Surely You Can't Be Serious Podcast
A research professor and a pop culture savant debate the best entertainment icons from the 80s, 90s, and beyond, covering movies, music, and games. The podcast blends humor with obscure facts about Generation X favorites. Each episode pits the hosts against each other in a battle of wits and nostalgia.
Episodes
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
It’s time to fire up the chainsaw and kick off a four-part Halloween horror spectacular on the Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast! Jason and Dee are joined by special guest Slasher Girl Amanda Janik as they dive headfirst into one of the most notorious and influential horror movies ever made: 1974’s The Texas Chain Saw Massacre!In Part 1, the team goes behind the scenes of Tobe Hooper’s low-budge
Top 5 Songs of 1991!
1991 was a year when the musical landscape was changing Right Here, Right Now! This week on the Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast, Jason and Dee each reveal their Top 5 Songs of 1991—but there’s a twist: they’re not simply telling you what made the list.Instead, the guys take turns delivering clues, stories and behind-the-scenes trivia about each song while the other cohost—and YOU—try to figure
"9 to 5" (1980) vs. "Mr. Mom" (1983): Part 2
It’s time to get back to work! Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast continue their look at two foundational comedies of the ’80s, 9 to 5 and Mr. Mom.In Part 2, the guys turn their attention to the cast of Mr. Mom and take a closer look at the incredible collection of talent that helped make this Michael Keaton classic such a memorable part of the ’80s. From the familiar faces t
"9 to 5" (1980) vs. "Mr. Mom" (1983): Part 1
Two of the biggest workplace comedies of the early 1980s are going head-to-head! Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can't Be Serious Podcast kick off a two-part matchup between 9 to 5 and Mr. Mom.In Part 1, the guys go behind the scenes to uncover the origins of both movies. How did these comedy classics come together? What were the inspirations behind them? And how did they assemble two unforgettabl
Alice In Chains "Jar of Flies" (1994): Track by Track!
Jason and Dee are back with another track-by-track journey through one of the most fascinating releases of the '90s—Alice in Chains’ Jar of Flies!The guys dive into the story behind an EP that almost seemed to happen by accident. The band walked into the studio and, in just 10 days, created a collection of songs that would become one of the most memorable releases of the grunge era.Along the way,
Guns N' Roses "Gn'R Lies" (1988): Track by Track!
This week on the Surely You Can't Be Serious Podcast, Jason and Dee kick off an epic matchup between two legendary releases: Guns N' Roses' Gn'R Lies vs. Alice in Chains' Jar of Flies.This week, we're going track by track through Gn'R Lies and diving headfirst into the wild, unpredictable world of Guns N' Roses. Coming off the monster success of Appetite for Destruction, the band had the nearly im
ZZ Top "Eliminator" (1983): Track by Track!
Grab your cheap sunglasses, fire up the Eliminator, and get ready to go back to 1983!In memory of the legendary Frank Beard, Jason and Dee take a trip back to one of the most important albums of the MTV era as they re-release their 2023 track-by-track breakdown of ZZ Top’s Eliminator.The guys dive deep into the stories behind the Texas trio, the making of the album, and the songs that transformed
"Point Break" (1991) vs. "The Fast and the Furious" (2001): Part 2
The race is on! 🏎️💨Jason and Dee continue their showdown between two of the greatest action movies of all time: 1991’s Point Break vs. 2001’s The Fast and the Furious. After breaking down Point Break in Part One, the guys shift gears and put the pedal to the metal with the movie that turned street racing into a worldwide phenomenon.In Part Two, Jason and Dee take a closer look at the cast of The F
"Point Break" (1991) vs "The Fast and the Furious" (2001): Part 1
Surf’s up, dude… and apparently so are the engines! 🏄♂️🏎️Jason and Dee are putting two of the greatest adrenaline-fueled action movies of all time head-to-head: 1991’s Point Break vs. 2001’s The Fast and the Furious. And while one is about bank-robbing surfers and the other is about undercover cops and street racers, the similarities are impossible to ignore.In Part One, the guys go back to the b
Pretty in Pink Soundtrack (1986) Track by Track with 2 Bonus Tracks!
