The Everything '80s Podcast: Recent Episodes
Jamie Logie
The Everything '80s Podcast looks back at the greatest decade. It's your one-stop shop for everything to do with movies, video games, TV shows, cartoons, toys, fashion, music and everything in between. Jamie Logie is here to share some of the big topics such as Transformers and Saved By The Bell but to get more detailed on a lot of 1980s information you might not be aware of. Do you know why VHS won the format wars against BETA? Or why the PG-13 rating was created? You'll find all that and more as we look back at the greatest decade.
It's been more than 35 years since the 80s ended, but the decade continues to be with us as much as ever--especially when it comes to our entertainment.
In this year-in-review special, we look back at all the 1980s-related movies, TV shows, Netflix series, and documentaries that came out in 2024. And there was a lot...
Unfortunately, over these last 12 months, we also lost many people with connections to the 1980s, and we look back at some of those notable names.
To finish, we look back on the podcast itself, including where you're all listening from and your favorite episodes over the last year.
The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
By 1987, Jim Henson had already provided us with so much great entertainment from all his remarkable creations--including some pretty wonderful Christmas specials.
But his best was yet to come... this is a look back on A Muppet Family Christmas that first aired on ABC on December 16th, 1987.
We'll look back at one of the best holiday specials of the decade and why it came from a period when everything to do with the Muppets was firing on all cylinders.
This show was the ultimate crossover, but some legal issues did emerge and if you weren't watching on that night back in 1987, you probably never saw the true, original special...
- Check out the latest movie review at Patreon.com: Santa Claus: The Movie
It's time for a very 80s Christmas as we travel back to revisit the holiday season during the 1980s.
In this episode, we look back at the holiday movie that was a surprise hit and then the story of a beloved TV special that didn't come from the 80s--but was adopted as our own.
Next, we look back at the creation of a modern classic Christmas song and finish with the unlikely story of a group of children that managed to dethrone John Lennon...
So warm up the cider and toss another Yule log on the fire; it's time to travel back to Christmas in the 80s.
The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
Some of the all-time great TV Christmas specials go all the way back to the 1960s. But it's easy to forget how many memorable ones came from the 80s.
Today we look back at ten of the best specials the 80s had to offer. Some of those shows include:
- Two separate specials based on a few of the hottest fads of the decade
- A sadsack comic strip character (not the one you're thinking of...)
- A powerful brother/sister duo teaming up for a holiday special
- The return of a beloved icon after 30 years
- A Christmas special with one of the most bizarre collection of guest stars you'll ever see
Get access to new episodes early and ad-free: Patreon.com/80s
If you grew up in the 80s, you grew up in the era of physical media. Our videotape collections allowed us to watch our favorite movies and TV shows over and over, allowing us to develop a deep appreciation for the things we loved.
But how did we get here, and how did it all end up changing so drastically? Today we not only revisit the origins of the VCR itself but look at the VHS/Betamax format wars of the 80s and the worthy third competitor: Laserdisc.
We also look at the growth of home video, the time when the VCR was under attack by Hollywood, and the progression of the VCR to DVD, Blu-Ray, and then streaming.
This episode is also a look at how physical media has become a bit of an endangered species, but why it still has an important place in our modern world.
- Planes, Trains & Automobiles movie review: Patreon.com/80s
It seems funny to think, but in the early 80s, a gigantic industry almost came to a grinding halt...
Video games--and arcades--had grown so quickly, and on such a wide scale, that many began to ask if it was ok for our kids to be playing them so much.
This is when video games and arcades became under attack as parents, watch groups, and entire cities started to crack down on them. From the U.K. to Canada, to America, regulations began to be put in place to limit young people from even stepping foot into an arcade.
The attack on video games even went all the way to the Supreme Court, and a generation of kids didn't realize how close they got to losing something they loved--forever...
- Movie Review: Planes, Trains & Automobiles
In late 1985, Disney had just set the record for the most helium balloons ever released. As a way to kick off their 1986 United Way campaign, the city of Cleveland thought breaking this record would be a great way to draw attention to the fundraising event.
But the balloon release didn't exactly go as planned... This is a look back at Balloonfest '86 when an impending storm caused 1.5 million balloons to play havoc with traffic, waterways, and an airport.
Besides spreading all the way to Canada, the balloons also caused issues during a search for two missing boaters on Lake Erie. Balloonfest '86 became pretty infamous, but was it really the "deadly disaster" that various outlets have reported it to be...?
- The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
On September 22, 1982, a new show debuted on NBC. It felt like a throwback to the family sitcoms of yesteryear, but, at the same time, felt like a big risk...
The early 1980s seemed to be a time when the family sitcom had disappeared. Primetime TV at the time was all about dramas, and the popular sitcoms were shows like M.A.S.H and Three's Company.
The new NBC show came out to little fanfare and barely had an audience in its first season. It was the same thing for the second season. But in the third season, things were about to explode...
Thanks to a renewed interest in family sitcoms--not to mention its young breakout star from Canada--primetime network TV was about to change forever.
Full House, Growing Pains, Who's the Boss, Perfect Strangers, Family Matters, Home Improvement--they might not have ever happened if it wasn't for this show...
Get early and ad-free access to new episodes: Patreon.com/80s
It's a year that, thanks to George Orwell, had been in the public consciousness for decades. But when it finally came around, 1984 ended up being memorable for many different reasons...
Today, we look back on the movies, TV shows, cartoons, music, tech, and sports that made up a pretty remarkable year.
It's a year that featured some of the biggest movies of the decade, an era-defning album, a few beloved cartoon shows, and one of the biggest sports spectacles of the 20th Century.
But Orwell's dystopian vision did make an appearnace--it just happened to be in one of the most important commercials in the history of advertising. Let's go back four decades and revisit 1984...
The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
Welcome to the Everything 80s Halloween Spooktacular! Today, we travel back to revisit Halloween in the 80s and take a look at three things:
The first is one of the goriest and most violent video games ever made up to that point. Then we look at five forgotten horror movies from the 80s and finish with the history of a certain Mistress of the Dark...
So grab some candy corn, light the pumpkin (or cultivated winter squash of your choosing), and enjoy the Everything 80s Halloween Special.
Early and ad-free episodes plus the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
It's just not the Halloween season without them... Today, we go back to witness the creation and release of everyone's favorite breakfast monsters.
it's a story that goes back to the early days of cereal, the silent film era, the monsters of the 60s, and their release in the '70s. But it was during the 1980s that Monster Cereals continued to grow in popularity.
It was also during the '80s that the Monster Cereals experienced some of their biggest changes--both physically and to the Monster lineup.
This is the story of Frankenberry, Count Chocula, and Boo Berry--plus two others that you may or may not remember...
The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
The Brits had taken over music and pop culture in the 1960s, and then--to a lesser extent--they did it again in the early 80s. But now, it was time for the Aussies to take over...
This is a look back on the 1980s Aussie invasion, a time when the Land Down Under heavily influenced radio, record stores, TVs, and movie theatres in North America, and around the world...
Whether you played knifey-spoony before or not, it was hard not to be aware of the Australian influence. From Kylie Minogue to Midnight Oil, and Paul Hogan to Yahoo Serious, the Aussies made a big impact on 1980s pop culture.
Book: Beyond the Film: The Making of VHS Favorites From the Video Store Era
The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
It's the decade that gave us some of the most beloved cartoon shows of all time. Some of those cartoons became huge franchises that continue to be a part of our modern entertainment. But not everything could be a hit.
Today we look back on 10 of those forgotten cartoons (plus a few bonus ones). Hopefully there are a bunch here you remember, but there are also some great deep cuts and some true blasts from the past.
These are cartoons that could have been huge, but whether it was bad time slots--or all the competition--just weren't able to break through.
Some of them include a Voltron alternative, NBC's Saturday morning answer to MTV, characters that also started out as greeting cards, and a big swing by the company best known for bringing us beloved Christmas specials.
Field of Dreams movie review: Patreon.com/80s
"So we go into NBC, we tell them we've got an idea for a show about nothing."
"Exactly"
"They say what's your show about? I say nothing."
"There you go"
"I think you may have something here..."
This is the conversation that takes place between Jerry and George in a Seinfeld episode from season 4 called "The Pitch." It was the fictionalized version of the real process that led Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David to create one of the biggest and most successful shows in television history.
Today we travel back to 1988 to witness the origins, creation, and everything that went into the launch of the very first episode of Seinfeld, a pilot dubbed "The Seinfeld Chronicles" that first aired on July 5th, 1989.
It was a pilot that seemed dead in the water as the network, test audiences, and even some of the cast didn't think it had a chance of success. But little did everyone know what this tiny show about nothing would eventually become...
The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
Here's an idea: 5 robot lions that turn into a super robot. Sounds pretty simple and straightforward, doesn't it? But the story of how Voltron came to be was much more complicated.
It's a story that begins in Japan, involves multiple anime shows, and then goes through the ardous process of being transformed for a North American kids audience.
It's the show that caught everyone off guard when it became a surprise hit. This hit quickly spread worldwide, and the giant robot soon became a cornerstone of 1980s pop culture. This is the history of...Voltron.
The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
If you grew up in the 80s, there's a good chance that the very first computer you ever used or owned was a Commodore 64. And this is because it's the machine that changed home computing forever...
Today we look back on the history of the Commodore 64. It was the machine intended to be for the masses. A machine that was not only practical and usable, but above all: affordable.
The C64 is the computer that also changed the gaming industry forever, and quickly went on to become one of the most succesful--and best-selling--personal computers in history.
Get access to new episodes early and ad-free along with The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
What do you get when you combine Pong, the Disneyland Tiki Birds, and a coyote? You get the foundations for one of the most beloved children's restaurants ever.
Today, we look back on the history of Chuck E. Cheese, a restaurant that has had a tumultuous existence, but was always the ultimate birthday destination.
We'll look back on its origins, the various names it went through, the success, competition, downfall, and resurgance. We'll also take a look at Chuck E. Cheese himself, a spokescharacter with a more detailed--and emotional--backstory than you might realize...
Support the show and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
With a Beetlejuice sequel finally about to hit theatres, we revisit the original 1980s classic by traveling back to 1988. It was a movie that many weren't too sure of--including some of its cast.
Today we look back on the making of Beetlejuice, how the original version was going to look quite different from the version we know, and how the movie almost went by an entirely different name...
It was a film that one of its stars believed would ruin everyone's career, but it ended up becoming a cultural touchstone spreading into all aspects of pop culture.
The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
"Ford to City: Drop Dead..." These are the words that appeared on the cover of The Daily News in 1975. Financially, New York was hanging by a thread and the city appealed to President Gerald Ford for some federal help.
As the 70s came to an end, and the 1980s began, it felt like a make-or-break decade for the city that never sleeps. Today, we look back on a tumultuous decade for the Big Apple and how it started to turn the corner.
But a lot of amazing things came out of NYC in the 80s, and we also look back on the music scene, Broadway, and a lot of beloved 1980s movies set in Manhattan.
