Jagbags

Why Is The Indy 500 Called "The Greatest Spectacle In Racing"?

Friend of the podcast Tim Amos rejoins Jagbags to tell about his visit to the famed Brickyard for the running of the Indianapolis 500, considered the "greatest spectacle in racing". Tim talks all about what he saw at the race, from the crowds, the smells, the EDM concert in the middle of the infield WHILE THE RACE IS HAPPENING, the nearby museum, the differences between Indy cars and NASCAR stock cars, and the history of the Indy 500 itself. He also compares the Indy 500 to the NSCAR race h...

RECAP EPISODE: Both Len and Beave Review Season Four of "The Boys"

Both Len AND Beave picked season four of "The Boys" for the "I Recommend" section, so you know this recap episode is going to be white hot! Plus the Chicago Sky beat Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever, the Guardians claim the best record in the American League, the White Sox remain on track for its worst season ever, and Len is fast running out of patience with the Chicago Cubs. Plus Len's favorite 500 albums of all time, and he also talks about Celeb Night at the Factory Theater in Chicag...

The Movies of James Cameron: Which Are His Best?

Friend of the podcast Morgan Gire returns triumphantly to talk James Cameron movies on the latest episode of Jagbags! We talk the Terminator movies, the Avatar movies, and spend a LOT of time on "The Abyss". We also talk a good deal of "Aliens", and of course "Titanic". We discuss why Cameron's movies were so wildly successful, talk about our favorite movies of his, discuss his treatment of female characters, his many marriages (Kathryn Bigelow, Linda Hamilton, Gale Anne Hurd) and explore ...

RECAP EPISODE: The Boston Celtics Are NBA Champs

The NBA season has officially ended and the Boston Celtics are the new NBA champions. We talk through Boston's easy Finals victory, and whether Jaylen Brown should have won Finals MVP. We also talk the Cubs' struggles, and Beave continues to celebrate Steven Kwan while fretting over the Guardians' playoff chances. We also talk the Chicago Sky's relatively slow start and argue over Angel Reese's value to the team. Beave recommends "Remembering Gene Wilder", on Netflix. Len recommends song...

Unlock The Secret Voice! The Music of Devo

The great Amy Seeley comes back to Jagbags to talk the music of the legendary Akron-based band Devo. We go through their discography, discuss their enduring influence, what made them more than just a rock band, and offer reasons why they may now be even more popular than ever. Hear about Amy's Mark Mothersbaugh sighting in LA! We also construct our respective "Best of Devo" 45-minute playlists, and talk all-time favorite Devo albums. Remember -- we can have no serious discussions about Ro...

RECAP EPISODE: Stop What You Are Doing. Put on "Allied Forces" by Triumph and CRANK IT.

In the latest recap episode, "Die Hard 4 Your Luv" opens to a Jeff recommendation at the Factory Theater, and Beave provides a shameless plug. Triumph's "Allied Forces" completely hijacks Len's latest selections from his Favorite 500 Albums of All Time. NOTHING BUT JAMS! Len reviews "The Naughty Lady of Shady Lane" by The Ames Brothers, and it rules. We also talk MLB, NBA Finals, and the Chicago Sky's up-and-down season start. Tune in for EXPERTISE!

Who Are The Top Ten Most Influential Players in NBA History?

With the NBA Finals in full swing, and on the day of Jerry West's passing, we talk the ten most influential players in NBA history. Not necessarily the best of all time, but the most influential -- the ones who had the greatest impact on and off the basketball court. Len picks Shaquille O'Neal, and Beave faints from the surprise. Some changes are for the better, while others, not necessarily, but Beave and Len each go through their own Top Ten. Who are yours? Tune in for a lively discuss...

RECAP EPISODE: Where Does The Movie "Alien" Rank All-Time?

In a detailed recap episode, Beave and Len preview the NBA FInals, while Beave provides the Dallas Mavericks and Luks Doncic tons of motivation. Len challenges the Cubs to use the Sox series at Wrigley Field to launch themselves back into playoff contention. Len finally sees "Alien", with Sigourney Weaver, and recommends the movie enthusiastically. Beave re-reviews all the new albums he has listened to this year, and ranks them again. Beave and Len discuss the Chennedy Carter/Caitlin Clar...