This week, Jason and Dee conclude their epic soundtrack showdown by putting one of the most iconic albums of the 1980s under the microscope: the Pretty in Pink soundtrack. More than just a collection of songs, this groundbreaking soundtrack helped introduce a generation of moviegoers to the exploding world of alternative and new wave music, forever changing the way Hollywood used music to tell a s
Vision Quest Soundtrack (1985): Track by Track with 3 Bonus Tracks!
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 Madon
"Stand By Me" (1986) vs. "The Sandlot" (1991): Part 2
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 cin
"Stand By Me" (1986) vs. "The Sandlot" (1993): Part 1
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 memo
Bon Jovi "New Jersey" (1988): Track by Track!
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
Bon Jovi "Slippery When Wet" (1986): Track by Track!
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 e
Bon Jovi: The Road to Slippery When Wet
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 bigges
Run-D.M.C. "Raising Hell" (1986): Track by Track!
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 ground
The History of Rap and Run-D.M.C. 1973-1986 (feat. DefDave)
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
Beastie Boys "Licensed to Ill" (1986): Track by Track!
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
Beastie Boys: Way Back in History!
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 hardcor
Top 5 Songs of 1976!
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
Fleetwood Mac "Rumours" (1977): Track by Track!
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 song
Eagles "Hotel California" (1976): Track by Track!
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 im
"Ferris Bueller's Day Off" (1986) vs. "Adventures in Babysitting" (1987): Part 2
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 discussio
"Ferris Bueller's Day Off" (1986) vs. "Adventures in Babysitting" (1987): Part 1
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 stor
Interview with Robert Hays: Part 2 The Sequel
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
Interview with Robert Hays: Part 1
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 storie
Daryl Hall and John Oates "Private Eyes" (1981): Track by Track!
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 signatu
Men at Work "Business As Usual" (1981): Track by Track!
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
J. Geils Band "Freeze Frame" (1981): Track by Track!
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
"Pretty in Pink" (1986) vs. "Some Kind of Wonderful" (1987): Part 2
Jason and Dee are back with Jill McCormick and Melissa Mingle for Part 2 of their deep-dive showdown between the final great teen films of John Hughes: Pretty in Pink vs. Some Kind of Wonderful.In this episode, the group turns their full attention to Some Kind of Wonderful, breaking down the unforgettable cast and characters — from Keith (Eric Stoltz) and Amanda Jones (Lea Thompson) to the scene-s
"Pretty in Pink" (1986) vs. "Some Kind of Wonderful" (1987): Part 1
On this special two-part deep dive, Jason and Dee are joined by friends of the show and Patreon all-stars Jill McCormick and Melissa Mingle to tackle the final face-off of the classic John Hughes teen era: Pretty in Pink vs. Some Kind of Wonderful.In Part 1, the gang rolls back to the mid-’80s to unpack the origins of both films—how Pretty in Pink emerged from Hughes’ collaboration with director H
Van Halen "5150" (1986): Track by Track!
Jason and Dee are back with another deep-dive episode of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious podcast, and this time they’re tackling one of the most pivotal albums in rock history — Van Halen’s 5150.Track by track, the guys break down every song on the album, from the explosive opener “Good Enough” to the soaring anthem “Dreams,” uncovering the stories behind the scenes, the studio innovations inside
Van Halen "1984" (1984): Track by Track!
