Best Thefocusgroup Podcasts (2025)

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TFG Unbuttoned: The Price of Poor Decisions 25:26

Play Pause

2d ago25:26

25:26

This week Tim and John tackle everything from premature Christmas décor to the politics of holiday gifting and community support. They break down a disturbing act of anti-gay vandalism, call out boneheaded decisions like hurling frozen water balloons at cars, and question the price tag of renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War.…

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How To Know to Say No at Work 45:58

5d ago45:58

45:58

How To Know to Say No at Work Tim and John explore the theme of people pleasing in the workplace, discussing the importance of setting boundaries and learning to say no. Caught My Eye recommends a December NYC subway ride on the Nostalgia Train and details the frenzy surrounding Starbucks’ limited edition Bearista cups. DeWitt Wallace, co-founder o…

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TFG Unbuttoned: Miss Mexico Says, "Adios" 23:50

9d ago23:50

23:50

Tim and John serve up a full plate: from Thanksgiving chaos and the rising cost of, well, life itself—to Miss Mexico’s Miss Universe drama, an in-flight fiasco on Delta, and Carol Burnett’s heartwarming gift to UCLA. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW Tunein: bit.ly/1SE3NMb YouTube Music: bit.ly/…

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Best Selling Author and Entrepreneur Aurora Winter 53:40

12d ago53:40

53:40

Tim and John get creative with bestselling author Aurora Winter, whose insights on storytelling inspire a lively conversation. Mentalist Oz Perlman also catches their attention as a future guest wish. In Caught My Eye, a dad raids his kid’s savings for vacation cash, and the national penny shortage starts hitting home. The Business Birthday honors …

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TFG Unbuttoned: A Half a Loaf Is Better Than None 25:10

16d ago25:10

25:10

Tim and John go from Halloween tricks to political treats. Reddit’s co-founder makes a bold move, the Democrats need a rebrand, and the latest Kardashian product you didn’t know you needed (or wanted). Smart talk, sharp laughs. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW Tunein: bit.ly/1SE3NMb YouTube Mus…

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The Top Five Countries for Retirement 43:48

19d ago43:48

43:48

It’s a packed show: Halloween memories, Benjamin Franklin’s time-traveling will, the rise and crumble of Howard Johnson’s, and the world’s best places to retire. Plus, meet LoveSac founder Shawn Nelson in our Business Birthday. We’re all business. Except when we’re not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly…

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TFG Unbuttoned: Mistaking a Doritos Bag For a Firearm? 22:31

23d ago22:31

22:31

Tim and John discuss Halloween preparations, and Marjorie Taylor Greene’s "outraged" remarks about an episode of the children’s show "Strawberry Shortcake." Then the talk turns to retail changes, specifically outdoor outfitter Orvis and their decision to close stores. Lastly, an AI security system mistakes a bag of Doritos for a gun, resulting in a…

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Oscar Nominated Screenwriter Josh Olson 53:14

26d ago53:14

53:14

Tim and John welcome screenwriter Josh Olson, who discusses his journey in adapting the graphic novel “A History of Violence” into a critically acclaimed film. (Now available from the Criterion Collection at Deep Discount.) Caught My Eye reveals that rocker Rod Stewart is a model train aficionado, and the one and only Hair Museum has closed in Miss…

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TFG Unbuttoned: Take the Long Way Home 24:19

1M ago24:19

24:19

In this episode of TFG Unbuttoned, John and Tim banter about “holding music,” the current political climate, and Halloween. Chocolate costs too much! Also, the US government wants to restrict flights from China that fly over Russia to get here. Russia has restricted US airlines from flying over its airspace to get to China creating longer trips and…

1
Exit Through the Gift Shop 41:16

1M ago41:16

41:16

In this episode of The Focus Group, John Nash and Tim Bennett discuss various topics ranging from holiday decorations to TV show recommendations and consumer experiences in hotels. They delve into insights about the LGBTQ+ community based on recent data, celebrate the birthday of infomercial pioneer Kevin Harrington, and explore the innovative reta…

