Phil and Ted's Sexy Boomer Show

What does it take to build a subway under one of the most car-obsessed, earthquake-prone, politically tangled cities on Earth? Turns out: a lot of explosions, a few sinkholes, and an almost heroic tolerance for bad faith.Phil and Ted climb aboard with Ethan Elkind — Climate Policy Director at UC Berkeley Law and author of The Fight for Los Angeles Metro Rail and the Future of the City — to trace L.A.'s wild transit saga from the forgotten golden age of electric streetcars, through the smoggy spiral of buses, automobiles, and gridlock engineered by some very powerful, very shady interests, all the way to the messy, thrilling, still-unfinished dream of building the city of tomorrow.Takeaways:From Streetcars to Subways: Ethan Elkind explains how early L.A. expanded not with freeways, but along a vast streetcar system—until the rise of the automobile turned the city toward sprawl and smog (04:01).Who Framed the Streetcar? Was the car industry really behind L.A.’s transit woes? Ethan Elkind busts myths and dives into the real reasons for the streetcars’ demise (05:35).Building Below the Boom: Find out how engineers tunneled through methane, fossils, and former oil fields to build the Metro—with more Hollywood drama than you’d expect (21:03).Green Line to Nowhere? Discover why the LAX rail connection hit a dead end and what’s finally changing today (34:02).What’s Next: Will bus-only lanes and bike corridors transform L.A. further? Ethan Elkind tells us what’s coming and how it could shape the city for the next generation (37:57).🏆 Fun FactThe last Pacific Electric train ran in 1961, on tracks now used by the Blue Line. L.A.’s transit history has come full circle—from streetcars to subways and beyond (03:19).Links referenced in this episode:sexyboomershow.comThe Fight for Los Angeles Metro Rail and the Future of the CityCompanies mentioned in this episode:Interscope GeffenUC Berkeley LawUCLA LawLA MetroLos Angeles Metro Rail

House lights down. Phones down. There's a human on stage — and apparently, that still matters. Turns out the wild, improbable comeback of live theater is being led by the generation everyone assumed was glued to a screen. Nike Doukas of the Antaeus Company makes the case — passionately and persuasively — for the unrepeatable experience that no phone, no stream, no home theater system can touch. The stage is alive. Nike, Phil and Ted dive into the vibrant world of Los Angeles theater, exploring the meaning and importance of classic plays in our modern world. Nike shares insights about the origins and mission of Antaeus, the enduring power of live performance, and how theater is adapting in a post-COVID era. From immersive productions and educational initiatives to the unique energy of live readings, this episode is a celebration of the communal magic that only live theater can offer—and why it just might be booming more than ever before.Takeaways:• In this podcast episode, we explored the significance of the Antaeus Theater Company, emphasizing its commitment to classic plays and the importance of community engagement.• The artistic director, Nikay Ducas, elaborated on the process of selecting plays that resonate with both the audience and the ensemble, ensuring a thoughtful approach to theater production.• We discussed the unique adaptation of Antigone, which is set in a post-apocalyptic context, showcasing the relevance of classical themes in contemporary narratives.• The episode highlighted the challenges faced by theaters during the COVID-19 pandemic and the innovative approaches taken to maintain audience connection through radio plays.• An emphasis was placed on the need for theater to adapt to modern audiences, including initiatives like 'pay what you can' nights to enhance accessibility for all patrons.• Finally, we reflected on the enduring power of live theater to foster a sense of community and shared experience, which cannot be replicated by film or digital media.antaeus.orgsexyboomershow.cominfo@sexyboomershow.c

M. L. Liebler is an internationally recognized Detroit poet, university professor, literary arts activist, and arts organizer.M.L. blends his poetry with music, collaborating with Al Kooper, Country Joe, and Charles Bukowski, among others. And he went bowling with Ken Kesey in Detroit at Kesey’s request.His just-released book, "Hound Dog: A Poet’s Memoir of Rock, Revolution & Redemption,” is about growing up in Detroit and discovering the world through his love of music.M.L. took his Motor City grit to Afghanistan, where, under heavy U.S. military protection, he spread artistic joy to kids in remote villages behind enemy lines.Takeaways:M.L. Liebler's memoir, titled 'Hound Dog, A Poet's Memoir of Rock, Revolution and Redemption', reflects on his formative years in Detroit, capturing the essence of a vibrant yet tumultuous city.The conversation delves into the renaissance of Detroit, with M.L. noting how the city has transformed, emphasizing the resurgence of artistic expression and community engagement.Throughout the podcast, M.L. shares his experiences as a poet, musician, and activist, illustrating the profound impact of art in addressing social issues within communities.The discussions highlight the importance of cultural programming as a means to bridge divides, particularly in contexts as complex as Afghanistan and Israel.M.L. emphasizes the significance of his grandparents' influence in shaping his identity, illustrating how familial relationships can profoundly affect one's artistic journey.Listeners are encouraged to appreciate the role of music and poetry in their lives, as M.L. advocates for the accessibility of art to the broader public.Links referenced in this episode:SexyBoomershow.comhttps://www.mlliebler.com

