Episode Notes:

Grab your eggnog and snuggle close as we take a trip back in time to a cozy Christmas Eve in 2020 with your favorite insomniacs! Join Amanda Barker, Marco Timpano, and special guest Dan Barker as they wish you a very Merry Christmas from a bygone era.

• Soothing Bells and Running Water: Settle in to the gentle clinking of wind chimes and the calming sound of a nearby stream. It's the perfect backdrop for a night of reminiscing and holiday cheer.

• Memories from an Old Schoolhouse: Dan takes us on a nostalgic journey to the historic home he lovingly restored and called his own for a while. Imagine crackling fireplaces and Christmas ornaments nestled amongst vintage knick-knacks.

• Birding Delights: Dan, our resident nature enthusiast, shares his feathered friends he's met throughout the year, including a trio of mallards who frequent the canal.

• Yuletide Traditions: From Marco's meticulous stocking-stuffing rituals to Dan's childhood memories of his dad playing Santa, we delve into the heartwarming traditions that make Christmas so special.

• Planes, Books, and Baitcasters: Listen to the rumble of airplanes overhead as Marco reflects on his unique stocking tradition and his thoughtful approach to gift-giving for his father-in-law. Dan, meanwhile, reveals his impressive book collection and his childhood dream of becoming a fisherman, a dream fueled by a very special Christmas present.

• Basement Aquariums and Santa Secrets: Dive into Dan's aquatic past as he recalls the days his basement housed a miniature ocean of aquariums. And Amanda gets candid about her own Santa Claus experiences, both as a child and as a witness to her dad's jolly transformation.

• Santa School for Everyone: Aspiring holiday gift-givers, take note! Dan shares his sage advice for pulling off the perfect Santa Claus impersonation this Christmas.

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So tune in, curl up, and let the gentle voices of The Insomnia Project lull you into a peaceful Christmas slumber. And remember, no matter what year it is, the warmest wishes and fondest memories can always transport you back to a simpler, cozier time.

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Bookish Delights and Holiday Reads: A Literary Feast with Linda Morra

Transport yourself into the world of literary joy with The Insomnia Project's special episode featuring Linda Morra, the brilliant host and creator of the Getting Lit With Linda podcast. Originally recorded in 2022, Linda joins hosts Marco Timpano for a delightful conversation brimming with book recommendations and holiday reading tips.

Linda kicks off the episode by sharing her reading recommendations for the holidays, offering a diverse selection of books to suit various tastes. The trio then explores Linda's guilty pleasure magazine, which leans toward the fashionable side, adding a touch of glamour to the literary discussion.

The heart of the episode lies in Linda's insightful recommendations for holiday books, catering to avid readers and those looking for the perfect gift for book-loving friends. The hosts delve into the art of selecting books for people you know well or even those you may not know as intimately, like a friendly barista.

A burst of creativity emerges as Marco concocts a variety of gift ideas for his book-loving friend, creating a delightful atmosphere filled with joy and laughter. The episode unfolds as a literary feast, inviting listeners to indulge in the pleasure of holiday reading and thoughtful book gifting.

Connect with The Insomnia Project on Instagram (@theinsomniaproject) and Twitter (@listenandsleep) for more tranquil content. Explore additional episodes and content on their website at [theinsomniaproject.com](https://theinsomniaproject.com). For those seeking a unique holiday gift, consider subscribing to their Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/theinsomniaproject

As the episode concludes, the hosts and Linda extend warm wishes for a holiday season filled with literary delights and shared moments of laughter and joy.

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A Merry Podcast Odyssey with Bil Antoniou

In this festive episode of The Insomnia Project, Marco Timpano are joined by the delightful Bil Antoniou from the podcast Bad Gay Movies.

The episode kicks off with soothing music by Grand_Project, setting the perfect tone for a holiday-themed discussion.

Bil shares the story of how he ventured into podcasting, offering insights into his love for the medium. As the conversation unfolds, Bil reveals his holiday strategies, emphasizing the joy of powering down during the festive season. The hosts and Bil delve into the realm of holiday films, with a spotlight on Bil's favourite, "Meet Me in St. Louis," and a delightful exploration of Judy Garland's acting prowess.

The discussion takes a spirited turn as the trio explores holiday drinks, leading to Bil's preference for the Classic Martini and a humorous take on Gloria Estefan's Christmas album. Bil regales the audience with hilarious holiday stories about his mom and her legendary parties, adding a touch of merriment to the conversation.