Special Guest: Greg Young (The Bowery Boys History Podcast)
National Lampoon's Vacation Movie Review: Patreon.com/80s
The 1980s weren't exactly a golden age for Disney animated features. Maybe a new cartoon film based on a series of books could usher in an exciting new era of Disney animation. That film was The Black Cauldron; a movie that took a long time to make, cost a fortune, and created a lot of backlash. And it almost sunk Disney animation for good... Bonus 1980s audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Headbands, legwarmers, and spandex... In the 1980s, these things started to appear everywhere. It was a time when fitness, aerobics, and health clubs began to take center stage. Activities that used to be more niche--like aerobics and bodybuilding--quickly became mainstream. Today we look back on the fitness explosion of the 80s, the people (and celebrities) that helped make it popular, and the technology that allowed it to grow like wildfire. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 1980s gave us an explosion of new cartoon shows. But with so many new shows and characters, someone had to voice them all. It was even better if you could have the same person perform multiple voices. If you don't know the name Frank Welker--but grew up in the 80s--you've definitely heard his voice. This is a look back on the incredible career of the man who was the voice of the 80s, and is in more TV shows and movies than you could even imagine... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If they were people, they'd officially be over the hill... Today we look back on 12 classic albums that are somehow forty years old now. These are the albums of 1983, a genuinely astonishing time for music. And this list is the epitome of a mixed bag; classic rock, pop, new wave, and multiple forms of heavy metal. it's a year that will go down in music history. 1983 is also the year that featured the debut releases of some of the biggest artists in history, along with a carryover from 1982 that continued to dominate the charts... Support the show & get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Which path will you choose? That was the question that faced millions of kids during the 1980s. The Choose Your Own Adventure books felt like part story/part game, but every time you picked one up: it was always different. This is a look back on the unique books, their phenomenal success, and some brilliant marketing that led to the sale of hundreds of millions of copies. And it all began with a bedtime story... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
No one was safe... If the greatest player the game had ever seen could be traded, it meant every athlete in every sport could also be moved. For many in Canada, this was also a 'where were you when' moment. This is a look back at the summer of 1988 and the shocking National Hockey League trade that took Wayne Gretzky from the Edmonton Oilers to the Los Angeles Kings. It's the trade that shocked a city--and a country--and forever changed the landscape of not only professional hockey but the entire sporting world... Bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It seemed like a 'whatever could go wrong, did go wrong' situation... as passengers in Montreal boarded their plane on July 23rd, 1983, little did they know they were about to become part of one of the most astonishing events in aviation history. This is a look back on Air Canada Flight 143, a remarkable flight that combined mathematical errors, heroic bravery, and many 'what if?' scenarios... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It was the sequel that was never meant to be... Coming off the phenomenal success of Back to the Future, there was no choice but to create a follow-up. This, however, presented a lot of problems but ultimately resulted in one of the greatest trilogies of all time. Welcome to a free sample of the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast found over at Patreon.com/80s. Today we look back at the movie that is both a sequel and a prequel, gave us a glimpse into the future, and did something quite unique going into the final installment. Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As the 1970s finally came to a close, it was time for a brand new decade. Hopefully, this would be one full of hope, joy, prosperity, and technological advancements that would not only entertain us but make our lives easier. This is a look back on the year 1980 and all the big pop culture moments that took place; including the music, movies, TV shows, technology, and sports. But, there was still political unrest and this was a year that also featured the election of a man that would be a key figure in this new and transformative decade. Bonus 1980s Content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When Return of the Jedi hit theatres in May 1983, there was a bittersweet feeling connected to it. Yes, there was enormous hype for the third and final installment in the Star Wars saga. But, as far as we knew it at the time, this was the very end of Star Wars. Let's look back on the movie that signified the end of one chapter but also marked the beginning of a whole new era... Special guest: Fred Kennedy Fred's Podcast: Mud 79: A Fan-Made Star Wars Story Twitter: @Fearless_Fred Instagram: @fearless_fred Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Entering the second half of the 80s, the PC was gaining prominence in our homes. But so too was an unwelcome guest... As homes and schools were being filled with IBMs and Commodore 64s, two brothers had created software that would take the world by storm--but in all the wrong ways. This is the story of the 'Brain' computer virus; a rude awakening to how vulnerable our technology really was. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This historical, true crime podcast hosted by Kru Williams from History Television's hit original series Deadman’s Curse: The Legend of the Lost Gold investigates the curse and legend surrounding the lost gold mine of Pitt Lake. On their quest they're joined by members of the Stó:lō and Katzie First Nations, historians and cultural experts of diverse backgrounds, as they sort fact from fiction and give Slumach a voice from the other side of the veil. You'll hear about how an Indigenous prospector, accused of murder set a curse on anyone who searched for his hidden gold just before he was hanged. Over a century later, a prospector, a mountaineer, a truth-seeker and a way-shower band together to walk the same paths of those who went looking for Slumach’s cursed gold and never returned find how a single bullet was the catalyst for a 150-year-old mystery. Click here to find it on your favourite podcast app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In part 1 of this two-part series, we met the Ninja Turtles, their creators, and witnessed the launch of the comic book. At the end of part 1, we left off with the Ninja Turtles about to hit it big with the cartoon series. Today, we travel back to witness Turtlemania running wild... This is a look back on one of the biggest toy booms of all time and the rapid growth of one of the most successful franchises in pop culture history. And how do you follow up on all this amazing success? Maybe with a movie... Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's the early 80s and two young artists are struggling to find their place in the world of comic books. But then, one night, everything would change forever... Welcome to part 1 of the history of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. In the first episode of a two-part series, we'll travel back to revisit the origins of the comic book series, learn about the creators, and witness the rapid rise of TMNT. But as quickly as they conquered comic store shelves--they would soon conquer the small screen... Bonus 80s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A brand new decade was underway--but it began with a truly catastrophic event. Today, we travel back to May 1980 and the devastating eruption that took place in the Pacific Northwest. From a geological standpoint, it was a historic eruption that decimated the area and displayed the incredible power of nature. But, if not for some scientists, could have been much deadlier... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There are a handful of TV shows that perfectly represent the 1980s--and right at the top of the list is The A-Team. What began as a way to get NBC out of third place quickly became a ratings powerhouse, a merchandising juggernaut, and pop culture phenomenon. This is a look back on the show that no one believed in at first, but, based around a larger-than-life character, would go on to hold its own against some of the biggest shows of the decade. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you're listening to this episode the day it's released, it marks 50 years to the day when the world first met Atari. From there, the groundbreaking company forever changed what home video games could be. Today, I cover the history of the iconic company, how they made the home video game market a billion-dollar industry, and take a deep dive into some of the most beloved games. We also look at how classic Atari games are being preserved for future generations. This is a story that includes Star Wars, Apple Computers, E.T., and even dog food (you'll see how...). So press play, and journey back with me to the golden age of video games! Support the show and get access to bonus audio content like the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork by Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to the Everything 80s Halloween Spooktacular! Today, we journey back to the 80s to learn the origins of Trick-or-treating, look at what the most popular Halloween costumes were for each year, and discover the most popular candy of the decade. Then, we take a quick look at how many iconic horror films came out in the 1980s and finish with the most popular PG Halloween movies based on each U.S. state. So grab some cider, light the pumpkin, and hit play as we journey back to Halloween in the 80s. Support the show and get bonus audio content like the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you were a kid in the 80s, you were probably blissfully unaware of what was happening with the tumultuous economy. But this crazy financial world created the 80s as we know it. This is really a story in three parts: It starts low, soars to dizzying heights, only to come crashing back down. It was the time of Reaganomics, recession, deficits, vast wealth, and one of the darkest days in the history of Wall Street. The economy of the 1980s gave us things like the Yuppie, Strawberry Shortcake, Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, G.I. Joe, and many of the defining images of the decade. Support the show on Patreon.com/80s and get access to bonus audio content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What do you get when you combine a German fashion doll, lightsabers, and an energy crisis? You get G.I. Joe, of course! This is a look back on a toy that's not only one of the most successful in history but also a masterclass in marketing. The story of G.I. Joe goes all the way back to 1955, and over the decades, redefined how toys could be advertised. Despite marketing restrictions in the 80s, Hasbro still created an incredible demand for a dead toy line. Then, they took advantage of the lifting of advertising regulations, to create the blueprint for how to successfully market a toy franchise. So hit play and let's head back to when after-school cartoons were sacred and a resurrected toy line captured our imaginations. Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Where were you in '82? If you're old enough to remember October 1982, you may recall the widespread panic of the Tylenol Murders. In Chicago, seven people were now dead after consuming poisoned Tylenol. How did this happen? How much more was out there? How safe were any of our everyday products? This episode is part true crime story, but as much about how the news media could spread fear quicker than ever before. It's also about a public relations nightmare, navigating a crisis, the rapid safety changes to product packaging; even trick-or-treating getting canceled. So hit play, and let's journey back to the fall of 1982. *This episode contains content that some listeners may find disturbing Support the show and get bonus audio content over at Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Is your head hurting, too? I'm having trouble wrapping my mind around the fact that these 15 incredible albums are now over the hill. Today, we head back to the year 1982 which may be one of the most astounding years for music ever. 1982 gave us not only some of the best albums of the 80s--but in music history. It's a year that combined classic rock, pop, new wave, heavy metal, folk, and a new musical art form that would soon take the world by storm. 1982 was also unique as it was the only year when all four physical music formats existed at the same time. Will any of your favorites make the list? Press play to find out! Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Is your head hurting, too? I'm having trouble wrapping my mind around the fact that these 15 incredible albums are now over the hill. Today, we head back to the year 1982 which may be one of the most astounding years for music ever. 1982 gave us not only some of the best albums of the 80s--but in music history. It's a year that combined classic rock, pop, new wave, heavy metal, folk, and a new musical art form that would soon take the world by storm. 1982 was also unique as it was the only year when all four physical music formats existed at the same time. Will any of your favorites make the list? Press play to find out! Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you grew up in the 1980s, you know how sacred Saturday morning cartoons were. But as we got older, they faded away, and our interests changed. Would anything be able to fill the void of that beloved TV-watching ritual? Enter TGIF on the ABC network. Though it may feel more like a 90s institution, TGIF began in the late 80s with roots going all the way back to 1985. This episode looks back at the origins of the beloved Friday night lineup, the importance of following a formula, the real meaning behind TGIF, and the importance of branding specific nights. Ultimately, this is a story about the power of our beloved routines, traditions, and the people we share them with. If you want to support the show and get bonus audio content, head over to Patreon.com/80s to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you grew up in the 1980s, you know how sacred Saturday morning cartoons were. But as we got older, they faded away, and our interests changed. Would anything be able to fill the void of that beloved TV-watching ritual? Enter TGIF on the ABC network. Though it may feel more like a 90s institution, TGIF began in the late 80s with roots going all the way back to 1985. This episode looks back at the origins of the beloved Friday night lineup, the importance of following a formula, the real meaning behind TGIF, and the importance of branding specific nights. Ultimately, this is a story about the power of our beloved routines, traditions, and the people we share them with. If you want to support the show and get bonus audio content, head over to Patreon.com/80s to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
No matter what our feelings are about the Royal Family, we've been living through historical times. And, for the Royals, there may be no era more significant than the 1980s. This was a decade where--thanks to the growth of media, cable, and networks--awareness of their every move was at an all-time high. The 1980s gave us two royal weddings, four royal births, multiple threats to the Queen, and a humorous public relations disaster. This is also a time when we began to see cracks in the facade of what was supposed to be a "perfect family." And, in the 1980s, the world would meet a young nursery school assistant who would soon become the most famous human being on earth. Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
No matter what our feelings are about the Royal Family, we've been living through historical times. And, for the Royals, there may be no era more significant than the 1980s. This was a decade where--thanks to the growth of media, cable, and networks--awareness of their every move was at an all-time high. The 1980s gave us two royal weddings, four royal births, multiple threats to the Queen, and a humorous public relations disaster. This is also a time when we began to see cracks in the facade of what was supposed to be a "perfect family." And, in the 1980s, the world would meet a young nursery school assistant who would soon become the most famous human being on earth. Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What are your memories of 1986? Depending on your age, they may be quite vivid. Or you may only remember bits and pieces. But how do you sum up a year that had many amazing moments, but also some terrible setbacks? If you had to describe the year 1986, it may be one step forward, two steps back. Today, we look back on all the great movies, TV shows, technology, sports, and music that 1986 gave us--and it sure was a humdinger. But, unfortunately, this was the year that contained two of the worst disasters of the decade. And in between those, was a seminal moment that made all of us look up... If you're in a position to support the show--and want bonus content--you can head over to Patreon.com/80s to learn more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What are your memories of 1986? Depending on your age, they may be quite vivid. Or you may only remember bits and pieces. But how do you sum up a year that had many amazing moments, but also some terrible setbacks? If you had to describe the year 1986, it may be one step forward, two steps back. Today, we look back on all the great movies, TV shows, technology, sports, and music that 1986 gave us--and it sure was a humdinger. But, unfortunately, this was the year that contained two of the worst disasters of the decade. And in between those, was a seminal moment that made all of us look up... If you're in a position to support the show--and want bonus content--you can head over to Patreon.com/80s to learn more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Whether you grew up in the 80s or not, MTV has probably impacted you at some point. Even though the all-music channel debuted way back in 1981, it continues to influence pop culture to this day. This is a look back on a risky idea that went on to define the entire 1980s and changed the way we consume music. In this episode, we'll look back at the origins of MTV (that involves New Zealand and The Monkees), the immediate impact it made, the rise of giant stars like Madonna and Michael Jackson, and the controversies that have been a part of the channel since it first launched. If you're interested in supporting the show, you can check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What stores do you remember best from your childhood? If you're Canadian, one such store may be Zellers--which looks to be making a comeback--but you no doubt have your own favorites. However, this episode is about so much more than a classic Canadian store; it's about how many of our retail favorites are no longer with us. It's about the changing retail landscape that is drastically different than the way we remember it. This show is a look back on the stores that made us, the rise and fall of mall culture, and the life-long power of brands. Ultimately, this episode is about how powerful nostalgia is, and why giant corporations continue to bank on its undeniable impact. If you want to support this show--and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast--you can head over to Patreon.com/80s to learn more
Are you old enough to remember Halley's Comet? If you are, I'm sure you remember what a big deal its return was in 1986. For kids of the 80s, it was astounding to be able to see something that last appeared in 1910. And if you were of a certain age, there's a chance you'll get to see it again, as Halley's Comet will make its return in 2061.