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TFG Unbuttoned: Texas Is Over the Rainbow 22:04

1M ago22:04

22:04

Tim and John reflect on their recent reunion with college friends, exploring themes of nostalgia, personal growth, and the enduring connections formed during formative years. They discuss the impact of political decisions on LGBTQ rights, the emergence of adventurous travel experiences tailored for the LGBTQ community, and the surprising resurgence…

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Understanding Gen Z 53:42

1M ago53:42

53:42

Shop Talk discusses an op-ed from Suzy Welch about Gen Z in the workplace and how only 2% of the cohort surveyed had attributes that were prized by hiring managers. Caught My Eye looks at the world’s tallest suspension bridge in China and a $19,824 parking ticket in Denver. Our Business Birthday celebrates Reed Hastings, the co-founder of Netflix. …

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TFG Unbuttoned: She Works Hard for the Money 24:12

1M ago24:12

24:12

By Bleav + The Focus Group

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The Best Path to Happiness 37:06

2M ago37:06

37:06

Shop Talk reveals the one thing we can all do to find happiness and live a life of no regrets. Caught My Eye covers a smelly prank in South Carolina and Kodak releases a keychain sized digital camera called the Charmera. Our Business Birthday celebrates Dave Goldberg, the founder of Launch Media and former leader at Survey Monkey. Listen, laugh, an…

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TFG Unbuttoned: Americans Accused of Flag-Jacking by Canadians 23:44

2M ago23:44

23:44

What is flag-jacking? It’s when you wear or show another country’s flag when traveling to pretend you are from somewhere else. Specifically, Canadians are saying that Americans are flag-jacking while traveling overseas and “identifying as Canadians” to avoid anti-American sentiment. Then, people are spending an insane amount of money at McDonald’s—…

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The Japanese Guide to a Long Life 48:00

2M ago48:00

48:00

Shop Talk looks at 5 science-backed longevity habits that are inspired by Japan’s record number of centenarians. Caught My Eye looks at “lost” ball caps and other items found at Yellowstone near the thermal hot springs and geysers. Also, a faulty debit card program for the Summer Youth Employment Program drains about $17 million from NYC ATMs in 2 …

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TFG Unbuttoned: Some US Cities in a Lurch as Canadians Stay Away 24:04

2M ago24:04

24:04

Canadians are taking their pride and their wallets elsewhere as the current administration continues tariff and bullying talk to our northern neighbor. Various locations have seen Canadian travel off by as much as almost 40% when compared to 2024. But first, Trump gets pushed to ban the Progress Pride Flag by right wing pundit, Brian Glenn— the BF …

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When Your Name is Synonymous with Trash 43:37

2M ago43:37

43:37

Shop Talk identifies the 31 states in danger of losing Marriage Equality should the Supreme Court re-litigate Obergefell. Caught My Eye covers 6 things ER doctors wish we would know and Publishers Clearing House proves nothing is forever. Our Business Birthday celebrates George Dempster, the inventor of the dumpster. Reminder: September is Criterio…

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TFG Unbuttoned: Texas County Steps Up to the Plate 21:31

2M ago21:31

21:31

When the State of Texas denied funding for the Gay Softball World Series, the county which includes the city of Houston, contributed almost a half a million dollars to host the event. But first, gay obsessed Tucker Carlson apparently has super gaydar and has concluded that Pete Buttigieg is a “fake gay”. He would like to ask Mayor Pete some specifi…

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How To Save Money in Retirement 52:10

2M ago52:10

52:10

Shop Talk shares a story generated by ChatGPT. The writer, Laura Beck, asked AI to identify the biggest money drains for retirees. Caught My Eye reveals some of the “insider” codes that Disney staff used at the theme parks to identify issues such as people dispersing loved one’s ashes. Also, Olympic Diver and gold medalist, Greg Louganis, has sold …

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TFG Unbuttoned: Read, White, and Blew 23:42

