The ‘80s brat-pack teen idol drops by to share tales from his amazing life in film and TV and explain why he loves doing his gameshow The Floor and his podcast Literally! Big thanks to our awesome sponsors ZipRecruiter.com/Rowe to try ZipRecruiter for FREE. American-Giant.com/MIKE Use code MIKE to get 20% off your order. PrizePicks.com/Mike Code MIKE get you $50 instantly after you play a $5 lineup. ShipStation.com Use code MIKE to sign up for a FREE 60-day trial.

In 2009, Clint was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the battle of Kamdesh during the Afghan War, which he recalls in his book, Red Platoon: A True Story of American Valor, a New York Times bestseller. For Veterans Day, Clint shares his insights into why his outpost was a deathtrap, his efforts to prevent veteran suicide, and his survival during that 15-hour battle. Tip o’ the hat to our excellent sponsors PureTalk.com/Rowe Save 50% off your first month! BuildSubmarines.com Explore available careers! BetterHelp.com/MikeRowe Get 10% off your first month!

Three-time NYT Bestselling author a.k.a. Mike’s mom checks in to share tales from Rowe Halloween’s gone by. Today’s episode is sponsored by FieldOfGreens.com Use code: MIKE for 15% off and FREE shipping

LAPD and CRASH Unit veteran Tim Pearce shares stories of fighting gangs in South Central in a post-Rodney King world, including the tragic tale of his police officer wife being shot in the line of duty, which led him to invent an amazing life-saving device that simulates a gunshot wound, which he demonstrates on Chuck. Big thanks to our awesome sponsors ZipRecruiter.com/Rowe to try ZipRecruiter for FREE. ShipStation.com Use code MIKE to sign up for a FREE 60-day trial.

Star of TV shows The Rookie, Castle, and Firefly Nathan Fillion drops by to catch up with his old friend and ‘90s neighbor Mike Rowe. Nathan and Mike reminisce about a very steamy New York apartment, tooling around the snow-covered city with a mycologist’s daughter, and eating burritos served by Alan Tudyk. Nathan also shares his experience working with Stephen Spielberg, his secret to overcoming severe nerves, and how he was humbled on Wisteria Lane. Tip o’ the hat to our excellent sponsors 3DayBlinds.com/ROWE Buy one get one 50% off PureTalk.com/Rowe Save 50% off your first month! American-Giant.com/MIKE Use code MIKE to get 20% off your order.

After Mike recites a brand-new mystery for the curious mind with a short attention span, OG Podcaster and Hardcore History host Dan Carlin drops by to tell Mike what he got right, what he got wrong, and why our understanding of the subject of this mystery is so important to understanding the United States today. Today’s episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter.com/Rowe to try ZipRecruiter for FREE. Listen to Constant Wonder wherever you get your podcasts. MikeRowe.com/MomsBook to buy a copy of Oh No, Not the Home! by Peggy Rowe KnobelSpirits.com to get the whiskey named after Mike’s grandad.

Matt Malone is the CEO of Groundworks, one of the largest foundation repair and waterproofing companies in the United States. He’s also a self-described capitalist, but he practices a new version of the economic system, one that recently had him turn 5,500 Groundworks employees into part owners of the company. Many thanks to our excellent sponsors FieldOfGreens.com Use code: MIKE for 15% off and FREE shipping PureTalk.com/Rowe Save 50% off your first month! MikeRowe.com/MomsBook to reserve your copy of Oh No, Not the Home! by Peggy Rowe

Co-host of the late-night hit GUTFELD! and New York Times bestselling author Kat Timpf has the distinction of being the most pregnant person ever to appear on TWIHI. She chats about the pitfalls of the “us or them” mentality that has hijacked the nation and shares personal stories of what led her to write her newest book, I Used to Like You Until… How Binary Thinking is Dividing Us Big thanks to our awesome sponsors ZipRecruiter.com/Rowe to try ZipRecruiter for FREE. 3DayBlinds.com/ROWE Buy one get one 50% off Business.LandsEnd.com/Mike Use code MIKE for 20% off your order. MikeRowe.com/MomsBook to reserve your copy of Oh No, Not the Home! by Peggy Rowe

Director/Producer Justin Folk is best known for helming the 2022 hit documentary What is a Woman, starring Matt Walsh. Justin and Matt teamed up again for the follow-up, companion piece, Am I Racist? (now in theaters,) in which Matt goes on a diversity, equity, and inclusion journey and becomes a card-carrying DEI expert. Justin shares some behind-the-scenes moments from the film and discusses the state of anti-racism in America.  Tip o’ the hat to our excellent sponsors American-Giant.com/MIKE Use code MIKE to get 20% off your order. PureTalk.com/Rowe Save 50% off your first month! ZipRecruiter.com/Rowe Try ZipRecruiter for FREE. BetterDebtNow.com/Mike for a FREE consultation.

New York Times Bestselling author and broadcaster Ken Coleman is in the personal growth business. His books and show are designed to help people identify and embrace their true calling. Ken shares his personal story and gets Chuck to take his career assessment quiz to figure out what he’ll do once Mike fires him. Ken’s newest book is The Get Clear Career Assessment: Find the Work You’re Wired to Do. Promo code ROWE gets you $5 off.     Today’s episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter.com/Rowe to try ZipRecruiter for FREE. BetterDebtNow.com/Mike for your FREE consultation. Oh No, Not the Home! by Peggy Rowe. Reserve your copy at MikeRowe.com/MomsBook KnobelSpirits.com/Mike to see if Knobel ships to your state.

The celebrity fitness trainer, author, and filmmaker drops by to put Mike and Chuck on his trademarked no sugar, no grains lifestyle. Along the way, he discusses the positive effects of eliminating processed foods on fertility, the fallacies of the food pyramid, and the million plus pounds of weight lost by the "Rowebies" following Vinnie's program. If you want to learn more about NSNG and what exactly a Rowebie is, visit VinnieTortorich.com/Rowe Many thanks to our excellent sponsors PureTalk.com/Rowe Save 50% off your first month! FieldOfGreens.com Use code: MIKE for 15% off and FREE shipping 3DayBlinds.com/ROWE Buy one get one 50% off

When it comes to work ethic, Master Bladesmith Josh Smith self-identifies as “the guy Mike is always talking about.” At age 11, Josh was taught how to build knives by his little-league baseball coach. By age 19, he was the youngest bladesmith to ever pass the Master Smith test of the American Bladesmith Society. Today, he owns and operates the Montana Knife Company. Josh talks about giving up the security of a six-figure journeyman lineman job to start his own knife company, how he changed the way contestants are treated on Forged in Fire, and what it was like to build a sword for a sheik in Abu Dhabi.  Big thanks to our terrific sponsors ZipRecruiter.com/Rowe to try ZipRecruiter for FREE. American-Giant.com/MIKE Use code MIKE to get 20% off your order. Groundworks.com to schedule a FREE inspection. Oh No, Not the Home! by Peggy Rowe Preorder at MikeRowe.com/MomsBook

Three-time NY Times bestselling author Peggy Rowe describes her recent encounters with a scammer and blackmailer as Mike and Chuck debate the proper punishment for such scoundrels.  Today’s episode sponsored by Knobel Tennessee Whiskey at KnobelSpirits.com Oh No, Not the Home! by Peggy Rowe Preorder at MikeRowe.com/MomsBook

The former farmer and lifelong educator works as director of the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (CTE) where he brings his get-it-done farming mindset to education. Brent discusses how Oklahoma’s Central Tech is using competition to help prepare students for real-world opportunities and focusing on a mastery of skill rather than a time-based curriculum.  Big thanks to our awesome sponsors Lands’ End Business.LandsEnd.com/Mike Use code MIKE for 20% off your order. AuraFrames.com/Mike Use code: Mike to get $35 off their best-selling frame. K12.com/ROWE to find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you.

Master Sculptor Sabin Howard is known as America’s Michelangelo for his work in, and deep knowledge of, Modern Classicism. On September 13, 2024, he will unveil his newest work, the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C., called A Soldier’s Journey. Sabin discusses why he believes that great art can be recognized by everyone and should be for “we the people,” why art is inextricably connected to history, and why art tells us what it means to be human. Tip o’ the hat to our excellent sponsors PureTalk.com/Rowe Save 50% off your first month. American-Giant.com/MIKE Use code MIKE to get 20% off your order. 3DayBlinds.com/ROWE Buy one get one 50% off.

The Tony Award-winning actor, director, and podcaster goes deep with TWIHI about everything from his traumatic childhood and dashed dreams of becoming a magician to the Broadway show that made him want to act and his recollections of Stephen Sondheim and Hal Prince.

VDH is a Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, a Distinguished Fellow at Hillsdale College, a professor of public policy at Pepperdine University, a nationally syndicated columnist, a bestselling author, AND a fifth-generation California farmer. In his July 29, 2024 article, America’s Lab Rats? (read here: https://victorhanson.com/americas-lab-rats/ ), Victor argues that American society appears to be treating many of its citizens like insignificant lab rats in some kind of social experiment, leading to unintended and harmful consequences. His website. His book.

Bishop Martin and his wife Donna were the inspiration for the film Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot, which details their miraculous journey navigating the foster care system in a small Texas town and how they inspired the parishioners of Bennet Chapel Church to adopt 77 children. Bishop Martin speaks to how this unlikely story became a book and a movie and how it all was accurately prophesized in advance.