But the story of Halley's Comet is about much more than just a comet. This was a look at ourselves and the astonishing progress we had made by the mid--80s. Compared to 1910, 1986 was like living in a future no one could have predicted. Halley's Comet marked our progress, our technological advancements, but also, our setbacks, as its return would be sandwiched right between two of the worst disasters of the 20th Century.
If you're interested in supporting this show--and getting access to more content--you can check out Patreon.com/80s to find out more.
What's your favorite video game ever? Quite often, they're the beloved games from our childhood. If you grew up in the 1980s, some of the classics probably come to mind. The 80s was a golden age of video games, and it gave us some of the most iconic--and important--video games ever created.
The advancement in video games from 1980 to 1989 was truly night and day. The games at the end of the decade were virtually unrecognizable compared to those from the beginning. But it's sometimes those simple games that have stayed with us.
So, ready player 1, because In this episode, I'm counting down the ten best video games of the 1980s.
If you want to support the show--and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast--you can check out Patreon.com/80s to find out all about it.
What does a superhero look like to you? Your image may come from the pages of a comic book or a movie screen. But what if there was a real-life superhero that existed among us? That's what Terry Fox was. If this is the first time you're hearing this name, this is a look back at a person who, in 1980, would run across Canada on one leg to raise money and awareness for cancer research.
This is the astonishing story of not only a mind-boggling physical feat but a genuine hero in every sense of the word.
You can learn more about the Terry Fox Foundation by visiting: Terryfox.org
If you're interested in supporting this show, you can check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more.
On February 10th, 1976, the only banned episode of Sesame Street ever, was aired. This episode featured Margeret Hamilton reprising her role as the iconic Wicked Witch of the West. The episode created such a backlash that Sesame Street and the Children's Television Workshop were forced to pull the episode.
Going into the 80s and 90s, the legend of this episode began to grow, and it would become one of the most famous pieces of lost media in history. For nearly half a century, it remained locked away until just recently when it was leaked online. This is a look back on that infamous episode, and the character that still freaked out children a good forty years after the Wizard of Oz was first released.
Support the show: Patreon.com/80s
On February 10th, 1976, the only banned episode of Sesame Street ever, was aired. This episode featured Margeret Hamilton reprising her role as the iconic Wicked Witch of the West. The episode created such a backlash that Sesame Street and the Children's Television Workshop were forced to pull the episode.
Going into the 80s and 90s, the legend of this episode began to grow, and it would become one of the most famous pieces of lost media in history. For nearly half a century, it remained locked away until just recently when it was leaked online. This is a look back on that infamous episode, and the character that still freaked out children a good forty years after the Wizard of Oz was first released.
Support the show: Patreon.com/80s
The 1980s gave rise to the summer blockbuster. Before then, the summer wasn't seen as an effective time to release movies. That definitely changed, and this was mainly thanks to Steven Spielberg and George Lucas. But which summer had the best movies?
In this look back at one of my favorite episodes ever, I rank every 1980s summer to see which one was the very best. How does 1985 compare to the juggernaut that was 1989? Which summer was the real dark horse with a ton of classic offerings? Which summer is maybe not as good as we remember?
The 1980s changed summer movies forever, and the effects are still being felt to this day.
If you want some more 1980s movie content, you can check out the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast over at Patreon.com/80s
The 1980s ushered in a new era of cartoons, toys, and action figures the likes we had never seen before. But what made this era so different? And why did we love the toys that we did? What makes for a good toy? Is it functionality? Backstory? Interaction? Marketing? Or the fact our friends had them? This is also a look at the government deregulation, trade embargos, capitalism, and even war that had a major influence on one of the biggest eras of toys ever.
Special Guest: Dan Larson from Toy Galaxy
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
After an epic four hours of Stranger Things: Volume 2, it's time to recap episodes 8 and 9 and then wrap up what was a truly remarkable season. For both episodes, we will break down the plot, and look at all the themes, observations, and 1980s references. We look ahead to what may be in store for the 5th season, and how season 4 could not have come at a better time for Netflix.
Chrissy, this is for you...
Support the show at Patreon.com/80s
Check out the 1980s-based book, "Tommy and the Cosmic Champions"
Here's a special preview of the new season of Cautionary Tales from Pushkin Industries. On Cautionary Tales, best-selling author Tim Harford shares stories of human error, natural disasters, and tragic catastrophes from history that contain important lessons for today.
In this episode, you'll hear about the Hyatt Regency Hotel disaster. With its splendid modern architecture, The Hyatt Regency was the place to be seen in Kansas City in 1981. Beneath space-age walkways, guests drank, laughed, and danced... not realizing that 60 tons of glass, concrete, and steel hanging above their heads was about to come crashing down. One hundred fourteen people died. But why? Was it cheap materials? Shoddy construction? Or a tiny error that seemed so insignificant that no one paid attention?
Hear more from Cautionary Tales wherever you get your podcasts.
People sure were scared of the devil back in the 80s. As the fear of Satanic cults grew, one simple role-playing game became the spokesperson for all the evils facing youth: Dungeons and Dragons. How did this game that appealed to creative people become blamed for so many terrible events?
This is a look back on the rise of Dungeons and Dragons and the fear that swept through the nation. A game that was played by a niche community was now on network news and fear and hysteria were being pumped into every living room in the country. Why was D&D singled out? And did it become the scapegoat because of negligent parenting...
If you want to support this show--and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast--you can head over to Patreon.com/80s to learn more.
Show Notes: Dungeons and Dragons.
Was 1985 the best year of the decade? If it's not, then it's pretty damn close. In this review of 1985, we'll look back on all the notable movies, TV shows, cartoons, technology, music, sports, and world events that made up a pretty astounding year.
1985 is also the year of one of the biggest marketing disasters in history, some of the most significant films of the decade, and a new source of entertainment that would change the lives of kids forever. To me, it's the best year of the decade; but is it as good as you remember? Listen up to find out!
If you want to support this show--and get access to The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast--you can check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more.
You may not know the name Rax, but they played a significant role in the fast-food game during the 80s--and you've no doubt seen their influence in the industry to this day. The company goes back to the 1960s but rose to prominence during the 80s.
In the 80s, they started to add a huge amount of items, changed their decor, and aimed to be the "champagne of fast-food restaurants." Heading into the late 80s, the company was in financial trouble and the restaurant that was "fast food for adults" would introduce one of the most bizarre characters ever to try and save the company: Mr. Delicious.
If you want to support the show--and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast--you can check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more
Show Notes: Rax restaurants
Whoa nelly, this has been a doozy. I'm going to recap everything that went on during Volume 1 of Stranger Things season 4. We will do a plot summary breakdown of what transpired over the last 7 episodes, explore some of the deep themes used this season, look at the movies that influenced it (one horror movie, specifically), look at the importance of music during this season, and uncover all the Easter eggs and 1980s references I could find!
Spoiler warnings if you haven't seen season 4 yet
Support the show: Patreon.com/80s
Show Notes: Stranger Things Season 4 Recap
It's almost here... After nearly three years, Stranger Things is back with its highly anticipated fourth season--and it couldn't come at a better time for Netflix. In this preview show, we'll do a recap of season 3, discuss everything we know about the plot and production, do a trailer breakdown, discuss theories, and look at another great commercial crossover.
Season 4 promises to be bigger, better, scarier, longer, and WAY more expensive than the other seasons--and I hope you're as excited as I am!
If you want to support this show--and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast--you can check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more. Tell 'em Large Marge sent ya.
When Crocodile Dundee was released in 1986, it caught everyone by surprise. The movie from Down Under starring an actor no one knew became a monster hit. This is a look back on the Crocodile Dundee franchise and the man behind the croc: Paul Hogan.
Hogan's story is a true rags-to-riches tale and how he went from Australian celebrity to worldwide star. We look at how this film came together, why no one expected it to be a hit, Paul Hogan's rise to fame, the sequels, the surprising film role that Hogan turned down, and the ultimate crossover movie that never came to be.
If you want to support this show--and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast--you can consider supporting me at Patreon.com/80s. Tell 'em Large Marge sent ya...
Before there was the Chernobyl disaster, there was Three Mile Island. This is an accident that appears to be a lot more serious than you may realize. What appeared to be just a "close call" could have actually been catastrophic. This is a look back at the story of the first nuclear accident; all the misinformation that eroded the public's trust; coverup; Jane Fonda; whistleblowing, and the aftermath that was felt for years.
If you want to support the show--and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast--head over to Patreon.com/80s to learn more.
How is it possible that the greatest toy store we've ever known could end up bankrupt? No, it's not just because of the internet (though that does play a role). The once-dominant toy store would face many setbacks that resulted in its closure. In this episode, we look back on the history of the iconic store, how it shaped the childhoods of millions, helped create a lot of pop culture as we know it, and then faced a very sad demise.
This is also a look at how in the year 2000, things could have turned out very different regarding a certain gigantic online store. This episode also features some economics, Geoffrey the Giraffe, and a whole lot of nostalgia.
Show Notes: Toys "R" Us
Support the show: Patreon.com/80s
The 1980s not only gave us an explosion of pop culture, but a new era of snacks, beverages, and junk foods. A lot of this was only possible because of one specific ingredient: High fructose corn syrup.
This is a look back on the explosive growth of sugar consumption going into the 1980s and how it may have created some significant health issues. We also look at another ingredient introduced in the 80s that also has a very sordid history of its own: aspartame.
This episode is a combination of politics, economics, marketing, health, government corruption, and a bit of good old nostalgia.
*potential trigger warning: in this episode, we discuss some health and food-related issues including obesity and other health conditions which may be problematic for some listeners
Support the Show and Get Access to the Everything *0s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s
Before there was Red Bull, Monster, or 5-Hour Energy Shots, there was the original energy drink: Jolt Cola.
If you grew up like me, you may remember Jolt Cola being kind of mythical. This drink apparently had enough caffeine to take down a horse and we all heard urban legends of the kid who died drinking it. It turns out Jolt didn't actually have that much caffeine. What it did have was the opposite approach to the diet cola movement that was taking place.
This is the look back on how the "bad boy of cola" entered an ultra-competitive market, the demographic it went after, how it never intended to compete with Coke or Pepsi, and how it defied all industry expectations to last over three decades.
If you're interested in supporting this show--and getting access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast--you can check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more.
If you were alive in the 1980s, you definitely went to K-Mart at some point. The store had everything and was a huge part of our lives. But how did the company go from retail giant to almost nothing? As of the time of this recording, there are only three K-marts left. This is a look back on the rise and fall of a giant company with a history that goes all the way back to 1899.
If you want to support this show--and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Podcast--check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more. Tell 'em Large Marge sent ya...
Show Notes: The Rise and Fall of Kmart
Even if you're not a wrestling fan, you can't deny the massive influence it has had a pop culture. This influence was never more prominent than it was in the 1980s. This is the story of the very first WrestleMania and the massive risk Vince McMahon took in creating it.
The story of WrestleMania is as much the story of the early days of the (then) WWF, the changing landscape of entertainment, cable TV, MTV, and a new phenomenon named Hulk Hogan.
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Show Notes: The Story of WrestleMania
If you're from the UK, and of a certain age, you probably remember the Late Late Breakfast Show incident of 1986. Even if you've never heard of this--it's a pretty crazy story.
The Late Late Breakfast Show was a variety show aired on the BBC in the early 80s. It was kind of like the early days of David Letterman. One feature on the show involved putting regular citizens into death-defying, movie-level stunts. You can obviously see where this is going, and the tragedy that happened in 1986 would lead to reform in broadcasting still followed to this day. Disclaimer: there are a few situations in this episode you may find disturbing.
If you're interested in supporting this show--and getting access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Club--you can check out Patreon.com/80s. Tell 'em Large Marge sent ya.
Show Notes: The Late Late Breakfast Show Incident
Takes deep breath OK, this may not go over well but here is my countdown of what I believe are some of the most overrated movies of the 1980s. I need to point out that these are not bad movies--not at all. They are in fact really, really good movies, I just find them to be more on the overrated side than the all-time classic side.