2M ago23:42

23:42

Once again gay rumors swirl around anti-LGBTQ South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham. In a recent deposition under oath, the right-wing social media contributor and close friend to Trump, Laura Loomer said everyone knows Graham is gay. In fact, they openly discuss it among conservative circles Loomer added. Then, pack up and move to an “all whites o…

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Pleasure Reading on the Decline 45:25

3M ago45:25

45:25

Shop Talk covers a recent study that shows Americans are reading less for pleasure with a steady decline over 20 years. Under educated and low-income households show the largest decline. Caught My Eye reveals through a real estate listing a Dutch painting that was looted by the Nazis in WWII. The daughter of the Nazi is playing dumb. Also, a woman …

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TFG Unbuttoned: Snoop Dogg’s Anti-Lesbian Bark 23:44

3M ago23:44

23:44

Rapper and Martha Stewart crush, Snoop Dogg is upset about the movie “Lightyear,” which has a lesbian couple featured. He said, “he is scared to go to the movies and could not explain to his grandson why two women had a baby.” Smoke another blunt and sit down. Then, a British Airways flight attendant showed up high for work on a California to Londo…

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The One Skill Mark Cuban Values in Employees 41:22

3M ago41:22

41:22

Shop Talk discusses an article from Inc Magazine about the one skill Mark Cuban says is crucial to be a great employee. Caught My Eye looks at ICE deportation merch championed by the Florida GOP that is a direct copy of the Home Depot brand. Also, Putin gives a new Ural motorcycle to an Alaska resident as part of his Trump Summit. Our Business Birt…

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TFG Unbuttoned: The Sky is Falling 22:44

3M ago22:44

22:44

The right is exercised over a logo change at Cracker Barrel. While the new logo is plain and unexciting, what else would you do for Cracker Barrel? Then, Target is finally replacing CEO Brian Cornell after tanking sales, a boycott, and a loss of $12 billion since 2021. Finally, the Nevada desert arts bash known as Burning Man is having financial tr…

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In-Person Interviews Coming Back Thanks to AI 44:26

3M ago44:26

44:26

Shop Talk applauds the return of face-to-face interviews advocated by the likes of Google, Cisco and other large corporations. The reason is some companies believe candidates are hiding behind AI to answer questions during online interviews. Caught My Eye looks at a woman who framed the tattooed skin of her dead husband. Also, how does a Heinz Toma…

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TFG Unbuttoned: NFL Male Cheerleaders Upset Some Fans 25:11

3M ago25:11

25:11

News reports of the demise of Kodak are misleading according to a recent corporate statement. Then, the NFL has had male cheerleaders for several years on many teams, yet some fans are outraged with the recent announcement that the Minnesota Vikings will employ two males on this year’s cheer squad. Manufactured outrage under the “who cares?” catego…

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Happy Birthday to Kevin Plank, the King of Sweat Equity 47:04

3M ago47:04

47:04

Shop Talk shares 9 phrases you should eliminate and replace to have people take you more seriously. Caught My Eye looks at a cruise ship passenger’s unfortunate trip down a broken slide and the role the Monopoly board game played to help prisoners escape in WW2. Our Business Birthday celebrates Under Armour founder Kevin Plank. Listen, laugh, and l…

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TFG Unbuttoned: Hooray for Dollywood 21:18

3M ago21:18

21:18

The Pigeon Fork Dolly Parton Amusement Park, Dollywood, has been rated number one in America for 2025 according to Trip Advisor. We need to get there. But first, some GOP Arkansas legislators are looking to enact further anti-trans legislation. If enacted, the bill could lead to frivolous lawsuits against hairdressers who cut a trans teen’s hair, t…

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What Jobs Will Be Impacted by AI? 51:03

3M ago51:03

51:03

Shop Talk looks at a recent study that highlights jobs that will and most likely not be affected by the proliferation of AI in the workplace. Caught My Eye covers a tote bag trend in the UK and fans throw a green "dong" on the court at a Sky Valkyries game. Our Business Birthday celebrates UBER co-founder Travis Kalanick. Listen, laugh, and learn o…

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TFG Unbuttoned: Backlash, Erasure, and Regret—When Even Our Wins Come with a Warning Label 23:46