This week on the Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast, Jason and Dee plug into one of the biggest albums of the decade — 1984 by Van Halen.From the opening synth blast to the final notes, the guys break down every track and every iconic MTV video — unpacking the stories behind “Jump,” “Panama,” “Hot for Teacher,” and the deep cuts that made this record more than just a hit factory. They dive into t
Top 5 Songs of 1986
Jason and Dee take on what should be a simple task: ranking their Top 5 songs of 1986. Of course, there’s a twist. Thanks to past episodes and the upcoming podcast calendar, huge chunks of the year are completely off-limits—no cuts from albums they’ve already covered, and nothing from what’s coming next. That means saying goodbye to obvious giants and digging deep into the bench to find songs that
Rush "Moving Pictures" (1981): Track by Track!
Jason and Dee roll out the red carpet for one of the most important rock albums of all time as they’re joined by Rush super fans Brad Moore and Tim Epp to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Moving Pictures. Together, they dive deep into the stories behind every classic track—from radio staples to prog-rock masterpieces—breaking down the lyrics, musicianship, and moments that helped propel Rush from
REO Speedwagon "Hi Infidelity" (1980): Track by Track!
Jason and Dee fire up the jukebox for one of the biggest albums of the MTV era as they welcome special guest Doug Gray, noted REO Speedwagon expert, to break down 1981’s chart-dominating blockbuster Hi Infidelity. Track by track, the trio digs into the stories behind every song—from the heartbreak anthems to the arena-ready rockers—while tracing REO Speedwagon’s long road from Midwest bar band to
Behind the scenes with the Surely Podcast
What really goes on behind the microphone? In this special crossover episode, Jeff Johnson steps in from the A Film Bypodcast to turn the tables on Jason and Dee, asking the questions listeners have always wondered about.How did the show first get started? Have they ever regretted a final matchup decision? Which episode result surprised them the most — and which one truly “moved the needle” for th
Level 5: Defender! (1981) - The Game That Flipped Space Invaders Upside Down
Defender! revolutionized arcade gaming in 1981 with its sideways-scrolling chaos and button-overload controls. In our series finale, we rank all five legendary 1981 games and reveal how we'd spend our last five quarters: Donkey Kong, Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, Frogger, or Defender? The ultimate showdown of the greatest arcade year ever!
Level 4: Ms. Pac-Man (1981) - College Kids vs. Gaming Giants
College students took on a video game empire—and won. Then they did the impossible: they improved the greatest game ever made. Hear how Ms. Pac-Man became the queen of 1981 arcades, outsmarted the ghost AI, and still looks amazing over 40 years later. The untold story of the rebellion that created gaming's most beloved female icon.
Level 3: Frogger (1981) - The Untold Story Behind the Arcade Classic
One young woman's courage changed video game history forever. Discover the secret origin of Frogger, explore every way to die (there are many!), hear the iconic music's story, and learn about a record-breaking high score that still amazes. This 1981 arcade legend has more surprises than you think. Why did the frog cross the road? Find out!
Level 2: Galaga (1981) - How It Beat Space Invaders at Its Own Game
Galaga took everything Space Invaders started, added Galaxian's colors and sounds, and created a 1981 masterpiece. Discover behind-the-scenes secrets of this arcade legend, insider development stories, and why the Challenging Stage became iconic. Don't miss the pro tip: never shoot your own captured ship! The ultimate deep dive into one of 1981's greatest arcade games.
Level 1: Donkey Kong (1981) - The Popeye Game That Changed Nintendo Forever
Donkey Kong almost starred Popeye, Olive Oyl, and Bluto. Learn the shocking origin story behind Nintendo's 1981 breakthrough hit: the near-fatal lawsuit, how Mario and Donkey Kong got their names, and why their lawyer became immortalized in gaming history. This is the untold story of the arcade classic that launched a gaming empire and defined 1981 as the golden year of video games.
