The Holiday Specials We Love

The Holiday Specials We Love: Candy Thru the Decades Oct 09, 2025

The Holiday Specials We Love: Season 4 Holiday Preseason

On this episode of HSWL we cover candy through the decades from the 1950's to the 1980's. The Hershey's chocolate lineup vs. the Nestle lineup. Twizzlers vs. Red Vines. Krackel vs. Nestle’s Crunch. Clark Bar vs. Butterfinger, Now and Laters vs. Mike and Ikes and more.

Who was into Necco Wafers, Chuckles and Bit O' Honey? What is gimmick candy and why the gimmick achieved success rather than the taste. Razzles, Pop Rocks, Wax Bottles we are talking about you! Can someone bring back the Marathon Bar? The 80's trend toward sour and non-chocolate. What was a Zagnut bar?

This 90-minute pilot has all the hot takes that will have you eating Skittles right out of your hands. We didn’t cover Circus Peanuts or Lifesavers but we have years of programming ahead to get there!

As always, please give us a 5-star review on Apple.

Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511

We will soon be rebranding The Holiday Specials We Love

The Holiday season HAS arrived! Talk Shawtly

Classic Easter Commercials Chat Show Apr 12, 2025

Hey CSWL FANS!

A lot of laughs and quite a bit of nostalgia as we watch

some of the most iconic Easter Commercials of the 70s & 80s. How

Easter was WAY bigger then and why we never hear Easter Carols. How Dudley of ‘Shake

and Egg’ fame was the poster child for all things Easter. How the

Cadbury Cream Egg commercials were the BEST, but, how they as a candy were

‘just a bit much’. Would helicopter Moms of today drain the yellow

and white filling for their kids? Are Pretzel & Peanut Butter M&Ms too

far out of the lane? Why Vincet Price as Egghead was ‘Eggactly’ what we needed.

How heartfelt cards are so nice and what Netflix and Hallmark have in common.

How Cookie Puss is NO Fudgey the Whale and Carvels Easter Chick cake of old. Is

it ‘Car-A-Mel’ or ‘Carm-el’? How Ann Arbor’s newspaper journalist Meg Perry

provides insight into the REAL egg crisis - the Cadbury egg crisis. How when

you see Angels and Guides-just say thank you.

A lot of laughs and a little bit of insight as we March into

the Easter Season!

As always, please give us a 5-star review on

Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and find us on Facebook.

The EASTER season HAS arrived!

Talk Shawtly

The Berenstain Bears Easter Surprise Special Apr 07, 2025

Hey CSWL FANS!

Well well well – after much back and forth over if we should or should not- we

did it- join us for this fun ride as we discuss The Berenstain Bears

Easter Surprise Special.

While there was some debate that the CSWL research team got the

spelling incorrect- it is indeed, according to sources including Wikipedia, The

Berenstain Bears, while some still refer to it Berenstein- Berenstain it is!

Could THIS fact lead to a future episode covering the Bears? We think not, as

an official apology has been issued to the Berenstain Bear community and all

those who love them. This slow paced, sing song rhymer received the official

first CSWL “N/A’ - not even a single basket rating but a mere pile of plastic

grass. Was this just true to form for the lazy writing of the 70s? And what was

with the goofy Dad? Was this just a poor man’s Dr. Seuss? How the all-day Atari

players of the 80s were ‘pioneers’. How the premise of the long winter pre-empting

Easter was actually good. How Cherry Red Boy is the spirit of the holidays

and how Mike Berenstain probably has at least 10k in the bank.

A lot of laughs and a little

bit of insight as we March into the Easter Season!

As always, please give us a

5-star review on Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351-251-2511

and find us

on Facebook.

The EASTER season HAS arrived!

Talk Shawtly

Easter Season Chat Apr 02, 2025

Hey CSWL on this CWSL Chat edition, we went deeper into the meaning

of Easter and the Easter season. Warning: this isn’t a discussion on

baskets and bunnies but the emotional and spiritual meanings. Seeing

homes with Christmas lights still up and illuminated? Think there’s

meaning? Kev has been seeing many. What does AI have to say about

the meaning behind that? How AI can really offer insight into dream analysis

and our unconscious selves. What our Shadow Self reveals and how some say:

“There are no bad parts”. How we are truly all part of the Human Collective

and that, we really are just here for a cup of coffee. How teachers like Clark Kegley

and others can awaken us and teach us that we are made of so many different

frequencies, and the art of surrender. How being judgmental is just vibrating

low and how what is in your brain is what you find and that lent and the Easter

Season really are the perfect time to give up the judgements.

Kev and Anne went a little deeper but shared a few laughs and a little bit of insight as we March into the Easter Season!

As always, please give us a

5-star review on Apple.

Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511

and find us on Facebook.

The EASTER season HAS arrived!

Talk Shawtly

CLARK KEGLEY YOUTUBE

The Davey & Goliath Easter Special Mar 31, 2025

Hey CSWL FANS!