We've got 7 choices to look at which include a classic coming-of-age tale, a beloved action movie, and a technological marvel, just to name a few.
Speaking of movies, if you want to get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Club--and support the show at the same time--check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more
1984 is more than just George Orwell, it's a huge year when it comes to all things pop culture. Some of the best movies and TV shows of not just the 80s--but of all time--debuted in 1984. We also look back at the music, technology, and major sporting events that went into this pretty remarkable year.
We'll also touch on the whole 1984, Orwellian connection, and take a quick look at some other things that were going on in the world.
If you're interested in supporting the show--and getting access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Show--you can check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more.
The L.A. Lakers of the 80s may be the decade-defining team during an era of decade-defining teams. This is a look back at a true sports dynasty and the one year which may be the best of all time: 1986-87.
This is also a look at how the Lakers brand of "Showtime basketball" would change the way we watched sports. The Lakers took basketball from simply a game to a full entertainment experience. Even if you don't like sports, this is an interesting look back on a period of sports we may never see again.
If you're interested in supporting the show--and getting access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Club--please check out Patreon.com/80s.
Show Notes: The Showtime Lakers
What do you get when you combine, teenagers, dangerous rides, alcohol, and New Jersey? You get Action Park: the most dangerous amusement park of all time.
This is a look back on the notoriously famous park and how it came to be. We look at how safety was not a concern in the design of the attractions and why it could be a genuinely dangerous place to visit. There is also violence, fraud, and a lot of injuries. This episode also explores how Action Park was the personification for many 1980s attitudes and why the 80s were a truly different era for kids.
Disclaimer: there are a few disturbing stories regarding some of the accidents.
If you're interested in supporting this show--and getting access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Club--you can check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more.
Show Notes: Action Park
The 1980s were a golden age of breakfast cereals. The decade ushered in a whole new era of breakfast options that probably couldn't even be considered real food--but we loved it (even if our mothers hated them). I'm going to count down what I believe are the ten best cereals of the decade.
Some of these came out before the 80s but became as much a part of our morning breakfast routine as reading the back of the box. Some came out for a short period in the 80s and were never seen again. Hopefully, some of your favorites made the list!
If you want to support the podcast, and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Club where I review the good, the bad, and the ugly of 1980s movies, you can head over to Patreon.com/80s to learn more.
Show Notes: 1980s Breakfast Cereals
If you grew up in the U.K. in the 80s, you definitely know of SuperTed. But even if you're not from the U.K, there's a good chance you saw this cartoon at some point. This is a look back on a bedtime story that became a hit cartoon show seen in over 120 different countries.
It's a story that has connections to Harry Potter, The Beatles, Disney, and Welsh pride. It's also an incredible tale of sticking to your guns and not giving in to giant corporate interests.
Show Notes: SuperTed
If you want to support this show, and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Club, you can check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more.
It's almost Valentine's Day and I thought we'd take a look back on the movie that created the modern rom-com: When Harry Met Sally.
It's not that rom-coms didn't exist before, but this film perfected the format. It was also a monster hit and caught movie studios completely off guard with how lucrative this genre could be. This is a look back on the plot of the movie, how it came together, its lasting influence, and a bunch of amazing behind-the-scenes facts.
So enjoy this look back on a genre-defining classic, and I'll have what she's having...
Get 20% off and free shipping at manscaped.com when you use the code: 80s
If you're interested in supporting this show for as little as a few bucks a month--and getting free audio rewards--please check out Patreon.com/80s
Show Notes: When Harry Met Sally
Space Camp is a movie from 1986 about kids visiting NASA who accidentally get launched into space on the Space Shuttle, and have to figure out how to stay alive. It was released on June 6th, 1986, and if you know your history, you know what happened just four months earlier.
20th Century Fox now had the nightmare of trying to market a movie about kids having to stay alive onboard a Space Shuttle just months after a national tragedy. This is a look back on a movie that should have been a huge hit but inadvertently had the worst timing in movie history.
Get 20% off and free shipping at manscaped.com with code: "80s"
Show Notes: Space Camp
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
The 1980s gave us more than just crimped hair and legwarmers; it was a decade of amazing technological innovations. This is a look back on ten of those inventions that you may not realize come from this decade. It includes medical innovations, space exploration, beloved food items, and a change in how we would forever investigate crimes.
Get 20% off and free shipping at Manscaped.com when you use code: 80s
Show Notes: 10 Inventions From the 80s
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This is a look back at what was a very underrated year in the 80s: 1983. In this episode, we look at all the big pop culture moments that made up the year including the movies, cartoons, music, and TV shows. 1983 may actually be one of the biggest years ever when it comes to TV.
We also look at the technology, sporting moments, and the Great Video Game Crash that defined what was a pretty amazing year.
Show Notes: 1983
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Welcome to my look back at the best of the 80s in 2021! This episode is made up of three parts: The first is a look back at three 80s-related movies that came out during 2021. The next is a look back at some of the most interesting podcasts and topics of the year.
And the last part is where I share stats of the podcast shared to me by Spotify. It's a look at where everybody is listening from, the top ten countries that listen to the show, most listened to episodes of the year (and the worst one), and a quick snapshot of who the average listener is.
I hope you enjoy this look back as much as I did!
if you are interested in supporting the podcast, you can check out Patreon.com/80s. Supporting the show also gives you access to extra audio content including the Everything 80s Movie Club.
I have watched every Rankin/Bass Christmas special and there are A LOT more than you may realize. Today, I'm reviewing and ranking all of them. This list includes some obvious beloved favorites, a few misses, and some that will leave you scratching your head.
Rankin/Bass has become an integral part of the holidays and their storytelling and creativity have entertained us for nearly 60 years. I hope you enjoy this look back on some favorites and some that may be brand new to you.
Show notes: Rankin/Bass Christmas Specials
If you're in a position to support the show, you can check out Patreon.com where for a few bucks a month you not only support independent podcasts like this but also get access to audio rewards such as the Everything 80s Movie Review Club.
For this week's rewind, I want to take a look back at my movie review of Ghostbusters. Thanks to Ghostbusters Afterlife, Ghostbusters has been made great again, and there is a lot of hope for the future of this franchise. This episode was recorded before it came out, so it's an interesting look back on the movie that started it all and how it grew into one of the most beloved films of the 80s, and all time.
Ghostbusters Artbook on Amazon
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Welcome to my annual Christmas special! I'm wearing the ugliest Christmas sweater I could find, have the fireplace channel "roaring" in the background, and am drinking some type of nog. For the Christmas special, I wanted to look at the movies and TV shows that captured Christmas for us in the 1980s.
First, we will look at 4 films that actually are Christmas movies (you know where this is going...) And then look at 5, forgotten—and underappreciated—TV Christmas specials that came out during the decade.
So put on your best Christmas PJs and curl up by the phone for a warm and toasty 1980s Christmas.
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This is something I'm hoping to make a yearly tradition, and it's a look back on my episode about the infamous Star Wars Holiday Special. As bad as this thing is, it has somehow become a staple of my holiday viewing. And since I recorded it, there have been a few current references to the special—that I added to the episode—proving it's not going away anytime soon.
I hope you enjoy this look back at this absolute train wreck that ended up being one of the worst things ever shown on TV when it aired during the holiday season of 1978. Happy Life Day!
Show Notes: The Star Wars Holiday Special
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Yes, I stand by that statement. If this special had run every year like Rudolph or Frosty, I believe it would be considered a holiday classic that everyone watches each year. The problem is, it only aired two times, then was relegated to home video never to be seen again.
But this is a shame. In this episode, I want to share 6 reasons why this is the perfect Christmas special. It's also unique as it's the only time the Muppets, Sesame Street, The Muppet Babies, and Fraggle Rock all appear in the same show. And it's the last appearance Jim Henson would make with the Muppets.
Show Notes: A Muppet Family Christmas
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
In 1980, an upstart shoe company approached a hot-shot new basketball player about a possible endorsement deal. The problem was, they didn't have any money and could only offer him stock options.
That company was Nike, and that player was Magic Johnson. Had he taken the deal, it would have been worth billions today. This is a look back on this remarkable story and a look at the early days of Nike and that beginning of celebrity shoe endorsements.
Show Notes: Magic Johnson and Nike
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Holiday Gift Guide: 1980s-Based Gifts
Commercials were a big deal in the 1980s. With only three networks, advertisers had a better chance of reaching more people and making a big splash that would even make Don Draper proud. And the decade gave us commercials that were not only entertaining but became part of the pop culture landscape. A good catchphrase or slogan could catch on like wildfire and would become part of our vocabulary overnight.
In this episode, I count down the ten best commercials of the decade, taking into account entertainment value, marketing, and pop culture relevance. This episode will taste great AND be less filling. (crap, I gave one of them away...)
Show Notes: The 10 Best 80s Commercials
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
When it comes to pop culture: 1982 was a doozy. In this look back, I recap the movies, TV shows, music, sports, video games, and technology that define this year.
1982 gave us some of the biggest movies of all time, arguably the biggest album in history, a groundbreaking technological advancement, and the debut of several gigantic TV shows.
Show Notes: 1982
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
There have been a lot of terrible marketing promotions over the years, but does the American Airlines AAirpass from 1981 take the cake?
The AAirpass was a membership plan that gave its users unlimited, first-class flights, anywhere in the world—for life. To say that people took advantage of this is an understatement, and the program was soon costing American millions of dollars a year.
This is a look back on a promotion created by a company that had its backs against the wall. This interesting story also looks at how much air travel has changed since the 1980s.
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
In 1981, strange black arcade cabinets started showing up in a Portland Oregon arcade. Then there were reports of kids getting sick while playing games at this arcade. And what about the reports of Men in Black hanging around the same arcades?
Thus begins one of the all-time great urban legends. Was the Polybius arcade game created by the U.S. Government for mind control and to recruit kids as soldiers? This is a look back into the myth that will never die and why there's some actual "truth" to some of the theories.
Show Notes: The Polybius Arcade Game
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Welcome to the Halloween episode! in this special, we look at a few topics that came out of the 1970s but became more prominent in the 80s.
The first has to do with the issue of poisoned Halloween candy. We were always on the lookout for razor blades in our candy, but did this ever even happen? Was it just a myth, and how did it become such a fear for us in the 80s? We'll also check out some classic 80s Halloween commercials, then look at a television Halloween special that rivals the Star Wars Holiday Special with how awful it was...
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
We're doing a rewind to an earlier episode—and one of my favorite things from the 80s: The Choose Your Own Adventure Books. This is a look back on the evolution of a beloved childhood series, their phenomenal growth, and about their creator who started them as a bedtime story for his daughters.
Show Notes: Choose Your Own Adventure
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
What a time to be alive. The 80s ushered in a brave new world of video games and consoles. The technology was advancing rapidly, and we as kids were reaping the rewards. But which system was the best? Today, I count down what I believe are the 5 best game consoles of the decade, along with a look at a few forgotten ones you may have never even heard of. We also look at the state of the video game industry, and I count down the 10 best-selling video games of the 1980s.
Show notes: Best 80s Video Game Consoles
Support the Show: patreon.com/80s
It's the question that has stumped philosophers and scientists for years: How do George and Lorraine McFly not realize that their son is the same Marty from 1955?
In this essay—I mean episode—I look at several key points that show how it's impossible for them not to realize that their son is the same Calvin Klein/Marty from the past.
We look at some of the obvious points (THEY NAMED THEIR SON MARTY!) but also issues involving George's book, clothing, first loves, and a specific moment that includes the entire town. I also discuss the fan theory of why Biff is still working for the McFly family 30 years later.
Show Notes: Back to the Future Plot Hole
Support the Show: patreon.com/80s
1980 was the year that began the decade, but 1981 really brought us right into it. This is a year that had some notable pop-culture moments that changed the world forever.
In this episode, we look back at the movies, music, TV shows, sports, and other big events that shaped this year. And 1981 can be defined by one gigantic, global event. This is also the year that a lot of big TV shows debuted, one of the biggest movies ever was released, and some big advancements started to happen in technology.
Show Notes: 1981
Support the Show: patreon.com/80s
This is a genuine lost episode. I recorded this show more than a year ago but never released it. It's all about the Tomy Omnibot 5402 and has been dug out of the far reaches of my hard drive to release to the world.
In this episode, we look at why toy robots were such hot toys, why the Omnibot actually had some very advanced technology, and why it was ahead of its time. It's also a look back on the Tomy Company and how they brought you some of the most popular toys of all time, and why the Omnibot may better represent the decade than the more popular mainstream toys.
