Surely You Can't Be Serious Podcast

Episod

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  Vision Quest Soundtrack (1985): Track by Track with 3 Bonus Tracks! 04.08.2026 59min

  This week, Jason and Dee kick off the first round of an epic soundtrack battle as they put the 1985 Vision Questsoundtrack under the microscope. Featuring an eclectic mix of forgotten gems, future classics, exclusive soundtrack cuts, and a few songs that deserved far more attention, this album is much more than just a companion to the movie.Track by track, the guys explore contributions from Madonna, Journey, Sammy Hagar, Don Henley, The Style Council, Red Rider, Foreigner, Dio, and more, uncovering the stories behind the music and debating which songs still hit nearly 40 years later.But they're not stopping there. As a bonus, Jason and Dee also break down the three memorable songs featured in the film that didn't make the official soundtrack album, asking whether they should have replaced some of the tracks that did.Does Vision Quest deserve a spot among the greatest movie soundtracks of the 1980s? And can it survive next week's head-to-head showdown against the legendary 1986 Pretty in Pink soundtrack?Cue up the cassette, press play, and let the soundtrack battle begin.
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  "Stand By Me" (1986) vs. "The Sandlot" (1991): Part 2 28.07.2026 43min

  This week, Jason and Dee wrap up their two-part celebration of two of the greatest coming-of-age films ever made: Stand By Me (1986) and The Sandlot (1993). After exploring the origins of both stories in Part 1, it's time to head back to the neighborhood ball field as the guys shine the spotlight on the unforgettable cast of The Sandlot and revisit memorable behind-the-scenes stories from both cinematic classics.Along the way, Jason and Dee discuss the young actors who brought the neighborhood gang to life, the legendary performances that made both films timeless, and the fascinating trivia, production stories, and pop culture moments that continue to make Stand By Me and The Sandlot favorites for generation after generation.But the real reason we're here is the showdown. After two weeks of discussion, nostalgia, laughs, and plenty of unforgettable quotes, Jason and Dee finally answer the question: which coming-of-age classic comes out on top? Does the emotional journey of Stand By Me still reign supreme, or can the heart, humor, and summertime magic of The Sandlotpull off the upset?You're killing me, Smalls! Grab your glove, avoid the train tracks, and join us as we crown the ultimate coming-of-age movie champion.
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  "Stand By Me" (1986) vs. "The Sandlot" (1993): Part 1 21.07.2026 37min

  This week, Jason and Dee kick off a two-part showdown featuring two of the most beloved coming-of-age films ever made: Stand By Me (1986) and The Sandlot (1993). Before comparing these nostalgic classics scene by scene, the guys first explore the origins of each story, uncovering how Stephen King's novella The Body became one of the defining films of the '80s and how a collection of childhood memories inspired one of the most quotable baseball movies of all time.In Part 1, the focus turns to Stand By Me as Jason and Dee dive deep into the incredible cast that brought Castle Rock to life. They discuss the breakout performances of Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, Jerry O'Connell, Kiefer Sutherland, Richard Dreyfuss, and more, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, casting trivia, and the lasting impact these actors had on one of cinema's most heartfelt adventures.But this is only the beginning. Next week, the guys return to break down The Sandlot, compare these two coming-of-age masterpieces head-to-head, and decide which film deserves to be crowned the ultimate tale of childhood friendship, adventure, and growing up.Grab your backpack, keep an eye out for trains, and don't forget your glove—this nostalgic journey is just getting started.
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  Bon Jovi "New Jersey" (1988): Track by Track! 17.07.2026 53min

  This week, Jason and Dee continue their journey through Bon Jovi's legendary catalog as they put the band's 1988 follow-up album, New Jersey, under the microscope. With five Top 10 singles, bigger ambitions, and the impossible task of following one of the greatest rock albums ever recorded, New Jersey proved Bon Jovi was far more than a one-album phenomenon.Track by track, the guys dive into every song on the record, exploring the massive hits like "Bad Medicine," "Born to Be My Baby," "I'll Be There for You," "Lay Your Hands on Me," and "Living in Sin," while shining a light on the deeper cuts that helped make New Jersey a fan favorite. Along the way, they share stories from the recording sessions, fascinating trivia about Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, Tico Torres, David Bryan, and the band's whirlwind rise to global superstardom.But the conversation doesn't end with the final track. After spending weeks revisiting Bon Jovi's two defining albums, Jason and Dee face the ultimate challenge: which album deserves the crown? Is the hit-filled juggernaut Slippery When Wet still the undisputed champion, or does the more mature and ambitious New Jersey pull off the upset?Turn up the volume, grab your air guitar, and join us as we settle one of the biggest debates in '80s rock—at least until someone starts arguing about Keep the Faith.
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  Bon Jovi "Slippery When Wet" (1986): Track by Track! 15.07.2026 43min