The episode takes an unexpected turn as Bil recounts his adventure in acquiring a Dollywood ornament, sparking a lively discussion about Dolly Parton and a delightful "Dolly moment" on the show. Bil shares heartwarming stories about his niece and the gifts he cherishes, wrapping up the episode on a warm note.

Listeners can connect with The Insomnia Project on Instagram (@theinsomniaproject) and Twitter (@listenandsleep), or explore additional content on their website at theinsomniaproject.com For those seeking a special holiday gift, consider subscribing to their Patreon at www.patreon.com/theinsomniaproject.

As the episode concludes, Amanda, Marco, and Bil extend warm holiday wishes, leaving listeners with a sense of festive joy and the anticipation of more delightful moments in the new year.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/the-insomnia-project.

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Stockings, Lifesavers, and Chocolate Oranges: A Festive Throwback

Step into the holiday time machine with The Insomnia Project as hosts Amanda Barker and Marco Timpano revisit the festive season of 2020. The episode kicks off with a cozy discussion about fireplaces and stockings, meandering into the intriguing world of unique holiday traditions.

The hosts share anecdotes about their friend Jeff's Hannukah stocking, sparking conversations about mantle materials and the nostalgic story of Amanda's mom crafting handmade stockings. The deep or shallow stocking debate ensues, leading to a spirited discussion on whether the gifts inside should be wrapped or left au naturel.

As the holiday banter unfolds, Marco claims the existence of a 'rum raisin' flavor of Lifesavers in holiday Lifesaver books, setting the stage for a lively debate on Santa's preferred gift-delivery methods. Amanda takes a trip down memory lane, recounting the contrasting experiences of receiving a "Get in Shape Girl" versus her sister's coveted Barbie Townhouse.

The hosts explore the tradition of finding mandarins and walnuts nestled in stockings, sharing nostalgic tales of holiday citrus. The conversation takes a sweet turn with a discussion on Terry's chocolate oranges and the sheer joy of smashing them open.

Listeners can follow The Insomnia Project on Instagram (@theinsomniaproject) and Twitter (@listenandsleep) for more tranquility. Visit their website at [theinsomniaproject.com](https://theinsomniaproject.com) to explore additional content. For those in search of a unique holiday gift, consider subscribing to their Patreon at www.patreon.com/theinsomniaproject

As the episode wraps up, Amanda and Marco extend warm holiday wishes, leaving listeners with a sense of festive nostalgia and the anticipation of more tranquil moments to come.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/the-insomnia-project.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wrapping, Reindeer Games, and Nog Delights: A Festive Extravaganza with Leslie Seiler

In this festive episode of The Insomnia Project originally recorded in 2020, Marco Timpano are joined by the spirited Leslie Seiler, creating a lively atmosphere filled with holiday cheer. The trio dives into the heartwarming aspects of the season, beginning with a jovial discussion about the joyous tradition of holiday clothing.

As the holiday magic unfolds, Marco and Leslie embark on an exploration of the art of gift-wrapping. From the type of paper to the best techniques, they share insights into the age-old question of wrapping in the same paper or different patterns. Marco unveils the whimsical "Frankenwrapping" technique, adding a playful touch to the gift-giving tradition.

The hosts and their guest transition to the realm of ornaments, discussing the joy of decorating the Christmas tree. Leslie provides recommendations and tips, infusing the conversation with nostalgic tales of favorite ornaments. The enigmatic Christmas pickle makes a delightful appearance, adding a touch of mystery to the festivities.

Amidst the merriment, the hosts express their love for the holiday season, sharing their fondness for Egg Nog and the art of crafting the perfect homemade batch. Leslie introduces her unique "reindeer games," bringing a playful element to the holiday spirit. The conversation expands to include economical holiday ideas and the joy of charitable giving during this festive time.

Listeners are invited to join The Insomnia Project in this delightful journey through wrapping traditions, reindeer games, and nog delights. Connect with the podcast on Instagram (@theinsomniaproject) and Twitter (@listenandsleep), and find a tranquil oasis on their website at [theinsomniaproject.com](https://theinsomniaproject.com). For those seeking special holiday gifts, consider subscribing to their Patreon at www.patreon.com/theinsomniaproject

As the episode concludes, Amanda, Marco, and Leslie extend warm wishes for a joyful holiday season, leaving listeners with a heart full of festive inspiration and the spirit of togetherness.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/the-insomnia-project.