This one had us feeling all the feels as we cover this 5 Easter

Basket (Candycanes? Carrots? Bunnies?) Special: The Davey & Goliath

Easter Special “Happy Easter” yes- the one where Davey’s grandmother

dies. We of course digress to issue a CSWL legal statement and apologies to the

Cadbury Egg Community as well as the Berenstain Bear Community. Does D& G

as a series need to be revisited? Modernized? How D&G are similar to Roblox

and will the Peppa Pig Community also be offended? Why it’s okay to stray from

the Boston accent when discussing “Garbage” and how we not only attempted to

save Christmas- but we are attempting to save Easter as well. Did Religion peak

back in the day and how everyone back then had extra panes of glass in attics

and garages to fix broken windows. Will the Dick Beals society come after us

and was Davey a tad agro to Goliath? How barter is a lost art, what prompted

Lawrence Welk to say “too much cheesecake” and, how amazing was Grandma Hansen

in D & G.

A lot of laughs, a few tears, and a little bit of insight as we March into the Easter Season!

As always, please give us a

5-star review on

Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and find us

on Facebook.

The EASTER season HAS

arrived!

Talk Shawtly

Rankin Bass Here Comes Peter Cottontail Mar 26, 2025

Hey CSWL FANS!

Hold on to your Easter Bonnet and snuggle into your leisure suit

as we talk most things Here Comes Peter Cottontail. How close was this to our

beloved Santa Claus is Coming to Town? Was the interstitial 2D animation a cost

cutting measure or for story telling? Was Peter just feeling FOMO when he was

‘overserved’ the night before the biggest day of his life? How Danny Kaye

doesn’t “have people”, why we may need to find a new world leading expert on

Milk Duds and how so often people would rather WIN than be Happy. What happened

to Iron Tail at the end and if Peter was redeemed- why then is Blarney Bunny

still lying? Was Sassafras a bit too snarky? Could he have sold Amway? We go

deep with fellow holidaholics The Thorton W. Burges Research League and the

Cultural History of Peter Rabbit.

A lot of laughs and a little bit of insight

as we March into the Easter Season!

As always, please give us a

5-star review on Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and find us

on Facebook.

The EASTER season HAS arrived!

Talk Shawtly

Easter Chat & Season 4 Kick Off! Mar 22, 2025

Hey CSWL FANS!

Happy Easter SEASON and Happy CSWL Season 4 Kickoff! We talk

all things Easter past and a bit of present, the Berenstain Bears and Cadbury

Egg ‘Communities,’ how Lent and Easter are a time for transformation. From Tony

Robbins to the OG Hawaii 5-0 and, should the leisure suit (an Easter Suit

staple) or the male jumpsuit make a comeback? The days of receiving

baby chicks on Easters of the past and how baskets of yesteryear differ from

those of today. Should we cover more Easter Specials - including the heart-wrenching

Davey & Goliath episode? Is the Hollow Chocolate or Vanilla Bunny your go-to? Lots of laughs and a little bit of insight as we March into the

Easter Season! As always, please give us a 5-star review on

Apple.

Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and find us on Facebook

The EASTER season HAS arrived! Talk Shawtly

Christmas Eve Traditions Dec 24, 2024

Christmas Eve Traditions

Hey CSWL FANS! Merry Christmas Eve! We MADE IT! The CSWL 12 Days of Christmas! We talk all things Christmas Eve past and present, John Denver, why one celebrity hires Catholics and how late night AM Radio on Xmas Eve is go to for Holiday Insomniacs. Northeast folk and Hollywood execs who “don’t disagree.” What do Catholics and the Baby Bear's bed have in common and the true meaning of Boston Strong.

Frosty’s airing removes the words 'Christopher Columbus'.

How 20 miles away on Christmas Eves of the past seemed like a journey to Mars. Childhood bedrooms turning into sewing rooms, wrapped or unwrapped presents on Christmas morning, Covid changing Christmas and how a Kardashian’s Xmas differs from a Stallone Xmas.

Should the Norwegian classic lefsa just be a side dish and people doing brunch on Christmas Day.

As always, please give us a 5-star review on Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and find us on Facebook. The holiday season HAS arrived! Talk Shawtly

40 Beloved Christmas Specials of the 70s Part Two Dec 23, 2024

40 Beloved Christmas Specials of the 70s Part Two

Hey CSWL FANS! We’re doing our best to save Christmas by diving into fan-shared Things Boomers Like: 40 Beloved Christmas Specials of the 70s. In part two, Lawernce Welk’s “too much cheesecake”, Marie Osmond’s hair, Byron Allen's Real People and more as we continue our 12 days of Christmas episode drop.

Also, Frosty’s Winter Wonderland and Andy Griffith's A Face in the Crowd. And let’s settle it: Is Rhoda officially cooler than Mary Tyler Moore? How Kristi McNichol and Robbie Benson didn’t know how to add enough coal to the fire, and how DisneyWorld vs. Disneyland proves to be more 70s than 50s. How if someone is on TV long enough, they eventually 'get over.'

