Best Jonathan Lippe Podcasts (2025)

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“Harlem Shake” by Baauer (f/ Chris Dalla Riva) 54:32

Play Pause

3d ago54:32

54:32

In early 2013, the Billboard Charts underwent a major change by incorporating YouTube streams into their formula. Almost immediately, the internet responded with chaos. The bizarre, bass-heavy electronica track “Harlem Shake” by producer Baauer skyrocketed to #1, fueled by a wave of absurd, meme-fueled dance videos that dominated social media. It b…

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Punchline “Somewhere To Land” Instant Reaction 51:03

8d ago51:03

51:03

Punchline’s new album Somewhere To Land was just released a few hours ago, and One Hit Thunder is here with some thoughts! Matt shares his feelings about every track, and Chris shares some insight into the writing, recording, and release of the next chapter in the Punchline story. One Hit Thunder is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner…

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“Take My Breath Away” by Berlin 44:39

10d ago44:39

44:39

This week, we’re discussing the music and career of Berlin, a band whose biggest hit was, strangely, not really a Berlin song at all. “Take My Breath Away” soared into the stratosphere on the tailwinds of Top Gun in 1986, but it wasn’t a great representation of the sexy, upbeat new wave synth-pop that Berlin was known for. Join us as we journey dee…

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The 2025 MTV VMAs: Thoughts and Reactions 47:47

1d ago47:47

47:47

Chris and Matt discuss their thoughts on the 2025 VMAs, which strangely aired on CBS instead of MTV (which couldn’t be bothered to interrupt their nonstop stream of the show Ridiculousness to air their signature awards show!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Geekscape

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“Bodies” by Drowning Pool (f/ Kyle Kuchta) 1:03:39

17d ago1:03:39

1:03:39

To be honest, when this week’s guest Kyle Kuchta pitched Drowning Pool’s “Bodies” to us for an episode, we braced ourselves for a terrible listening experience. Instead, what we got was some solid hard rock and a tragic story about vocalist Dave Williams, who seemed to be a solid dude with a great attitude who was taken from this world much too soo…

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“Always Something There to Remind Me” by Naked Eyes (f/ Mark Popeney) 1:03:30

24d ago1:03:30

1:03:30

This week on One Hit Thunder, we’re joined by special guest Mark Popeney of the Nevermind The Music podcast to discuss Naked Eyes and their 1983 hit “Always Something There to Remind Me.” Originally written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the song found new life in the synth pop era thanks to Naked Eyes' inventive production and reliance on cuttin…

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“Walking In Memphis” by Marc Cohn (f/ Evan Fonseca) 50:24

1M ago50:24

50:24

In an attempt to combat a case of writer's block, struggling songwriter Marc Cohn took a trip to Memphis. A chance encounter at a café resulted in one of the most beloved adult contemporary songs of the 90s. “Walking In Memphis” has stood the test of time, and this week, we’re joined by Phantom of the Podpera co-host Evan Fonseca to touch down in t…

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“It Takes Two” by Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock 39:53

1M ago39:53

39:53

HIT IT! Few tracks ignite a dance floor like Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock’s 1988 classic, “It Takes Two.” Built around an infectious sample from Lyn Collins’ “Think (About It),” this platinum-certified anthem didn’t just dominate clubs—it helped hip-hop cross over into the mainstream. Despite the duo’s explosive debut, follow-up efforts like Rob Base’s…

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“Tainted Love by Soft Cell (f/Paul Menotiades) 45:06

2M ago45:06

45:06

This week, our good friend Paul Menotiades returns to help us unpack the unlikely rise of Soft Cell’s 1981 synth-pop smash, “Tainted Love.” Originally a 1965 Northern Soul obscurity by Gloria Jones, Soft Cell's eerie, slowed-down cover became a global sensation, topping charts in 17 countries and spending a record-breaking 43 weeks on the U.S. Bill…

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“Runaway” by Del Shannon (f/ Scott Mellinger) 52:09

2M ago52:09

52:09

In this episode, we're joined by special guest Scott Mellinger to explore Del Shannon's 1961 chart-topping hit, "Runaway." This early rock and roll classic is renowned for its haunting falsetto vocals and the groundbreaking Musitron solo—a keyboard instrument invented by Shannon's collaborator, Max Crook, that added a futuristic flair to the track.…