  This week, Jason and Dee revisit one of the biggest rock albums of the 1980s in this encore presentation as they put Bon Jovi's Slippery When Wet under the microscope. Packed with arena anthems, power ballads, deep cuts, and enough hooks to fill a stadium, this is the album that transformed Bon Jovi from rising stars into one of the biggest bands on the planet.Track by track, the guys break down every song on the album while sharing behind-the-scenes stories, fascinating trivia about Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, Tico Torres, David Bryan, and Alec John Such, and exploring how each track helped define the sound of '80s rock. From the unforgettable hits "You Give Love a Bad Name," "Livin' on a Prayer," and "Wanted Dead or Alive" to the album's overlooked gems, no song is left behind.Along the way, Jason and Dee revisit the making of the album, the songs that almost didn't make the final track list, and the surprising stories that helped Slippery When Wet become one of the best-selling rock albums of all time.Crank up the volume, throw on your favorite denim jacket, and join us as we relive the album that convinced a generation they were halfway there.
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  Bon Jovi: The Road to Slippery When Wet 13.07.2026 31min

  In this episode, Jason and Dee dive into the unlikely origins of Bon Jovi, tracing the band's journey from the clubs of New Jersey to the brink of rock superstardom. Discover how Jon Bon Jovi scored a hit before assembling the lineup that would conquer the world, the surprising connection between Bon Jovi and R2-D2, and the twists, setbacks, and lucky breaks that paved the way to one of the biggest albums of the 1980s.From "Runaway" to the arrival of Richie Sambora, from relentless touring to finding the signature sound that would define a generation, this is the story of how Bon Jovi became poised to take over MTV, radio, and arenas around the globe.So grab your talk box, sling on a double-neck guitar, and join us as we count down the incredible road to Slippery When Wet. Let it rock!
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  Run-D.M.C. "Raising Hell" (1986): Track by Track! 09.07.2026 1j 27min

  Before hip-hop dominated the charts, Run-D.M.C. kicked down the door. With the help of visionary producer Rick Rubin, the trio created Raising Hell, a landmark album that blended rap and rock, broke barriers on MTV, and forever changed the sound of popular music.Jason and Dee are joined once again by 80s rap expert and author David Wright (aka DefDave) for a track-by-track breakdown of this groundbreaking 1986 classic. From the history-making collaboration on "Walk This Way" to unforgettable tracks like "My Adidas," "Peter Piper," and "It's Tricky," the crew explores the stories, production, lyrics, and cultural impact behind every song.How did Raising Hell help transform hip-hop from an emerging genre into a global phenomenon? Which tracks still hold up nearly 40 years later? And does this album deserve the title of the greatest rap record of the 1980s?Lace up your Adidas, turn the volume up, and join us for an encore look at one of the most influential albums in music history.
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  The History of Rap and Run-D.M.C. 1973-1986 (feat. DefDave) 07.07.2026 1j 26min

  Throw your hands in the air and get ready for a history lesson with a heavy beat! Jason and Dee are joined once again by 80s rap expert and author David Wright (aka DefDave) to trace the incredible rise of hip-hop—from its birth at a Bronx block party in 1973 to its explosion into the mainstream with Run-D.M.C. in 1986.Discover the pioneers who laid the foundation, the DJs and MCs who transformed a local movement into a global phenomenon, and the cultural moments that forever changed popular music. Then, the spotlight turns to Run-D.M.C., the groundbreaking trio that shattered barriers, redefined what rap could be, and helped bring hip-hop to MTV, radio, and audiences around the world.Packed with fascinating stories, music history, and plenty of laughs, this encore episode sets the stage for our deep dives into Licensed to Ill and Raising Hell. Whether you're a lifelong hip-hop fan or just discovering the genre's roots, this is an episode you won't want to miss.
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  Beastie Boys "Licensed to Ill" (1986): Track by Track! 02.07.2026 1j 21min