Mimes, Iowa traffic reporters, the boys regular haircut and Christmas on Sesame Street. The three Jimmys : Baio, McNichol and Osmond. The only reason we still know the Pink Panther.

Life behind the scenes on the set of Donnie and Marie Osmond. And how did Raggedy Ann and Andy’s Dog Arthur and Return of the Jedi somehow end up in the same category? Happy Days’ disappearing Chuck, and Pete Best? We wrap things up with a breakdown of why intramural sports might just hold the key to Bertrand Russell’s philosophy and why a mid-week Christmas is really the best.

As always, please give us a 5-star review on Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and find us on Facebook. The holiday season HAS arrived! Talk Shawtly

40 Beloved Christmas Specials of the 70s Part One Dec 22, 2024

40 Beloved Christmas Specials of the 70s Part One

Hey CSWL FANS! We’re doing our best to save Christmas by diving into fan-shared Things Boomers Like: 40 Beloved Christmas Specials of the 70s. In part one we tackle the first 20. From Bob Hope’s holiday specials to Cher’s star power and Rich Little’s impressions.

Funny how The Glenn Cambell Christmas special led us to discuss how comedy changed with disruptors like Woody Allen and David Letterman, why slapstick like pie-in-the-face humor might’ve always been overrated, and how subtitles can make things funnier. How did The Waltons seem like they were based on a real mountain family and their surprising connection to It’s A Wonderful Life? Remember when a 50-mile trip was a journey? Are Christmas Angels suggesting you try ayahuasca?

How Christmas variety shows of the 70s unveil insight into why Nancy Kerrigan’s story still matters, and why skipping Family Affair could land you a corner booth at “Victim Con,” Were the 70s just a big 60s hangover? Also, what’s the deal with whistling janitors, and could John Denver have taken a page from Billy Joel? How Captain Kangaroo’s appearance in a Christmas Special led to chats about random encounters with legends like George Burns or John Cleese?

As always, please give us a 5-star review on Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and find us on Facebook. The holiday season HAS arrived! Talk Shawtly

Alt Christmas Movie Picks Part 2 Dec 21, 2024

Alt Christmas Movie Picks Part 2

Hey CSWL Fans! We’re back with Part 2 of the Alt Christmas Movie Picks. We’re diving into the genius of Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds, why a 100-year-old’s advice still hits hard, and how Christmas is the season to embrace love and connection. Dickens's own story of writing A Christmas Carol may be more moving than the story itself.

We talk Spirited, The Man Who Invented Christmas, and the criminally underrated 29th Street. We’re breaking it all down, including how a certain Ghostbusters character channels big CSWL energy. Could all this vintage movie and TV talk spark a CSWL Summa Series? And what’s the deal with comparing it all to the 2004 Red Sox?

As always, please give us a 5-star review on Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511, and let's keep the convo going on Facebook. Talk Shawtly

Alt Christmas Movie Picks Part One Dec 20, 2024

Alt Christmas Movie Picks Part One

Hey CSWL Fans! We’re diving into Part One of the must-see Alt Holiday Specials, and – we may have digressed-just a little. Just like "The Little Drummer Boy," we’re giving our all to save Christmas. Ever thought about what "Revenge of the Nerds" and *The Little Drummer Boy* have in common? Discover why "Fat Man" is your gateway to "Violent Night" and why the latter should be retitled to "Santa’s Last Stand.”

Is there a love for all things *A Christmas Carol*? Bad Santa, Billy Bob Thornton and his unexpected link to “The Thorn Birds”. A look at the series Thirtysomething—and how today it would be titled Sixtysomething?

As always, please give us a 5-star review on Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and find us on Facebook. The holiday season HAS arrived! Talk Shawtly

Rankin Bass Twas the Night Before Christmas Dec 18, 2024

Rankin Bass Twas the Night Before Christmas

Hey CSWL Fans! We're back with a semi-deep dive into the 1974 Rankin/Bass classic, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, awarding it a solid 4½ Candy Canes. Is this special a counterpunch to Hanna-Barbera's The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn't? What was this time period's obsession with mice and mice living in walls with archway openings in the baseboard? Does Albert the Mouse from this special mirror today's youth? Star Trek's notion regarding intelligence without experience and two-dimensional thinking. Is this the most underrated soundtrack of all the Christmas specials? How this cartoon Santa may have cost the special half a candy cane in ratings. Why Cobra Kai stands apart from Land of the Lost? We further digress to reminisce about Jordan's Furniture in Waltham, MA, and their infamous Marshmallow couch—if you know, you know. We've also got a surprise appearance from Maria Menounos while introducing the concept of a 'Very Venmo' Christmas?