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“Who Let the Dogs Out” by Baha Men (f/ Jim Logrando) 39:48

2M ago39:48

39:48

Twenty-five years ago, Baha Men unleashed “Who Let the Dogs Out” on the world—and whether you loved it or hated it, there’s no denying its impact. This week, we’re joined by our friend Jim Logrando to celebrate the song’s silver anniversary and dig into everything we never knew about this Bahamian group's wild ride. From Grammy wins and Kids' Choic…

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“Surfin’ Bird” by The Trashmen (f/Trevor Leonard and Jim Logrando) 47:31

2M ago47:31

47:31

This week, we're finally diving into the unhinged surf-rock chaos of The Trashmen’s “Surfin’ Bird”—a Patreon pick that, frankly, we can’t believe we haven’t covered until now. This 1963 burst of raw energy, stitched together from two Rivingtons songs, has been called everything from a novelty hit to an early blueprint for punk rock. With its unforg…

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“Your Love” by The Outfield (f/ Johnny Yetsconish) 1:01:20

2M ago1:01:20

1:01:20

This week, Johnny Yetsconish joins us to celebrate The Outfield’s timeless 1986 hit, “Your Love.” Though the British trio enjoyed a string of modest successes in the '80s, it's this power-pop anthem—with its unforgettable opening lyric and soaring vocals—that has etched itself into the fabric of pop culture. From its origins on the triple-platinum …

1
The 1985 Albums Fantasy Auction Draft 58:58

3M ago58:58

58:58

Get ready for a battle of musical nostalgia in The 1985 Albums Fantasy Auction Draft, where Chris and Matt are joined by fellow music lovers Matthew Milligan and Tony Hartman to bid on the best albums of a stacked year in music. From blockbuster releases like Songs from the Big Chair and No Jacket Required to cult favorites like Tim and Dare to Be …

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"Space Lord" by Monster Magnet (f/Jim Logrando) 49:10

3M ago49:10

49:10

This week, Jim Logrando sits in to discuss the spaced-out swagger of Monster Magnet’s 1998 hit “Space Lord.” As a loyal listener since discovering the band in the late '90s, Jim brings his passion for these groove metal pioneers to the table as we dig into their unlikely brush with mainstream success. With its psychedelic riffs, tongue-in-cheek bra…

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“Down (feat. Lil Wayne)” by Jay Sean (f/ Andrés) 1:00:12

3M ago1:00:12

1:00:12

Back in the fall of 2009, an unexpected voice from the UK took over American radio when Jay Sean’s “Down” (featuring Lil Wayne) knocked the Black Eyed Peas off the top of the charts after their epic run. This week on One Hit Thunder, Andrés joins us to revisit that moment in time—when ringtone sales mattered, Cash Money Records was everywhere, and …

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“My Boo” by Ghost Town DJs 31:44

3M ago31:44

31:44

This week, we explore the surprising journey of Ghost Town DJs’ 1996 single “My Boo,” a track that quietly debuted on the So So Def Bass All-Stars compilation before becoming a Top 40 hit. Though the group disbanded after two underperforming albums, this smooth blend of R&B vocals and Miami bass beats found new life two decades later, thanks to the…

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“Pop Goes the Weasel” by 3rd Bass (f/ PJ Caruso) 1:00:39

4M ago1:00:39

1:00:39

This past year, we witnessed a diss track win Grammys and get performed at the Super Bowl, but over three decades ago, there was another diss track that became an unlikely hit. “Pop Goes the Weasel” by 3rd Bass took aim at Vanilla Ice and the growing commercialization of hip-hop, delivering biting bars over a beat laced with samples from Peter Gabr…

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“Mad World” by Gary Jules (f/ Nichole Vatcher) 48:15

4M ago48:15

48:15

This week, Matt and I welcome Nichole Vatcher—cohost of the brilliant podcast Nevermind the Music—for a deep dive into Gary Jules’ haunting 2001 cover of “Mad World.” Originally a minor hit for a young Tears for Fears, the song took on a whole new life thanks to its stripped-down piano arrangement and its eerie, unforgettable appearance in Donnie D…

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“Got You (Where I Want You)” by The Flys (f/ Rishi Bahl) 1:14:30