4M ago23:46

23:46

A San Francisco gay lawmaker has people questioning his motive as he is advocating for getting rid of domestic partnership benefits in the city. Straight unmarried couples often take advantage of the benefit that went away from many organizations, companies, and locales when marriage equality became law. Then, a person related to the Heritage Found…

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Pretty in Pink 44:38

4M ago44:38

44:38

Shop Talk looks at the top 10 cities in America that people over 60 are leaving in retirement. Four of the ten are in California and all the cities would require at least a million dollars in savings to retire “happily”-whatever that means! Caught My Eye covers a bridge in India built with a 90-degree turn. Thanks to listener Chris for that article…

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TFG Unbuttoned: Lie, Cheat, and Steal 21:21

4M ago21:21

21:21

An Arizona woman is sentenced to eight years in prison for setting-up a North Korean “laptop farm” in her residence. Then, the Tallahassee, Florida police department thought it was a good idea to arrest a man suspected of credit card fraud at the local Chuck E Cheese. The suspect was taken into custody in full mouse costume while families enjoyed f…

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Creating a Blockbuster Brand 51:32

4M ago51:32

51:32

Shop Talk welcomes expert storyteller Greg Logan. Greg shares the secrets Hollywood uses in developing stories that we all can use in creating your personal narrative or branding a business. Check-out Logan’s new book, Creating A Blockbuster Brand. Caught My Eye looks at a man in Long Island that was sucked into the MRI machine and died because he …

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TFG Unbuttoned: Abnormal or Paranormal, You Decide 22:59

4M ago22:59

22:59

Paranormal investigator Dan Rivera dies during the “Devils on the Run Tour”—was the “possessed” Annabelle doll to blame? But first, One Million Moms is tuned-up about the reality show “Back to The Frontier” featuring a same-sex couple. Then, Trump apparently took time away from Gaza, Ukraine, and tariffs to speak with Coca Cola about using sugar in…

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Kodak Moments but Different 39:01

4M ago39:01

39:01

Shop Talk looks at the licensing of the Kodak brand in South Korea and around the world for many items other than film. There is a nostalgic and emotional connection that still resonates with consumers and what we remember as Kodak Moments. Caught My Eye looks at a new doll called Diabetic Barbie. Also, a woman was one step away from liver failure …

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TFG Unbuttoned: LGBTQ Travelers Second Guess USA Travel Plans 22:33

4M ago22:33

22:33

According to several recent studies and reports, international LGBTQ travelers are staying home or going to locations other than the USA. Canadians in particular have changed plans about coming to some US cities and major LGBTQ spots like Provincetown this summer. But first, a woman in California randomly became the return address for hundreds of A…

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Popsicle Perseverance 52:07

4M ago52:07

52:07

Shop Talk looks at entrepreneur, Daniel Goetz, who started GoodPop popsicles for $3,500 in 2009 while still in college. GoodPop now brings in over $60 million a year! Caught My Eye covers a woman who won the lottery using numbers from a fortune cookie, and the latest swamp crotch check via TSA. Our Business Birthday celebrates Don Hall Sr. who ran …

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TFG Unbuttoned: Rainbow Crosswalks in Real World Duffy’s Crosshairs 22:52

5M ago22:52

22:52

According to a recent survey from Gusto, LGBTQ entrepreneurs are starting businesses in record numbers. Then Transportation Secretary Duffy is targeting Rainbow Crosswalks as distracting and political, though he is basing his opposition for the crosswalks on opinion and no facts or data. Finally, hotel etiquette and respect for staff and public are…

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AI Expert Matt Britton 50:52

5M ago50:52

50:52

Shop Talk welcomes author and AI Expert Matt Britton to the show. Matt’s latest book, Generation AI, explores how AI will change the workforce forever. Caught My Eye looks at the popularity of claw vending machines in Houston and the practice of perfuming ancient Greek and Roman statues. Our Business Birthday celebrates René Lacoste who was the cre…

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TFG Unbuttoned: The latest Oreo Flavor is a Hit 22:31

