Doughboys
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"Doughboys" is a delectably entertaining podcast where comedy and culinary worlds collide. Hosted by the humorously critical duo of Mike Mitchell and Nick Wiger, the show dives deep into the heart of fast food and chain restaurants, one bite at a time. Each episode serves up a fresh review of a popular eatery, garnished with the hosts' witty banter and often featuring guest appearances from a smorgasbord of comedians and food enthusiasts. From fast-food joints to dine-in chains, "Doughboys" unpacks the culture, history, and nuances of dining out, making it a must-listen for foodies and comedy lovers alike. As the podcast unfolds, listeners are treated to the hosts' contrasting personalities, with Mitchell's lovable curmudgeon vibe clashing and melding with Wiger's analytical nerdiness. This dynamic creates a flavorful mix of humor, critique, and genuine love for the greasy spoon culture. Whether dissecting the latest menu offerings or debating the merits of their favorite snacks, "Doughboys" offers a hilarious, often irreverent, deep dive into America's fast-food landscape, making every episode a delightful feast for the ears.
Episodes
Irv's Burgers with Sam Brown
The episode explores Irv's Burgers, a historic eatery along Route 66, known for its rich musical associations and consistent local appeal. Originating near Hollywood in 1946 and changing hands multiple times, Irv's has maintained its simple charm despite the area's evolution. Noteworthy mentions include its connections to figures like The Clash and Linda Ronstadt, which highlight its cultural significance beyond just a food spot. The discussion also covers the changes in ownership over the years, with each owner adding to its legacy while preserving its original spirit. The episode paints a picture of Irv's as not just a burger joint, but a landmark intertwined with the fabric of West Hollywood's history.
KFC 3: Saucy Nuggets with John Early & Claudia O'Doherty
In this episode of the "Doughboys" podcast, hosts Nick Wiger and Mike Mitchell are joined by guests John Early and Claudia O'Doherty to discuss and critique KFC's latest product, the saucy nuggets. The conversation orbits around a recent promotional stunt by KFC which involved a pop-up dispensary to market their new saucy nuggets. The hosts and guests explore the nuances of KFC's historical marketing strategies, particularly focusing on the brand's decision to leverage marijuana culture in promoting their products. The episode is filled with humorous anecdotes, critiques of fast food marketing, and reflections on how corporations capitalize on counterculture.
California Pizza Kitchen 2 with Avital Ash
In this fun and engaging episode, hosts Nick Weiger and Mike Mitchell, along with guest Avital Ash, dive back into the culinary world of California Pizza Kitchen. They explore its menu evolution, particularly the famous BBQ Chicken Pizza, and discuss its impact on the American dining landscape. The hosts and guest share personal anecdotes and lively debates on various food preferences, blending humor with culinary insights. Throughout, they maintain a light-hearted tone, mixing food reviews with humorous asides and playful banter.
Mr. Charlie's Told Me So with Jackie Johnson
In this episode, the hosts, Nick Weiger and Mike Mitchell, along with their guest Jackie Johnson, discuss various topics including the offerings of Mister Charlie's, a plant-based fast food initiative. They explore its menu, business model, and marketing strategy, which mimics McDonald's but with a vegan twist. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of plant-based diets in the fast food industry, the challenges and sustainability of such menu options, and personal anecdotes from the hosts and guest. The episode blends humor with insights into the evolving food preferences towards more ethical and healthy choices.
Buffalo Wild Wings 3 with Johnny Pemberton
In this engaging podcast episode, hosts Nick Wiger and Mike Mitchell explore the intriguing backstory of Buffalo Wild Wings through the lens of a scandal involving figure skater Nancy Kerrigan and her rival Tonya Harding. The episode reveals that James Disbrow, the chain's co-founder, was also the USFSA chairman who managed Kerrigan's crisis during the 1994 Olympics. The hosts discuss how Disbrow's crisis management skills in the scandal were significant, yet his greatest feat was founding the popular restaurant chain. The narrative transitions into a broader discussion on the evolution of Buffalo Wild Wings, touching upon its cultural significance and the role of chain restaurants in American dining.
Oakberry with Johnny TV and Taya Valkyrie
In the "Oakberry with Johnny TV and Taya Valkyrie" episode of the Doughboys podcast, hosts Nick Weiger and Mike Mitchell engage in a humorous and wide-ranging conversation with guests John Hennigan (Johnny TV) and Taya Valkyrie. They delve into topics like fast food, Canadian snacks, and the peculiarities of acai bowls, interspersed with wrestling talk and personal stories. The episode is marked by its informal and jovial tone, with plenty of banter and teasing among the participants. Discussions about food preferences, including debates over acai bowls' nutritional value and the merits of various snacks, are a recurring theme. The conversation also touches on wrestling experiences, the physical demands of the sport, and the guests' personal lives, offering a glimpse into their dynamics and preferences outside the ring.