4M ago1:14:30

1:14:30

In the late '90s, The Flys had us all in a trance with their brooding alt-rock anthem “Got You (Where I Want You),” a song that buzzed through movie trailers, TV shows, and the Disturbing Behavior soundtrack like a late-summer fever dream. But just as quickly as they soared, they crash-landed into the used CD bins of America. This week, we’re joine…

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“Bust a Move” by Young MC 50:41

4M ago50:41

50:41

This week, our Patreon pals picked a song that had Matt and I cuttin’ a rug down memory lane—Young MC’s 1989 smash hit “Bust a Move.” From penning hits for Tone Loc to grabbing a Grammy and storming the charts, Young MC made the most of a short but unforgettable moment in the spotlight. We dig into how the song came together, the role Delicious Vin…

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Making Films in the Big Apple 50:55

5M ago50:55

50:55

In this episode of the Big Apple Film Festival Podcast, host and festival founder/director Jonathan Lipp sits down with actor and producer Sawyer Spielberg to discuss his film "Martyr of Gowanus", written and directed by Brian Meere. Spielberg shares his passion for NYC, how the city inspires his craft, as well as advice for aspiring actors, artist…

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“Supersonic” by J.J. Fad (f/ Alex Goldman) 54:39

5M ago54:39

54:39

This week, we’re joined by podcast legend Alex Goldman—of Reply All and HyperFixed fame—to dive into the high-speed legacy of J.J. Fad’s 1988 hit “Supersonic.” Whether you remember it from the radio or recognize it as the backbone of Fergie’s “Fergalicious,” this track’s influence is undeniable. We explore the group’s origins, their ties to N.W.A.,…

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Making Nostalgic Films 54:54

5M ago54:54

54:54

In this episode, host Jonathan Lipp, Big Apple Film Festival Founder/Director, speaks with filmmaker Cinqué Lee about his film "A Rare Grand Alignment", which will have its NYC premiere at the Big Apple Film Festival. Cinqué, who is also an actor and writer(as well as the brother of critically acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee), discusses his career, h…

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“Funkytown” by Lipps, Inc. (f/ John Franklin) 46:40

5M ago46:40

46:40

When comedian John Franklin joined us for a round of music trivia back in December, he only got one question right—but it was an important one: Who sang “Funkytown”? That victorious moment has now come full circle, as John returns to help us take a deeper look at Lipps, Inc.’s massive 1980 hit and the whirlwind career of vocalist Cynthia Johnson. W…

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Oscar® Nominated Producer on Producing an Award Winning Short Film 52:30

5M ago52:30

52:30

In this episode of the Big Apple Film Festival Podcast, BAFF Founder and Director Jonathan Lipp chats with Oscar® nominated producer Krushan Naik on how short films can be used as a calling card for a filmmaker to launch their career, how a short can be used to attract industry attention and build an audience to expand their concept into a feature …

1
“I Love College” by Asher Roth (f/ Sean Quilty) 46:08

5M ago46:08

46:08

This week, we're joined by special guest Sean Quilty to dive into Asher Roth's 2009 party anthem “I Love College.” From sticky bar floors to Top 20 charts, this catchy hit captured a specific moment in pop and hip-hop culture, sparking the brief but memorable wave of frat rap. As Philly natives, Matt and Sean reflect on Roth’s early days, his MySpa…

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“Naked Eye” by Luscious Jackson (f/ Tracy Bonham) 1:09:14

5M ago1:09:14

1:09:14

It's always a bit nerve-wracking when an artist we've covered reaches out, but it's pretty cool when they enjoyed their episode and want to join us! This week, we're thrilled to welcome Tracy Bonham—whose hit "Mother Mother" we previously discussed—to talk about another '90s classic: Luscious Jackson’s "Naked Eye." Tracy shares insights on her own …

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“Pump Up The Volume” by M/A/R/R/S 45:20

5M ago45:20

45:20

Few artists embody the term "one-hit wonder" more than M/A/R/R/S, a collective that only recorded two songs but forever changed music history with "Pump Up the Volume." This sample-heavy track may seem unremarkable in modern times, but in the late '80s, it was groundbreaking—pushing the boundaries of sampling, shaping house music, and earning a Gra…