Show Notes: The Tomy Omnibot
Support Me & the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Do you remember the first music video you ever saw? Even if you don't, you may be like me and still remember being in awe of these mini "music movies." Today, I countdown what I believe are the 10 best videos of the 1980s.
There will be a bunch of similarities as my "best songs of the 80s" podcast, but that's just because they are such decade-defining hits. We will also look at the rise of MTV, how the Beatles helped pave the way for music videos, and a bunch of behind-the-scenes facts on some of your favorites.
Show Notes: The 10 Best Music Videos of the 80s
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Burger King and the Whopper were dominating things in the 1980s. McDonald's needed to create something to compete with it, but they also wanted to solve a problem at the same time: how do you keep the vegetables and lettuce of a burger fresh instead of a hot slimy mess?
Enter the McDLT. This is a look back on the evolution of the burger that was meant to take down the Whopper, the state of fast food marketing in the 80s, and the environmental issues that faced the McDLT. We also look at one of the most over-the-top commercials you will ever see featuring a very young Jason Alexander aka George Costanza.
Show Notes: The Story of the McDLT
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This is a look back on the device that changed the trajectory of modern video games: The Game and Watch. If it wasn't for the success of this simple hand-held device, video games as we know them may not exist.
The success of the Game and Watch led Nintendo to create the NES and forever change the landscape of gaming. The controls of the Game and Watch would also be instrumental in the development of modern gaming and it's time to look back on how significant this device really was.
Show Notes: The Nintendo Game and Watch
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Putting a list like this together was not easy—but somebody had to do it. Instead of a top 10; I went with 15, so more options could be included. This list obviously comes from my perspective as a kid growing up in the 80s, but I took other factors into account; including the impact the song had, billboard charts, and how each song represents the decade to this day.
Spotify Playlist: Best Songs of the 80s
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
A lot of significant things happened in the year 1980. Today, we're looking back on the movies, TV shows, video games, sporting moments, and music that happened in the first year of this brand new decade.
From Pac-Man to the Empire Strikes Back, the year 1980 had a bit of everything. There was a lot of carryover from the 1970s, but the new decade showed some early signs of what was to come.
Show Notes: A Look Back at the Year 1980
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
What do you get when you take an eccentric genius, government involvement, intense passion, and drug trafficking? You get one of the most iconic cars ever made. This is a look back on not just the Delorean, but its creator: John Z. DeLorean.
In case you didn't know that Delorean was a man—and not just a car—you're in for a pretty crazy story. This is a look at the rapid rise and fall of the Delorean, and if not for a certain time travel movie, how it would have been lost forever.
Shoe Notes: The Story of the Delorean
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
I think I need to lie down. Putting this list together was not easy, and I'm sure my order will not be to everyone's liking. But what I'm doing here today is ranking not just all the Star Wars movies—but also the live-action TV shows. There are 16 entries on this list, and I think I come at it from a good perspective.
Have I done it justice? Am I full of crap? Which is first? What was worst? There's only one way to find out!
Show Notes: Ranking Star Wars
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Was Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure the poor man's Back to the Future? This week, I'm looking back on a movie that had the unfortunate task of being another 1980s time travel movie.
We'll look at how this movie started out as a comedy sketch, how Keanu Reeves completely changed the direction of it, and some of the original plot intentions that were even weirder. We'll also look at why this movie sat on the shelf for two years before they released it, and why the movie was almost about a trio rather than a duo.
Show Notes: Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Oh, what could have been. It's not that the Popeye movie was terrible: it just wasn't close to what was expected. This movie was expected to be a gigantic hit, and it fell short. This is a look back on the Popeye movie, the origin of the Popeye character, how Annie set the stage for the movie, and how it introduced Robin Williams to the world.
Show Notes: The Popeye Movie
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
It can be easy to dismiss Jaws. It may seem like a common movie today, but it really changed Hollywood forever. If it wasn't for Jaws; movies, as we know them, might not exist. Jaws was the first true blockbuster. It changed how movies were released and marketed, and it created the summer movie season. This is a look back on how important Jaws is in the history of film, and how it allowed Steven Spielberg to bring his artistic visions to the world.
Show Notes: Jaws
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This is a legit rewind as not only is this a look back at a classic episode: it also features a device that did a lot of rewinding--the Walkman. The Walkman was a much more culturally significant device than most people realize. This is when music became truly personal. No device had ever been marketed like this before, and it would help pave the way for Apple and the iPod.
Let's take a look back at the Walkman: the first portable music player.
Show Notes: The Walkman
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
How well do you really know your favorite 80s movie? You may think you know it inside out, but then a fan theory comes along that completely changes the way you see it.
Today, I'm looking at 10 of the best fan theories from 1980s movies. Some of them you may know--and some are pretty out-there. But they all help to give the movies we love a fresh presentation. Some of the movies we'll look at include Indiana Jones, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Grease, The Karate Kid, and Back to the Future.
Show Notes: 10 Crazy Movie Fan Theories
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Today, I'm ranking each year of summer movies during the 80s to see which is the best. How does the summer of 1986 compare against 1981? Is the summer of 1985 the best--or does it come up short?
This is one of the toughest--and most fun--episodes I've ever put together.
I'll look at the notable movies from each summer, the one specific theme that runs through each summer, and a summary of how I feel it ranks against the others. I'm sure I'll get canceled for my number 8 choice--but I'm ready to face the music.
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This is the fourth and final part of my mini-series about the early days of the Internet. Today, we're looking at the origins of Netflix and how it changed the way we consume content.
We'll look at the fake origin story of the company, how they were almost a part of Blockbuster Video, and how Napster may have been responsible for their success.
Then, we look at how they created the binge-style of consuming content, and how this may be going away. We finish by looking at what the state of movies may become now that we are getting more instant access to new releases.
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Welcome to the third part of my podcast mini-series on the early days of the internet. In the first part, I looked at the creation of the World Wide Web and how Netscape made it accessible. Part 2 was all about how AOL brought the internet into every home in the country.
In part 3, we look at how the internet was taken to the next level: web search. And more specifically: Google. This is a look back on the astounding history of the now trillion-dollar company. We'll look at how two college students beat the giant web companies at their own game, and how they almost sold it for next to nothing: but everyone passed.
We then look at how Google could be twice as big but dropped the ball on social networking--despite beating Facebook to the punch.
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Welcome to part Deux of my series on the early days of the internet. In this episode, we are looking at what may be the most important advancement in the history of the web: AOL.
In episode one, I covered how Tim Berners-Lee was the one responsible for the internet's true creation. We also looked at Marc Andreessen who is responsible for making the internet accessible by creating Netscape. But it's one woman who brought the internet into people's homes.
This is a look at the astonishing growth of America Online, and how it changed the public's perception of what the internet could be. It's also a look at the biggest--and riskiest--marketing campaign in consumer history.
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
The first part of my new podcast mini-series 'From Dial-Up to Satellites' looks back at the early days of the internet.
We'll look at Tim Berners-Lee who is the real founder of the web. You'll also see how many didn't think the internet would lead to much. We then look back at the importance of Netscape in creating the first real web browser and how it brought the internet to the world.
We'll also explore how Netscape inadvertently created the blueprint that every internet and tech company after would end up following.
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
On March 13, 1989, Tim Berners Lee implemented the first successful communication between a hypertext transfer protocol with a server. You know this better as the internet.
In this new four-part series, we'll be looking back at what happened in the next few years following this groundbreaking creation. This podcast series will start next Wednesday and run for the next four weeks.
We'll look at what the early days of the internet were like, how Netscape brought the internet to the world, and how AOL brought it into every home. We'll also look at the search engine that changed the way we accessed information and a few more surprises.
Make sure you're subscribed wherever you listen to podcasts so you don't miss out!
You never thought hip hop would take it this far. We're going back in time to witness the birth of hip hop. We'll see how it was created in the Bronx, and how it evolved going into the 1980s.
Then, we'll see how it grew into a dominant art form and became the most profitable music genre. I also look at three of the most successful rappers, how they took what they earned in something that started as a hobby in the 80s--and turned it into an empire. (you can probably picture which three I'm talking about).
This one is part music; part history; part business; and a whole lotta funk.
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
I've searched far and wide through Disney+ and found a bunch of great 80s content that I didn't even know was on there.
Today, I'm sharing 16 epic shows and movies from the 80s that are currently streaming on the platform. Disney doesn't really promote their older content, and there's some amazing stuff that I had forgotten all about. If you have Disney+ and love the 80s, I think I've found the best content they have to offer!
Show notes: The Best 80s Content on Disney+
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This one was a real nostalgia trip for me. On today's show, I count down what I think are the top 9 toy playsets of the 80s. This is obviously from my perspective but I'm sure there are a few of your favorites here.
There are some beloved entries on this list and I take a look at what made each so successful, how much they cost at the time (and converted for today), and some interesting facts about each.
There are also a few original commercial clips for some of them that you hopefully remember, too.
Show notes: Top 9 Playsets of the 80s
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Ernest P. Worrell is one of the most beloved characters in history. Jim Varney was also one of the most creative and entertaining performers of the 1980s. This is a look back on all his amazing work with a real focus on what I believe is one of the most underrated kids shows of all time: "Hey Vern, It's Ernest."
Jim Varney was taken from us way too soon, and I wanted to take the time to remember all the entertainment he gave us.
Know what I mean?
Blogs mentioned in this episode:
- The Story of Jim Varney
- The Star Wars Holiday Special
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
See what I did there? Rewind? VCR? Never mind...anyway, this is a look back on an early episode and one of my favorite topics: VHS vs Beta.
We'll look at the origins of the VCR (it goes back to the 50s), how it changed the entertainment world forever, and how the format war between VHS and Beta began. We'll also look at how VHS ultimately won out (it has to do with football).
And remember: Be kind, rewind.
Show notes: VHS vs Beta
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Saturday morning cartoons were a beloved institution--so why did they disappear? This is a look at the cherished time slot that has its roots in commercialism and marketing.
We'll look at why they first started on Saturday mornings, why they became a marketer's dream, and how the FCC--and a few other things--led to their demise. We'll also look at why there was an explosion of new cartoons in the 80s and why we have Ronald Reagan to thank for that.
Show notes: Kidd Video
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Grab your whip and fedora and settle in, because we're looking at the real-life influences behind Indiana Jones.
If you thought he was a fictional character, think no more! We're looking at who the real-life Indiana Jones may be, the legacy of character, the rise in interest in archeology, and a quick breakdown of the three movies.
Show Notes: Real-Life Indiana Jones
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This was a doozy to put together. Today, I'm counting down what I believe are the 10 best 80s TV theme songs--and it wasn't easy. Your order may be different, but I'm sure most of these would make your list.
We'll look at each theme song, how it came together, and how it was used to perfectly capture the essence of the show--and the decade.
Show Notes: The 10 Best 80s TV Themes
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
In Soviet Russia, podcast listen to you! Today, we are looking back on the career of the great Yakov Smirnoff. I was a huge fan of his and the story of his life is pretty astonishing.
We'll look at how he was able to break free from the Soviet Union, dealing with a real-life Minister of Jokes, his rise to fame in America, and how it almost all disappeared at the collapse of the Soviet Union. We may also get a message from him at the end...
Show Notes: Yakov Smirnoff
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Pro wrestling was king in the 1980s, and the then WWF ruled the roost. They were able to partner with NBC to air a wrestling show on NBC in place of Saturday Night Live.
Saturday Night's Main Event became a ratings smash and was instrumental in the success of the World Wrestling Federation. This is a look back on how this show came together, why it wound up on NBC on Saturday nights, and some of my own favorite moments and memories of it (one which involves me crying. I'm not joking...)
Show Notes: Saturday Night's Main Event
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Shoes, music, sports, and culture all go hand-in-hand today--but this was always the case. It took a small upstart shoe company from New York to set in motion what sneakers could actually become.
This is a look back on the true game-changing shoe company: British Knights. We'll look at how they made athletic shoes a fashion accessory, how they captured the essence of a growing new art form called hip-hop, and how truly ahead of their time they really were.
Show Notes: British Knights
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This week, we're looking back at the incredible, and groundbreaking Muppet Show. This thing went from a show that no one wanted to touch to the most-watched program on Earth.
We'll look at the connection with Saturday Night Live, why it was filmed in England, how the show found its direction, and why it ended after just 5 years. Let's get things started...