The Movies of Dustin Hoffman: Which Are His Best?

Beave and Len discuss the latest Facebook bracket featuring the movies of Oscar winner Dustin Hoffman. Which movies are his best, and which have not aged well? Which movie contains his very best performance? What movie is criminally underrated? (Answer: Straw Dogs or Finding Neverland) We also talk his turns in Death of a Salesman and the Kung Fu Panda franchise. Tune in for yet another actor profile!

RECAP EPISODE: Purchase Jon Savage's 1969-1971 Rock Dreams on 45" NOW

In the newest recap episode, Len introduces the world to the JAMS of "Jon Savage's 1969-71 Rock Dreams on 45". Beave and Len talk through the week that was in the NBA playoffs, where the Finals are all but assured between Boston and Dallas. Beave eats crow for his past Luka Doncic taunts. Beave consoles himself by celebrating the continued excellent play of the Cleveland Guardians. Len would like the Cubs to start hitting. Beave reviews "Franklin" and "Sugar", as well as the John Huston ...

Where Have You Gone, Joe DiMaggio: The Music of Paul Simon (And Garfunkel)

In the latest episode of Jagbags, Len and Beave try to discuss the music of Paul Simon (and his music for Simon & Garfunkel), but instead wind up devoting at least a quarter of the episode to the 1980 Art Garfunkel stone classic film "Bad Timing". Tune in for 45-minute playlists, discussions of our favorite Simon and Garfunkel LPs and songs, favorite Paul Simon albums, a discussion of various books and documentaries on Paul Simon's storied career -- and all the "Bad Timing" you can handle! ...

RECAP EPISODE: Are The Cleveland Guardians The Real Thing?

It's the recap episode! (Featuring special guest: Akon) We talk the continued hot start of the Cleveland Guardians, and the glorious results of the May 18 home game against the Minnesota Twins. The Cubs remain in playoff contention, but need more hitting to back up their incredible rotation. The White Sox are still bad. The Chicago Sky are off to a surprising start to the season, playing well! We also talk the conference finals in the NBA and make predictions. Plus "I Recommend", Beave...

What Are Bruce Springsteen's 30 Best Songs?

Len and Beave talk through their respective lists of Bruce Springsteen's 30 best songs. They argue over placements (or inclusion) of songs like "I'm Goin' Down", "Born In The USA", "Trapped", "Streets of Philadelphia", "Backstreets", and "Rosalita". Does "Born To Run" automatically go to the top spot, or is there a better choice? Tune in for ultimate Boss discussion!

RECAP EPISODE: It's The 2024 WNBA Season Preview!

Hear Beave and Len's expertise and propensity for butchering names during the upcoming 2024 WNBA season preview. Len calls for new leadership in the commissioner's office! Beave reviews the new movie "Unfrosted", on Netflix. Len explores the jams of April Wine. Beave bemoans the Cavs' injuries and is disgusted with the Guardians' performance against the Sox in Chicago. Len celebrates the power of Shota Imanaga, off to one of the best starts in Cubs history! Plus Len's Favorite 500 Album...

Let's Groove Tonight! The Music of Earth, Wind and Fire

Beave and Len take you back to the 70s and 80s with an in-depth discussion of the music of Maurice White, Philip Bailey and the musical geniuses that are Earth, Wind & Fire. The guys discuss the band's biggest hits, go through their own EWF 45-minute playlist, and talk Philip Bailey's recent book "Shining Star". They also compare Earth, Wind & Fire to contemporary musical acts of that particular era. Tune in and Sing a Song! It'll make you glad!

RECAP EPISODE: Can the Cavs Overcome The Dreaded "Jagbags Cover Jinx"?

Len and Beave are back with another recap episode for your entertainment! We talk the NBA playoffs, and the young Cavs' continuing playoff ascension. We also talk second round matchups. MLB is in full swing, and we talk Cubs and Guardians injuries, plus the improving White Sox. Len has a message for the WNBA as they start their season. "I Recommend"! Album reviews! And Len's Favorite 500 Albums! Tune in now!