Level 0: The History of Video Games Before 1981 - Pong to Pac-Man
Why was 1981 the greatest year in arcade gaming history? Before Jason and Dee dive into Donkey Kong, Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, Frogger, and Defender, discover the revolutionary games that paved the way. From Pong's simplicity to Space Invaders' invasion and the "Puck Man" controversy, this prequel episode explores the arcade legends that changed gaming forever. Grab your quarters—the high score challen
"The Breakfast Club" (1985) vs. "St. Elmo's fire" (1985): Part 2
The debate comes to a head. In Episode 2 of 2, Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious podcast finish their head-to-head breakdown of the iconic 1985 films The Breakfast Club and St. Elmo’s Fire. This time, the focus shifts to the cast of St. Elmo’s Fire and the lasting legacy of its ensemble as full-fledged Brat Pack icons. For fun, Dee takes a sharper angle by calling out each character
The Breakfast Club (1985) vs. St. Elmo's Fire (1985): Part 1
Two defining films. One generation. And a debate that still hasn’t cooled down. In Episode 1 of 2, Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious podcast kick off a head-to-head breakdown of the iconic 1985 films The Breakfast Club and St. Elmo’s Fire. The guys start at the beginning, exploring how each movie came together, the very different creative paths that led to their production, and the
Star Wars Holiday Special (1978): Part 2 of 2
The madness continues. In Part 2 of their deep dive into the now-infamous Star Wars Holiday Special, Jason and Dee of Surely You Can’t Be Serious are once again joined by the guys from the 30something Movie Podcast to finish what they started. Having already crossed the point of no return, the crew pushes through the remaining skits, songs, and baffling story choices that somehow made it onto tele
Star Wars Holiday Special (1978): Part 1 of 2
What happens when a galaxy far, far away collides with late-1970s variety television and absolutely no one says no? In this very special (and possibly regrettable) episode of Surely You Can’t Be Serious, Jason and Dee are joined by special guest hosts from the 30something Movie Podcast to finally dare to watch — and break down — the now-infamous Star Wars Holiday Special. This is Part 1 of 2, and
No Doubt "Tragic Kingdom" (1995): Track by Track!
On this episode of Surely You Can’t Be Serious, Jason and Dee dive headfirst into one of the defining albums of the 1990s: No Doubt’s Tragic Kingdom. The guys trace the band’s painfully slow rise to fame — from the Orange County ska scene and early lineup tragedy to years of label frustration — and explore how those struggles helped fuel the emergence of Gwen Stefani as a brand-new pop and alterna
Jewel "Pieces of You" (1995): Track by Track!
This week on the Surely You Can’t Be Serious podcast, Jason and Dee continue their 90s album trilogy by exploring the quiet, unconventional, and deeply heartfelt debut that turned a young Alaskan singer-songwriter into a global sensation—Jewel’s Pieces of You.The guys dig into Jewel’s extraordinary backstory: her nomadic childhood in the Alaskan wilderness, the hardships that shaped her voice and
Alanis Morissette "Jagged Little Pill" (1995): Track by Track!
This week on the Surely You Can’t Be Serious podcast, Jason and Dee dive headfirst into one of the defining albums of the 1990s—Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill. The guys trace Alanis’s remarkable rise from Canadian teen pop idol to alt-rock truth-teller, exploring how a young artist reinvented herself and ended up creating one of the most influential albums of the decade.Jason and Dee unpac
Top 5 Worst Sequels of the 80s!
Sometimes after a movie is successful, a sequel is made to further the adventures with the characters in that world. Many times that story is bad (but not always). Sometimes it is an outright embarrassment. In this episode Jason and Dee breakdown their list of the bad decisions, poorly casted, money-grabbing, worst sequels of the 1980s! Join us for a fun discussion on all things cringy, dopey and
Stranger Things Soundtrack: Season 1 Episodes 5-8: Sunglaasses at Night, White Christmas, Carol of the Bells and More!
This is our Stranger Things Season 1 Finale where we cover the music used in Episodes 5-8! In this episode we dive deep into one of the most iconic songs of the 80s (Sunglasses at Night), we take a look at the biggest selling single of all time (White Christmas) and we examine the amazing true story of "Carol of the Bells" and the incredible assassination of its composer! You won't believe it!