Show notes: The Muppet Show
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
The 80s gave us some of the best movies of all time. But some of its sequels leave a lot to be desired. There are also a bunch you probably didn't know even existed.
Today, I'm counting down the 10 worst 1980s movie sequels that you probably didn't know about. We'll look at why they were so bad, and what caused them to fail--when they should have been great.
Show Notes: 10 Worst Movie Sequels
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Yes, this is a very real story. In the 80s, A&W released a third-pound burger to compete with the quarter-pounder from McDonald's. It was bigger, fresher, and cheaper. But it would fail because of the public's inability to understand fractions.
This is a look back on this baffling story, and what turned into a critical marketing lesson for future companies.
Show Notes: The A&W Third Pounder
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This is a big episode where we look at the world of cars in the 1980s. We'll look at the state of the automotive industry, the best-sellers, the duds, and the advancements.
Then, I'll count down what I think are the 10 most iconic vehicles from movies and TV. So get out of my dreams, and into my car--and let's look at the best 80s cars.
Show Notes: The Most Iconic Cars of the 80s
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
takes deep breath OK, today on the show, I'm looking at several reasons why Spaceballs is as good—if not better—than Star Wars.
If you haven't canceled me--and have stuck around--I also do a review of the movie and share some of the amazing behind-the-scenes facts that include who didn't want to be in this movie, and the person you probably didn't expect that was crucial in making it.
Show Notes: Spaceballs
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
What do you get when you take one of the hottest toys of all time, low inventory, and the holiday season? You get the ticking time bomb that was the Cabbage Patch Kid riots.
No toy in history has ever created a craze like the Cabbage Patch Kids did in the fall of 1983. The mayhem and violence surrounding these dolls seem to set the stage for future events like Black Friday. But this is a look back on what made this toy so huge, and the carnage that resulted.
Show notes: The Cabbage Patch Kid Riots
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
We're taking a rewind on one of my favorite episodes about one of my favorite 1980s subjects: The E.T. Atari video game.
Everything was set to make this thing a hit—but it went down as one of the worst games in video game history. This throwback episode looks at the hype behind the game, how it was made in only 5 weeks, the backlash, and how it may have led to the downfall of the video game industry.
Show notes: https://www.everything80spodcast.com/et-videogame/
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This is my yearly review show where I look at the best of 1980s content in 2020. In this episode, I'll cover the topics I found most interesting, including the REAL reason behind the creation of Apple computers, the story behind a certain McDonald's item, the original forbidden video game, and more.
I'll also give my review of a book sequel that was ten years in the making and look back at the television return of a beloved 1980s character.
Website: https://www.everything80spodcast.com
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This is an Everything 80s Rewind, and we're looking back at my episode all about the history of the infamous New Coke. New Coke was released on the 100th anniversary of Coca-Cola—but it almost ended up destroying them.
This is a look back on why they released New Coke, the public backlash, and the return—and newfound appreciation—of Coca-Cola Classic. The big question is: why did they ever attempt something so risky—but was this part of their plan all along...?
Show Notes: New Coke
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
This week, we revisit an early Everything 80s episode about one of the best-selling toys of all time: Teddy Ruxpin. The talking bear found his way under the trees for many kids during Christmas of 1985 AND 1986 (sadly not under mine, though).
Teddy Ruxpin was a 1980s toy phenomenon, and he's also got a bizarre backstory that includes Chuck E. Cheese, Disney, and a head on a stick...
Show Notes: Teddy Ruxpin
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Welcome to the Everything 80s Christmas spectacular, spectacular! And in a genuine coincidence, this episode is being released on Festivus—making it a true Festivus MIRACLE!
OK, here's the plan: we will start by looking at a beloved 1980s Christmas movie, and then the sequel to it—which you've probably never heard of. Next, we will take a deep look at an iconic TV special from the 1960s that became an integral part of the holidays for kids in the 80s—and many other decades—Rankin/Bass' Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
So bundle up in your coziest and ugliest Christmas sweater, grab a mug of some sort of nog, and let's settle in for the Christmas special!
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Show notes: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
The winner for worst Star Wars entry has sadly become a competitive category. But nothing can compare with what happened on the night of November 17, 1978.
This is a look back on the infamous Star Wars Holiday Special. How did this thing come together, is it really as bad as people say, and why does George Lucas want to smash every copy with a hammer? Happy Life Day!
Show notes: The Star Wars Holiday Special
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
Today, we're looking back on a beloved show for many: Perfect Strangers. It ran from 1986 to 1992, making cousins Larry and Balki household names. Perfect Strangers should never have made it to network television, but somehow survived the odds. It also led to another classic sitcom—Family Matters—and helped pave the way for another famous TV institution: TGIF.
Show Notes: Perfect Strangers
Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s
It should have been great. Everything was there to make the Garbage Pail Kids movie one of the absolute classic horror movies of the 1980s—but we got the complete opposite of that. What they released in 1987 is considered one of the worst movies in the history of film. This is a look back on the history of the Garbage Pail Kids, their wild success, and the inevitable movie. It could have been great—so what went so terribly wrong?
Show Notes: The Garbage Pail Kids Movie
Support the show: Patreon.com/80s
Look at the logo for this podcast. Picture the "Saved by the Bell" intro, or envision Pee Wee's Playhouse. The look that you associate with the 80s wouldn't have come about if it wasn't for the Memphis Group. This episode is a look back at this groundbreaking artistic collective, and how their Memphis Design changed the look of the world.
Support the show: Patreon.com/80s
Show notes: The Memphis Group
This is for all you Brits out there! Even if you're not from the U.K., you'll still find the story of Bananaman very interesting. Bananaman was a genuine comic book character that appeared in Dandy, Beano, and had his own cartoon show in the 1980s. This is a look back on the potassium-filled superhero and why he was England's answer to Superman and Batman.
Support the show: Patreon.com/80s
Show notes: Bananaman
The Far Side was a comic strip created by Gary Larson that ran from 1979 to 1995. May consider it the funniest comic strip ever created. This is a look back on the evolution of the Far Side, how it influenced science, why it went away—and why it's back after all these years.
Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/80s
TheFarSide.com
Show notes: The Far Side
This is a look back on a McDonald's commercial that masqueraded as a movie: MAC and Me. The movie was convinced with noble intentions, but that all took a back seat to corporate interests. Today, we'll look back on how this movie came to be, how McDonald's took over it, and what its lasting legacy is.
Show notes: https://www.everything80spodcast.com/mac-and-me/
Welcome to a 1980s Halloween Spooktacular! This is the day when we celebrate Halloween and the 80s all rolled into one. So here's what we're going to do: we will look back at the classic Monster cereals, then we'll remember the 1988 classic Beetlejuice, and finish with a deeper look at a Halloween musical staple and the greatest music video ever made (you can probably guess what that is).
We were pretty spoiled in the 80s. There were so many monumental toys that came out, that it was hard to keep up with it all. In this episode, I'm looking at what the stats say for the best-selling toy for each year from 1980 to 1989. A few of these will definitely surprise you!
Check out: some 80s toys you can still buy
Today, we're diving back into the Billboard charts to look at which song was number one each year from 1980 to 1989. These days, it's hard to determine a number one hit as there are many factors including sales, streaming, chart position, YouTube views, etc. But in the 80s, it was all determined by Billboard. I guarantee there will be some number one hits that will surprise you...
Show Notes: https://www.everything80spodcast.com/the-top-songs-of-the-80s/
It seems bizarre to think, but there was a time when tourists stayed away from New York City. Coming out of the 70s, and into the early 80s, New York was a dangerous, dirty, and nearly bankrupt city. It would take an advertising campaign to help bring the city back to life. This is a look back on the famous campaign going into the 80s and a logo that is part of pop culture. This is also the story of Jane Maas; the woman behind the campaign, and the real-life inspiration for Peggy Olson from Mad Men.
"New York's history is America's history." Today on the podcast my very special guest is Greg Young, co-host of the Bowery Boys Podcast. Greg is here to talk to us all about NYC during the 80s. We discuss what the landscape was like—both politically and physically, the state of entertainment from Broadway to movies and TV, and what the music scene looked like in this dynamic and compelling city.
Website: https://www.boweryboyshistory.com/
Check them out on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/boweryboys
Jim Henson has made a lot of beloved content, but was 1981's "The Great Muppet Caper" his very best? This is a look back on the only muppet movie Henson directed, the making of the movie, why it was set (and filmed) in England, and a bunch of great behind-the-scenes things.
Show notes: https://www.everything80spodcast.com/the-great-muppet-caper/
The boombox, or Ghetto Blaster, was a symbolic part of the 1980s. Not only was it a way to take a party everywhere you went, but it also gave rise to a new art form called Hip Hop. In this episode, we'll look at how the boombox gave rise to a new culture and allowed the sharing of creativity.
Show notes: https://www.everything80spodcast.com/boombox/
Follow That Bird is a movie released by Sesame Street and Jim Henson Productions in 1985. It tells the story of Big Bird leaving Sesame Street to go live with other birds. Sounds pretty standard, doesn't it? The problem is, this film might have been a bit too much for kids with some intense themes that you wouldn't expect. We'll explore this whole subject, and also why it got crushed at the box office when it should have been a hit.
Show notes: https://www.everything80spodcast.com/follow-that-bird/
It can't be understated what a phenomenon Pac-Man was. This billion-dollar arcade game led to a massive amount of merchandise, along with the very first cartoon show based on a video game. We'll look at the success of the video game, the merchandising, and how this cartoon show was completely commerce-driven.
Show notes: https://www.everything80spodcast.com/pac-man-cartoon/
In 1981, McDonald's introduced the world to one of the most popular fast food items ever: Chicken McNuggets. This is a look back on the item that caught McDonald's off guard and lead to a chicken shortage in North America. We'll also see how they were designed by a French chef, the questionable ingredients that went into them, and how McDonald's has had to alter them for today.
Show notes: Chicken McNuggets
In the 80s, there was no bigger thrill than picking up your photos from the developer. Those days are long gone, but photography has moved into a new age. The Kodak company not only pioneered and advanced the industry—but they also changed it: and it's what led to their downfall. This is a look back on when Kodak ruled the world of pictures, and their failure to stay on top.
Show notes: The Downfall of Kodak
1988's "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" was a groundbreaking movie. Not only was it a technical marvel, commercial, and critical success, but an astonishing collaboration between studios. The number of character licenses and intellectual properties used in one film could never even be attempted today—but Steven Spielberg made it happen. This is a look back on the epic movie that also helped launch a new era in animation.
Show notes: Who Framed Roger Rabbit
The 1980s were a Golden Age of Television, featuring some of the best sitcoms and dramas of all time. Because there were only three networks—and no other entertainment options—TV was king in the 80s. This is a countdown of the 21 best TV shows of the decade.
Show notes: Best 80s TV Shows
It's the 35th anniversary of Back to the Future, and today on the podcast, I'm interviewing Brad Gilmore, author of "Back From the Future." We'll discuss his book, the movie, behind-the-scenes things, and whether they should ever even consider a sequel.
Book: Back From the Future
People have always been fascinated by Bigfoot, and we finally got to see one on the big screen in the 1980s. In Harry & the Hendersons, we got a more humanistic, light-hearted approach to the sasquatch. This is a look back on the beloved movie, the production, how the marketing failed, and the evolution into the TV show.
Show notes: Harry and the Hendersons
If you grew up in the 80s, you knew that Leisure Suit Larry was the stuff of legend. This was the original NSFW game, but one with an interesting backstory. This is a look back on the development of the game, the controversy, and how word of mouth led to its surprising success.
Show Notes: Leisure Suit Larry
There are some video games that are pretty much unbeatable, and Mike Tyson's Punch-Out is at the top of the list. This is a look back on one of the most popular—and best-selling—NES games in history. We'll look at the rise of Mike Tyson, the gameplay, easter eggs, and why Mike Tyson did not like this game.
Show Notes: Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!
Today is the 35th anniversary of Back to the Future. It came out on July 3, 1985, and I thought I would celebrate by doing a deep dive back on the movie and look at the 21 references you may or may not have caught.
Show note: Back to the Future: 21 Things You Missed
Today, we are looking back at the Littles! This cartoon, and movie, were based on the book of the same name that goes back to the 60s. The entire idea may have also been "borrowed," and we get into that too.
Show notes: The Littles
You might not know the name Frank Welker, but if you grew up in the 1980s—you definitely heard him. Welker is one of the most important voice actors of the decade and provided some of the most iconic voices in cartoons like Scooby-Doo, The Smurfs, and Transformers. This is a look back on the career of this phenomenally talented man.