The American businessman and philanthropist talks about growing up in Boston as a fifth-generation builder, starting his first business collecting garbage at the age of 13, and the mission he’s on to create a new internet by arguing in his new book,  Our Biggest Fight, that we the people’s data should belong to we the people.

The veteran actor and gospel singer recounts his early career, what made him give up his dream of becoming a veterinarian, how he realized he had a problem with cocaine and what he did to fix it, how Jerry Lee Lewis taught him to play the piano, and what it was like playing Ronald Reagan for his upcoming movie. And at the end of the episode—he sings a song! See the trailer for REAGAN HERE.

As trustee of the Engelstad Foundation, Kris has overseen the endowment of over $300 million in scholarships and grants. Kris talks about working as a maid in her father’s hotel on the Las Vegas strip, what she learned from watching him build several Nevada landmarks, and what it’s like to manage a billion-dollar foundation.

In honor of Independence Day, TWIHI welcomes Army veteran and NYT bestselling author Pete Hegseth, who talks about why civic rituals like parades are so important to convey what we value as a society, how to acknowledge America’s faults while still appreciating her greatness, and how our armed forces are destroying themselves from the inside. Pete’s book is The War on Warriors.

Peggy Rowe is a three-time New York Times bestselling author, the matriarch of the Rowe family, and, of course, Mike’s mom. The coffee klatch conversation deals with handling disappointment, the difference between encouragement and enabling, and how bowls and bowls of mashed potatoes can help you find your Tiddlywinks pieces. Peggy’s new book is available for presale at MikeRowe.com/MomsBook

Here's a brand new story about the performance of a lifetime followed by another edition of Two Dudes Talking, a.k.a. Mike and Chuck break it down with some laughs.

Steven Pressfield, the two-time New York Times Bestselling author of The War of Art, Gates of Fire, and The Legend of Bagger Vance, discusses how to listen to your muse while ignoring your Resistance, why he carries a Smith Corona typewriter but doesn’t actually use it, and what he learned from driving a truck, picking fruit, and writing advertising copy. His newest book is a memoir titled Govt Cheese.

The nation’s leading expert on de-escalation and public figure protection unpacks the importance of intuition, the difference between true fear and unwarranted fear, and the epidemic of sudden, unexpected deaths among seemingly healthy people beginning in 2021.

The 12-time NCAA All-American, 5-time SEC Champion, and 2-time Olympic qualifier who went from being one of the fastest collegiate swimmers in the world to a controversial women's rights advocate talks about what it takes to train in a pool six hours per day, why she’s not going to be training to be an endodontist, and recounts the harrowing experience of being held captive on the campus of San Francisco State University. Her new book is  Swimming Against the Current: Fighting For Common Sense in a World That’s Lost Its Mind.

In a double-header of do-goodery, TWIHI welcomes not one but two very distinguished volunteer firefighters to discuss why they have been called to such a dangerous philanthropic endeavor, what it takes to become a volunteer firefighter, and how Americans of any age can get involved at MakeMeAFirefighter.org

First, a brand-new mystery about brave men in a distant sea, then Mike and Chuck take a deeper dive.

The film writer, director, and producer known for Over the Hedge, Chicken Run, and James and the Giant Peach talks about his work ethic and creative process, why animated films are modern-day Aesop’s fables, and that time he almost got to run DreamWorks.

Matt is a four-time NHRA Funny Car world champion and first-generation cattle and CBD farmer. Chloe is a mikeroweWORKS work ethic scholarship recipient, an AWS Certified Weld Inspector, and a social media influencer. She also runs social media for Matt Hagan and Tony Stewart. This conversation does not stay in its lane as it veers from the high stakes involved in going 330 mph in four seconds to the tasty steaks that the Hagan Cattle Company produces in Virginia to the political stakes of not keeping your food supply chain in America.

The three-time NYT bestselling author, a.k.a. Mike’s mom, talks the chosen frozen on Easter Sunday, speaking in tongues, the Key Bridge tragedy, Fort McHenry and Ranger Vince, our expanding universe, great illusionists, and how Peggy gets her vitamin D—doctor’s orders.

The former U.S. Army Green Beret, NYT bestselling author, leadership consultant, and perennial storyteller talks about the division and tribal behavior that permeates our country now, the death of honor, shame, and consequence, and why Alexis de Tocqueville was right when he observed that America succeeds because she puts the individual ahead of the collective. You can preorder Scott’s newest book here.

A NEW mystery for the curious mind with a short attention span, followed by Mike and Chuck taking a deeper dive into the story’s DOUBLE reveal. That’s right, you get two reveals for the price of none!

What does it take to make a traditional flannel shirt in America? According to this New York Times reporter it’s a combination of engineering and artistry. And Steven should know; he wrote the book on it, American Flannel.  Steven explores with us the history of U.S. textile manufacturing and how our thirst for cheaper goods led to the death of small company towns and the creation of the rust belt.

The former Wall Street lawyer and current OG podcaster drops by to discuss the latest in Podcastladia, how patternicity and our desire for certainty can lead us to create wild theories, the death of skepticism, honesty in advertising, and what he learned from being kidnapped the first time in Mexico. Yes, there was more than one kidnapping.

The serial entrepreneurs and founders of Angel Studios talk about growing up poor in a family of eleven, how they went from selling potatoes door to door to being the ad agency of record for Poo-Pourri, Squatty Potty, and Orabrush, how they survived a $62 million lawsuit from four of the biggest studios in Hollywood, and how their Angel Guild is cracking the code to finding the next big film.

The writer, producer, and veteran radio broadcaster drops by to regale us with stories from the entertainment trenches, explains why he created the podcast Really? no, REALLY? with his BFF Jason Alexander and how that’s affected their relationship, and expounds on what makes great advertising great. RIP Dexter.

The President of the California Policy Center, host of National Review’s Radio Free California podcast, and watchdog journalist warns about the new federal regulation that effectively makes CA-AB5 national and ends independent contractor status as we know it. As goes California, so goes the nation—from a $20 minimum wage for fast-food workers to rampant homelessness, crime, and reparations—the recovering communist dissects examples of what’s happening in the Golden State and yet to come nationally.

Another brief mystery for the curious mind with a short attention span, followed by a deeper dive into the story’s reveal with Mike and Chuck. WARNING: Careful where you listen with headphones, as it may result in alternating facial contortions of disgust and hilarity. The title is Nasty Little Instruments, after all.

The podcaster, YouTuber, and amateur historian ruminates on the state of Hollywood, talks about his Daily Wire project, An Empire of Terror, which exposes the dark underbelly of the Soviet Union’s police state, and recounts the amazing story of Frank Luke, the forgotten top ace of WWI.

America’s grandmother recalls the harrowing details of her husband’s heart attacks at Christmas, gives an update on his convalescence, and tells a shocking tale about the newsletter you do NOT want to be mentioned in. From stents to physical therapy, shuffleboard to bingo, and that little dance we do when our panties are in a bunch, it’s another edition of Coffee with Mom!

The former New York cabby, current stand-up comic, and perennial philosopher talks hilariously about why he’s keeping politics out of his new show Fox News Saturday Night, why he wrote his bestselling book, Cancel Culture Dictionary, and why he looks at the world like a drug-sniffing dog at the airport.

Mike follows through with his threat to get Chuck a professional haircut by enlisting The Irish Hammer’s “hairstylist to the stars” to bring his salon to our studio for a cut and record. What could possibly go wrong?

The New York Post columnist and author discusses the disruptive and damaging nature of social media, our shortening attention spans, the lack of free speech on college campuses, why the First Amendment is the most important right, why she left NYU during COVID despite her 4.0 GPA, and how she came to write The Cancelling of the American Mind with Greg Lukianoff.

The volleyball legend, fitness leader, podcaster, New York Times bestselling author, and serial entrepreneur talks about raising her girls with a do-it-yourself attitude, why it’s important to eat clean and lift heavy things, and how to be a good citizen without being a conformist and still saying yes.

The consummate villainous actor's actor joins us to discuss his childhood growing up in a motel, how being blacklisted in Hollywood tested his faith, and why he chose to play the Benefactor, a.k.a. the devil, in Angel Studio’s movie, The Shift.

367: Scarcity Brain with Michael Easter The journalist and NYT bestselling author shares his research into why our brains are hardwired for overconsumption, how this scarcity mindset can lead us to take unnecessary risks, and how Inveterate gambling pigeons prove that we can change. It’s all from his newest book, Scarcity Brain: Fix Your Craving Mindset and Rewire Your Habits to Thrive with Enough.

A NEW mystery for the curious mind with a short attention span called They Put Him in a Cage is followed by an installment of The Way I Talked About The Way I Heard It, during which Mike and Chuck discuss first jobs, audition horror stories, and the condition of Mike’s dad.

Mike’s mom discusses Christmases past and present, her decided lack of cooking skills, complaining vs. observing, vertigo-inducing carpet, the perils of drinking dehumidifier water, pratfalls, a Christmas mugging, and Mike singing The Grinch.

The appellate lawyer and President General of the Sons of the American Revolution drops by to discuss our nation's founding and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party by inducting Mike, Chuck, and Mike’s dad, John, into the SAR.

It was a trip to the dentist, the dentist would never forget…

The New York Times bestselling author and podcaster discusses great writing, the power of storytelling, his newest book, The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel, and how he solved a 110-year-old whodunnit.