What Are The Best Game Shows of all Time?

BEAVE GUESSES ALL OF LEN'S NUMBER ONE FACEBOOK BRACKET SEEDS!! He is still gloating and covered in confetti. We talk all of our favorite game shows on the newest episode of Jagbags. We talk Match Game, Price is Right, Who Wants to be a Millionaire, and Hollywood Squares, among many many more. We rate our favorite game shows, favorite hosts (ultimate Richard Dawson!), and favorite game show satire episodes. AND BEAVE GUESSES EVERY LAST NUMBER ONE SEED OF THE BRACKET! Come join him on his...

RECAP EPISODE: It Could Be Historically Bad on the South Side for Baseball in 2024

The guys are back after a week-long hiatus with an outstanding recap episode made just for you! We chat through the NBA playoffs, and what the Cleveland Cavaliers must do to advance to the second round and a date with the evil Boston Celtics. We also talk the first month of the MLB season, and chat the White Sox's unprecedented start to the season. Beave talks the new Roland Lazenby bio on Magic Johnson, while Len tilts his nose upward to discuss articles he has read in The New Yorker whil...

The Movies of Harrison Ford: Which Are His Best?

He created two of the most iconic movie characters of the past 50 years. His name is synonymous with Hollywood royalty. On the latest Jagbags, we discuss the entire career of the legendary Harrison Ford. We talk movies like "Blade Runner", "Witness", "Presumed Innocent", and "The Fugitive", among many others. And we also delve into the "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "Star Wars" movies as well. Is Harrison Ford a good actor? And where does he rank on the all-time Actors' Pantheon? We als...

RECAP EPISODE: The Chicago Sky Are Back With Two Top Rookies!

Shout! Shout! Let It All Out! The Music of Tears For Fears

Friend of the podcast Marlana May Carlson joins the podcast for a SPIRITED look at the multi-platinum Brit New Wave band Tears for Fears. We talk the band's outstanding first LP "The Hurting", their smash follow-up "Songs From The Big Chair", "Seeds of Love", and every album that followed. We also do a 45-minute playlist, discuss the band's influence on artists like Drake and Kanye West, and compare them to their musical contemporaries (to Marlana's decision-making dismay). Tune in for som...

RECAP EPISODE: Was Gene Hackman a Total Jagoff on the set of "Hoosiers"?

In the newest recap episode, Beave and Len talk the NCAA championship results and analyze the Final Four games. We also discuss the start of the MLB season and the fast starts for the Cubs and Guardians (but not the Sox). Len also gives us the Top Five Cubs relievers of all time. The Bulls make the playoffs while the Cavs slide down the standings. Len rates five new albums, and Beave talks "Magic" by Roland Lazenby, as well as the new IDLES album. Plus Len's Top 500 albums! ULTIMATE POD...

The Movies of Scarlett Johansson: Which Are Her Best?

Beave and Len go through the filmography of actress Scarlett Johansson, and discuss her career. They pick their top five movies and go through their favorite performances as well. They also pick her most underrated movies. Tune in for ULTIMATE JOHANSSON EXPERTISE!

RECAP EPISODE: The Black Crowes' "Happiness Bastards" Contains VINTAGE Jams!

In the latest recap episode, Len and Beave talk the NCAA Men's and Women's Final Four matchups, and predict the winners. They also talk potential NBA playoff matchups for the Bulls and Cavaliers, and grow more depressed by the second. Their outlook brightens as they discuss the fast MLB starts of the Guardians and the Cubs. Beave gives thumbs up to the new Black Crowes LP. Len reviews the show "Gen V" on Amazon and discusses the tragic death of actor Chance Perdomo. Beave talks the sport...

It's the 2024 MLB Season Preview Episode!

Our Jagbags baseball expert Anthony D'Andrea joins the podcast for the 2024 MLB preview episode. We go through the Cubs, White Sox (briefly and mercifully), and Guardians' chances for this season, assess their offseason moves, discuss the minor league pipeline, and finally predict World Series, MVP and Cy Young winners. Len relies on the guidance of the mysterious "guy on the train", who has advised him to bet it all on the Pittsburgh Pirates. Tune in now!