Stranger Things Soundtrack: Season 1 Episode 4: The Tragic Story of Joy Division
In this episode of the Soundtrack of Stranger Things we examine the artists and songs from Episode 4. This time we deep dive into the history of Joy Division, their impact on songs of the 80s and their tragic ending. You may not know much about these guys but, trust us, your friends, the story is amazing! Also friends don't lie.
Stranger Things Soundtrack: Season 1 Episode 3 - The Story of Foreigner, We WIsh You a Merry Christmas and David Bowie!
In this episode on the Soundtrack to Stranger Things we examine the artists and songs from Episode 3. This time we dive into the glorious music of Foreigner, their rise to classic rock fame and the turbulence along the way. We also discuss one timeless holiday classic, a classical piece that you'll recognize from Bugs Bunny and cap it all off with David Bowie and the most emotional song he's ever
Stranger Things Soundtrack: Season 1 Episode 2 - The Story of Reagan Youth, Jingle Bells, I Melt With You and More!
We continue our deep dive into the music of the Netflix show "Stranger Things". In this episode we cover a punk song with a back story so bizarre you'll have to hear it to believe it. We also discuss a couple of all time holiday classics and one of the biggest one hit wonders of the 80s! You will not want to miss this one! #strangerthings
Stranger Things Soundtrack: Season 1 Episode 1 - The Story of White Rabbit, Africa and More!
When the Netflix show Stranger Things was released in 2016 it created a surge in interest for all things 80s including the music. Today we dive deep on the songs included in Season 1, Episode 1: "The Vanishing of Will Byers". The stories behind these songs are amazing! There is murder, suicide, drugs, an attempt to drug the President of the United States, a hang glider accident (it's true!) along
Teen Wolf (1985) vs. The Monster Squad (1987): Part 2
Jason and Dee are back to wrap up their 80s monster showdown as Teen Wolf (1985) goes head-to-head with The Monster Squad (1987)!In Part 2, the guys dive deeper into both films — from werewolves on the basketball court to kids hunting Dracula in suburbia — and explore what made each movie so uniquely memorable.They discuss The Monster Squad’s incredible creature designs, Shane Black’s razor-sharp
Teen Wolf (1985) vs. The Monster Squad (1987): Part 1
This week, Jason and Dee go full moon and monster mash as they kick off a two-part showdown between two beloved 80s cult classics — Teen Wolf (1985) and The Monster Squad (1987)!In Part 1, the guys dig into the origins of both films, tracing how Jeph Loeb and Matthew Weisman brought the all-American werewolf comedy to life, while Shane Black and Fred Dekker crafted their monster-loving homage to t
Air Supply "Greatest Hits" (1983): Track by Track!
This week, Jason and Dee float into the soft rock skies with Air Supply and their 1983 Greatest Hits album. Track by track, they explore the soaring melodies, tender heartbreaks, and behind-the-scenes stories of one of the most quietly dominant duos of the early 80s. From the emotional powerhouse “Making Love Out of Nothing At All” to the radio anthem “All Out of Love,” they uncover how Air Supply
Christopher Cross "The Best of Christopher Cross" (1991): Track by Track!
This week, Jason and Dee set a course for smooth waters as they dive into the world of Yacht Rock pioneer Christopher Cross, exploring his 1991 Greatest Hits collection. Track by track, they unravel the stories behind the songs—from the serene escape of “Sailing” to the driving groove of “Ride Like the Wind.” They dig into Cross’s unexpected rise, the pressure of sudden fame, and the quiet drama b
"Pee-Wee's Big Adventure" (1985) vs. "UHF" (1989): Part 2
This week Jason and Dee are back for the epic conclusion of their showdown between two of the quirkiest comedies of the 1980s — Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure (1985) vs. UHF (1989)! In part two, the guys dive deep into the cast of UHF, uncover fascinating tidbits and behind-the-scenes trivia from both cult classics, and reminisce about the impact these offbeat films had on pop culture. Finally, Jason and
"Pee-Wee's Big Adventure" (1985) vs. "UHF" (1989): Part 1
This week, Jason and Dee dive handlebars-first into two of the quirkiest cult comedies of the 1980s: Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure (1985) and UHF (1989)! In Part 1 of this two-part showdown, the guys explore the wild and wonderful origins behind both films.Join them as they trace Paul Reubens' journey from the improv stages of the Groundlings to the creation of his iconic alter ego, Pee-Wee Herman, and
Survivor "Vital Signs" (1984): Track by Track!