The Washington Examiner columnist and reporter discusses why Lincoln’s Gettysburg address holds up 160 years later, why she’s building a room to hold miniature trains, the “dust up” in the Middle East, our current age of disruption, and why people are searching for something bigger than themselves. Then, by request, Mike serenade’s Salena.

Tongue twisters, laundry mishaps, Betty the book-club-lady, the Klausmeyer I-told-you-so protocol, steel drums, bad videography, hot cross buns, cannibal hamsters, camping in July, rogue waves, and just a touch of Thanksgiving—It’s coffee with mom.

The six-time New York Times best-selling author and prolific FNC host drops by to discuss what made President Theodore Roosevelt and civil rights pioneer Booker T. Washington so great and the role Mike played in Brian writing his newest book Teddy and Booker T.   Discussed in this episode:  Up From Slavery by Booker T. Washington Arthur Lih of LifeVac.net The River of Doubt by Candice Millard

60 years after that horrible day in November when our 35th president was gunned down in Dallas, one of only two secret service agents from that detail still alive today gives his reflections and first-hand account and explains the difference between facts and theories.   Clint Hill is joined by his wife and co-author Lisa McCubbin Hill to discuss the day America lost its innocence, a secret service reunion 60 years in the making, and the 60th anniversary commemorative edition of their book Five Days in November.

It was late at night and she was pregnant, but Merry still had to go to work. And we're all glad she did.

The former 82nd Airborne Staff Sergeant and quadruple amputee drops by to chat about the first time he met Mike, how he pissed off Bill Nye science guy, why he’s a proud member of the everything-is-great club, and his new book Bounce Back: 12 Warrior Principles to Reclaim & Recalibrate Your Life.

The Founding Publisher of Skeptic magazine, podcaster, and Presidential Fellow at Chapman University talks about why we believe weird things, how our brains seek patterns to stay safe, the state of science and journalism, intellectual humility vs. certainty, the surprising rise of antisemitism, and his book Conspiracy: Why the Rational Believe the Irrational.

Peggy chides her eldest for spending too much time in the sun, then they discuss book clubs and pool sharks, Peggy’s latest borderline inappropriate post, Mike eating dates, geoducks and horses, Picasso vs Cezanne, a briss gone wrong, used condoms in an elevator shaft, a little paregoric on the gums, how Peggy discovered Mike was circumcised, and a tease about her espionage court case. In other words, another Coffee with Mom!

The Olympic gold medalist and four-time national and world ice skating champion is the most upbeat and cheerful human ever, and he shares his amazing journey from a sickly, smaller-than-average kid to an Olympic champion, what it’s like to survive two forms of cancer, and why he claims the brain tumor he was born with was the greatest thing that ever happened to him.

While answering listener questions, Mike and Chuck sip Knobel and discuss the future of TWIHI, Mike’s trip to Italy, the Rowe family reunion, an inappropriate rendezvous high above the opera house, piano-playing kitties, embarrassing teenage moments, and the day Chuck almost died on a photoshoot.

For the baby’s sake, it’s a good thing Bobby was there. For Bobby, it changed everything.

The writer and executive producer of Cheers discusses how American culture is being held hostage to squeaky wheels, how quickly-acquired generational wealth is changing American business, and how every great showbusiness success wouldn’t be without a great blunder.

349: How to Get Cal Ripken Jr. with Teresa Strasser The Emmy-winning writer, TV host, and author swaps stories of near-miss television gigs with Mike, shares tales of growing up blue-collar with her auto mechanic dad, and reveals how she got the Iron Man of baseball to read and blurb her book, Making It Home: Life Lessons From a Season of Little League.

Three-time bestselling author Peggy Rowe reveals her favorite show that Mike’s ever made, talks about her favorite British murder mysteries, tells the story of how her friend once arrested Mickey Mantle in Baltimore the day before a ballgame, and recounts time spent with a seeing-eye dog named Larry. Oh, and Mike talks about a secret upcoming project he has no business talking about.

The former Department of Homeland Security special agent talks about the hit film based on his career fighting pedophiles, Sound of Freedom, the ubiquity of modern-day slavery, and how our leaky border is aiding human traffickers.

The businessman and football coach talks about his experience growing up fatherless, how it felt to star in the Academy Award-winning documentary Undefeated, in which he used his tough-love style of coaching to help an underprivileged Memphis high school’s football team make it to the playoffs, and his mission to recruit an Army of Normal Folks to make this world a better place.

When you've had it up to here with terrorism, who you gonna call?

Former U.S. Army Green Beret, Lieutenant Colonel Scott Mann Ret., is a NYT bestselling author, warrior, and storyteller. Scott discusses his efforts to help save the lives of Afghan special forces and nationals left behind in the wake of the United States’ botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, his book Operation Pineapple Express that he wrote about those efforts, and the play he wrote to honor those who fought and died. The man: https://scottmann.com The book: https://operationpineappleexpress.com The play: https://lastoutplay.com The film: https://www.amazon.com/Last-Out-Scott-Mann/dp/B09X94Q5CS

343: A Beer, Some Nachos, and a Barstool with Dr. John Delony The bestselling author, mental health expert, and host of the Dr. John Delony Show chats about the crisis of confidence that comes from living in a post-expert world, the dangers of certainty, the choices we can make to live a non-anxious life, and how sharing nachos and beer with good friends can help. John’s book is Building a Non-Anxious Life

This Old House’s Kevin O’Connor talks about the serendipitous non-audition audition that landed him a job on the longest-running how-to show on TV, what it was like to embed with Team Rubicon to film his new Roku show, what masculinity really looks like, and how to treat a razor wound.

America’s grandmother shares more of her signature wit and charm while discussing her husband’s cataract surgery recovery including a grueling eye drop schedule, the difference between an astigmatism and a stigmatism, forgetting your keys, the pros and cons of high stakes poker and Mahjongg, the meaning of PIE, and Lou Carter’s song If I Had a Nose Full of Nickels.  Strap in for another coffee with mom.

The otolaryngologist and facial reconstructive surgeon that fixed Mike’s nose talks about how prevalent deviated septums are, how he prepares for a 12-hour surgery, and the bicycle accident that nearly ended his surgical career.   Mentioned in this episode are Dr. Seth’s practice GoldenStatePlasticSurgery.com and Episode 262: Let’s Talk About Septums and Scrotums with James Nestor

Nick is a custom homebuilder and skilled trades advocate who founded NS Builders and hosts the Modern Craftsman podcast. He talks skilled trades, the labor shortage, and the ancient dilemma of juggling quality, schedule, and price.

The past is what we choose to forget. History is what we choose to remember.

The founder of Living Lands and Waters talks about how his do-goodery removed over 13 million pounds of garbage from America’s waterways, how he’s turning discarded plastics into durable pallets, and why his volunteers refer to his flagship as the "Love Barge."

The Libertarian journalist and editor-at-large at Reason interviews Mike at FreedomFest 2023. The two discuss a myriad of topics, including skilled trades, workforce participation, and the state of education.

From Shakespeare to Frost and Madras to Nantucket, the three-time bestselling author and her son trade raps and reminisce about recitations. There’s also talk of sushi and rainwater, ancient mariners, nicking butter and cream, room-service cart ethics, barnacles on the sea of life, hot-tub lifeguarding, and Chuck’s Hitlerian youth. Yup, it’s coffee with mom.

The host of the #1 rated late night TV show and five-time NYT bestselling author joins TWIHI to discuss what he hates and loves, why he originally didn’t want Mike on his show, how our culture has flipped, and his new book, The King of Late Night. KnobelSpirits.com

For Chuck's milestone birthday, Mike questions him about the Pageant of the Masters, his frequent hobbies, and the reason he has pellets in his ass.

1 invalid + 8 assassins = the train ride of a lifetime.

The successful producer of hit shows like Hunter, Renegade, and Silk Stalkings talks about how 9/11 changed television forever and led him to turn his 20-acre studio into Strategic Operations, a training facility that has allowed hundreds of thousands of military, law enforcement, and first responder personnel to experience medical and tactical training in “Hyper-Realistic® scenario environments.”

Astronaut and combat veteran Captain Scott Tingle, a.k.a. "Maker," explains how he turned his childhood dream of becoming an astronaut into a reality. He provides a harrowing blow-by-blow account of what it’s like to fly an 8-hour combat mission and land on an aircraft carrier at night, as well as how to poop in space.

Socks and windsocks, support hose and ho’ ho’s, humble brags and no-so-humble brags, owl pellets and horse semen, dancing in circles, a forgotten stool sample, a chair-volleyball update, a manscaping demo, and lots of shameless pluggery.  Pour yourself a tall iced one and join coffee with mom!

The Retired USMC Staff Sergeant who lost both legs in Afghanistan to an IED talks Hee-Haw, laying brick, cakewalks, farm living, his “Alive Day,” and his new book, Unbroken Bonds of Battle: A Book of Heroism, Patriotism, and Friendship.

Substack journalist Tony Ortega has been covering Scientology for decades, and he weighs in on what the Danny Masterson double conviction means for the future of the "church."   Subscribe to Tony’s newsletter at tonyortega.substack.com   Read his Rolling Stone Article about the trial here

America’s most exclusive graduate school is at it again.