As always, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and join our community on Facebook. The holiday season is in full swing-Talk Shawtly

Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol Dec 18, 2024

Hey CSWL Fans! We're back covering Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol, giving it a solid 3½ Candy Canes. This 1962 classic was the first-ever animated Christmas special produced specifically for television as Mr. Magoo takes on the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, bringing his brilliance to the Dickens masterpiece. We discuss the brilliance of the writers, portraying Magoo as the star of a Broadway show. And all things “Magoo”: how funny the show really was, political incorrecttions that have muted the TV series today and how, even though he is oblivious, Magoo always wins! We talk Jim Backus, the voice of Mr. Magoo, and the beloved Mr. Howell of Gilligan’s Island. We also digress into some 'inside baseball', sharing insights on entertainment icons like Tina Louise, Rose Marie, and Mr. T.

As always, we value your feedback. Please give us a 5-star review on Apple, text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and join our community on Facebook. The holiday season is in full swing! Talk Shawtly

Christmas Happenings Chat Dec 16, 2024

Christmas Happenings Chat

Hey CSWL Fans! It's a CSWL 'Chat Edition' featuring hosts Kev and Anne. Kev shares his experience on Connecticut's famous Polar Express train ride. He also talks about Christmas outdoor decoration innovations - how Walmart inexpensive indoor trees can be used outdoors as well as the magic and history of Santa's actual home - in Finland! Back in Florida- Anne talks holiday boat shows and golf cart Christmas parades before diving into Kev’s Annual 'New Friends' Christmas Party and how it could be the tradition you're missing As always, please give us a 5-star review on Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and find us on Facebook. The holiday season HAS arrived! Talk Shawtly

Rankin Bass Rankings Dec 15, 2024

Rankin Bass Rankings

Being that the Rankin and Bass holiday specials are the reason we started the CSWL, we decided to take an episode to do some R and B Rankings, Superlatives, Favs and Not So Favs. Kev shares more 'inside baseball' with some behind the scenes gossip, and insight into why Santa Claus is Coming to Town is his own personal Dianetics plus Anne's fave R and B character that was her unlikely childhood crush. We go over top characters in order of greatness as well as the top specials too. If you love R and B specials, you won't want to miss this one. As always, please give us a 5-star review on Apple. Text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and find us on Facebook. The holiday season HAS arrived! Talk Shawtly

Seinfeld- A Festivus for the Rest of Us Dec 14, 2024

Hey CSWL Fans! Its A Festivus for the Rest of Us, celebrating one of the most iconic moments in Seinfeld history. Inspired by Daniel O’Keefe and brought to life by Jerry Stiller’s unforgettable Frank Costanza, this offbeat holiday gave us feats of strength, airing of grievances, and the iconic Festivus pole. We explore behind-the-scenes insights, including its creation, the IP mystery, and how it became a global phenomenon.

Plus, we tackle the big holiday question: Why does Love Actually still top seasonal watchlists?

As always, we'd love to hear from you! Drop us a 5-star review on Apple, text us your thoughts at 351 251 2511 and join the conversation on Facebook. The Festivus pole is up-let's air some grievances! Talk Shawtly

The Simpsons: Bart vs Thanksgiving Nov 28, 2024

Happy Thanksgiving, CSWL Fans! This week, we’re diving into The SimpsonsSeason 2, Episode 7: Bart vs. Thanksgiving.This newly crowned classic earns a perfect 5 Candy Canes as we discuss the ep and what exactly makesThe Simpsons timeless.

We also share some fun reflections on Thanksgiving traditions and dish out kitchen advice—stick to the classics, no improvising! Plus, let’s revive words like “delight”, “splendid” and “grand” this season.

As always, we'd love your support! Drop us 5-star review on Apple, text us at 351 251 2511 and join the community on Facebook. The season is in full swing- Talk Shawtly

South Park Black Friday Nov 25, 2024

Black Friday means the Christmas season is officially here, CSWL Fans! This week, we’re diving into the iconic 2013 South Park Black Friday trilogy. These episodes are a masterclass in satire, weaving together Game of Thrones references, anime-inspired visuals, and a hilarious take on the madness of holiday shopping. We break down the biting commentary on consumer culture and eerily accurate predictions about today’s societal trends, We also douses why this 5 Candy Canes trilogy remains a holiday classic.

As always, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcast, let us know your thoughts-text us 351 251 2511 and join the community on Facebook. The holiday fun is in full swing- Talk Shawtly!

Hanna Barbera; The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn't Nov 22, 2024

The pre-season winds down, ending on Thanksgiving Day. And as always the CSWL pays respects to Turkey Day, this time covering the 1972 animated Hannah Barbera animated special: The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn't. This 'non-classic' is a non-classic for a reason. Whether you have seen this special or not, you most likely do remember the Hannah Barbera cartoons of the 1960's, 1970's, and 1980's. That's all the viewing you need to appreciate this episode of CSWL. Besides covering some of the stereotypical beats employed by Hannah Barbera, we take a peek into why their low-budget style may have devolved from the days of the Flintstones as well as the climate of show business and Saturday morning cartoons at that time. And yes, the gang also breaks down the painful beats of this special. Just a few more to go before we hit the season!