Show notes: Frank Welker
Today, we're counting down the top 10 cartoons of the 1980s. With each choice, we will look at what made it great, the pop culture influence it had, and some insights into each show.
Show notes: Top 10 Cartoons
When the Oakland Raiders went up 28-9 early in the third quarter of Super Bowl XVIII, viewers expected to see a replay, but instead—the screen went black. Some ominous music then greeted them with the black-and-white image of a marching army of drones. What followed was one of the most iconic ads in history that would change the way marketing and the Super Bowl would forever be approached.
Show notes: 1984
Rubik, The Amazing Cube was a short-lived Saturday morning cartoon show that debuted in September 1983. It was put together to capitalize on the red-hot popularity of the Rubik's Cube. It failed to find an audience with the onslaught of new kids' programming, but actually took a ground-breaking approach in the show's premise.
Show Notes: Rubik, The Amazing Cube
In this episode, I want to look at the importance—and power—of nostalgia during times of crisis. There is a reason we return to the same movies, TV shows, books, and other forms of entertainment when feeling stressed. We'll also look at why it's been harder to start new things during a time like this—and why that's not necessarily a bad thing.
Show notes: The Power of Nostalgia
It's not often that a small little toy can change the world, but that's what happened with Cap'n Crunch cereal, and a random little whistle included as the toy inside. This small whistle set in motion the series of events that would lead us to Apple computers and the technology that would change our world.
Show Notes: Cap'n Crunch
Today we are looking at the 1986 classic: Flight of the Navigator. I'll go through the plot, look at how this movie was made, some behind-the-scenes stuff, and explore some of the different themes in this childhood favorite, including how home is not just a place—it's a feeling.
Show Notes: Flight of the Navigator
Kidd Video was an animated/live-action Saturday morning show that came out in 1984. It attempted to blend animation, live-action, song covers, and original music aiming to capitalize on the success of MTV. It had success, but not really in North America. This is a look back on a novel idea that just didn't pan out.
Show notes: Kidd Video
This is the final review in the Indiana Jones trilogy - the Last Crusade. We'll look back on what made this movie so incredible and what makes it hold up today. We'll look at some behind-the-scenes things and explore the themes of the movie. And yes, I touch on The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull as we conclude this epic trilogy.
Show notes: Indiana Jones
In 1988, a relatively unknown actor was chosen to play the Caped Crusader in Tim Burton's upcoming film; Batman. And people went nuts. The great Michael Keaton backlash of 1988 was swift and severe -, especially in a time before social media. This is a look back on the controversy behind the casting of Batman.
Show Notes: The Great Michael Keaton Backlash
Today I am reviewing the second installment of the Indiana Jones franchise: The Temple Of Doom from 1984. We'll break down the plot, look at some behind-the-scenes stuff, and explore some of the themes explored and how the violence in this movie changed the way movies would be made forever.
Show notes: Indiana Jones
Punky Brewster was a beloved show from the 1980s, but was it too intense for kids? This episode is a look back on how this show came together, but some of the absurdly intense themes the show covered over the years. We'll also look at some unique production aspects of the show that had never been done before. Punky Power!
Show Notes: Punky Brewster
Today we are reviewing the classic 1981 action-adventure film, Indiana Jones & The Raiders Of The Lost Ark. George Lucas produced the movie, directed by Steven Spielberg, and stars Harrison Ford. We'll break down the plot, look at some behind-the-scenes stuff, and discuss some of the movie's themes.
Show notes: Indiana Jones
To me, the 80s is the all-time greatest decade. And if the 80s were the Beatles of decades, 1985 would be its Sgt. Peppers. So many iconic movies, toys, tv shows, and items came out during this year, and this podcast is a look back on the 19 best things that make 1985 the greatest year ever!
show notes: 1985
Today we're looking back on the classic 1984 science-fiction/comedy: Ghostbusters. We'll recap the plot of the movie, look at some great behind-the-scenes stuff, and break down the very deep and interesting themes that the movie explores.
Show notes: Ghostbusters
It's Hulk Hogan's Rock n' Wrestling, brother! This is a look back on not just the cartoon show, but the rise of the WWF, Hulk Hogan, and Hulkamania in the mid-80s.
Show Notes: Hulk Hogan's Rock n' Wrestling
Today we are reviewing the 1985 classic, The Goonies. Produced by Steven Spielberg, and directed by Richard Donner, The Goonies is the story of the kids from the Goon Docks on a pirate treasure hunt of the famous One-Eyed Willie. We'll break down the movie, look at some behind-the-scenes stuff, and explore various themes throughout the movie such as courage, greed, and youth.
The Nintendo R.O.B. or Robotic Operating Buddy was a robotic assistant for the NES that would play the games with you. The hype behind it was huge, but it turned out to be pretty lackluster. But this may not have been the point. Was the R.O.B used as a way to promote the NES as more of a "toy" compared to a "video game" which now had a bad name after the great Video Game Crash of 1983?
Show Notes: Nintendo R.O.B.
Today I'm doing a full review of the great Back to the Future. We'll do a breakdown of the plot, how it was made, some behind-the-scenes things, and some hidden things you didn't know. I'll also go over some of the themes and narratives that make this such an amazing movie.
Website: Everything80sPodcast
So I wanted to put together a watchlist while we're stuck in self-isolation, but make it based on 80s entertainment. I include 9 great movies and series here that you may not know, or haven't enjoyed in a long time. I hope you are staying safe and healthy and find comfort in the things you enjoy best.
Show notes: Quarantine Watchlist
I'm going back to some early episodes right now, and this is one of the most interesting subjects. We're looking at the creation and history of the VCR and how it forever changed the way we consumed media. We will also look at the battle between VHS and BETA, and why VHS emerged victorious at the end.
Nerds candy is the famous small, irregularly shaped, crunchy treat. Nerds first came out in 1983 but is not associated with anything to do with nerds or geeks. This is a look back on one of the most successful candies in history.
Show notes: Nerds
If you were around during 1983, you remember the famous "Where's The Beef?" commercial from Wendy's. This simple three-word phrase became a cultural juggernaut and made a star of actor Clara Peller. This is a look back on one of the most famous catchphrases of all time.
Show notes: Where's The Beef?
Turbo Teen was a very short-lived Saturday morning cartoon from 1984 about a kid that could turn into a car. The success of Knight Rider influenced the show with the hope they could make a more kid-friendly version. This is a look back on a show that featured some of the best voice talent of the time and was given every chance to succeed - but didn't.
Show notes: Turbo Teen
You may or may not remember Boglins, but these were a series of small puppets that came out in the 80s. These high-quality toys were created by people who worked for Jim Henson on things like Fraggle Rock, The Muppet Show, and The Dark Crystal. The Boglins were movie-quality and a unique toy for creative kids that were one step away from Jim Henson.
Show notes: Boglins
Small Wonder was a science-fiction sitcom that started in 1985. It was based on a robot girl named VICKY who lived with the Lawson family under the guise she was their adopted "daughter." This is a look back on this very bizarre show, the technical nightmare it was to shoot, and how it was able to find an audience despite its shortcomings.
Show Notes: Small Wonder
This is a look back on the greatest game show of the 80s - and possibly all-time - Fun House. Hosted by J.D. Roth, Fun House put two teams of kids together to compete in challenges and then run through the mythical Fun House. This is a look back on everything that went into making this memorable 80s game show.
Show Notes: Fun House
This episode is my countdown of the 21 best movies of the 80s from the perspective of an 80s kid. It was really hard to narrow them down considering all the classic movies that came out in the decade. For each entry I do a quick synopsis, box office success, behind-the-scenes info, and a few fun facts. This is my own personal bias, but I also factored in cultural impact, box office revenue, and re-watchability when making this list.
Show Notes: The Best 80s Movies
The 1980s were a golden age for toys. In this episode, we'll look at why so many amazing toys came out in the decade and then count down the best 13. Listen up to see if any of your favorites made it!
Show notes: Top 80s Toys
Everyone has played Tetris at some point, and you definitely remember it being very addicting. This wasn't just in your mind as there was a very real thing called "the Tetris Effect." This episode looks back on the success of Tetris and how it went from a math project to the center of a Russian/American rights battle.
show notes: Tetris
The Marvel Cinematic Universe has changed the way movies and franchises now work. But there is one movie that is technically part of the MCU that puts a black eye on everything: Howard The Duck. This is a look back at one of the worst movies ever made and how something like this could ever happen.
show notes: Howard The Duck
Super Mario Brothers is the best-selling game of all time and was responsible for the success of the original NES. But it never would have happened if it wasn't for Popeye the Sailor Man. In this episode, we look back on how the spinach-loving sailor paved the way for what would become Super Mario Bros.
show notes: Popeye & Super Mario
This episode is a look back on some of the most interesting 80s topics I covered in 2019. We'll look at the origins of the PG-13 rating, the story of the worst video game ever made, how the Top Gun VHS release in 1986 changed home video forever, and the great Michael Keaton/Batman backlash of 1988.
website: Everything80s
Gremlins is a dark comedy and an 80s classic. But is it actually a Christmas movie at its core? In this episode, I look at four specific reasons that makes Gremlins a holiday classic along with a lot of interesting insights into the movie's development.
show notes: Gremlins
Grab your hot cocoa, put on your ugly Christmas sweater, and gather around the virtual fireplace for a very 80s Christmas! In this episode, we will look back on some of the best Christmas commercials of the 80s and then check out what was the best-selling toy each year through the decade!
Show notes: 80s Christmas toys
National Lampoons Christmas Vacation has established itself as a new Christmas classic. The movie tells the story of the Griswold family and the quest for the perfect old-fashioned family Christmas. This episode will look at the making of the movie and why it's become a staple of holiday viewing. Sh*tter was full!
Show notes: Christmas Vacation
You might not know the term 'deregulation' but it's responsible for most of your favorite toys, cartoons, and candy from the 1980s. Before the 80s, there were severe restrictions on what they could market towards kids. When Ronald Reagan became president, all of this would change. Listen up to learn the story of why there was an explosion of pop culture that happened in the 80s.
Before there was Monster, before there was Red Bull - there was Jolt Cola. Growing up in the 80s, Jolt Cola had a bit of mysticism to it. Everyone assumed it would be like drinking rocket fuel, and everyone had heard the story of a kid who died from the excess of caffeine. This, of course, wasn't true. Jolt Cola contained less caffeine than an espresso, but how did this upstart beverage make such a splash, and what is the story behind its creation?
Show notes: Jolt Cola
If you grew up in the 80s, you knew that the video store on a Friday night was the place to be. But home video as we know it almost didn't happen if it wasn't for the Top Gun VHS release in 1986. This episode looks at how movie studios wanted nothing to do with home video or rentals, and how Top Gun changed all of this forever.
Show notes: Top Gun VHS
Duck Hunt is a video game that goes WAY back. It existed long before you remember it in arcades and early home box sets. It made use of a new technology and Nintendo thought that it, and not Super Mario Bros, would be the focal point of launching Nintendo in North America. Listen up to the story of Duck Hunt, the original first-person shooter.
Show notes: Duck Hunt
The Shining is one of the most iconic and influential movies ever made. So why did its author - Stephen King - hate it so much? In this episode, we look at the 5 main things Stephen King hated about The Shining along with some more insights into one of the greatest films ever made.
Show notes: The Shining
This is the Everything 80s Halloween special and on this show, we are looking back at 80s Halloween TV specials. We will look at 5 forgotten specials and also, an iconic one.
show notes: Everything 80s Halloween
If you were a kid growing up in the 80s, you loved Knight Rider. It aired on NBC from 1982 to 1986 starring David Hasselhoff and the amazing car, K.I.T.T. This episode is a look back on everything that went into the development of Knight Rider and K.I.T.T., how the show was influenced by the Lone Ranger, and the unique approach they took with marketing this show to make it appeal to kids.
show notes: Knight Rider
In every convenience store in the 80s, Big League Chew would be right there, front and center among all the other great options. The pouch with the shredded gum was the softest and chewiest you ever had and has an interesting story to go with it. Big League Chew has origins as a Tabaco substitute in the minor leagues and quickly became a massive seller and continues to this day. Listen up to the story of the bubblegum of your childhood, and the reason why it blew the best bubbles.