The Avett Brothers’ standup bassist is not only a great musician but also an avid historian. Bob talks about music, family, slavery, abolitionism, and the amazing legacy of John Quincey Adams as chronicled in his podcast, Founding Son: John Quincey’s America. Oh yeah, and there will be some mandolin playing.   Book mentioned: The Rise of American Democracy: Jefferson to Lincoln by Sean Wilentz

The disrupter and co-founder of Love Has No Limits talks about how the organization engages communities to tackle society's problems of families in crisis, foster care, and medical debt. He also reveals what he learned from his near-death experience and the incredible power of hope. Learn more about Love Has No Limits at lovehasnolimits.com

Americans For Prosperity’s vice president of government affairs, Akash Chougule, discusses how CA-AB5 and Congress’ Pro Act are deleterious to independent contractors and why the use of mutual benefit and bottom-up solutions work best, and Mike makes up a new word. Contact your representatives here www.prosperityispossible.com

King James vs. NIV, Pentateuch vs. Septuagint, nonagenarian vs. ear-hair poetry, beaned vs. bean-less chili, Schmigadoon vs. Cockeysville, sponsors vs. sphincters, a centenarian luncheon, some loud nail-filing, and a gruesome story over lunch... Otherwise known as coffee with mom.

The Dirty Jobber, Guinness World Record-holding pepper breeder, and CEO of the PuckerButt Pepper Company, explains how he replaced drinks and drugs with dopamine-inducing capsaicin. Spoiler Alert: It involves a literal angel.   Ed’s company www.puckerbuttpeppercompany.com

It might not be as bad as you think.

The professor, adventurer, and author of the The Comfort Crisis speaks about his 33-day trip off the grid in the arctic tundra and how he learned to embrace silence, boredom, and uncomfortableness.   The Comfort Crisis https://eastermichael.com/book/

Nothing irritates nightingales more than a runaway ass.

This documentary filmmaker, TV producer, and treasure hunter has traveled to some of the most beautiful and dangerous locations on the planet. The discussion includes ancient Assyrian artifacts, sunken ships, the treasures of Nimrud, underwater safecracking, a billion dollars in gold, and the greatest sizzle reel no one’s ever seen.

The Iraq War veteran and Chief Communications and Outreach Officer for Disabled American Veterans explains the circumstances that led him to blow the whistle on the Iraq burn pits. www.dav.org www.patriotbootcamp.org

On this edition of coffee with mom, bestselling author and Mike’s mom Peggy Rowe says goodbye to hatchet throwing season and hello to bocce ball season.  Along the way is a play called Moses, an Amish smorgasbord, mulligatawny soup, and a gelding “expressing himself.”

Despite the bounty on his head, the former basketball star and human rights activist explains why he gave up his NBA career and tens of millions of dollars to keep a promise he made to his mom and do God’s work. Mr. Freedom knows better than most that freedom isn’t free.

The health and fitness guru breaks down the effects of sugar and grain on the American diet, gives an accounting of the total weight lost by the "Rowebies" that joined Vinnie’s crusade after his first appearance on TWIHI (spoiler alert: it’s a LOT!), and bids us beware of food pyramids and sleeping nineteenth-century prophets.

Phil expected to have a ball at the game, but he didn’t expect it would change his life forever.

Our favorite modern-day cowboy breaks down what a day-in-the-life of a long-haul trucker looks like and how he manages to drive his office over 120,000 miles each year.  Oh yeah, and you’ll also hear the chorus of a yet-to-be-written song called The Ballad of Tom Odom.

President and CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), Greg explains why we should be suspicious of certainty and invites us to join the million-strong free speech army to combat cancel-culture.

Grab a cup of Joe and join three-time bestselling author Peggy Rowe, a.k.a. Mike’s mom, as she catches us up on the shuffleboard finals ice cream social, the senior version of beer pong, getting recognized in the elevator, why you shouldn’t play board games with Mike, not-so modern banking, and how to write naughty without getting bawdy.

The entrepreneurial businessman and presidential candidate lays out his plan to help America reclaim her national identity and shatter the Overton Window by taking on the army of angry acronyms; CSR, SDG, DEI, ESG, WEF, and CCP, which has earned him the nickname godfather of the anti-woke movement.

Experts agree that the science is settled—this is yet another NEW mystery for the curious mind with a short attention span.  Factcheck: True.  But can you really believe everything you read?  Or hear?

The radio host, journalist, and best-selling author shares insights from her viral TEDx talk, 10 Ways to Have a Better Conversation, and discusses neuroscience & FMRIs, empathy & compassion, Homo sapiens & Neanderthals, food pantries & squirrel treeing. Oh yeah, and how to tell when you might be the A-hole, which of course is a word Celeste cannot say on NPR.

When he’s not writing his National Review column or rooting-on the Jaguars, Charlie Cooke is loving the Constitution he swore an oath to and loathing the proposed student loan transfer scheme he did not.

Scott Strode, founder & national executive director of The Phoenix, reveals why rock climbing and marathoning helped him break the cycle of his addiction and how he is transforming the way our country approaches recovery with fitness and community.

Bayard Winthrop, founder and CEO of American Giant breaks down our supply chain issues, our trade imbalance with the rest of the world, and how his company still managed to produce “the greatest hoodie ever made” 100% in the United States.

Killer coyotes, cataract surgery, cheating on eye exams, pellets in Chuck’s ass, the Florida wedding, John’s teeth lost at the rehearsal dinner, Mike channels his QVC days, Peggy plays Vanna White, John’s confusing anatomy, sapele vs oak, opening night of the Winter Follies, and the auctioning of an oversized napkin holder filled with Peggy’s books.  In other words, just another Coffee with Mom!

Award-winning chef and bloody-do-gooder, Chad Houser explains why he gave up his successful restaurant to start Café Momentum, a nonprofit, fine dining restaurant that strives to break our country’s cycle of incarceration and violence by employing justice-involved youths.

The prolific Philiminator joins TWIHI for our tricentennial episode to discuss skilled trades, The Amazing Race, Tough as Nails, his Buck It list, nearly drowning, inspiring grandfathers, tall poppy syndrome, and where to look at a nude wedding.

Back by popular demand is a brand-new story for the curious mind with a short attention span.  And here’s your only clue – When people needed to be stopped, the agency counted on Dick to stop them.

Dan McMurtrie, a venture capitalist and lifelong entrepreneur, discusses how a fluke injury ended his promising baseball career and sent him on a mission to save mom-and-pop restaurateurs.

It’s a fun hang with the feisty journo who shares her thoughts on fierce M&Ms, potty talk, why newsrooms are trying to scare the hell out of you, and how to execute the perfect Irish goodbye.

Time for a cup of coffee with mom!  Peggy Rowe, a.k.a. America’s Grandmother, drops by to discuss an upcoming family wedding, the joys of ninety-year-olds with power tools, and her escapades with chair volleyball and competitive ax throwing.

Todd Rose, CEO of Populace, recounts his journey from 0.9 GPA high school dropout to Harvard professor and provides empirical evidence that Americans suffer from collective illusions about what we believe, why we believe it, and how we came to be so divided.  Spoiler Alerts: No one is average, and we’re not as divided as we think we are.

Will Swaim, journalist and president of the California Policy Center, educates us on CA Assembly Bill 5 (AB5,) which seeks to turn independent contractors into employees, and how it’s negatively affecting 70,000+ independent California truckers; truckers like Tom Odom, who calls in from the road to let us know why he is A.) part of a class action lawsuit and B.) moving to Texas.  Spoiler Alert: it’s because of AB5!     Will Swaim’s article about AB5 and Tom Odom   Contact Tom with your AB5 story at myab5story@gmail.com

Matt shares his thoughts on sex vs gender, objective truth, and why it’s so hard for so many people to answer the simple question, “what is a woman?”

Dirty Jobber Stacey Schumacher, co-owner of Schumacher Cattle (a ranch with a "pasture to plate program") and founder and executive director of the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection, a non-profit organization that spayed and neutered over 68,000 cats and dogs last year, has a unique perspective on animal rights and animal husbandry and why they are both so crucial.

It’s another Christmas extravaganza featuring three-time New York Times bestselling author Peggy Rowe, a.k.a. Mike’s mom.  Now with less potty mouth!  Peggy explains why she and Chuck conspired to keep a secret from Mike.

Inventor and bloody do-gooder, Arthur Lih is on a mission to save a million people from choking with his LifeVac device.  It’s a quixotic quest that began at age 20 when he watched his best friend die in his arms.

Shawn Pomrenke of Bering Sea Gold shares the circumstances that led him to drop out of high school, how he used his work ethic and MacGyver skills to become a multi-million-dollar gold prospector, and why he describes being 100 feet below an ice shelf in the frigid Bering Sea as... relaxing. That is, until his regulator freezes and the oxygen flow stops—then it gets sporty.

New York Times bestselling author Peggy Rowe is at it again—this time giving a hilarious inside look at her writing career. She has been writing all her adult life. In fact, she doesn’t know how not to write—even through those years of constant rejection from publishing houses. But between her tenacity and the encouragement of her family, Peggy’s breakthrough finally came at the tender age of 80. Vacuuming in the Nude is most likely her funniest prose to date as she shares her journey of attending myriad writers’ conferences and honing her ability to see humor in everyday situations.

On the two-year anniversary of The Way I Heard It’s format change from short to long form, Mike and Chuck make another announcement about the future of the podcast, and there is a lot of talk about an upcoming episode of Dirty Jobs that involves… you guessed it, squeezing beavers.