With just a few episodes left before the season officially begins, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Text us at 351-251-2511, leave us a 5-Star review on Apple Podcasts, and join the Christmas Specials We Love Facebook Group

Talk Shawtly

This is America Charlie Brown- Mayflower Voyagers Nov 21, 2024

This is America Charlie Brown- Mayflower Voyagers

Nothingsays Thanksgiving TV Special like Charlie Brown! But this time, we’re not talking about A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (check out previous CSWL seasons for that). Instead, we’re diving into a lesser-known gem: This is America, Charlie Brown – The Mayflower Voyagers. In this educational special, the Peanuts gang joins the Pilgrims on their 1620 voyage to America, re-enacting key moments in history while blending entertainment with a touch of historical accuracy.

But did it succeed? Was it true to the facts, or did it lean into political incorrectness? We break it all down as we explore whether this Peanuts adventure captures the Thanksgiving spirit. As the march toward the world’s greatest holiday continues, we hope this episode adds to your festive vibes!

As always, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, text us your thoughts 351-251-2511 and be sure to join our community on Facebook page.

We watched on Vimeo

CSWL: Season Premiere! Nov 16, 2024

CSWL: Season Premiere!

Yes, we are late this season. But yes, if anything can save Christmas, it's the Christmas Specials We Love podcast! Kev and Anne give us a preview of what specials and movies they hope to cover this season until they 'digress' The duo also covers Santa's Village in Jefferson, New Hampshire vs. Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills, CA. Vintage bubble lights and the messiness and flammability of real Christmas trees. Is there such a thing as Christmas Porn and would it call for 'pornaments.' The alleged real Bedford Falls and their diminishing annual celebration. The few locations left from 'It's a Wonderful Life.' Jim Backus as Mr. Magoo as Ebenezer Scrooge. The Christmas documentary that plays like a horror movie, featuring the greatest reality Christmas villain of all time. Why the holiday season has been extended over the passing decades and how the Rockefeller Center tree should be up by now. How Anne works harder doing research for this show than she ever did in college and how Kev's only true studies were watching TV. Text us your thoughts. Tis the season. Talk Shawtly.

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

The Easter Bunny is Coming to Town Mar 27, 2024

The Gang is Back to talk all things The Easter Bunny is Coming to Town! Did this Easter classic hold true to Rankin & Bass standards? The decline of the Easter Bunny believers today. Could this special have stopped the spiral - and why it failed to. Why is this R&B animation special not an annual viewing tradition like the others? Why did it miss and how could it have been saved? Kev’s mini film class provides some screenwriting 101 as well as some answers. We talk R & B's continued love for old Hollywood and how the 1970s signaled the official end of post -WW2 culture that saluted such things as Brooklyn accents, Trains and Hobo culture. More talk on being a World Leading Experts on Rankin and Bass and the many subjects to be world leaders on? We digress to discuss Easter Candy favs of past and present with a medium dive into the world of peeps!

Talk SHAWTLY. Remember- Bumbles Bounce....but Gadzooks doesn't. He breaks a leg:(

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

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Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The

Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

How the Grinch Stole Christmas Dec 23, 2023

With so many requests- we would be remiss if we didn’t cover the Christmas Holiday Favorite How the Grinch Stole Christmas Our multi-generational panel is once again split on if it’s a must-see or a not so much…The team digresses listing their personal holiday favs and must-sees- Shout outs to Eugene Levy and of course Star Wars Christmas gets a mention. Kev bids an early ado – so the Junior Varsity does Production Notes Lite- same basic coverage with a little less takeaway. Final thoughts and season two wrap-up!

All this and more as our march to the holiday continues!

Talk SHAWTLY. Remember- Bumbles Bounce!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The

Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

Rudolph, the Red-Nose Reindeer Part Two Dec 22, 2023

Hey Holiday Fanatics, welcome back for this season one rewind -part 2 of Rudolph, the Red-Nose Reindeer!!

In Part Two We talk: Scene breakdowns. Controversy surrounding the special and how the multi-gen crew really feels about Rudolph Santa and all of the other misfits!

All this and more as our march to the holiday continues!

Talk SHAWTLY. Remember- Bumbles Bounce!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer Part One Dec 20, 2023

In this season one rewind, we talk multi-gen initial thoughts- how Millennials and Gen Y are ready to cancel Rudolph! Production notes and the start of scene by scene. Mean Santa- Did the coach have a name and why was the doll even on the land of the misfit toys…? All of this and more and the march to the greatest holiday of the year is HEATING UP!