RECAP EPISODE: The Fighting Illini Break Through!

Len and Beave talk the magic of March Madness, including the Fighting Illini's success and the Northwestern Wildcats' thrilling win and inevitable exit. We also talk NBA, and bemoan the recent stumbles of the Bulls and Cavaliers. Len recounts his trip to the public library in his gabardine pants to check out the hits of Mr. Clay Aiken. Beave takes another long look at the Rolling Stones' new album "Hackneyed Diamonds", and places it in the all-time Rolling Stones Pantheon. Len reviews the...

Examining Eric Clapton: Can The Art Be Separated From The Artist?

We talk the music and the career of the controversial English guitarist and singer Eric Clapton. Though he is known more today for his beliefs outside of music, we try to focus on his best songs, albums, and his work with bands such as the Yardbirds, Cream, Derek and the Dominos, and Blind Faith. We also discuss his solo career, go through our favorite Clapton albums, and of course construct our personal 45-minute playlists. Tune in for scintillating discussion!

RECAP EPISODE: March Madness Has Officially Arrived!

March Madness has begun across the country and Jagbags has you covered with FEARLESS EXPERT predictions. Listen as we influence Vegas odds with our prognostication prowess (especially on Illinois and Northwestern), plus our free assessment of the announcing impartiality of Robbie Hummel. We also talk the Justin Fields trade and the inevitable arrival of Caleb Williams, Bulls and Cavs. Plus "I Recommend", featuring a spirited discussion of the outstanding movie "BlackBerry". Plus Beave's 2...

God Bless Weird Al Yankovic. We Discuss His Career with His Biggest Fan

The magnificent Carrie Sullivan comes on to Jagbags to discuss a true American treasure: "Weird Al" Yankovic. Since one of his comedy songs appeared on the Dr. Demento radio show in 1976, Weird Al has gone on to sell more than 12 million albums and win five Grammy Awards. We discuss his entire career, pick our favorite albums and songs, and do a huge deep dive into his seminal 1989 movie "UHF". Sully has seen Weird Al live in concert five times! She describes what a typical Weird Al show...

RECAP EPISODE: Who Were The Chicago Bulls You Liked Best?

We talk about our all-time favorite Bulls and Cavs of all time. Prepare for a LOT of talk about Ben Gordon, as well as how World B. Free literally saved the Cleveland Cavaliers franchise. Plus college hoops, as we do a deep dive into Illinois, Northwestern and Loyola. Beave recounts his trip to Vegas and his big resulting court case. We talk Oscar winners, "I Recommend", a review of the new Judas Priest album (flips tables) and Len's Favorite 500 Albums. Tune in!

The Movies of Christopher Nolan: Which Are His Best?

Friend of the pod Morgan Gire comes on the podcast to discuss the films of new Oscar winner Christopher Nolan. We start with "Following", end with the new Best Picture winner "Oppenheimer", and talk all movies in between! Each of us rank our all-time Top Ten Nolan Films, and also talk our favorite performances from Nolan's career. Tune in for top-notch cinema discussion!

RECAP EPISODE: Remember When Phil Collins Ruled Pop Music?

Len goes through his all-star all-maligned Chicago Bulls starting five, while Beave provides his for the Cavs. (Both teams feature Carlos Boozer.) Plus Len extols the genius of Phil Collins' "No Jacket Required". We assess Loyola's NCAA Tournament chances. We talk what NU and Illinois need to do to finish the season strong. "I Recommend", Len's Favorite 500 Albums, and of course, the continued fallout over the devastating "Mr. Pibb Incident". TUNE IN!

Who Will Win Oscars in 2024? Beave and Len Tell You Their Picks

The Academy Awards are almost here, so Beave and Len sit down to tell you their picks as well the movies and artists they are rooting for the most on March 10. We talk "Oppenheimer", "Barbie", "Zone of Interest", "Killers of the Flower Moon", and many more! Plus all the acting categories, directing, and documentaries. Tune in for Oscar EXPERTISE!