New York Times bestselling author Peggy Rowe is at it again—this time giving a hilarious inside look at her writing career. She has been writing all her adult life. In fact, she doesn’t know how not to write—even through those years of constant rejection from publishing houses. But between her tenacity and the encouragement of her family, Peggy’s breakthrough finally came at the tender age of 80. Vacuuming in the Nude is most likely her funniest prose to date as she shares her journey of attending myriad writers’ conferences and honing her ability to see humor in everyday situations.

In his new book, Gone Viral: How Covid Drove the World Insane, Justin Hart, the founder and chief data analyst of RationalGround.com, puts out the case for what our government did well and what our government did not-so-well to battle Covid-19.  Spoiler Alert: The second category contains a lot more items.

New York Times bestselling author Peggy Rowe is at it again—this time giving a hilarious inside look at her writing career. She has been writing all her adult life. In fact, she doesn’t know how not to write—even through those years of constant rejection from publishing houses. But between her tenacity and the encouragement of her family, Peggy’s breakthrough finally came at the tender age of 80. Vacuuming in the Nude is most likely her funniest prose to date as she shares her journey of attending myriad writers’ conferences and honing her ability to see humor in everyday situations.

Jack Nix, chief operating officer of Shelby Erectors and reinforcing ironworker (a.k.a. rodbuster), talks about his appearance on Dirty Jobs, what it takes to tote steel and bust rod, and how it feels to have all your hard work covered up by cement.

New York Times bestselling author Peggy Rowe is at it again—this time giving a hilarious inside look at her writing career. She has been writing all her adult life. In fact, she doesn’t know how not to write—even through those years of constant rejection from publishing houses. But between her tenacity and the encouragement of her family, Peggy’s breakthrough finally came at the tender age of 80. Vacuuming in the Nude is most likely her funniest prose to date as she shares her journey of attending myriad writers’ conferences and honing her ability to see humor in everyday situations.

Bestselling author Mike Rinder drops by to discuss his new memoir, A Billion Years: My Escape From a Life in the Highest Ranks of Scientoloty, his time in “the hole,” and how he went from saving the world withscientology to saving the world from scientology.

New York Times bestselling author Peggy Rowe is at it again—this time giving a hilarious inside look at her writing career. She has been writing all her adult life. In fact, she doesn’t know how not to write—even through those years of constant rejection from publishing houses. But between her tenacity and the encouragement of her family, Peggy’s breakthrough finally came at the tender age of 80. Vacuuming in the Nude is most likely her funniest prose to date as she shares her journey of attending myriad writers’ conferences and honing her ability to see humor in everyday situations.

Dirty Jobs field producer, Zack Hall checks in from his Kentucky holler to discuss how he snuck his way into reality TV, his encounter with Bigfoot, and the new season of Dirty Jobs (filled with spoiler alerts!)

In a tip o’ the hat to the occasion, Mike delivers a dramatic recitation of one of his very favorite poems, The Cremation of Sam McGee by Robert Service.  Happy Halloween!

New York Times bestselling author Peggy Rowe is at it again—this time giving a hilarious inside look at her writing career. She has been writing all her adult life. In fact, she doesn’t know how not to write—even through those years of constant rejection from publishing houses. But between her tenacity and the encouragement of her family, Peggy’s breakthrough finally came at the tender age of 80. Vacuuming in the Nude is most likely her funniest prose to date as she shares her journey of attending myriad writers’ conferences and honing her ability to see humor in everyday situations.

Clint Hill, a former member of the Secret Service, and his wife Lisa McCubbin Hill talk about their new book, My Travels with Mrs. Kennedy, which includes tales of bringing a Pakistani horse into the US without quarantine, what The Crown got wrong about Mrs. Kennedy's lunch with Queen Elizabeth II, and Clint and Mrs. Kennedy eating Moroccan mahjoun in Marrakech. Spoiler alert—Mahjoun is essentially a hash brownie.

New York Times bestselling author Peggy Rowe is at it again—this time giving a hilarious inside look at her writing career. She has been writing all her adult life. In fact, she doesn’t know how not to write—even through those years of constant rejection from publishing houses. But between her tenacity and the encouragement of her family, Peggy’s breakthrough finally came at the tender age of 80. Vacuuming in the Nude is most likely her funniest prose to date as she shares her journey of attending myriad writers’ conferences and honing her ability to see humor in everyday situations.

The workforce participation rate that is.  The number of able-bodied men choosing not to work is a crisis, and Nicholas Eberstadt, Henry Wendt Chair in Political Economy at the American Enterprise Institute, can prove it.

New York Times bestselling author Peggy Rowe is at it again—this time giving a hilarious inside look at her writing career. She has been writing all her adult life. In fact, she doesn’t know how not to write—even through those years of constant rejection from publishing houses. But between her tenacity and the encouragement of her family, Peggy’s breakthrough finally came at the tender age of 80. Vacuuming in the Nude is most likely her funniest prose to date as she shares her journey of attending myriad writers’ conferences and honing her ability to see humor in everyday situations. Forward by Mike Rowe.

It's a classic catch-up with mom that starts with a dramatic reading of her viral short story Old Blue, becomes an announcement that her third New York Times bestseller Vacuuming in the Nude will be available as an audiobook on this podcast, and then somehow devolves into a scatological story-swap evoking the Thomas Crapper episode.

The lifelong environmentalist and one-time California gubernatorial candidate talks about the current energy crisis, climate narcissism, and how what’s good for the climate is not necessarily good for the environment.

Today’s episode honors the man who unwittingly inspired Mike’s career by inventing the first flushable commode, Mike shares a David Sedaris story about a turd that won’t flush titled Big Boy then, in an homage to eighth-grade humor, Mike and Chuck swap embarrassing stories involving the necessary.

For half a dozen years Chuck has been trying to introduce Mike to Peabody Award winning actor, Nick Searcy who is best known for playing Chief Deputy U.S. Marshall Art Mullen on the FX series Justified, one of Mike’s favorite shows.  They discuss Nick’s career, why he made a movie about 1/6/21, and how he met President Bill Clinton at the White House.

Journalist Salena Zito keeps the conversation lively by dissecting the student loan forgiveness act, the lost notes of Baptist churches, moonshine coal, and her obsession with Fiestaware.

They say you can’t judge a book by its cover and that is certainly true with this week’s special Labor Day episode.  It begins with a true story written by Mike about a particularly industrious Dirty Jobber, and it ends with Mike and Chuck discussing the origins of Labor Day, America’s work ethic crisis, and the pros and cons of labor unions.

Award-winning author, Bangor Maine Police social media manager, and Duck of Justice creator Tim Cotton joins TWIHI to discuss America’s love-hate relationship with cops, the proper punishment for crapping in the street, and why Mike has dubbed Tim America’s Cop despite his recent retirement.

George T. Murdoch, a.k.a. Tyrus, joins TWIHI to discuss everything from abortion and the benefits of staying in one’s lane, to work ethic and his weird fascination with the ‘Squatch shows.

Two-time NYT bestselling author Peggy Rowe drops by to discuss her upcoming hour-long FOX primetime TV special—America’s Grandmother, her third book—Vacuuming in the Nude: and Other Ways to Get Attention, and the existence of aliens in the universe.  Or, to put it another way, a normal Mike’s mom episode.

Earth nearing its eight billionth resident has Bill Maher very concerned. More people means more CO2 and that means catastrophe.  Unconcerned is Alex Epstein, author of the book Fossil Future: Why Global Human Flourishing Requires More Oil, Coal, and Natural Gas—Not Less. Alex thinks we should carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages while deciding what to do with fossil fuels. He believes the widespread idea that rising CO2 will make the Earth unlivable is literally impossible and he would like to tell Bill why.  Instead, he tells us.

James Nestor, a NYT bestselling author whose book Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art inspired Mike to have a septoplasty, discusses the advantages of healthy breathing, the dangers of mouth breathing, and the reasons why our ancestors had larger mouths and straighter teeth. Then we share a song written by listener Bill Dumas in reaction to Mike’s request for a ballad about his deviated septum and his father’s swollen scrotum in Episode 203: There’s a Hole in Daddy’s Arm.

Former Navy SEAL and bestselling author, Jack Carr talks writing, grit, and how his desire to “never miss an opportunity to make someone’s day” led to the serendipitous circumstances that got his first novel into the hands of Chris Pratt.

Dairy Farmer Dirty Jobbers Sue and Mike McCloskey school Mike and Chuck on the finer points of animal husbandry, the science of better milk, and how no-till and eutrophication is bringing them ever closer to becoming an environmentally net zero farm.

Rick Beato drops by to talk Everything Music; his dinner with Joni Mitchell, his interview with Sting, and the TWO weddings where he sat next to Mike at a time when Mike was couch surfing.

This week’s special guest is YOU gentle listener as Mike answers your questions about Freddy’s whereabouts, Mike’s desired super-power, and the joy of singing jingles.

President and CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression a.k.a. FIRE, Greg Lukianoff discusses free speech vs hate speech, Safetyism vs Safety Third, and the Coddling of the American Mind.

Former Green Beret and CEO of Black Rifle Coffee Company Evan Hafer talks combat, coffee, and what it’s like to take a blast of bear spray in the face… on purpose.

