The hosts enthusiastically announce their upcoming tour in June 2025, highlighting sold-out shows and classic episodes with new commentary for fans.
They explore Alvin 'Shipwreck' Kelly's extreme pole sitting stunts, emphasizing his captivating performances and their impact on American entertainment culture.
The decline of pole sitting due to safety concerns and the Great Depression illustrates how societal changes influenced entertainment trends in America.
Deep dives
Podcast Tour Announcement
The hosts announce their upcoming tour in June 2025, which will span multiple cities including Sacramento, Boise, Spokane, and Seattle. They mention the excitement surrounding the tour, highlighting that Sacramento's show is already sold out, prompting a second performance to accommodate demand. Specific details about the tour dates and how fans can purchase tickets are provided, encouraging listeners to visit the podcast's website for more information. The hosts express enthusiasm for the performances, hinting that they will incorporate classic episodes with new commentary for the audience.
Alvin 'Shipwreck' Kelly's Stunt Legacy
The discussion transitions to the historical figure Alvin 'Shipwreck' Kelly, who gained fame for his extreme stunts, particularly sitting atop flagpoles for extended periods. He is celebrated for his daring performances, which captivated large crowds and were often tied to promotional events, like movie openings and charity efforts. Kelly's record-breaking pole sits were marked by both eccentricity and danger, as he would sometimes sleep and eat while perched high above the ground, showcasing his resilience and showmanship. The hosts humorously recount the absurdity of his stunts, reflecting on Kelly's larger-than-life persona and its impact on American entertainment culture.
The Rise of Flagpole Sitting
The podcast highlights the rise of flagpole sitting during the 1920s, which became a quirky trend in American entertainment, attracting public interest and media attention. As more people began to mimic Kelly's stunts, various contests and records emerged, fostering a competitive spirit among participants. The hosts share anecdotes of individuals who attempted to break records or establish their own, leading to a carnival-like atmosphere in cities, complete with public gatherings and live coverage. This phenomenon is portrayed as a reflection of American ingenuity and the desire for escapism during the era.
The Downfall of Pole Sitting
As the podcast progresses, it touches on the eventual decline of the pole sitting trend due to rising safety concerns and public fatigue with the spectacle. Tragic accidents involving pole sitters began to surface, prompting local governments to impose regulations or outright bans on the practice. The hosts discuss how the Great Depression shifted public interest away from such frivolities, leading to a loss of enthusiasm for pole sitting events. The narrative underscores how societal changes and economic hardships influenced the trajectory of entertainment during this period.
Cultural Reflections and Legacies
The hosts conclude by reflecting on the cultural significance of flagpole sitting and its absurdity as an American pastime. They point out the bizarre nature of the events, likening it to current trends where media can sensationalize the mundane for entertainment value. The legacy of pole sitting is portrayed as a reminder of how society pursues novelty and spectacle, often at the expense of common sense. Ultimately, the discussion encapsulates the ridiculousness of American trends while critiquing how they reflect deeper societal values and historical contexts.