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“When I’m With You” by Sheriff (f/ Joel Reader) 54:18

6M ago54:18

54:18

This week, we're joined by Joel Reader to discuss one of the strangest comeback stories in music history—Sheriff’s sappy power ballad, "When I’m With You." This Canadian band had already called it quits when their forgotten single unexpectedly climbed to number one nearly a decade later, thanks to a few radio DJs deciding to put the song into rotat…

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S Club 7 “Never Had a Dream Come True” (f/ Rod Kim) 1:12:37

6M ago1:12:37

1:12:37

This week, we're joined by TikToker and songwriter Rod Kim to dive into the sugary pop world of S Club 7 and their lone U.S. hit, the 2001 ballad "Never Had a Dream Come True." While the UK couldn't get enough of this manufactured seven-piece pop machine, American audiences only got a small taste—so did we miss out, or was one hit enough? We unpack…

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The 1995 Albums Fantasy Auction Draft 1:05:01

6M ago1:05:01

1:05:01

The CORE FOUR are back together again! Chris and Matt are joined by draft regulars Tony Hartman and Matthew Milligan to battle it out for the best five-album collection from the stacked year of 1995. With classics like Jagged Little Pill, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, The Bends, and Post up for grabs, the stakes are high and the arguments…

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“Walking On Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves (f/ Robert Bacon) 1:06:47

6M ago1:06:47

1:06:47

This week, we're joined by Internet Supreme Court dishonorable judge Robert Bacon to put Katrina and the Waves’ 1985 hit "Walking on Sunshine" on trial. Is it the ultimate feel-good anthem, or has its overuse in ironic movie moments doomed it to a lifetime of unintended comedy? We explore the band’s journey from their early struggles to their Eurov…

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"The Middle" by Jimmy Eat World 42:18

7M ago42:18

42:18

When our Patreon voted for an episode about “The Middle,” we had mixed emotions—how could a band as important to us as Jimmy Eat World technically be a one-hit wonder? With Bleed American holding a firm place on our Thundred list, it almost feels wrong! But this week, we dive deep into the band’s history, the perfect storm that made “The Middle” a …

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“Keep On Dancing” by The Gentrys (f/ Jonathan London) 1:13:20

7M ago1:13:20

1:13:20

It’s been a while since our friend Jonathan London joined us, but with his new comic Hero of the Prophecy crowdfunding now, we thought it was the perfect time to talk about a wrestling-connected musician—Jimmy Hart and his 1965 hit with The Gentrys, “Keep On Dancing”! While The Gentrys’ time in the spotlight was brief, “The Mouth of the South” Jimm…

1
“The Humpty Dance” by Digital Underground 43:35

7M ago43:35

43:35

Our Patreon supporters made their voices loud and clear—this week, we’re diving deep into Digital Underground’s unforgettable 1990 hit, “The Humpty Dance”! While some know the group solely for this quirky classic, others recognize frontman Shock G as one of hip hop’s most innovative figures. We explore the genius behind the Sex Packets album concep…

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SNL 50: The Homecoming Concert and The Anniversary Special Reaction Episode 55:59

7M ago55:59

55:59

After all the festivities have come to a close, we share our thoughts on Saturday Night Live's 50th anniversary weekend, which included a star-studded concert and a special Sunday night episode for the ages. One Hit Thunder is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Our listeners get 30% off your f…

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Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl Halftime Show Reaction Episode 28:12

7M ago28:12

28:12

In this bonus episode, we dive into Kendrick Lamar's unforgettable Super Bowl LIX halftime performance in New Orleans, with special insight from Chris, who was lucky enough to witness it live. We break down the impact of Kendrick's set, examining its significance in both his career and the broader history of Super Bowl performances. From his master…

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“Because I Got High” by Afroman (f/ Alan Peterson) 48:55

7M ago48:55

48:55

This week, we’re joined by comedian Alan Peterson to explore the rise, fall, and lasting buzz of Afroman’s iconic stoner anthem, “Because I Got High.” From its humble beginnings as an independent release to an unexpected climb up the charts, this hazy earworm turned Afroman into a brief household name before label disputes and industry challenges d…

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“For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield (f/ Leah Haslage) 53:28