After Mike reprises The Man Behind the Microphone, a story about the most influential sportscaster of all time, he chats with that man’s eldest son about his dad’s fondness for frugality and trepidation of taxes – SPOILER ALERT – it’s Michael Reagan.

Robert Kiyosaki talks about how he voluntarily got into Vietnam, how he almost got kicked out, and why he wrote his Capitalist Manifesto to combat Marx’s manifesto.

After reading a short Memorial Day mystery called Visiting Hours Mike speaks with Bill Whittle about the protocols of Arlington National Cemetery, the price of freedom, and the need for gratitude.

Luke Mickelson talks about how his charity Sleep in Heavenly Peace skyrocketed after appearing on Returning The Favor and his mission to make sure every child has a bed to sleep in.

Three-time NHRA Funny Car Champ and farmer/rancher, Matt Hagan discusses artificial insemination, human waste as fertilizer, and what it’s like to be inside of an 11,000 horsepower funny car when it explodes.

Staff Genealogist for Sons of the American Revolution, Jessie Hagan forgoes his Derby party to school Mike and Chuck on their revolutionary lineage, why it matters, and why Knobel is a fitting name for Mike’s whiskey.

Two-time NYT bestselling author, Peggy Rowe stops by to discuss her upcoming third book, how not to tape your students to a chair, and what it’s like to give your best friend’s eulogy.

Adam Carolla talks frankly about growing up invisible, his podcasting leap of faith, and how he brought his construction work ethic to comedy.

Master podcaster and chronicler of Hardcore History, Dan Carlin joins the conversation to discuss his process, the war in Ukraine, and the pitfalls of judging yesterday's events with today's values.

Mike and Chuck go guestless to talk Australian DJs, Satan’s pool, killing iguanas, and everything else that fills the squares on Mike’s calendar.

Bloody do-gooder and Returning The Favor alum, Katie Hughes of GirlsBuild.org talks curiosity, confidence, and how a broken toaster changed the course of her life.

Celebrity fitness trainer and unapologetic carnivore, Vinnie Tortorich talks diet, hormones, and why he has a beef with the fake-meat industry.

Dave Ramsey joins Mike to discuss his documentary, Borrowed Future; How Student Loans Are Killing the American Dream, the pitfalls of three easy payments, and why great BBQ never comes from a microwave.

Owl Vans owner, John Willenborg talks about the six, six-figure welding jobs he has open, his stint on season 2 of The Apprentice, and the difficulty in telling his white-collar parents that he wanted to leave Berkley to weld.

Scott Flansburg, aka the Human Calculator, makes a repeat appearance to bring breaking news on his quest for truth regarding the real origins of basketball.

Today’s guest is Spanky Taylor, whose company does fan management and threat assessment for high profile celebrities.  Oh yeah, and she broke her billion-year contract and escaped Scientology.

Former Secret Service Agent Clint Hill, with his wife and writing partner, Lisa McCubbin Hill, discuss Clint’s service to five presidents including JFK and that fateful day in Dallas on November 22, 1963.

President and Professor of Historical Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, Dr. Peter Lillback dissects Episode 124: At the Crossroads and literally schools Mike and Chuck.

Brian Kilmeade, the utility player of FOX News, chats with Mike about Lincoln and Douglass, Rogan and Spotify, Johns Hopkins and how we all want our lives back.

Journalist Salena Zito drops by to discuss the dignity of work, the populist movement, the censorship culture, and why she refers to Mike as her brother from another mother.

Mike's parents drop by to give him an update on their recent bout with COVID.  Spoiler Alert: They're fine.

The Aquatic Indiana Jones, Jeremiah Sullivan, drops by to discuss art, Science, risk, and the joy of embracing the idiom Safety Third.

Mike and Jay talk for an hour. Hilarity ensues.

Mike rings in the new year with a case of Covid. Chuck has questions.

Mike’s mom is back with another heartfelt, yet wildly inappropriate catch-up with her oldest son. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll dream of cornhole. Enjoy, and Merry Christmas.

Mike chats with Sarah Yourgrau, one of the producers of Returning the Favor, to discuss why so many people loved the show, why it won an Emmy, why it made so many people cry tears of unbridled joy, and why it’s cancellation took so many by surprise.

Mike talks to John Rich about what led to their viral smash, Santa’s Gotta Dirty Job, and a whole lot more, including an outrageous phone call to Donald Trump, that led to the title of this episode.

Chuck crashes Thanksgiving at Mike’s house, fails to book a proper guest, and relies instead on listeners to pose interesting questions for Mike to answer. The listeners come through, as always.

How safe is your space? This is the question Mike attempts to answer with Justin Folk, a filmmaker who left Hollywood behind to make the kinds of movies he believes matter most.

Mike’s guest is a man called Lindsay Schnebly, an accomplished voiceover artist whose unusual name inspired a town, almost.

Mike interviews Chloe Hudson, a 28-year-old welder who received a work ethic scholarship from mikeroweWORKS, and went on to earn six-figures a year, and more recently, the subject of a new documentary called Trading Up. Together, they unpack The S.W.E.A.T. Pledge, and try to determine why a writer named Jake Maynard thinks it’s “bonkers.”

Mike has a very serious conversation with a very funny guest about a very serious topic that turns out to be very funny.

Mike chats with David Keltz, an actor from Baltimore who has assumed the identity of Edgar Allen Poe, and memorized most of his published works.

A show about nothing, a guy named Jerry, and the audition that changed television. Followed by a very funny conversation with Enrico Colantoni, one of the few actors to be a series regular every week for the last 20 years.

Mike has a most enlightening chat with his TV Big Brother, the one and only Tim Allen, who still seems a little incredulous that Mike didn’t return to Last Man Standing to finish what he started. As for why Tim now lives on the runway of an airport, well, that’s a bit of a mystery...

Mike chats with Tim Cotton, the famous cop who saved a stuffed bird from the trash heap and went on to write a couple of bestselling books.

The true story of the most important novel ever written, and a conversation with the filmmaker who tried to put it on the big screen.

The Human Calculator, Scott Flansburg stops by to demonstrate his Guinness world-record abilities, introduce Mike to a better calendar, and explain why he is determined to uncover the real story of how basketball was invented.

Mike sits down with his “professional big brother,” to discuss the relevance of 9/11, twenty years after the attack on America.

Mike responds to criticism from some guy named Tim Johnson, and celebrates the anniversary of mikeroweWORKS by reading the most popular essay of all time. Then, a spirited conversation with Chuck, the nervous producer.

Mike recalls the circumstances of a young man’s first flight in a plane with an open cockpit, the mother who allowed it to happen, and the consequences that followed. With a little help from George Lucas, Jon Stewart, a mechanical shark, and a conversation with a pilot named Bill Whittle.

Mike responds to America’s withdrawal from Afghanistan in the only way he can - with the true story of a genuine hero, followed by a conversation with Travis Mills - a man who lost his arms and legs in Afghanistan, and lived to tell the tale.

Mike reads the final and most disgusting chapter from his book, and then welcomes his mom back to the podcast, who takes the opportunity to once again steal the show and upstage her son at every opportunity.

A high speed chase, followed by a low speed chase, followed by a candid conversation with the executive producer who first allowed Mike to artificially inseminate a cow on local television.

Mike welcomes the author of The Four-Hour Work Week and many other best-selling books, not only to discuss the excellent advice for which Tim Ferriss has become famous, but rather to unpack the question he posed to Mike in 2008. The question that led to one of the most uncomfortable TED Talks of all time, and a speaking career Mike didn’t know he wanted.

Mike takes a deep dive into the nature of authenticity, with a little help from Sean McCourt – a former Broadway actor who works today as a producer on After the Catch and contributor to The Way I Heard It, and God only knows what else. Sean also happens to be the father of Charlotte, the eleven-year-old Girl Scout made famous by her blisteringly honest critique of the cookies she was trying to sell to her Daddy’s wealthy friend five years ago. A critique that unleashed a media blitz for which Mike accepts most of the blame. It’s a rumination on the power of action, and inaction, and the squishy middle in between.

The true story of the most consequential pig in the history of Silicon Valley, or for that matter, the world. Followed by the true story of the most consequential pig in Mike’s career – the one he put on a pedestal fifteen years ago, that went on to become the unofficial mascot of Dirty Jobs. Then, a most unusual redux, as Tom Frank returns to set the record straight, and explain in no uncertain terms why a brown garbage bag is a poor substitute for a leather vest.

Mike tracks down Tom Frank, the Hollywood producer who hired him to host the game show that launched his career in television, only to learn his old friend has become a life coach. Or possibly, a career coach. Whatever he is, Tom Frank knows where all the bodies are buried, and tells a story or two that Mike would probably like to forget.

A hashtag and a me-too on steroids, followed by a series of digressions too voluminous to list, concluding with the true story of the time Mike knocked a famous movie star on his ass.

After sharing the true story of a hard-charging master sergeant with a voice like a jackhammer who went on to become a famous artist, Mike recalls the lessons learned from his soft-spoken grandfather – an artist of a different kind - whose unique talents inspired a show called Dirty Jobs, and a foundation called mikeroweWORKS. It’s a rumination on men who scream, and men who whisper, complete with a song about a nose that wouldn’t stop bleeding.

The true story of two great teachers, two stuttering students, and two happy endings. Followed by a conversation about the beauty of “what,” the danger of “how,” and the timeless challenge of “trying not to try.”

