Seattle for most of January! With my essentials packed, expect more engaging content and maybe a few surprises along the way. Your support and engagement have been the cornerstone of this journey, so whether you've been with us from the start or are just tuning in, thank you for being a part of this community. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead, brimming with new adventures and milestones. Let's take on 2025 together!#tellyourstory #familymatters #thebenmaynardprogram #podcast #happynewyear2025

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Thanks for listening! Follow me on Instagram: benmaynardprogram 
and subscribe to my YouTube channel: THE BEN MAYNARD PROGRAM
I also welcome your comments. email: [email protected]

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Picture this: you're planning an epic holiday-themed podcast episode only to face technical glitches and missing materials. That's precisely how our latest episode kicks off! Join us as we navigate this organized chaos, sprinkle in some housekeeping notes, and recount personal tales of how illness disrupted past Thanksgiving plans. Despite the hurdles, we're amped up for our Christmas special, ready to wing it if necessary, while expressing sincere gratitude for your unwavering support.

With the release of our 74th episode, we're in a festive mood, reflecting on over a year of podcasting triumphs. Delve into the memories of our top five episodes, featuring unforgettable conversations with luminaries like Kim Curry and veterans Larry Reedy and Ronnie Geyer. Larry himself surprises us with a call, filling the air with Christmas cheer and marking the podcast's growing international audience—shout out to Singapore, our second-largest listener base!

The spirit of the season shines through as we share cherished family traditions and holiday gatherings. Larry Reedy paints a vivid picture of his family's Christmas plans, and we brainstorm recording holiday greetings for our podcast listeners. The episode bubbles with warmth as we mix a unique holiday drink with Pepper, explore favorite Christmas tunes, and relish the joy of connecting through the podcast. From humorous family dynamics to heartfelt holiday wishes, join us for a lively, festive broadcast that's sure to uplift your spirits.#tellyourstory #familymatters #thebenmaynardprogram #twasthenightbeforechristmas #thebirthofjesus #thereasonfortheseason 

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Thanks for listening! Follow me on Instagram: benmaynardprogram 
and subscribe to my YouTube channel: THE BEN MAYNARD PROGRAM
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What happens when a military hero faces battles of a different kind after service? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Garret Biss, a retired Marine Corps pilot, who shares his transformative journey from a structured military life to the unpredictable civilian world. Garret's candid recollections provide a rare glimpse into the mental health struggles that veterans often encounter, including anxiety, depression, and addiction. Through his powerful story, Garrett sheds light on the importance of self-worth, mentorship, and rediscovering personal strengths as vital components of recovery. 

We unravel the complex relationship between military service and personal identity, exploring the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. The sense of loss and the struggle to find new purpose can be overwhelming, often leading to a dangerous path of self-doubt and isolation. Our dialogue extends to the societal perceptions of sacrifice and value within the military culture, which can hinder veterans from seeking the help they desperately need. By examining these intricate dynamics, we hope to foster a deeper understanding and encourage supportive conversations around the veteran community.

This episode isn't just about highlighting the struggles but also about celebrating the triumphs. Garret brings attention to initiatives like Valiant Path and Warrior Reset, which are playing a crucial role in supporting veterans. We discuss the significance of community and proactive mental health measures in addressing high rates of veteran suicides. As we wrap up, I reflect on the heartfelt gratitude we owe to those who serve and the continuous impact of their sacrifices. Don't miss this compelling episode that not only informs but also inspires action in supporting our veterans’ journey toward healing and growth.If you're a veteran or know a veteran who might be struggling with civilian life and addiction reach out: unspokentrauma.vet or thewarriorreset.com #tellyourstory #familymatters #thebenmaynardprogram #garretbiss #valientpath #unspokentrauma #thewarriorreset   

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on Instagram: benmaynardprogram 
and subscribe to my YouTube channel: THE BEN MAYNARD PROGRAM
I also welcome your comments. email: [email protected]