5M ago22:31

22:31

Oreo has a new flavor, and many consumers want it to be permanent. Try the new Selena Gomez Oreo and let us know what you think. But first, Chicago O’Hare may be the first airport with a gay bar and Kim Jong-Un opens a beach resort in the People’s Paradise known as North Korea. Don’t get too excited, foreign tourists are not yet welcome. Apple Podc…

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The Best Fast Food French Fries 53:42

5M ago53:42

53:42

Shop Talk looks at an Allianz Life survey that indicates more Americans are worried about running out of money in retirement before dying. Caught My Eye recommends a new documentary about America’s first woman in space, Astronaut Sally Ride called “Sally.” Also, four renowned chefs unanimously crown the best fast food fries in America. You will mos…

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TFG Unbuttoned: Small Businesses Save Pride in ’25 23:26

5M ago23:26

23:26

With the demise of so many large corporations participating in Pride festivities this year, the monetary shortfalls in funding have been mitigated in part by local and small businesses participating in greater numbers with resources and dollars. Thank you and remember to support your local small businesses when you can. Also, a Judge has blocked Tr…

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Silent Film Expert Ben Model 45:37

5M ago45:37

45:37

Ben Model, Silent Film expert and now author of the must have book, “The Silent Film Universe,” is our guest during Shop Talk. Caught My Eye has a story about a museum patron who sits on a piece of Swarovski crystal clad art called “Van Gogh’s Chair”—you can guess what happens. Also, a drunk patron denied entry into a bar in Kentucky comes back to …

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TFG Unbuttoned: Stilettos vs. The Rose Garden 25:00

5M ago25:00

25:00

The White House is undergoing yet another transformation as part of the Jackie O. Rose Garden is paved to make it easier for women in heels to prance around. Then, an uber conservative and Moms for Liberty darling from South Carolina, Rep. RJ May, is arrested for kiddie porn. Finally, the Osaka Airport has a 30-year track record of “no lost luggage…

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The Happiest City in America 48:09

5M ago48:09

48:09

Travel & Leisure has named the Happiest City in America—and the winner might surprise you. On Shop Talk, we highlight four habits we should all stop, or at least pay more attention to. Caught My Eye features a curious story, possibly AI-generated, about a paragliding adventure out of China. And a friendly reminder from the TSA: your Costco card is …

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TFG Unbuttoned: Andrew Christian Takes a Bow 23:27

5M ago23:27

23:27

Famed gay male underwear and clothing designer, Andrew Christian, will release his last collection this Fall. He has not revealed what’s next so get your jocks, briefs, and swimwear now while you can. But first, popular LGBTQ DC destination, Dupont Circle, was to be closed, opened, and ultimately closed for World Pride this past weekend. The Nation…

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ALDI Accused of Copycat Branding 48:56

6M ago48:56

48:56

Across the USA and globally, many once supportive brands are staying quiet or staying away from supporting PRIDE this year. If June was or is your brand’s sole marketing strategy to connect with the LGBTQ consumer, then you need help. Caught My Eye looks at a recycling solution involving plastic Coke bottles in India. Also, Mondelez filed a lawsuit…

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TFG Unbuttoned: How Much Money Should You Have in Your Wallet? 24:41

6M ago24:41

24:41

Money experts reveal the ideal amount of “real” money you should carry in case of an emergency, your card is declined, or you’re stranded. Listen and let us know if you agree. But first, Donald Trump’s ego military parade on June 14th will cost the taxpayer more than $50 million dollars—including about $16 million of street damage due to heavy equi…

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IKEA’s Serving Drag, Geffen’s Serving Papers, and AI’s Serving Pink Slips—What a Time to Be 44:19

6M ago44:19

44:19

Is the USA ready for AI? The challenges of AI are exposed related to job loss and career on Shop Talk. A software engineer lost his job to AI, his $159K salary, and has sent out 800 resumes with fewer than 10 responses. Caught My Eye celebrates IKEA’s Drag Room display while David Geffen and Barry Diller navigate their marriages. Our Business Birth…