This week, Jason and Dee crank up the volume and take you back to 1984 as they dive deep into Survivor’s multi-platinum classic “Vital Signs.” Track by track, they uncover the stories behind the songs, the lineup changes, and the simmering drama that shaped one of the 80s’ most iconic bands. Along the way, they chart the band’s pop-culture footprint — from heart-pounding training montages in Rocky
Chicago "Chicago 17" (1984): Track by Track!
🎙️ On this episode of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast, Jason and Dee are going track by track through one of the biggest albums of the 1980s—Chicago 17. From unforgettable hits like Hard Habit to Break and You’re the Inspiration to the deep cuts that defined the era, the guys take a deep dive into the music, the making, and the magic of this iconic record.Along the way, they explore the ev
Top 5 Songs of 1980
In this brand-new episode, Jason and Dee fire up the time machine and head back to 1980—a year that bridged the gap between the disco era and the dawn of MTV. But this isn’t just a countdown. Instead of simply naming their favorite tracks, Jason and Dee drop stories, trivia, and clever clues that slowly lead to each song’s big reveal. Can you guess the title before they do?From arena rock anthems
"Superman Returns" (2006) What the HECK happened?
This week on the Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast, Jason and Dee are joined by special guest Jeff Johnson of the A Filmm By podcast to tackle one of the most debated comic book films of the 2000s — Superman Returns (2006). The guys break down the pros, the cons, the behind-the-scenes trivia, and ultimately ask the big question: what the heck happened? Why didn’t this highly anticipated return t
"Batman and Robin" (1997): What the HECK Happened?
Holy disaster, Batman! 🦇 Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast team up with Jeff Johnson of the A Film By podcast to tackle one of the most infamous superhero misfires of the ’90s—Batman & Robin! As part of our special series “What the Heck Happened?”, we dig into the all-star cast, the director, the screenwriter, and the meddling studio executives to uncover who’s really to
Dokken "Under Lock and Key" (1985): Track by Track!
Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast are unlocking the vault on Dokken’s 1985 hard rock masterpiece Under Lock and Key! In this episode, they take a song-by-song journey through the album, uncovering the stories behind the music, the band’s rise to Sunset Strip fame, and the lasting impact they had on the glam metal era.But behind the soaring vocals and shredding solos was a to
RATT "Invasion of Your Privacy" (1985): Track by Track!
Get ready to crank up the volume and tease up your hair as Jason and Dee of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast dive headfirst into Ratt’s 1985 glam metal classic Invasion of Your Privacy! In this deep dive, we explore the album track by track—uncovering the stories behind the songs, the band’s rise from the Sunset Strip, and their massive impact on '80s rock culture.We’ll talk about the unfor
Top 5 Songs of 1975!