Talk SHAWTLY and

Remember- Bumbles Bounce!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

The Little Drummer Boy Dec 18, 2023

By popular demand, our multi-generational panel breaks down the controversial special. Taken off the air for a period, what were the MANY triggers for BOTH Gen X and Gen Y? Were the songs up to Rankin Bass standards? Why are there two different narrators? Why is the antagonist in this the most empathetic? The beauty and meaning underneath the darkness. Why kids of yesteryear could see the violence and why it's understandably too much for kids today. How everything today is compared to Star Wars and Disney (sigh), how “The Fonz” believed we should Live and Let Live and how yes you too can be the World's Leading Expert at (just about anything). All this and more as our march to the holiday continues!

Talk SHAWTLY. Remember- Bumbles Bounce!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The

Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

Charlie Brown Christmas Part 2 Scene by Scene Breakdown Dec 13, 2023

Welcome back to part 2 of A Charlie Brown Christmas!! We dive into a scene by scene breakdown of the special and all our thoughts along the way!

Merry Christmas & enjoy the holidays! :)

Talk SHAWTLY and

Remember- Bumbles Bounce!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

A Charlie Brown Christmas Pt.1 The Nitty-Gritty Details Dec 11, 2023

We're back- and discussing the ultimate classic A Charlie Brown Christmas!!

We talk:

Everyone's take on the special
All about Charles Schulz (aka Sparky)
All the nitty-gritty details on how A Charlie Brown Christmas was made.

Stay tuned for part two!

Talk SHAWTLY and

Remember- Bumbles Bounce!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

Santa Claus is Coming to Town Part Two Dec 06, 2023

We talk Gen X and Gen Y general thoughts- how these deflated Kev into not wanting to go on. Going scene by scene uncovers some beautiful moments- but also some hidden triggers, cancelations and more. How tipping the dishwasher is a good thing. Our march to the holidays- and to us each being World Leading Experts at …? Continues!

Talk SHAWTLY and

Remember- Bumbles Bounce!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

Santa Claus is Coming to Town: Part One Dec 04, 2023

We talk production notes, the song track, modern day triggers and a few surprises along the way! Plus Tune in to learn what Milk Duds and Holiday Throw Blankets have to do with this favorite Rankin and Bass classic!

How Fred Astaire learned to skateboard in his 70's and married a Sports Illustrated model in his 80's. Kev's talk with Mickey Rooney about this special. How One Foot in Front of the Other- Is both Iconic AND insightful.

Modern Triggers by several “IMPORTANT” sources

And more….

Remember- Bumbles Bounce!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Year Without A Santa Claus Nov 29, 2023

We're back!! This time we are diving into the 1974 classic 'A Year Without A Santa Clause'

We talk:

All the iconic songs
The weird stop-motion tears
Favorite scenes & more

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

The Alf Christmas Special Nov 27, 2023

Based on a true story- find out why the Alf Christmas Special should be part of your holiday annual must sees- or not. Is it poignant or too dark? Our multi-gen panel is split! A brief history on the show, this episode and the cast. Does Alf help us to rediscover the meaning of Christmas? Why a one hundred year old article “Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus” is still relevant today and the surprising faith based layers. We are anxious to hear your take so make sure to send us a text! Until then put one foot in front of the other toward the greatest holiday of the year!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

Frosty The Snowman Nov 25, 2023

Hiii Holiday Fanatics! Today we're jumping into the 1969 classic- Frosty the Snowman!

We talk:

The "controversy" of Frosty's friends wearing shorts

Thoughts on Professor Hinkle

The Frosty sequels & more!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

Black Friday Nov 22, 2023

In this Fireside Chat episode of CSWL, we dive into the history of Black Friday, a phenomenon synonymous with discounted prices, bustling crowds, massive sales, holiday shopping, and sadly crime. We uncover the mysteries surrounding its origin and the incredible journey it's taken over the years. Explore the uncertain beginnings of Black Friday possibly tied to 1950s worker absenteeism the day after Thanksgiving and the raucous Philadelphia Army-Navy game. Learn how retailers transformed and spun the term Black Friday to give it a new meaning to make it a major shopping extravaganza.

Travel through the decades with us, from the more modest Black Fridays of the 1960s and 1970s to the explosive growth of the 2000s and midnight openings, massive discounts, and major mayhem. Discover how the 2010s further witnessed the rise of online shopping, the emergence of Thanksgiving Day store openings, and the expansion of e-commerce. We explore how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped Black Friday traditions and altered in-store shopping habits.

Black Friday puts the march to Christmas in full gear so make sure your sleigh seat belt is attached!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Minisode- Macy's Underdog Balloon Nov 20, 2023

Surprise!!! It's a special minisode today!! We are talking all about Underdog. How was his balloon created for the Macy's Day Parade? The Underdog special where he may or may not have saved the Parade. And mentions of Underdog in different beloved TV shows! A Thanksgiving present from us to you! Enjoy :)

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

History of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Nov 17, 2023

It's almost Thanksgiving so we thought... what's the most iconic Thanksgiving event? MACY'S DAY PARADE!! Today we are joined by Keven, Anne, Kelsey, Elain and the VERY SPECIAL Jeffery Graham. What are the routes of the parade and we discuss why we think the distance changed. The iconic balloons in the parade - Do Elain and Kelsey know who certain characters are? The horrific accidents that have happened during the parades. And do you think we made Jeff cry by the end of the episode?