The true story of the first woman to go where no man had gone before, followed by the true cost of progress, the false value of safety, and a revealing conversation about the profoundly annoying sensation of being swindled by someone you trust.

This is a sad one. But also a funny one. And frankly, a weird one. There’s sentimentality and singing. Nosebleeds and narcotics. Letters from beyond the grave, and perhaps most surprising, the sudden appearance of a giant scrotum. Probably easier to just listen.

A famous woman vanishes and triggers the largest manhunt in British history. A hundred years later, Mike loses all his money in an elaborate Ponzi scheme. Coincidence? Probably. But Chuck wonders what Mike’s fictitious hero, Travis McGee, might have to say about the scandal, and Mike has some opinions on the matter – opinions that are somewhat upstaged, paradoxically, by a leaf blower.

A famous athlete takes great pains to conceal his true identity from millions of fans. Then, Mike welcomes Paul Kelley back to the podcast, to discuss a series of topics too disparate and strange to articulate in a two sentence description.

What do you get when you cross the most beautiful girl in the world with the funniest man on the planet?  Something smart and something stupid.

It’s a Mother’s Day surprise, complete with tapeworms, smoke bombs, large chunks of earwax, a wall of dead mice, a fly infestation, and of course, Mike’s favorite mother, with a guest appearance by Mike’s favorite dad. Yeah, it’s a weird one.

A problem at the border, a fat man in a shiny suit, and all the thirty-five cent draft you can drink. It’s a fine place to begin, even if you don’t know where you’re headed.

Mike tells the true story of two friends united by their love of music, divided by their love of a girl, and the fistfight that changed rock and roll. Then, he recalls the audition that changed the course of his own career, before chatting with the old friend who made it happen, and bursting briefly into song.

Sig Hansen from Deadliest Catch joins Mike to discuss the manliest surfer of all time, the manliest fisherman of all time, and the problems that can sometimes arise when you punch a pesky fan in the nose.  Honestly, you can’t make this stuff up.

Mike tells the true story of a famous poet who wrote her best stuff while working as a waitress in a diner, many years ago. After that, another true story about the time Joan Rivers saved his career, followed by a rather remarkable catch-up with Paul Kelley, a true renaissance man who worked the overnights with Mike, back in the glory days of home shopping.  Yeah, it gets a little weird… and there is some adult language.

Ever wonder what The Daily Show would have looked like if Mike Rowe had been hired to host it? Well, guess what – he was! And then he wasn’t. And then, he was! And then…he wasn’t. The question is, does Jon Stewart really owe Mike Rowe $20?

Who ya gonna call when a lifesaver turns deadly? Who ya gonna call when the ghost in your house can’t be busted? If you’re Mike Rowe, you call your producer, and have a very normal chat, about all things paranormal. Boo!

A simple story of a simple homemaker turns in to a not-so-simple tale of the haunted home where Mike lived in 1992, followed by the spontaneous re-telling of the most terrifying night of Mike’s life. A ghost story that’s not really a ghost story, but nevertheless scared Chuck as bad as it did Mike…

While you will doubtless find this particular episode, chapter, or installment to be interesting, fascinating, or provocative, you will also learn something about the importance of choosing just the right word, term, or expression when attempting to write a memorable tale, story or yarn.  After that, Mike picks the enormous brain of Alex Abramovich, a ghost writer you’ve never heard of, who writes best-selling books for people you have.

After sharing the story of a famous father and son who could never find the right words, Mike and his Dad prove that words are the least of their problems. Strap in for a completely unpredictable rumination on memory foam. broken windshields, intractable stumps, double-sided axes, ancient wood-stoves, big-ash trees, and transgender dogs. Peggy Rowe is there to supervise, but only makes things weirder, as usual.

In what appears to be an ongoing quest to get himself cancelled, Mike weighs in on the statue controversy much to the alarm of his producer, Chuck. Their conversation then pivots to the  situation in San Francisco, where the school board has recently voted to remove the names of Washington and Lincoln from the facades of public schools – a truly bizarre decision that left Mike to wonder how in the world so many powerful people have managed to get their heads so far up their own asses.

Mike tells the amazing story of a mostly forgotten explorer, whose epic journey helped pave the path to Mars. Then, he’s joined by everyone’s favorite astronomer, Dr. Michelle Thaller, to better understand what the hell is happening on the Red Planet, and why it’s so frickin' expensive to get there.

Mike ruminates on the splendid virtues of a certain “Full Figured Gal,” and tells the true story of the day his lawyer – The Irish Hammer – changed the trajectory of his career by challenging him to put a pig on a pedestal. He then invites The Irish Hammer herself – Mary Sullivan – to explain why she left a successful law firm to oversee the career of a man who crawled through sewers to make a living.

Mike begins with chapter 8 of his bestselling book which contains quite possibly the greatest audition story ever told about one of the most ubiquitous names in television. This is followed by a personal recollection of Mike’s thespian dad and concludes with a moderately inappropriate conversation between Mike and Chuck wherein they swap audition stories from the ‘90s.  It’s totally rad!

In episode #185, which Mike incorrectly identifies as episode #184, Mike welcomes noted astronomer Dr. Michelle Thaller, to discuss the obvious differences between sounding certain and being correct. Dr. Thaller, a noted astronomer with an enormous brain, tries to help Mike understand the enormity of the cosmos, and explain why the universe contained 200 billion galaxies just four years ago, and then 2 trillion galaxies just a few weeks later, and then back down to a few hundred billion as of last week. It’s enough to make your head spin, but between Mike’s gigantic cranium and Dr. Thaller’s enormous brain, we finally unlock the secrets of How the Universe Works…

“When it comes to erections, if it’s not one thing, it’s your mother.” Yes, Mike actually wrote that in chapter 7 of his bestselling book, and as you might imagine, his mother didn’t take it lying down…

Why do people go to such extraordinary lengths to change the way they look? What’s the best piece of music ever written? And why is Mike worried about getting cancelled and sued for the conversation you’re about to hear? There’s only one way to find out…

After reading chapter 5 of his bestselling book, Mike surprises his two-time bestselling mother with a phone call, on which they discuss the perils of prevarication, the joys of growing up Rowe, (on a budget,) and Peggy Rowe’s unsolicited review of Mike’s new show, Six Degrees with Mike Rowe, which she may or may not have actually watched.

After reading chapter four of his book, Mike and Chuck discuss the real reason that so many Americans no longer believe people who sound certain - including journalists, politicians, scientists, doctors, professors, and yes… even narrators.

After Mike shares chapter three of his book he gives a spirited defense of the critical art of salesmanship, during which Chuck accuses him of being a sellout, and the two navigate the precarious world of commercial television vs commercials.

After listening to chapter two of the best-selling book, The Way I Heard It, Mike and Chuck discuss three catastrophes and the role booze played in each of them, the joys of sharing shots with famous people, why Mike is NOT hosting one of the longest running TV shows in America, and the perils of primetime pixelated vomit.

After reading the first chapter of his best-selling book, Mike has a candid, conversation with his producer, Chuck, about the origins of this podcast, the impact of singing old songs with old veterans, and his personal aversion to all things “earnest.”

Mike sits down with his producer Chuck for a candid conversation about the future of The Way I Heard it.  Whiskey is sipped, decisions are made, life goes on.

Mike takes a deep dive into episode 159 and the controversy surrounding a quote that was challenged by Billy Martin Jr., son of the late great baseball manager, Billy Martin.  SPOILER ALERT: If you have not yet heard episode 159 this episode will spoil it for you.

A spooky tale of an ordained minister and a demonic possession.

Bill waited until the crowd had gathered on his property... and then he shot them all.

When you have a family this big, you’re guaranteed an occasional visit…

With the war in full bloom all eyes were on the president — would he or wouldn’t he launch?

And that was good news for the naked burglar.

Especially those with a pre-existing condition…

That was particularly hard to find.

Call her what you will--the lady had vision.

And Jerry knew that he desperately needed to get to a meeting.

Seriously, her cakes were downright repulsive!

A real toe-tapper that no one could escape.

Sometimes, you simply have to draw one.

But did he really have to eat bull testicles to prove it?

In honor of Independence Day, Mike chews up the scenery with a recitation of what may be the most important speech ever delivered, by the man historians call "The Forgotten Founder."

A helicopter filled with evacuees tries to get off the ground as the shooting intensifies.  What could possibly go wrong?

This architect enjoyed a good challenge.  But this one nearly broke him...

So too, was the man who got in his way.

The kid had a head for numbers.

What he did was unspeakably brave.  So why then, did no one speak of it?

They built a lot of bridges.  Perhaps, one too many...

He only had the one hit...but boy, was it a wonder!

Mike was the keynote speaker at the last large gathering in the United States before the country officially closed for business. His job? Shaking hands--with over a hundred thousand people. Now, after three weeks of self-isolation, he'd like to tell you about it. And then, read a very funny story from his mom's new book.

The player loved to play... but on this particular occasion--he chose the wrong playmate.

Or did they...

It was the gig of a lifetime... it just wasn't Gig's.

She broke the glass ceiling with ease.  But her secret was taken to the grave.

James and Rebecca simply could not settle their differences... that's where the broadswords came in.

Because you need something to break the boredom of marching 300 miles in 10 degree weather to bring three boat thieves to justice... or so I'm told.