Show notes: Big League Chew
When MTV first launched on August 1st, 1981, it would forever change how music would be shared and consumed. This small upstart station would go on to change the industry and lead to some of the biggest moments in pop culture history. This is a look back on the story of MTV, how it had roots in New Zealand, and the cultural impact it had.
show notes: MTV
The Skip-It was a huge hit in the 80s and ranked by Time Magazine as one of the 100 greatest toys of all time. The Skip-It, however, is actually a ripped off toy taken from earlier versions from the 60s and 70s. But if it wasn't for the Skip-It, we wouldn't have Marvel, or the MCU as we know it. Listen up to learn this amazing story!
Show notes: The Skip-It
My Buddy was a doll for boys released by Hasbro in 1985. This was actually a controversial move as putting out a doll for boys had never been done before. This may all have roots in the video game crash of 1983, but became a massive best-seller. My Buddy may also have been the influence of Chucky in the Child's Play movies, and this episode looks at everything behind this toy.
Show notes: My Buddy
Ready Player One is a book written by Ernest Cline, which is like a love-letter to the 80s and pop culture. Steven Spielberg put out the movie version and you may wonder what the key differences are. In this podcast, I breakdown how Ready Player One the movie compares to the book.
Show notes: Ready Player One
Until 1984, there was a large gap between PG-rated movies and R-rated ones. This would all change because of Indiana Jones and Steven Spielberg which would usher in the PG-13 rating era. This is the story of the origin of PG-13 and how it forever changed movies.
Show notes: PG-13 Rating
The Dark Crystal: Age Of Resistance is a ten-part Netflix series that takes us back into Jim Henson's Dark Crystal. In this review, I look at the original movie, breakdown each new episode, and look at everything that went into this, and the original movie.
Show notes: Dark Crystal review
The Pound Puppies were a popular 80s toy that came out in 1984. They were released by Irwin and then by Tonka. The Pound Puppies were plush stuffed dog dolls that had droopy eyes and floppy ears. They weren't invented by who you may think but led to a cartoon show in 1985 and the toys would make over $300 million throughout their run.
Show Notes: Pound Puppies
Captain Power was a 1987 science fiction/live-action "kids" show that incorporated in computer-generated images. Toys were used that could interact with the show during certain segments by hitting sensors on the screen and being hit in return. It was a huge project by Mattel and would only last one season as it may have been too advanced for its time.
Show Notes: Captain Power
Everyone has played Jenga, and it is one of the most popular games of all time. Contrary to popular belief, it never existed before the 80s and was actually an original creation first invented by an English woman. This is a look back on the simple - but addicting - game of Jenga; one of the best games of the 80s, and all time.
Show Notes: Jenga
The G.I. Joe USS Flagg was put out by Hasbro in 1985. They considered it the biggest toy ever measuring in at over 7 feet long. This is the story of how the 'greatest toy of all time' came to be.
Show notes: USS Flagg
The Popples were a brightly colored bear-like stuffed animals that could roll up into a pouch. Their inspiration may have come from a pair of socks and they were created by the same lady who brought us Care Bears and Strawberry Shortcake. This is a look back on how the Popples came to be, the popular cartoon, and how Shelley Duvall is somehow involved in all this...
Show notes: Popples
If you grew up in the 80s, you definitely knew Max Headroom especially from commercials and music videos. You may not know how much further back he goes to a TV movie from England in 1985. Max Headroom was played by Matt Frewer but created by a group of people as a take on the growing use of soulless TV news reporters. This episode is all about the very deep mythology and backstory to the character of Max Headroom and how he was a lot more than just a usage in commercials for New Coke.
Show Notes: Max Headroom
Flight Of The Navigator is a Disney live-action film that came out in 1986 and is the story of a kid abducted by a spaceship and dropped back to Earth 8 years in the future. He hasn't aged but everyone else has and the story revolves around him trying to get to his true home. This was actually a movie that was not originally created by Disney and they took over later on in development. The movie also features some early use of CGI and this episode looks back at everything that went into making Flight Of The Navigator.
Show Notes: Flight of the Navigator
This is the second part of my two-part review on Stranger Things season 3. In this second part, we'll break down the last four episodes, explore the themes and plot, look at the character arcs, and analyze the ending and the whole season. We'll also look at all the 80s references including music, movies, TV shows, and a lot of things you may have missed!
Show notes: Season 3 Review
This is the first of a two-part episode where I break down the entire third season of Stranger Things. We'll look at all eight episodes, discuss the plot, themes, characters and all the 80s music, movies, and references that make Stranger Things season 3 so great.
Show notes: Season 3 review
The 80s are a pretty iconic time for music. You've got news styles and genres coming out like hip-hop and new wave and its setting the stage for a huge new music movement. You've got the start of MTV, and also the Walkman - both of which are changing the way we consume music. This episode looks back on 20 of the very best bands of the 1980s.
Show notes: 20 Best Bands
The Madballs were a series of grotesque looking foam balls made up of different characters. They were a moderate hit in the 80s and would lead to comic books and cartoon spinoffs. They have a very interesting origin story that involves the game of "Hot Potato" and there may be a main reason behind their success.
Show notes: Madballs
It's almost here... If you love Stranger Things as much as I do there's no doubt you're salivating waiting for the third season. I thought I would do a preview show that looks at why this show has been so successful, a recap of season's 1 and 2, and what to expect from season 3. We'll also look at some theories and maybe a few spoilers...
Show notes: Season 3 preview
Transformers and Gobots were huge in the early 80s but the Gobots may have beaten them to the punch while ending up as the second-class citizen. This episode shares the history of the Gobots, their origins in Japan, and how they may have set the standard for toys - and cartoons - that the Transformers, and many others, copied with better success.
Show Notes: Gobots
Honey, I Shrunk THe Kids was a live-action comedy/adventure released by Disney in 1989. It tells the story of an inventor who accidentally shrinks down his, and his neighbors' kids and they have to journey through their backyard to safety. The movie has a lot of horror elements and was making Disney nervous during production. This episode looks back on everything that went into making the movie and a lot of behind-the-scenes stuff you may not have been aware of!
Show notes: Episode 22
The 80s were a golden age of so many things including movies, TV shows, music, cartoons, toy, and technology. This episode looks back on 12 of the best things that made this decade such an epic one.
show notes: episode 21
Inspector Gadget was a cartoon that came out in 1983 and was a beloved part of the 80s. It told the story of a dimwitted cyborg/man that was basically a dumbed down RoboCop. We'll look back on the development of the show, the characters, what the show was originally intended to be, and some bizarre fan theories!
Show notes: Episode 20
The Micro Machines were a series of miniaturized toy cars and vehicles that were released in the 80s. They were meant as a unique alternative to other toy cars like Hot Wheels and became a massive hit most partly in thanks to their unique ads featuring worlds fastest talker, John Moschitta Jr.
Show notes: Episode 19
We've all had a Happy Meal at some point but what you were eating is one of the most powerful marketing items ever created for fast food. The Happy Meal wasn't actually invented by corporate stooges but has a history as a very noble idea. Naturally, it grew into the corporate behemoth it is now which has allowed McDonald's to capitalize on the youth market and even dictate movies and entertainment.
Show notes: Episode 18
There were a lot of crazy fashion movements in the 80s; leg warmers, neon colors, fanny packs, but acid wash may have been the king. This episode looks into the surprising history of how acid wash jeans came to be so popular, their origins in surfer culture, and how the punk movement brought them to the mainstream.
Show notes: episode 17
The Nintendo Entertainment System came out in 1985/86 and became the best-selling console of all time. Releasing it was seen as a big risk as it was coming out of the great video game crash of 83 and companies wanted nothing to do with video games anymore. This episode tells the story of the NES and the history of Nintendo which goes all the way back to 1889!
Show Notes: Episode 16
You may have never heard of the Memphis Design but you have definitely seen it. You just have to look at the logo for this podcast to see it. The Memphis Design was created by a group of artists called the Memphis Group in 1981. They designed art and furniture using abstract shapes, colors, and lines. Thanks to uses by MTV and shows like Saved by the Bell the Memphis Designs help to shape the aesthetic and look of the 80s.
Show notes: Episode 15
Choose Your Own Adventure was a series of books that came out in the 80s where the reader was put into the story as the protagonist. You would make different choices while reading that could lead to different versions of the story and many endings. The books had a simple creation, much rejection, and a long process until they became successful selling over 350 million copies worldwide. Here's the very interesting story of Choose Your Own Adventure.
Show notes: Episode 14
The Cabbage Patch Kids came out in 1983 and are one of the most successful toys of all time. But was it an entirely original idea? The Cabbage Patch Kids might have been a stolen idea, ended up being one of the hottest toys ever, and led to the Cabbage Patch Kids craze of 1983 which had never been seen before.
Show notes: episode 13
LaserDisc is a forgotten part of the 80s but it was a technology that goes back to the 50s. Most people didn't notice that it came out at the same time as VHS and BETA but would not become prominent until the mid-80s. It, unfortunately, came out before its time and fell by the wayside. This episode is all about the very interesting history and the downfall of LaserDisc.
Show Notes: Episode 12
The Nintendo Power Glove was an accessory for the NES that came out in 1989. They developed it using high-end technology and showed a lot of promise. There was huge hype around the release of the Power Glove including its use in the movie "The Wizard". Initial sales were strong until frustration set in over the functionality and poor controls and was discontinued after only one year. This is the story of the Power Glove and the amazing work that went into developing it along with some true intentions that went beyond just video games.
Show Notes: Episode 11
Teddy Ruxpin was an animatronic bear that could talk and moves its eyes and mouth while telling stories. It was a combination of many things from Disney to Chuck E. Cheese. it came out in 1985 and actually became the best-selling toy of the mid-80s. He comes with a pretty bizarre back story so listen up!
Show notes: Teddy Ruxpin
ALF was a sitcom produced by NBC that debuted in 1986. It tells the story of Gordon Shumway aka ALF who crash lands from the planet Melmac into the garage of the Tanner family. The show would be a big hit leading to cartoons, merchandising, and other spinoffs. The whole time, however, the show was filled with drama because of its overwhelmingly technical, demanding nature. This is the story of ALF.
Show notes: Episode #9
There have been a lot of bad video games over the years but did one stand above the rest? They have called the E.T Atari video game the worst game ever made. Whether or not this is true it was at least the most disappointing and possibly lead to the entire video game crash of 1983.
Show notes: episode 7
The 1980s were a golden age of breakfast cereals. All the colorful, sugar-filled, cartoon-based cereals could really capture the imagination of a young kid. Also, the back of the cereal box would serve like a child's morning newspaper as you would read it every morning. This nostalgic episode looks back on some of the greatest cereals from the 80s. Does your favorite make the list?
Show Notes: The Best 80s Cereals
There's a good chance you're listening to this on your phone but before all these advancements in phones, there was one device that changed the way that we would consume music. The Walkman was released in the early 80s and allowed you to take your music on the go for the first time ever. It became a symbolic image of the 80s and would sell over 385 million units. This show looks back on one of the most iconic devices ever made.
Show notes: Episode 6
New Coke came out in 1985 as a way to boost dwindling sales of Coca-Cola. The new formula was a sweeter version that people seemed to like. But the backlash after the release of New Coke was as bad as any brand had ever faced. What lead to the creation of New Coke, why did it really fail, and was it all an elaborate plan the whole time?
Show notes: Episode 5
My Pet Monster came out in 1986 and was produced by American Greetings and would also spawn a popular cartoon show that same year. Was the original intent with My Pet Monster to capitalize on the young male demographic by offering a plush doll that would seem more like a toy?
https://www.everything80spodcast.com/my-pet-monster/
The Garbage Pails Kids were a series of trading cards put out by Topps in 1985. They were a "parody" of the very successful Cabbage Patch Kids. The Garbage Pail Kids would be a massive hit leading to controversy, lawsuits, a movie, and cartoon show.
Show notes: https://www.everything80spodcast.com/garbage-pail-kids/
The Transformers are one of the most popular toys and cartoon shows of all time. This episode dives deep into their history from their start as a whole different toy line in Japan to the use of the cartoon to launch the toys in North America. We'll look at the movie from 1986 and how the toy and franchise have evolved over the years.
Show notes: https://www.everything80spodcast.com/transformers/
The VCR rose to popularity during the 1980s and a battle emerged between two different formats: VHS and BETA. In this episode you will learn all about the evolution of the VCR, what went behind the creation of VHS and BETA and how VHS would ultimately win out in the end.
Show notes: VHS vs Beta
This is the podcast trailer for the Everything 80s Podcast. This will give you a sneak peek into what this show is all about and all the topics we'll cover on it. We're looking back at the 80s, the greatest decade known to mankind and all the pop culture and nostalgia that makes it so great.
https://www.everything80spodcast.com