RECAP EPISODE: Illini Bounce Back Well, plus "The Mr. Pibb Incident"

On the latest recap episode, an unspeakable incident occurs ON THE AIR as Beave completely mischaracterizes the category of soft drink for Len's beloved Mr. Pibb. Shock, consternation, horror....all the emotions pass through Len and you can hear them all in his voice. Beave survives (barely) and the guys go on to discuss the week in NBA action, featuring the Cavs coming back to earth and Bulls continuing their Jekyll-and-Hyde ways. College hoops: Illinois rebounds from the bad Penn State ...

How Do I Create A Perfect Playlist? We Tell You Exactly How

Friend of the podcast Marlana May Carlson joins Jagbags again and the subject is "Creating A Great Playlist". We talk about themes to consider when constructing a killer playlist, different types of playlists, what kind of occasions call for a playlist, appropriate times to share a playlist, and we even go old school to talk about burning CDs as well as the ancient art of making the perfect mixtape. Then we create a playlist of our own -- ON THE AIR! Tune in right now! And check out our p...

RECAP EPISODE: It's Time To Talk Frankly About the Eagles' Greatest Hits

We talk the NBA All-Star Game on the latest Jagbags, plus the men's college basketball fortunes of Northwestern, University of Illinois and the SURGING Loyola Chicago Ramblers! Plus we talk the Chicago Sky's latest maneuverings, the Oscar-nominated movie "Anatomy of a Fall", the new Bob Marley biopic "One Love", the C&W gem "What, When & Without" by Amanda Fields, and finally Len's Favorite 500 Albums, where we settle the question about the Eagles' Greatest Hits, Vol.1.....once and for all. ...

The Movies of Natalie Portman: Which Are Her Best?

The newest Jagbags deals with the career of the Oscar winner Natalie Portman, and her films. We go through her films, her co-stars, and our favorite performances. Don't miss this episode, even if you don't consider yourself a Portman fan! JAGBAGS!

2024 LIQRBOX RECAP EPISODE: The Chiefs Are Repeat Super Bowl Champs and Len Is Now a Part-Owner of LiqrBox

Len invades LiqrBox for the second consecutive February, chugging Mr. Pibb like there's no tomorrow in celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs' second consecutive Super Bowl victory. Plus we go over the potentially devastating news about Ty Berry's season-ending injury for Northwestern, Loyola's continued ascendance up the A10 standings, and Illinois' holding firm in the Big Ten. Plus Rock Hall nominees! Nikola Jokic in The New Yorker! True Detective! And the new Beyonce country single. J...

Who Killed John F. Kennedy?

JFK assassination expert Daniel Lapke joins the podcast to discuss the various theories advanced over the years over who shot U.S. President John F. Kennedy in 1963. We go over all the major players on that day, discuss the events of the assassination, and speculate on the findings of the Warren Commission. We also discuss movies and books that have dealt with the subject. Tune in for an insightful, fascinating discussion!

RECAP EPISODE: Are The Cleveland Cavaliers Legitimate Title Contenders?

The Cleveland Cavaliers are absolutely on fire -- have they peaked too soon, or are they legit contenders? We also talk the Super Bowl and who might win. Andre "Jeans" Drummond is a major contributor to the Bulls and we talk his growth (as well as a serious discussion of Coby White). Rough week for Northwestern hoops, but Illinois and Loyola hoops roll on. Plus a Chicago Sky preview from Len! We also talk the new book "Opposable Thumbs: How Siskel & Ebert Changed Movies Forever", plus th...

How Good Is Lionel Richie's Music?

Jagbags regular Kirk Pynchon joins the program to talk about Lionel Richie, who is now back in the public eye with the release of the excellent Netflix documentary on the making of "We Are The World". We do a deep dive into Lionel's career with the Commodores and as a solo artist. What is his best song? What is his very WORST song? Is he an artist who will be remembered 30 years from now? Think about Lionel as you have never have before!

RECAP EPISODE: Jagbags Night Comes To Evanston for an Illinois-NU CLASSIC!!

Len and Beave get together once again for ham sandwiches, trying to avoid Meryl Streep's enthusiastic high-fives, and an OUTSTANDING Big Ten basketball game between Illinois and Northwestern! They discuss the night in full. Plus the Super Bowl is set and we provide a preview. NBA is heading toward the All-Star Break and we talk Bulls and Cavs. Plus "I Recommend", Beave's album reviews and Len's Favorite 500 Albums (no Greatest Hits compilations this week)! JAGBAGS!