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Cosmic Celebrations and Bagel Chronicles: A Birthday Bash with The Insomnia Project

In this birthday episode, hosts Amanda Barker and Marco Timpano return with a celestial celebration, as they dive into the charming details of Marco's birthday. Join the hosts for a delayed but joyous occasion, filled with laughter, stories, and the timeless delight of shared moments.

The episode kicks off with Marco's quirky tradition of wrapping birthday gifts in Christmas paper, setting a whimsical tone that captures the holiday spirit. Transported back to the archives of 2020, Amanda shares a delightful and funny tale featuring her sister Becka and an amusing adventure involving bagels—a story that adds a sprinkle of hilarity to the celebration.

As the cosmic energy takes center stage, the hosts discuss the perfect gifts tailored to different astrological signs, counting down recommendations with Amanda's agreeable nods. The episode takes a soulful turn as Marco passionately expresses his love for the iconic Chaka Khan, immersing listeners in the magnetic allure of her music.

For a visual treat, connect with The Insomnia Project on Instagram (@theinsomniaproject) and Twitter (@listenandsleep), adorned with celebratory emojis. Dive into a tranquil oasis on their website at [theinsomniaproject.com](https://theinsomniaproject.com). As the birthday celebration winds down, the hosts extend a heartfelt invitation, encouraging listeners to consider the gift of tranquility by subscribing to their Patreon at www.patreon.com/theinsomniaproject

Join Amanda and Marco on this delightful journey through birthday traditions, bagel tales, and the cosmic vibes of Chaka Khan—a celebration that transcends time and invites you to savour the magic of shared moments.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/the-insomnia-project.

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A Farmyard Christmas with Natasha Boomer

In this heartwarming episode of The Insomnia Project originally aired in 2019, Marco Timpano welcomes the delightful Natasha Boomer to share enchanting tales of "Christmas on the Farm." The holiday spirit is set aglow with mouth trumpet melodies, the scent of dead trees being ushered indoors, and the charm of tall ceilings creating a festive ambiance.

The episode unfolds like a cherished storybook, with Natasha reminiscing about the importance of Crackers and Cheese on Christmas Eve, fondly recalling a time when "Pumpernickel was still pumpernickel." The hosts delve into the enchanting world of sleigh rides, discovering the unexpected twists that Natasha's traditions take compared to Marco's perceptions. The narrative takes a humorous turn as Natasha recounts her experience in a Christmas parade, unexpectedly embodying a Cabbage Patch Kid rather than the intended Little Mermaid—a warm character surprise.

The episode is a delightful tapestry of memories, from watching "The Godfather" trilogy with cousins to the joy of staying up late during the holidays. Natasha's love for New Kids on the Block unfolds, leading to one of her favourite presents—the story of the coveted Bean Bag chair. As Natasha and her sister Shona prepare to celebrate the holidays together, Natasha generously shares the recipe for their cherished Egg Casserole.

The episode concludes with Natasha's aspirations for the holidays, including a desire to go rollerskating and indulge in some Body Blitzing. The hosts bid farewell with a picturesque description of the sights one encounters while cross-country skiing.

Listeners are invited to engage with The Insomnia Project on Instagram (@theinsomniaproject) and Twitter (@listenandsleep), decked out in festive emojis. For additional tranquility, explore their website at [theinsomniaproject.com](https://theinsomniaproject.com). As the episode wraps up, the hosts extend an invitation to consider the gift of tranquility by subscribing to their Patreon at www.patreon.com/theinsomniaproject

Join Marco, Amanda, and Natasha on this delightful journey through farmyard festivities, where the magic of Christmas comes to life in the warmth of shared memories and holiday traditions.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/the-insomnia-project.

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Festive Revelry and Cocoa Memories with Chris Bond of 'We Like Theme Parks

In this merry episode of The Insomnia Project, hosts Marco Timpano is joined by the delightful Chris Bond, friend of the show and host of the podcast "We Like Theme Parks" (definitely worth checking out!). The holiday spirit is in full swing as the trio dives into the magic of the Toronto Christmas Market, a festive haven near Chris's home.

The conversation branches into the timeless debate of real versus faux Christmas trees, with Chris sharing his preference and the nostalgia associated with choosing and decorating a tree. The hosts explore the world of themed ornaments, delving into the cherished memories each bauble evokes.

Chris unfolds heartwarming recollections of sipping hot cocoa with his dad during the annual tradition of selecting the perfect tree. The episode becomes a tapestry of laughter, holiday cheer, and shared memories, making it a perfect listen for the festive season.