Photos of Macy's Day Parade in the 20's: 20s macy's day parade

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Toys of the 1970's Nov 15, 2023

The gang is back for another CSWL fireside chat. This week, the subject turns to toys of the 1970s. We poke through two 'Sears Christmas Wish Books' from the era while reminiscing about the importance and pivotal role of the Sears Catalogue with regard to Christmas. We also ponder if Christmas, toys, and presents are less appreciated by younger generations and why. We also go over the long list of games, toys, and habits of the day. Get ready for a walk down memory lane and or an educational one if this is before your time. The march to the greatest holiday of the year continues! Just put one foot in front of the other!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Nov 13, 2023

This week on The Christmas Specials We Love, our panel of 'blockheads' covers 'A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving'. Did Charlie Brown ever get to kick the football? Who really started the bullying between Lucy and Charlie. What drove Peppermint Patty? Woodstock's first appearance as well as Franklin's. Franklin's origins post the MLK assassination. These days, if the holiday season starts November 1st, when did it begin back in the day? Thanksgiving school crafting of yesterday and today. Does the special hold up today, favorite characters and more. These are The Christmas Specials We Love!

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

A Very Seinfeld Thanksgiving Nov 10, 2023

Today we have a not-so Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving episode! Seinfeld is known for never celebrating or fully mentioning Thanksgiving, but this show is too iconic for us to pass up. What happened to the Mom and Pop Shop? Where did Jerry's sneakers go? Did George really buy Jon Voight's Volvo? The team shares their past Thanksgiving experiences. Kev teaches us an important lesson that we need to implement this holiday.

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

CSWL: WKRP Thanksgiving: Turkey's Away Nov 08, 2023

Season’s Greetings, on this episode of CSWL, we cover the 1980's sitcom 'WKRP in Cincinnati 'and its famed Thanksgiving Day special. You don't need to be a WKRP fan or even have seen the episode in question. You just need to tolerate Kev hosting with Covid and brain fog. Still, we discuss everything from how this show and episode was based on true life and what life working at radio stations was like back in the day (and how that life no longer exists). We also cover how the Thanksgiving episode saved the fledgling series, why this episode frequently ranks in the all-time top 100 and how the one original line at the end created a saying we all use today. Gen Z surprisingly found little to be offended over, too, as the march to the greatest holiday continues!

Comments? Suggestions? Text us 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove

https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

The star power of Loni Anderson

The character of Herb (Frank Bonner): the precursor to Dwight (Rain Wilson) from 'The Office'?

A strange but true story (and alleged ghost story) involving murdered Sal Mineo and Gary Sandy aka Travis from WKRP

Richard Sanders aka Less Nessman studying news commentary from the Hindenburg crash to prep for the role.

Howard Hessman aka Johnny Fever as the perfect burnout DJ of the era.

Frank Bonner aka Herb's last-minute improv.

Gordon Jump as the Maytag man and the iconic line he took from his mother to end the episode that has become mainstream today.

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

CSWL Rewind: Friends Thanksgiving Nov 06, 2023

As you know at CSWL our hosts hail from so many generations, and no recent show touched as many generations so profoundly as Friends, including Matthew Perry's beloved character Chandler Bing. The Funny One will long be a favorite of ours and so many others. While we will most likely cover other Friends episodes in the future- for now- we rewind to our last year’s coverage of the Friends Thanksgiving… RIP Matthew Perry.

Listen in to hear the different generations take on the iconic show. How progressive the show was for its time. Each character's role and idea of Thanksgiving. Why we still love it so much to this day. Enjoy!!!

0:00 Matthew Perry RIP

4:00 The Thursday Night Block: Must See TV

11:04 Production Notes

18:08 Scene by Scene

30:49 The Fashion: Why it contributed to Friends Longevity

48:00 The March to Christmas

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

CSWL Chat: November 1st aka The Holiday Season Opener Nov 03, 2023

When to Put the Tree Up?

Season's Greetings Noel-stalgics, on this Fireside Chat edition of the Christmas Specials We Love we salute November 1st being the holiday season's opening day! We also discuss the origins and history of the Christmas tree, the all-important question of when to start decorating, and a comprehensive look at how that has changed through the decades.

Should November 1st be changed from All Saints Day to Joy to the World Day and is it the beginning of the season?

The origins and history of the Christmas Tree.

Trimming trees and putting up decorations through the centuries and decades and how when to do so has changed drastically - even in the past 10 years.

When radio stations go to all Christmas music and how it affects business.

Teasing our Black Friday show.