The Movies Of Greta Gerwig: Which Film Is Her Very Best?

On the eve of Oscar season, Len and Beave examine the filmography of one of the hottest names in Hollywood: Director Greta Gerwig, whose billion dollar smash film "Barbie" is up for multiple Academy Awards. In light of her obvious snub for Best Director, we go through her three movies (Lady Bird, Little Women and Barbie) in great detail and rank them. We also pick our favorite performances from each movie, dig into her acting career a bit, and finally preview what's around the corner for he...

RECAP EPISODE: Can the Detroit Lions go to the Super Bowl?

In the newest recap episode, Len and Beave preview the upcoming NFL conference championships, and predict the upcoming Super Bowl matchup. They also talk the Cavs' surge up the NBA standings and potential trade scenarios for Zach Lavine. Northwestern, Illinois and Loyola are all having great seasons so far, so we dissect their teams and upcoming games. Plus "I Recommend", Beave's New Albums, and Len's Favorite 500 Albums. Tune in at once!

What Were The Best Books We Read in 2023?

Chicago artists Ryan Hake and Lizzy Mosher join Jagbags for an outstanding discussion of the best books we all read in 2023. They are not necessarily books published in 2023, but rather books we discovered and books we loved. We also discuss other book-related topics (such as the authors we would most like to have dinner with) in a stimulating 90 minute podcast. JOIN US for ultimate literature back and forth! Put some Jagbags in your ear!

RECAP EPISODE: The NFL Playoffs Begin with Browns Implosion, Chiefs Resurgence

Beave returns from California, having pitched the Jefferson Airplane biopic script to clandestine movie mogul Jimmy The Acid King. Len handicaps the upcoming NFL playoff games, with Beave too distraught over the Browns to even speak. Cavs are on fire! Beave has the breakdown. Bulls continue to run in place and Len waits patiently. Northwestern and Illinois stay on a collision course in Evanston for Jagbags Night 2. Plus Emmy Awards recap, "I Recommend", Beave reviews a jazz album while ...

What Were The Best Movies and TV Series of 2023?

Len and Beave go through their favorite films and TV series of 2023, and once again they share several favorites. A full investigation has been launched as a result! Tune in to complete your entertainment consumption needs of 2023 through our hosts' EXPERTISE! Put us in your ear.

RECAP EPISODE: J.R. Smith Stars in The New Series "Redefined" and HE RULES.

In the latest recap episode, Beave and Len talk the Cavs and the fast-improving Bulls. Len quietly gloats over a despondent Beave and Illinois' decimation of Northwestern in Champaign. They talk Emmy Award nominations and go over various categories. Len roots for Jury Duty in particular to win, while Beave nods politely. Plus "I Recommend", where Len recommends various new songs and Beave discusses the new reality series "Redefined", which follows J.R. Smith's fledgling golf career. Plu...

What Was The Best Music of 2023? Beave and Len Pick Their Favorite Albums & Songs

Beave and Len kick off 2024 by picking their favorite albums and songs of 2023! And they agreed on three albums in their top 10! Plus their #1 album was the same! What's going on here? What's next, a Browns-Lions Super Bowl? They also go over some of their favorite songs of 2023 as well. Len picks his top 10 songs, while Beave unveils his 45-minute playlist (partially curated by JagCore guest Jessie Beyer). Tune in for the JAMS!

RECAP EPISODE: Len Crows Once Again Over The ILLEGAL Star-Studded New Year's Eve Party at Beave's

Len continues to push "The Postman"-related content while celebrating the celebrity-packed New Year's Eve party featuring the surviving Beatles, Don Johnson & Philip Michael Thomas, and Matthew Nicholson and his beard that caught fire. Len anticipates the Bears-Packers shut down, and how Chicago can play spoiler. Beave talks the Cavs and his frustrations with coach JB Bickerstaff. They preview the upcoming Northwestern-Illinois game in Champaign, as well as the upcoming college football na...