Phil and Ted celebrate their 100th episode with special guest actor John Goodman, who was also the first Sexy Boomer Show guest.They discuss their 30-year friendships and John's amazing career, from working with the Coen Brothers to hosting SNL 13 times.John's had a busy few years, working double duty on the TV shows The Righteous Gemstones and The Conners, all while losing his home in the LA wildfires. He's now peacefully living where he doesn't have to lock his doors. John gets candid about his sobriety, what the craft of acting really means to him, and why he never wants to truly retire.SexyBoomershow.comHindsight- The Day Before Audio Drama

Attention Sexy boomers feeling lonely and a little hungry! There are angels among us.With Trump's cuts to SNAP and inflation, older adults are financially squeezed across the country, even in affluent areas of Los Angeles. Kaylee Hawkins discusses how Meals on Wheels serves over 700 clients from Malibu to Marina Del Rey, and Santa Monica, helping them stay in their homes and avoid making impossible choices between rent, medical bills, and food. With only 10% of their operating budget coming from government sources, the rest relies on community donations. Hear amazing stories of seniors helping each other and volunteers of all ages on the front line, bringing food and friendship to their hidden neighbors, many of whom are homebound and alone.Takeaways:The increasing population of baby boomers in affluent areas like Malibu and Santa Monica is facing unprecedented challenges related to loneliness and food insecurity.For the first time in its history, Meals on Wheels West has implemented a waiting list due to overwhelming demand and insufficient resources to meet the needs of seniors.Approximately 1.3 million seniors in Los Angeles experience limited access to adequate food, highlighting the critical need for nutrition assistance programs.The ripple effect of federal funding cuts for programs like SNAP has significantly impacted the ability of Meals on Wheels to deliver meals, resulting in a growing waitlist for services.Volunteers play a vital role not only in delivering meals but also in providing companionship and checking on the well-being of isolated seniors, thereby becoming essential lifelines.With the average wait time for meal delivery exceeding 100 days, it is imperative for community members to engage and support organizations like Meals on Wheels to combat food insecurity.Companies mentioned in this episode:Meals on WheelsMeals on Wheels WestBest Friends Animal SocietyASPCAMeals on Wheels AmericaJewish Family ServicesLinks referenced in this episode:mealsonwheelswest.orgsexyboomershow.com

Phil and Ted welcome back Thom Hartmann to tackle a U.S. legacy of rigged elections, unprecedented political and financial corruption, and the dangerous collusion of oligarchs, billionaires, and foreign actors shaping the fate of democracy.Esteemed progressive talk show host Thom Hartmann elucidates the concerning connections between Trump and foreign adversaries, particularly emphasizing his long-standing ties with Russia and the chilling specter of compromise that may ensue. Hartmann's latest work, "The Last American President: A Broken Man, A Corrupt Party, and a World on the Brink," serves as a critical lens through which we examine these pressing issues. Thom explains how each Republican Presidential election since Nixon has been rigged.The discussion in this episode pivots around the troubling implications of the Trump Administration's actions, including allegations of historic corruption and the reckless decision to engage in military aggression against Iran. The dialogue further explores the ramifications of Trump's alleged Epstein-related allegations and the broader implications for American democracy. As we navigate this complex and urgent landscape, what does it mean for the future of our nation?Takeaways:Thom Hartmann critically examines the extent of corruption within the Trump Administration, raising profound concerns about its implications for democracy.The discussion delves into Trump's controversial ties to Russia, questioning whether he may be compromised by foreign adversaries.Hartmann articulates that the reckless military decisions made by the Trump Administration may have been influenced by external pressures from leaders like Netanyahu.The podcast emphasizes the alarming normalization of political and financial corruption in contemporary American politics, a phenomenon that has never been so overt.The conversation reveals the potential dangers of Trump's connections to authoritarian figures and the implications for U.S. foreign policy.Thom Hartmann's insights suggest that the erosion of democratic norms may be exacerbated by the actions of powerful elites who seek to undermine electoral integrity.Companies mentioned in this episode:Tom HartmanNew York TimesProject CensoredJ.D. VancePeter ThielElon MuskXLarry EllisonOracle