In this groovy new episode, Jason and Dee hop in their time machine and head back to the golden year of 1975 to reveal their Top 5 favorite songs—but not so fast! They’re not just handing you a playlist… oh no, they’re giving you clues, stories, and trivia that lead up to the big reveal. Can you guess the song before they say it?From chart-topping hits to deep-cut gems, Jason and Dee break down wh
"Fletch" vs. "European Vacation" vs. "Spies Like Us": Episode 2 of 2
In this hilarious and nostalgic finale, Jason and Dee wrap up their two-part deep dive into the Chevy Chase comedy trifecta of 1985! In Part 2, the guys turn their attention to Spies Like Us, breaking down the all-star cast, unforgettable moments, and behind-the-scenes tidbits that made this Cold War comedy a cult classic.Along the way, they drop fun facts and hidden gems from Fletch, European Vac
"Fletch" vs. "European Vacation" vs. "Spies Like Us": Episode 1 of 2
It’s 1985, and Chevy Chase is at the absolute top of his game, headlining not one… not two… but three comedy classics: Fletch, National Lampoon’s European Vacation, and Spies Like Us. In this first episode of our two-part series, Jason and Dee take a deep dive into the unforgettable casts of Fletch and European Vacation. From Chevy’s incredible performance as the master of disguises, Irwin M. Flet
"Jaws" (1975) vs. "Jurassic Park" (1993): Episode 3 of 3
It’s the epic finale of our "Jaws vs. Jurassic Park" trilogy! Back in the summer of 2020—when COVID flipped the world on its head—Steven Spielberg’s two legendary summer blockbusters somehow ruled the box office again, sitting at #1 and #2 like it was 1975 and 1993 all over again. In this final episode, Jason and Dee dive into the genius of John Williams, the composer behind both unforgettable sco
"Jaws" (1975) vs. "Jurassic Park" (1993): Episode 2 of 3
In the summer of 2020, with COVID closing down new releases, something unbelievable happened—Steven Spielberg’s "Jaws" and "Jurassic Park" rose back to the top of the box office, claiming the #1 and #2 spots decades after their original releases. In this second episode of our three-part series, Jason and Dee dive into the unforgettable casts of these two epic summer blockbusters. From Roy Scheider
"Jaws" (1975) vs. "Jurassic Park" (1993): Episode 1 of 3
In the summer of 2020, when COVID turned the world upside down and theaters scrambled to stay open, two of Steven Spielberg’s greatest summer blockbusters—"Jaws" and "Jurassic Park"—miraculously topped the box office once again, decades after their original release. In this first of a three-part series, Jason and Dee dive deep into the origin stories of both films. From the troubled production of
Jimmy Buffett "Songs You Know By Heart" (1985): Track by Track!
This week, Jason and Dee are trading in their boots for boat shoes and setting sail into the laid-back, sun-soaked world of the late, great Jimmy Buffett. In this special episode, the guys take a deep dive into Songs You Know By Heart, the beloved greatest hits album that captured the spirit of escapism, humor, and heart that made Buffett a legend. From “Cheeseburger in Paradise” to “Come Monday”
The Eagles "Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975" (1976): Track by Track!
In this episode, Jason and Dee dive deep into one of the biggest-selling albums of all time—Eagles: Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975). We unpack the origins of the band, from their early days as Linda Ronstadt’s backing group to becoming pioneers of the California Sound that would define an era.🎸 We take you track by track through this iconic collection, breaking down the stories behind the songs, i
"Rambo: First Blood Pt II" (1985) vs. "Commando" (1985): Part 2
💥 The bullets flew in Part 1 — now it's time for the final showdown.In this action-packed conclusion to our two-part series, Jason and Dee return to the battlefield to dissect the cast of Commando — from Arnold's one-liner-laced John Matrix to Vernon Wells' chainmail-wearing psycho, Bennett.🎯 We also drop some wild behind-the-scenes tidbits and trivia from both films — including casting what-ifs,
"Rambo: First Blood Pt II" (1985) vs. "Commando" (1985): Part 1
💣 It’s 1985. Reagan’s in the White House, MTV’s on your tube, and two of the most testosterone-fueled action films ever explode into theaters: Rambo: First Blood Part II and Commando.In this first half of our two-part throwdown, Jason and Dee go full combat mode to compare and contrast these two action juggernauts. Strap in as we:🎬 Explore the origins of both movies — how Vietnam, politics, and po