8M ago53:28

53:28

This week, we’re joined by Leah Haslage, host of the Bridechilla podcast, to dive into the cultural and musical legacy of Buffalo Springfield’s timeless classic, “For What It’s Worth.” Though often linked with the Vietnam War, the song’s origins trace back to the Sunset Strip curfew riots—a protest of a very different kind. With Neil Young and Step…

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The 67th Annual Grammy Awards Reaction Episode 33:00

8M ago33:00

33:00

The 67th Annual Grammys delivered a night packed with unforgettable moments, and Chris and Matt are here to break it all down. From Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé’s big wins to Doechii’s historic Best Rap Album victory, they cover the night’s highlights, surprises, and controversies. They discuss powerful speeches—like Chappell Roan’s industry callout …

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Ladies & Gentlemen…50 Years of SNL Music Reaction Episode 52:51

8M ago52:51

52:51

Live from your podcast feed, it’s One Hit Thunder! This week, Chris and Matt dive into Ladies & Gentlemen...50 Years of SNL Music, the new documentary celebrating the legendary show's musical legacy. From the raw energy of punk rock chaos to the polished brilliance of pop icons, they break down the performances that defined generations. Along the w…

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“Epic” by Faith No More (f/Jon Lewis) 56:52

8M ago56:52

56:52

This week, we’re joined by Jon Lewis of The Dopamines to dive into Faith No More’s explosive 1990 hit “Epic.” While it might seem wild to label anything connected to the prolific Mike Patton as a one-hit wonder, “Epic” remains their only Hot 100 crossover, landing in the Top 10 and cementing their place in rock history. We explore the band’s evolut…

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"The Promise" by When in Rome 44:51

8M ago44:51

44:51

This week, we’re exploring When In Rome’s unforgettable 1988 hit, “The Promise.” What started as a Top 20 new wave anthem recorded in a garden shed has grown into a timeless classic, thanks in part to its revival in Napoleon Dynamite. We explore the band’s brief rise, their infamous breakup, and the messy legal battles that followed as former membe…

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“God Bless The U.S.A.” by Lee Greenwood (is the worst song ever written) 49:21

8M ago49:21

49:21

In honor of an altogether dreadful Inauguration Day, we’re tackling what might just be the worst song in music history: Lee Greenwood’s bombastic ode to patriotism, “God Bless the U.S.A.” Sure, Greenwood had other country hits, but let’s face it—this is the only song he’s remembered for, and not for great reasons. Beyond the overly saccharine lyric…

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"Finally" by CeCe Peniston 38:15

8M ago38:15

38:15

We’ve finally hit 250 episodes, so what better time to talk about CeCe Peniston’s unforgettable 1991 dance anthem, “Finally”? While some may argue this is a controversial pick—Peniston did have a few other Top 20 hits—her name often lands on lists of ‘90s one-hit wonders. How did this powerhouse vocalist, whose talent and charisma were undeniable, …

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The Thundred: Mailbag, Snubs, and Hot Takes...LIVE! 1:10:43

9M ago1:10:43

1:10:43

In this special live episode of One Hit Thunder recorded on January 3, 2025, Chris and Matt dive into the fiery world of The Thundred—the podcast’s list of the top 100 albums of all time, as voted by listeners, friends, and past guests. With emails pouring in from fans ready to share their hot takes, the duo reads through critiques, complaints, and…

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Our Fifth Year Countdown 47:59

9M ago47:59

47:59

Happy New Year from One Hit Thunder! To kick off 2025, Chris and Matt are joined by special guest Johnny Yetsconish for a countdown extravaganza like no other. Together, they rank the past 50 songs featured on the show, from the undeniable hits to the ones that just didn’t strike the right chord. Will Skee-Lo's "I Wish" or Right Said Fred's "I'm To…

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Merry Christmas...check out our Patreon! 50:39

9M ago50:39

50:39

For the first time in four years, we don't have a new episode for you, as it’s Christmas morning. However, we think you might be missing out on roughly three years of great Patreon content! So, enjoy this collection of some of our favorite Patreon episodes from the past few weeks, and consider subscribing to hear even more! Join our Patreon One Hit…

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Christian Cringe Preview 21:25

9M ago21:25

21:25

Check out Matt's new podcast "Christian Cringe" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Geekscape