Listeners are encouraged to connect with The Insomnia Project on Instagram (@theinsomniaproject) and Twitter (@listenandsleep), adorned with festive emojis. For more tranquil content, visit their website at [theinsomniaproject.com](https://theinsomniaproject.com). As the episode wraps up, the hosts extend an invitation to consider the gift of tranquility by subscribing to their Patreon at www.patreon.com/theinsomniaproject.

Join Marco, Amanda, and Chris for a delightful journey into the heart of holiday traditions, themed ornaments, and cocoa-fueled memories. It's an episode that captures the essence of festive revelry and the joy of sharing the holiday spirit with friends.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/the-insomnia-project.

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Suburban Serenity: Schomberg's Unconventional Light Parade with Dale Boyer

In this heartwarming holiday episode of The Insomnia Project, hosts Marco Timpano and Amanda Barker are joined by the delightful Dale Boyer, a dear friend of the show and of Marco and Amanda. The festive spotlight turns to Schomberg, Ontario, as the trio explores the charm of the holidays in the suburbs.

Marco shares a cherished holiday memory, recounting the special moment when he purchased his favourite holiday wreath. Dale provides a vivid picture of Schomberg and introduces listeners to the unique festival affectionally called; 'Schomberg Christmas.' The focal point of this local celebration, according to Dale, is the enchanting "Light Parade," featuring unconventional vehicles that add a touch of whimsy to the festivities.

Amidst the holiday cheer, Dale imparts sage advice that has brightened Marco's holiday season for many years—a nugget of wisdom listeners won't want to miss. The episode takes a poignant turn as Dale shares a bittersweet story about an ornament received, a token of her grandmother's heroism that continues to resonate.

The mystery of the pickle ornament unfolds, prompting speculation about who bought it and raising questions about the sentimental ornaments that grace holiday trees. Dale recounts the tale of a challenging quest to source a special ornament for her daughter, adding a touch of adventure to the festive narrative.

Listeners are invited to connect with The Insomnia Project on Instagram (@theinsomniaproject) and Twitter (@listenandsleep), enhanced with festive emojis. For more tranquil content, visit their website at [theinsomniaproject.com](https://theinsomniaproject.com). As the episode wraps up, the hosts extend an invitation to consider the gift of tranquility by subscribing to their Patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/theinsomniaproject

Join Marco and Dale on this heartwarming journey through suburban holiday magic, filled with laughter, nostalgic reflections, and the joy of unconventional parades.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/the-insomnia-project.

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Tranquil Tales and Lobster Ornaments: A Calm Holiday Expedition

In this serene installment of The Insomnia Project's 2023 collection, hosts Marco Timpano and Amanda Barker adopt a tranquil tone for a soothing exploration of holiday musings. Freshly recorded, this episode takes a serene approach to the festive season, starting with the hosts sharing their recent travels through Troy, New York, and unraveling the intricate history and crediting complexities of the poem "Twas the Night Before Christmas" (or, as they humorously note, the avoidance of the phrase "Twas enough").

Marco extends a special shoutout to any listener named Clement, urging them to connect with the podcast. The hosts delve into the origins of the famous poem, originally titled "A Visit from St. Nicholas," before seamlessly transitioning into a discussion about the curious category of winterwear that is fingerless gloves.

As the winter winds blow, Marco and Amanda warm up the episode with talk of festive beverages, exploring the delights of Egg Nog and Irish Cream during the holiday season. The journey continues up north, where the hosts share tales of cutting down Christmas trees, reveling in the wonky yet beloved imperfections of these holiday symbols.

In an unexpected twist, the hosts reveal their quirky tradition of adorning their tree with lobster ornaments. Amanda recounts Marco's tree-trimming efforts, which lead to a charming interlude about writing holiday cards. The podcast takes a nostalgic turn as the hosts reminisce about Bil Antoniou's podcast, Bad Gay Movies, merging discussions on holiday films and actors with a touch of confusion—cue the plea for Bil's assistance in differentiating between Dylan McDermott and Dermot Mulroney.

You can listen to Bil's podast here: Bad Gay Movies

Listeners are encouraged to follow The Insomnia Project on Instagram (@theinsomniaproject) and Twitter (@listenandsleep), adorned with festive emojis. For more tranquility, visit their website at [theinsomniaproject.com). Consider spreading the holiday joy by subscribing to their Patreon page at [patreon.com/theinsomniaproject](https://www.patreon.com/theinsomniaproject) for a unique and special gift.

Join Marco and Amanda on this calming journey through winter reflections and festive traditions, offering a respite from the holiday hustle.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/the-insomnia-project.

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