  In 1986, the Beastie Boys crashed onto the music scene with Licensed to Ill, a loud, hilarious, and groundbreaking album that helped take hip-hop from the streets to the suburbs—and straight onto MTV.Jason and Dee are once again joined by 80s rap expert and author David Wright (aka DefDave) for a track-by-track deep dive into the Beastie Boys' iconic debut. Together, they unpack the stories behind every song, explore the band's unlikely rise from New York hardcore punks to rap superstars, and ask the big question: were the Beastie Boys just a party-fueled novelty act, or were they artists who changed music forever?From "Rhymin & Stealin" to "Time to Get Ill," every track gets the Surely You Can't Be Serious treatment, complete with music history, behind-the-scenes stories, plenty of laughs, and more than a few 80s pop culture detours.So dust off your VW emblem, grab a copy of Licensed to Ill, and... Hold it now, HIT IT!
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  Beastie Boys: Way Back in History! 30.06.2026 1j 8min

  The story of the Beastie Boys didn't begin with Licensed to Ill—it started years earlier in the New York punk scene before they became one of the most influential groups in hip-hop history.In this special encore presentation from our 2021 four part series, Jason and Dee are joined by 80s rap expert and author David Wright (DefDave) for an in-depth look at the rise of the Beastie Boys. From hardcore punk hopefuls to global superstars, we trace the unlikely journey that led to the release of Licensed to Ill, the groundbreaking album that helped bring hip-hop into the mainstream alongside Run-D.M.C.'s Raising Hell.Over the course of this series, we'll explore the band's incredible origin story, break down Licensed to Ill track by track, and examine how these landmark albums reshaped rap and popular music forever. Along the way, we'll tackle the ultimate question: which album stands as the defining hip-hop classic of 1986?Whether you're hearing this series for the first time or revisiting it with us, this is one encore worth turning up.For more from David Wright, visit galahadsdoom.com.
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  Top 5 Songs of 1976! 23.06.2026 1j 5min

  Break out the bell-bottoms and celebrate America's Bicentennial with Jason and Dee as they count down their Top 5 Songs of 1976—plus two honorable mentions! But there's a twist: the guys aren't giving away the answers right away. Instead, they drop clues, share stories, and challenge listeners to see if they can identify each song before the big reveal. From chart-topping classics to unforgettable favorites, it's a musical guessing game packed with nostalgia, laughs, and plenty of 1976 memories. Can you name the songs before Jason and Dee do? Tune in and join the Bicentennial fun on this all-new episode of the Surely You Can't Be Serious podcast!
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  Fleetwood Mac "Rumours" (1977): Track by Track! 16.06.2026 1j 19min

  This week, Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious podcast turn their attention to one of the most successful and drama-filled bands in rock history: Fleetwood Mac and their legendary album Rumours.Serving as the perfect companion piece to their recent discussion of Hotel California by Eagles, the guys break down every unforgettable track from Rumours—exploring the stories behind the songs, the emotional performances, and the timeless appeal that helped make the album one of the biggest sellers of all time.Along the way, Jason and Dee dive deep into the complicated history of Fleetwood Mac, discussing the relationships, breakups, betrayals, and personal chaos happening inside the band while these songs were being written and recorded. Somehow, out of heartbreak, tension, and emotional exhaustion came an album packed with some of the most iconic songs ever recorded.From “Go Your Own Way” and “Dreams” to “The Chain” and “Don’t Stop,” the guys examine how deeply personal experiences became universal anthems that still resonate decades later.And after spending time with both albums, Jason and Dee finally deliver their ultimate verdict in this classic matchup: Rumours vs. Hotel California. Which album truly deserves the crown?You’ll have to tune in to hear the final judgment.
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  Eagles "Hotel California" (1976): Track by Track! 09.06.2026 1j 19min

  This week, Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious podcast dive into one of the biggest-selling and most influential albums of all time: Hotel California by Eagles.The guys go track-by-track through this legendary album, discussing the stories behind each song, the unforgettable musicianship, and the massive impact these tracks had on rock music and popular culture. From the mysterious imagery of the title track to the radio staples and deep cuts that helped define an era, Jason and Dee break down why Hotel California continues to resonate nearly 50 years later.Along the way, the guys also explore the ever-changing dynamics within the Eagles—looking at the band members, the lineup shifts, the growing tensions, and the excess that eventually caused the party to come crashing down in 1980. Of course, they also tease the legendary 1994 reunion—when “Hell Freezes Over”—a story they plan to tackle in a future episode next year.And because no Surely episode is complete without a spirited debate, Jason and Dee close things out by comparing Hotel California to another all-time classic: Rumours by Fleetwood Mac. Which album stands taller in the pantheon of 70s rock? You’ll have to tune in to find out.Check in anytime you like… but you can never leave.Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/surelypodcastFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@surelypodcastCheck out our new merch store: https://surely-you-cant-be-serious-merch.myshopify.com/
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  "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" (1986) vs. "Adventures in Babysitting" (1987): Part 2 02.06.2026 55min

