The Big Bad Broadcast

In this episode of the Big Bad Broadcast, we dive into a variety of topics, starting with a light-hearted discussion about the quirks of owning new items and classic cars. John shares his personal experience of hesitating to use new things, while we both reminisce about the joys and frustrations of classic car ownership, including the challenges of maintenance and the reactions of onlookers.

We then welcome our guest, Jackie from the Antilles Trading Museum, who enlightens us about Viking history. She shares fascinating insights into Viking culture, including their navigation skills, the role of women in their society, and their unique practices, such as using urine for various purposes. Jackie also discusses the connection between Vikings and modern Christmas traditions, revealing how many of our holiday customs stem from their practices.

As we transition into the holiday spirit, we talk about our own Christmas rituals, including movie marathons and festive activities. I share my tradition of participating in the Surfing Santas event, where I dress up as Santa and hit the waves, while Jackie discusses her Christmas tree decorating endeavors.

The episode wraps up with a humorous take on holiday themes, including the legend of Krampus and the various Christmas characters. We reflect on the joy and chaos of the season, making for a fun and engaging conversation that blends history, personal anecdotes, and holiday cheer. Tune in for a mix of laughter, nostalgia, and intriguing facts about Vikings and Christmas traditions!

In this episode of the Big Bad Broadcast, we dive into a variety of topics, from politics to personal anecdotes. We kick things off by discussing J.L. Cauvin's run for Congress, expressing our support for comedians entering politics, as they often bring a unique perspective to the table.

We then shift gears to a serious note, discussing San Francisco's lawsuit against major food companies over harmful additives. We reminisce about our childhoods, noting the stark contrast in food allergies and health issues that seem to have exploded in recent years, particularly peanut allergies and autism. This leads us to a humorous yet alarming discussion about the absurdity of modern food culture and the potential health implications of additives.

As the conversation flows, we share some laughs over a bizarre story about a criminal who attempted to dispose of a body using peanut butter, showcasing the ridiculousness of some criminals' actions. We also touch on our favorite Christmas movies, with John sharing his love for classics like "Miracle on 34th Street" and "It's a Wonderful Life," while I lean towards more modern favorites like "Christmas Vacation."

Towards the end, we reflect on the comedy scene, sharing stories about our experiences with legendary comedians like Eddie Murphy and Jerry Seinfeld. We discuss the hard work that goes into comedy and the importance of believing in oneself to succeed in the industry.

Overall, this episode is a blend of humor, nostalgia, and thoughtful commentary on contemporary issues, all wrapped up in our signature banter. Join us for a fun and engaging conversation that will leave you laughing. Hey! Had some fun, gotta run.

John Ferrentino and Mike Grief

In this episode of the Big Bad Broadcast, we dive into a lively discussion about Thanksgiving, family dynamics, and the quirks of holiday gatherings. John and I share our humorous takes on the pressures of hosting family, the absurdity of cleaning before the cleaning crew arrives, and the unique traditions that come with being Italian.

We also welcome our guest, Paul Forrester, a talented magician and storyteller from England, who brings a wealth of knowledge about the paranormal and ghost stories. Paul shares his experiences with the Harrogate Ghost Walk, a multi-award-winning tour that combines history and humor, and discusses his new radio show, "Dead Air," where he tells ghost stories.

Throughout the episode, we explore the fascinating connections between historical figures like Houdini and Arthur Conan Doyle, the eerie tales of Jack the Ripper, and the chilling history of serial killers. Paul’s insights into the world of storytelling magic and the rich history of England add depth to our conversation, making for an entertaining and thought-provoking episode.

Join us as we navigate the spooky, the funny, and the absurd in our lives and the world around us! Had some fun, gotta run.

In this episode of the Big Bad Broadcast, we kick things off with a classic joke that sets a lighthearted tone for the show. John and Mike dive into the chaos of preparing for a film shoot at Mike's house, which leads to a humorous discussion about the absurdity of cleaning before the maid service arrives.

We then welcome our guest, BJ Odom, a longtime friend and a remarkable individual with an incredible life story. BJ shares his journey, starting from his first open-heart surgery at just 22 months old to his experiences with multiple transplants and surgeries throughout his life. His new book, "More Parts Than a Chicken McNugget," captures the essence of his adventures, filled with humor and resilience.

As BJ recounts his medical journey, we explore the importance of laughter in the face of adversity. He shares anecdotes from his childhood, his time in various bands, and the challenges he faced growing up with health issues. We also touch on the lighter side of hospital stays, where BJ's humor shines as he engages with nurses and doctors alike.