John Fugelsang was raised in a contemporary Christian household with traditional values of love and compassion, while observing the growth of the conservative Christian movement, starting with Jerry Falwell. In his book "The Separation of Church and State," John is a fierce and funny critic of the Christian right for abandoning Jesus's traditional teachings in pursuit of political power.Takeaways:John Fugelsang's upbringing in a contemporary Christian household instilled in him the values of love and compassion, which he believes diverge sharply from those now espoused by the conservative Christian right.The rise of the conservative Christian movement has led to a significant departure from traditional Christian teachings, as they have increasingly prioritized power over the core messages of love and service exemplified by Jesus.Fugelsang critiques the contemporary Christian right for their hypocrisy, arguing that they manipulate biblical teachings to serve their political agendas while ignoring the true essence of Jesus' messages.In his book, Fugelsang seeks to reclaim the Bible from those who distort its teachings for personal gain, advocating for a return to the radical compassion that Jesus embodied throughout his life.The discussion highlights the importance of addressing moral issues, such as poverty and justice, that Jesus prioritized, rather than focusing on divisive issues that conservative Christians often emphasize, like abortion.Fugelsang's experiences and observations reveal how Christian nationalism has co-opted religious teachings to justify political power, ultimately leading to a betrayal of the foundational values of Christianity."Jesus was:A peaceful, radically nonviolent revolutionaryWho wasn’t American and never spoke EnglishWho hung around lepers, hookers, and crooksNever sought tax cuts for rich NazarenesWas anti-wealth and anti–death penaltyAnti–public prayer, too (Matthew 6:5)Never asked lepers for a co-payNever called poor people “lazy”Never even slightly anti-gayNever mentioned abortionSupported paying taxesAnd was a long-hairedCommunity-organizingAuthority-questioningAnti-slut-shamingBrown-skinned PalestinianUnarmed Homeless Jew. . . but only if you believe what’s actually in the Bible." -John FugelsangLinks referenced in this episode:johnfugelsang.comsiriusxm.comfiresigntheatre.comCompanies mentioned in this episode:SiriusXMTurning Point USAFiresign Theatre

Phil and Ted welcome acclaimed horror fiction author Whitley Strieber (“The Wolfen" and "The Hunger”), best known for his groundbreaking book "Communion," which recounts his encounters with non-human entities that changed the course of UFO history.Strieber has meticulously chronicled experiences of missing time, encounters with non-human entities, implants, and the trauma and ridicule that follow people who live through them.Ted shares how separate chance encounters with Whitley Strieber and a mysterious "chauffeur" (revealed to be Bernie, their guest) changed the course of his investigative career.It’s mind-bending—and, as always, a little bit sexy.Companies mentioned in this episode:Phil and Ted's Sexy Boomer ShowDreamlandUnknown CountrySaturday Night LiveWRNWBrewsterCozumelWhitley StrieberBud HopkinsBarnes and NobleLinks referenced in this episode:sexyBoomershow.comunknowncountry.comdreamland.com

Nikki Nash is no ordinary Valley Girl. Growing up in the 1960s, her unconventional musician father and politically radical mother would throw weekend-long and wild parties. The Black Panthers hung out at her home, and the FBI was watching. At age 14, Nikki fixated on Warren Beatty, determined to win his heart. And she did! Nikki went on to pursue a vibrant career as a TV associate director, comic, writer, and actress. Her celebrity-infused journey of sex, drugs, religion, and Hollywood culture is told in her upcoming, laugh-filled memoir, "Collateral Stardust."

Phil and Ted welcome veteran actor Kurtwood Smith, perhaps best known as the stern father, Red Forman, on "That '70s Show." From his dramatic turn as Neil Perry's strict father in Dead Poets Society to his iconic villainous role as Clarence Boddicker in RoboCop, Smith seamlessly transitions between drama and comedy. Kurtwood talks about his favorite roles and the tectonic shifts reshaping Hollywood.

The Sexy Boomer Show celebrates the birth of The Firesign Theatre Comedy Group, with clips of their live radio performances in the 1960s—1970s. Radio Free Oz began as a free-form radio show hosted by Paul Robbins and Peter Bergman on the Los Angeles station KPFK in July 1966. Bergman invited three friends, Phil Austin, the show's producer; David Ossman, the radio station's former dramatic director; and Sexy Boomer Show co-host Phil Proctor, an actor and Bergman's former college mate, to form The Firesign Theatre, masters of surreal radio comedy. Time travel to the groovy 1960s, and dig the crazy sounds and trippy callers, man!

Imagine getting a knock on your door, being taken away to a locked facility, then declared incompetent by a judge, and having a stranger allowed to take over your affairs and sell your homes and possessions. It's a for-profit healthcare scandal known as guardianship abuse, and it's happening to seniors across the country. You'll hear a never-before-heard pre-recorded interview with Shelley Thomson, before she died in captivity. Today's guest is her lawyer, Philip Ross, who tried to save her. Though a Texas judge declared her "incapacitated," Shelley was not only mentally competent until her death, but also a published scientific scholar and teacher of shamanic arts. She was regarded as one of the world's most able remote viewers, or as she called herself, an astral traveler. If guardianship abuse can happen to Shelley, it can happen to any of us. Learn how to protect yourself in this fascinating conversation.

Public outrage is exploding over the radical Musk/Trump Administration, and the emerging "FiftyFifty.One" movement is leading nationwide public protests. "50501" is a group of grassroots organizers aiming to "uphold the Constitution and end executive overreach, and fight for a government that serves the people, not the powerful." Hunter Dunn is 50501's southern California spokesman and a Pepperdine College senior. Hunter is a breath of fresh air and a brilliant young man working hard to save democracy. He'll fill you with hope!