  The ultimate 80s teen comedy showdown reaches its conclusion as Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can’t Be Seriouspodcast return for Part 2 of their battle between Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986) and Adventures in Babysitting (1987). Joining them once again are Chuck Bryan from the Cinematic Flashback Podcast and Dave Dolphin of Documenting My Mid-Life Crisis for a lively, nostalgia-packed discussion.In this second installment, the crew turns their attention to the casting of Adventures in Babysitting, exploring the choices behind one of the decade’s most beloved comedic ensembles and how those performances helped define the film’s lasting appeal. From there, they dive into a treasure trove of fascinating trivia and behind-the-scenes stories for both movies—covering everything from production secrets to unexpected connections in pop culture history.And then it all comes down to this: after two episodes of laughs, memories, and spirited debate, the guys deliver their final verdict on which of these 80s classics truly comes out on top.Will it be Ferris and his legendary day off, or Chris Parker and her unforgettable night on the town? Tune in for the dramatic conclusion to one of the most fun matchups yet.
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  "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" (1986) vs. "Adventures in Babysitting" (1987): Part 1 26.05.2026 1j 10min

  Jason and Dee are back with another unforgettable 80s showdown, and this time they’re putting two of the most iconic teen comedies head-to-head: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986) vs. Adventures in Babysitting (1987). And they’re not doing it alone—joining them for the ride are Chuck Bryan from the Cinematic Flashback Podcast and Dave Dolphin of Documenting My Mid-Life Crisis, bringing their own stories, insights, and plenty of laughs along the way.In Part 1 of this two-episode deep dive, the guys explore the origins of both films—how they came to life, the creative forces behind them, and why they’ve endured as staples of 80s pop culture. Along the way, Jason, Dee, Chuck, and Dave share their personal histories with these movies, from first viewings to how these films shaped their love of movies growing up.The episode wraps up with a detailed breakdown of the unforgettable cast of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off—from the effortlessly cool Ferris himself to the endlessly quotable supporting characters that helped make the film a cultural phenomenon.So grab your dad's Ferrari, take the day off, and join the crew as they kick off this epic 80s movie matchup.
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  Interview with Robert Hays: Part 2 The Sequel 19.05.2026 53min

  Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious podcast conclude their special two-part conversation with Robert Hays, the man who first uttered the immortal words: “Surely you can’t be serious.”In Episode 2, the surprises keep coming as the guys are joined by special guest Julie Hagerty, beloved for her unforgettable role in the Airplane! movies and later appearances in classics like What About Bob?. Julie shares stories from her incredible career, her memories from making Airplane!, and the chemistry that helped make those comedy legends.The conversation also takes a deep dive into Cat's Eye as Robert reflects on his experiences working on the Stephen King anthology film and the unique challenges of bringing those suspenseful stories to life on screen. The guys also uncover wild behind-the-scenes tales from the early HBO favorite Take This Job and Shove It, including some of the crazy moments and personalities Robert encountered during that production.Packed with laughs, Hollywood memories, and incredible behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable interview with one of the most recognizable faces of 80s comedy.And don’t call them Shirley.
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  Interview with Robert Hays: Part 1 12.05.2026 54min

  This week, Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious podcast welcome a true legend—actor Robert Hays, the man who first delivered the immortal line that inspired the very name of the show: “Surely you can’t be serious.”In Episode 1 of this special two-part conversation, Robert sits down with the guys to reflect on his journey from early family life to breaking into Hollywood, sharing stories from the formative years that shaped both his career and his outlook on the industry. From there, the conversation dives into his early television appearances on classics like The Rockford Files, Laverne & Shirley, and Wonder Woman—roles that helped pave the way for bigger opportunities.Of course, no conversation with Robert Hays would be complete without a deep dive into Airplane!. The guys explore his experiences making one of the most beloved comedies of all time, from behind-the-scenes moments to the film’s lasting impact on pop culture—and on this very podcast.And just when you think the episode is winding down, an unexpected surprise guest crashes the conversation in a moment you absolutely won’t want to miss.Fasten your seatbelts—this is only Part 1.
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  Daryl Hall and John Oates "Private Eyes" (1981): Track by Track! 05.05.2026 1j 14min