The doctor told her not to sing... but she did anyway.

Christmastime is upon us, and with it comes the season of giving. Mike recites perhaps the greatest story ever written about the spirit of giving.

Yes, as a matter of fact, it does.  But penicillin won't help...

He was destined for greatness.  No one knew it but him.

Some said he was cursed, others said he was blessed, but everyone agreed--he was the luckiest kraut in the navy.

It's All Hallow's Eve! So what better way to mark the occasion than with an episode of OCCASIONALLY. Mike pays homage to the macabre musings of the great Edgar Allan Poe by reciting perhaps his most famous story. Light a candle, pour a beverage, and let the Victorian goosebumps wash over you. Prepare yourself for the insidious beating of... The Tell Tale Heart

But for this woman... maybe a bit more.

This group gave us the most iconic sound of all time.

Who earned a funeral fit for a king.

A love story.  Sort of...

She simply had no choice.

The skinny kid was so desperate that he was about to sell his best friend.

Denied his father's true last name for most of his life, James reclaimed it--in a monumental way.

Julia was flattered by the proposal—but it came with certain… preconditions.

It's difficult to describe the chaos of an unpredictable world--but Peter sure tried.

She just said she was going home - but it's the way she said it that we remember.

When one of the most famous women in the world disappears without a trace, it sets off one of the greatest whodunits you've never heard of.

They were classmates, bandmates, and best friends - even after one devastating punch changed everything.

Mary had issues, no doubt about it.  But her mother was always there for her...

The journey was an incredible achievement - but the true cost was difficult to bear.

When it comes to writing steamy love letters, you really gotta hand it to Elizabeth and George - even though they handed it to themselves...

It was a mission he chose to accept - and the tape did not self-destruct.

How many near misses can one guy take - and still remain grounded.

Where one can ponder a big decision and enjoy a continental breakfast.  Sponsored by Postmates, use promo code: ROWE

A battered boy who couldn't stand the sight of his own reflection - so he changed it.

But Ted was craving a slice of something else.

She was plucked from obscurity and destined to satisfy the appetite of her insatiable benefactor.

You can't put THAT on TV!

The significance of that shake was beyond this world.

He talked to everyone - but it was the interview he didn't give that changed his life forever.

It wasn't exactly the trial of the century, but nearly everyone agreed - something had to be done.

It was just a tiny patch of farmland near a tiny little burg - but oh, the things that happened there...

There are many ways to save a life - this one was rather conventional.

How to wave goodbye to your current career.

This man's reputation needed to be destroyed - and that's the gospel truth... according to Peter.

Nothing came between Don and his boys - especially on game day.

Sure, as soon as I'm done playing Cowboys and Indians.

When the shooting started this patriot ran for his life.

She was young and beautiful - and about to kill someone.

These words take on a whole new meaning once you know the story behind why they were written.

It contained a much desired promise - from beyond the grave.

All he wanted was a little peace and quiet - from himself.

This doctor believed it was a right that came with the PhD.

They paid their fair share, and then some...

When it came to getting exactly what she wanted - Frank could be very persuasive.

This famous aspiring jockey just wanted to hear the roar of the crowd - but this was not the crowd he was expecting.

WARNING: This is not your ordinary The Way I heard It. This episode contains SPOILERS.  Storyteller Mike Rowe is joined by producer Chuck Klausmeyer to answer questions posed by fans of The Way I Heard It.  Mike covers everything from how the podcast started to where it's headed in the future.

It was opening night on the world's largest stage, but when you gotta go - you gotta go.

A truly democratic machine and the man who didn't invent it.

Wee Johnny wanted a mighty check - so he sent out some mighty big bills.

No doubt about it - Miriam's timing was impeccable.

No movie has been made about this heroic tale, but over a hundred movies have been made because of it.

He did everything a hero and patriot ought to do... almost.

But how do you eliminate driver error?

Who says you can't preach Sunday morning, and then sell whiskey Sunday night?

Big John knew a simple but powerful equation when he saw one.

Do you want to know the bleeping secret or not!

People came from miles around just to see it.

Looking for love in the classifieds can lead to explosive consequences.

It was never good new when the red phone rang - and on this December night it was ringing off the hook.

What does a former POW do when he returns home from an unpopular war?  Stand naked in the town square of course!

A tale of award-winning flakes and delayed gratification.

Pete just wanted to get some sleep - But he could not get his bunkmate's earworm out of his head.

He was willing to play the white-man's game - he just wished they had told him the rules first.

It was the trial of the century - that no one remembers.

A father and a son with more than just bars between them.

He was notoriously proficient in his field and his advice was priceless – he just didn’t make house calls.

Saul's nephew kept a secret his entire career - you could do that back then.

Only problem is - it's not Bobby's bacon.

Eddie was really good at blowing smoke.

The story of a slightly subversive student with a taste for gin.

The family business was brutal - but this Babe wanted in.

His personal proclivities seemed to trigger women – so he had to keep them a secret.

When you're in the back of an ambulance in the middle of a snowstorm - every second counts.

How to make a billion dollars and remain absolutely calm.

When the time came to fight for their King, these knights were prepared to show the enemy what they were made of.

Henry Junior just wanted to get out of Henry Senior's famous shadow.

No matter how bad your habits, this dentist can stop your pain - guaranteed!

Take it from mother - never underestimate the power of a little make-up, properly applied.

The consequences of her choice would forever change the world.

This aspiring songwriter was a family man who really wanted to be famous.

Because necessity is actually the mother of investment.

She had tons of suitors because men knew that with her - anything was possible.

Mike tells a very personal story of the King that changed his life.

Caesar's ride that changed the course of Western Civilization.

But only if the spirit moves you.

The melody was sweet, but the lyrics were too painful to sing.

What do you get when you cross a Private, a General, a lawyer, a doctor and two teenagers?  Something worth standing for.

When all is lost and the end is near - why not have a drink... or several.

Captain Cooper was asked to do the impossible - But he found it impossible not to try.

Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor gloom of night could keep this 60 year-old mailman from finally receiving his due.

Bill was known for creating unforgettable car chases - but there was one chase he wished he could forget.

Sometimes choosing the right words means not sticking to the script.

He flew into history - thanks to a nervous mother with an old-fashioned name.

His formula saved millions from starvation - among other things.

John loved Peggy so much he would do anything for her... including this!

Mr. Akai had a secret - and every kid in the neighborhood knew it.

In a competition like this - every inch counts.

The greatest World's Fair on the planet - and it all started with shoveling horse poo.

Bob was a Mad Man who could sell anything - but this new product gave him a terrible headache.

How a mild mannered middle-school band teacher terrified America.

You know his name - now you'll know why.

Melvin's Stories always had a surprise ending - this one surprised even Melvin.

Don't like your job?  Just invent something that does it for you.

"Work hard, tell the truth, and don't be late for supper."

You can stand, but don't you dare applaud.

Choose them wisely or deal with the consequences.

This groundbreaking agent had the world's most unique client.  And he took him straight to the top.

Neat trick, but can you copyright it?

Please sir, can I have some more?

A showdown between a pious governor a righteous crowd - what could possibly go wrong?

Thanksgiving isn't complete without a second helping of Presidential election politics.

His ear for hearing patterns served him well.

Who knew cartoon characters could be so litigious?

Sometimes, all you can do is watch.

He couldn't change the people, so he changed the world.

How a perfectly tied Windsor knot led to a date with the gallows.

War is hell, but the paperwork is intolerable.

How his sweet tooth changed your life.

When no one wants your product, don't change the product, change the name.

I don't want to split hairs, but EVERYONE should know this woman's name.

Even the President can't help this guy catch a break.

The craziest prison break story you've never heard of.

How do you compete with a thriving 20th century company? Use 18th century technology of course.

Donnie has a secret... and it's a doozie.

Their escape from an overbearing family really put them on the map.

Who will sing the praises of the famous warrior who refused to fight.

Why Fred's kids stopped for a snack on the way to his funeral.

A most unlikely path to becoming one of the greatest voices of all time.

Al didn't want to make toys, he just wanted to fly.

He loved her so much he gave her his job.

She was plucked from the streets and catapulted to fame.

Sometimes in life, it's better not to stick to the script.

His music career really blew up.

They say the truth will set you free, but in this case, it was a little white lie.

No one has ever matched his record, and no one knows his name.

He didn't like the quiet, so he made sure we all could pump up the volume.

The most expensive theme park there never was.

Sometimes the only way to prove your worth, is with a trial by fire.

The most recognizable face that no one wanted to hire.

She believes her husband is a genius. The only problem, no one else does. How her road trip changed everything – for YOU!

It was a cold, dark night on the field of battle – and one man had the perfect plan to strike back at the enemy.

He found his voice and defined a generation. And he owes it all to a little piece of fruit.

Was he a lunatic or a genius? Sometimes it's hard to tell, especially when you're telling the world that doctors are killing their patients.

How did the clerks in a modest grocery store change the world as we know it?

He had the talent. He had the charisma. He had the looks. But without one little change, he'd never be the household name he is today.

A kiss from her helped win the war. But her real assets changed the world as we know it.

What started as a series of short mysteries for the curious mind with a short attention span, has evolved into enlightening conversations for the not-so-short attention span.   Whether it's a short mystery, a long conversation, or an audio book, The Way I Heard It is a veritable box of chocolates for the ears, because you never know what you're going to get.