Comments? Suggestions? Text Us: 351-251-2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

Garfield and Friend's Thanksgiving Nov 01, 2023

The CSWL multi-gen cast breaks down this lesser-known late 80's Thanksgiving Day cartoon. Those classic specials we love due to childhood sentiments and those specials we love due to quality (ie Home Alone and It's a Wonderful Life.) The comic section of the Sunday paper and comic strips of the past. What Snoopy had to do with Garfield and are you a Snoopy person or a Garfield one? Charlie Brown Thanksgiving vs. Garfield and Friends Thanksgiving. More Gen Z argument(s) to cancel this special (add it to the list) and debates over why it's not a classic. The march to Christmas continues!

1:20 General Thoughts

7:00 Garfield: Comedy for Adults and Kids

12:10 Creator Jim Davis-3rd richest writer alive

16:20 The Cast

21:27 The Songs

21:56: Fun Quotes!

29:24 Scene by Scene

47:44 Fan Thoughts and Shout-Outs

Comments? Suggestions? Text us 351 251 2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

Halloweens of the 70s and 80s Oct 27, 2023

It's the CSWL 'preseason' aka Halloween! Thus our multi-gen hosts couldn't help but cover Halloween then vs. now, particularly Halloween in the decades of the 1970s and 1980s. Join us for a deep dive into the costumes, candies, habits, trends and behaviors. From cheap costumes and decor to streets swarming with kids to egging houses and spraying shaving cream to haunted houses. We discuss how fewer adults celebrated and helicoptered (or had to helicopter, as we travel back to a very different Halloween than we know today. We also discuss why Halloween may be more popular with young adults than Christmas and why Los Angeles certainly loves Halloween more.

The march to the greatest holiday of the year (Christmas - duh) is in full swing with many new episodes each week!

Comments? Suggestions? Text us 351 251 2511

IG: @Christmasspecialswelove https://www.instagram.com/christmasspecialswelove

Email: Santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt

The Bladtcast:

https://on.soundcloud.com/hty23Cr4so5myD51A

Rankin and Bass The Mad Monster Party? Oct 23, 2023

CSWL: Rankin Bass Mad Monster Party?

Welcome back Holiday Fanatics to the season two premiere episode of the Christmas Specials We Love Podcast! Supporting our belief that the holiday season begins October 1st AND that Halloween is the cornerstone of the Holiday 'preseason', we break down the Rankin and Bass animagic, non-Christmas, lesser-known,

cult classic, Mad Monster Party? (Yes there is a question mark in the official title.) This was a first-time viewing for our Gen Z, Gen X and Lost Generation (the gen between Boomer and X) hosts prompting many questions, Was this even made for kids? Was the non-produced yet credited soundtrack (produced 30 years later) even a soundtrack? Would kids today watch this? Will Gen Z be too triggered to watch this? Was Mad Magazine too involved? Why does the lead speak like Jimmy Stewart? What did Phyllis Diller, the Misfits and Rob Zombie have to do with this? Why the question mark in the title? The Christmas Specials We Love Podcast crew has the answers along with their usual deep dive into production history and trivia as well as insights, and a few laughs, too. The Holiday Season begins now!

2:15: Late Boomers and the Lost Generation: that group between Gen X and Boomer

11:30: Why is Rick Goldschmidt World Leading Rankin Bass expert and who wouldn't want to be a world-leading expert at anything including 1970's breakfast cereals?

20:16 A Sequel Not so Sequel to Mad Monster Party?

24:00 The cast: talking Boris Karloff, Phyllis Diller, Alan Swift and Gail Garret

40:02 Production history and notes

41:27 The Significance of Artist Jack Davis, Mad Magazine and EC Comics

47:11 The Mad Monster Party? Toy line?

48:46 Notes from Mad Monster Party? Book Author and Rankin Bass Expert Rick Goldschmidt

51:02 Why Does Mad Monster Party? have a question mark in the title?

54:15 The Great Hanna Barbera Character Team-Ups: Wacky Races and Laugh Olympics

58:12 Monster Cereals: Who mourns for Fruit Brut?

1:00:00 Mad Monster Party Scene by Scene Breakdown

1:31:37 Upcoming shows

Tell us your suggestions and comments:

Website: https://christmasspecialswelove.com

Email: santa@thechristmasspecialswelove.com

Text: 351-251-2511

Keven Undergaro

Regular Guy Friday Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-squad-x-maria-menounos/id1320060107?i=1000631977533

Christian Bladt: Who Are These Broadcasters?

Tuesday afternoons on the Who Are These Podcasts network:

https://youtube.com/@KarlWATP?si=_ogiIwMkvPxlxp-n

Evan Wessman

HAYRIDE TO HELL | Centre Film Festival 2023

1. It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown Sep 29, 2023

Halloween is in 2 WEEKS!! Keven can't help but reminisce on the nostalgic Halloween special: It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! Joining Keven is Kelsey, Anne and Rick, they share their childhood memories, break down the special scene by scene and share notes from the production side of things. We love the holidays and can't wait to share so many more specials we love!! Happy halloween, friends.

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