  Jason and Dee wrap up their 3-part deep dive into the albums of 1981 with a look at one of the decade’s most hit-packed records — Private Eyes by Hall & Oates.In this final installment, the guys go track-by-track through the album, breaking down everything from the irresistible hooks of “Private Eyes” and “I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)” to the deeper cuts that helped define the duo’s signature sound. Along the way, they uncover the stories behind the songs, the songwriting dynamics between Daryl Hall and John Oates, and how this album became a blueprint for pop success in the early 80s.But the conversation goes beyond the grooves.Jason and Dee explore the band’s massive pop culture impact, including their role in shaping the sound of the decade and their heavy rotation during the early days of MTV — when music videos were redefining how audiences connected with artists. They also take a deeper look at the rise of Hall & Oates, from struggling hitmakers to chart-dominating superstars, and the eventual decline that brought an end to their era of dominance.Finally, the guys bring it all home by ranking the three albums from 1981 they’ve covered in this series:Freeze Frame – J. Geils BandBusiness As Usual – Men at WorkPrivate Eyes – Hall & OatesWhich album takes the crown as the best of 1981?It’s a fitting finale to a series full of hits, nostalgia, and spirited debate — and a reminder that 1981 might just be one of the greatest years in pop music history.Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/surelypodcastFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@surelypodcastCheck out our new merch store: https://surely-you-cant-be-serious-merch.myshopify.com/
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  Men at Work "Business As Usual" (1981): Track by Track! 28.04.2026 1j 1min

  Jason and Dee are back with Part 2 of their 3-part deep dive into the iconic albums of 1981, and this time they’re joined by special guest James Buckley to break down one of the decade’s most unexpected global smashes — Business As Usual by Men at Work.Following up Part 1 (Freeze Frame by the J. Geils Band) and leading into Part 3 (Private Eyes by Hall & Oates), the guys dig into how a quirky Australian band stormed the world seemingly overnight. From “Who Can It Be Now?” to “Down Under,” Jason, Dee, and James go track-by-track exploring the songwriting, musicianship, and offbeat charm that made this album a cultural phenomenon.But the story doesn’t stop at the hits.The episode also dives into the meteoric rise and sudden fall of Men at Work, examining the pressures of global fame, shifting music trends, and the challenges that followed their early success. Along the way, the guys highlight the enduring artistry and resilience of frontman Colin Hay, whose career continues to evolve long after the band’s chart dominance faded.Is Business As Usual just a moment-in-time pop artifact, or does it deserve a place among the truly great albums of 1981?Jason, Dee, and James Buckley are here to find out — with plenty of stories, laughs, and surprising insights along the way.
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  J. Geils Band "Freeze Frame" (1981): Track by Track! 21.04.2026 1j 12min

  On this episode of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast, Jason and Dee travel back to 1981 to break down the breakthrough album Freeze-Frame from Boston’s favorite party band, The J. Geils Band.Track by track, the guys dive into every song on the album — from the massive MTV-era hits to the underrated deep cuts — exploring the stories behind the music, the evolution of the band’s sound, and how a gritty bar-band suddenly became one of the biggest pop acts in the world. Along the way, Jason and Dee share some of the wild behind-the-scenes tales from the band’s history, especially the unbelievable life intersections of frontman Peter Wolf, a man who crossed paths with so many rock legends he’s been dubbed the “Forrest Gump of Rock ’n’ Roll.”But success always comes with a price. As the band rocketed to the top of the charts, the pressures of fame, creative differences, and shifting musical direction began to pull the group apart. Jason and Dee examine how the very success of Freeze-Frame ultimately helped lead to the unraveling of the band itself.This episode kicks off Part 1 of a special three-part series celebrating the albums of 1981 (now celebrating their 45th anniversary). In the coming weeks, the guys will also break down Business as Usual by Men at Work and Private Eyes by Hall & Oates.Three iconic albums. Three deep dives.One final judgment — coming after Episode 3. 🎙️Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/surelypodcastFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@surelypodcastCheck out our new merch store: https://surely-you-cant-be-serious-merch.myshopify.com/