Throughout the episode, we reflect on the ups and downs of life, the power of comedy, and the bonds of friendship. BJ's story is not just about survival; it's about thriving against the odds and finding joy in every moment. Join us for a heartfelt and entertaining conversation that reminds us all to embrace life with laughter. Hey! We had some fun, gotta run. 

In this episode of the Big Bad Broadcast, we dive into a lively discussion with our guest, John, who has an impressive background in sailing, including his experience as a captain during the America's Cup. We kick things off with some light banter about the quirks of Tesla drivers and the unique charm of Florida, before transitioning into John's fascinating sailing stories.

John shares his adventures on the high seas, including a harrowing experience during Hurricane Bob, where he had to prepare to sink a boat to save it from being wrecked on the beach. We also explore the history of the America's Cup, its significance in sailing culture, and the extravagant budgets teams allocate to their boats, which can reach $20 million.

Throughout the episode, we explore the camaraderie and challenges of sailing, the intricacies of navigating busy harbors, and the unique experiences of being a sailor. John’s anecdotes about his time on the water, including his encounters with powerboaters and the thrill of racing, keep the conversation engaging and entertaining.

As always, we appreciate our listeners for tuning in and hope you enjoy this episode filled with humor, sailing lore, and a glimpse into the life of a sailor. Had some fun, gotta run.. BBB

This Halloween, The Big Bad Broadcast sets sail into the chilling depths of pirate legends and spectral encounters. Mike kicks things off with mischievous Halloween memories before welcoming Jackie Hoover from the Antilles Trading Company Pirate Museum. Jackie unveils eerie tales of haunted artifacts, wandering spirits, and a ghost that loves to mimic voices inside the museum’s dark halls. The crew dives into the haunted legacies of Blackbeard and Calico Jack, the curse of Billy One Hand, and the restless spirit of Anne Bonny haunting Rackham’s Key. Between the ghost stories and pirate lore, listeners get a reminder to stay safe out there—no drinking and driving, even on the most haunted night of the year. The show closes with a goosebump-raising reading of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven,” wrapping up a Halloween episode filled with laughter, legends, and plenty of paranormal chills.

In this milestone episode of The Big Bad Broadcast, the world of whales is sparked by a strange documentary about a lonely 51-hertz singer. Expect wild whale stories, a touch of ocean science, a dash of fishing humor, and a few moral debates about humanity’s relationship with the sea. We close on the road with classic tales from my days touring with Crosby, Stills & Nash. It’s a joyful mix of comedy, storytelling, and heartfelt reflection that reminds us why 200 episodes feel like just the beginning.

In this special 200th episode of the Big Bad Broadcast, we welcome the legendary Richie Manovini, a prominent figure in Long Island comedy. We kick off the episode with some light banter about my motorcycle and the challenges of riding it at my age, leading to a discussion about my wife's short film project and my potential decision to sell the bike to support her.

Richie shares his journey in comedy, recounting how he got started at Richard M. Dixon's White House Inn and the early days of comedy on Long Island. We reminisce about the tight-knit community of comedians, including notable names like Eddie Murphy, Jackie Martling, and Bob Nelson, and the unique atmosphere of performing in a club owned by a comic.

Richie reflects on his influences, notably Sal Richards, and the impact of various comedians on his career. We dive into stories about the early days of comedy, the challenges of breaking into the city scene, and the camaraderie among comedians. The conversation flows into hilarious anecdotes about famous comedians, including Buddy Hackett and the legendary Jackie Mason.

Throughout the episode, we explore the evolution of comedy, the significance of our experiences, and the bonds formed in the industry. Richie's insights and stories provide a nostalgic look back at the comedy scene, making this episode a heartfelt celebration of our 200th show and the rich history of comedy on Long Island.

In this episode of the Big Bad Broadcast, John and Mike discuss the upcoming bullet train from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, which we both agree could change the way we experience the city. Plus, how this convenience might lead to more frequent visits, while John reminisces about his past performances in Vegas and the unique gambling culture there.

We explore the psychology of gambling, sharing personal anecdotes about our experiences with slot machines and the allure of winning. John recounts stories about his father's incredible luck at the casinos, which leads us to discuss the strange and often humorous dynamics of gambling in Las Vegas.

As the conversation flows, we touch on the Renaissance Festival and medieval times, contrasting our differing views on these events. Mike expresses his love for the fantasy and immersive experiences, while John shares his disdain for the theatricality of it all.

Finally, we delve into John's recent show at a pirate museum, where he faced some unexpected supernatural occurrences during setup. We discuss the challenges of performing live and the importance of adapting to the audience's reactions. Overall, this episode is filled with laughter, personal stories, and a glimpse into the world of magic, gambling, and the quirks of live performance. #TheBBB