The TodCast Podcast

In this origin-story-style episode, Todd prompts Eric to dig deep and open The Book of Eric. From dogs lost to foggy fields of memory, to nap time rebellions and paper mâché wonderlands, they piece together Eric’s earliest moments—with a healthy dose of sibling banter, vague 80s nostalgia, and accidental emotional archaeology.

• Earliest Memory: Eric remembers blocks, Sesame Street, and a mysterious dog named Lady—later revealed to be a flea magnet sacrificed for Mom’s survival.

• The Great Move: A half-deflated Easter Bunny and soggy socks mark Eric’s first house move, a memory forever filed under "wet feet and weird transitions."

• Library Lore: Paper mâché sculptures and a hidden Wizard of Oz display transform a basement library room into a toddler's Smithsonian.

• Storytime vs. Preschool: Eric didn't go to preschool—he went to storytime, which Todd correctly identifies as "preschool for the working class."

• The Memory Picture Paradox: Do we remember events, or just the photos of events? The brothers discuss how grainy prints from 1996 shape their current recollections.

• Muscle Men and Microman: Eric's earliest toy-based rebellion? Skipping nap time to stage a quiet action figure uprising.

If you’ve ever had a vivid memory triggered by a smell, a song, or a suspiciously half-deflated Easter Bunny—you’ll feel right at home. Welcome to Chapter One.

Todd and Eric Trojan horse the concept of the New Heights podcast—with zero actual Kelsey brothers but plenty of talk about heights, fears, and one fantasy football draft that might have altered pop culture forever.

• Taylor Swift, Fantasy Football, and Destiny: Todd unknowingly drafts Taylor, Swift, and Kelsey in one epic fantasy football session—sparking the cosmic forces that would later bring Taylor Swift and Travis Kelsey together (you're welcome, world).

• Heights: Fear Factor Edition: Todd and Eric swap stories about scaffolding jobs, glass-floored observation decks, and the horrifying reality of wet rooftop surfaces.

• Eric vs. Bridges: Bridges, glass floors, and rooftop decks remain Eric’s sworn enemies. Enclosed spaces like planes? Totally fine.

• Todd’s Erection Specialist Era: Todd details his former job title (yes, that was the actual title) and how climbing 25 stories without a harness became a real-life survival story.

• Sharknado of Nightmares: If you combine Eric’s fear of heights with his fear of sharks, you get the world’s worst action movie: Bruce at the Top of Rockefeller Center.

• Bonus Insight: Why roller coasters, inclines, and hot air balloons are definite nope zones—and why wrestling rings somehow aren't.

Whether you're here for football talk or just to hear two brothers panic about bridges and shark attacks, you’ve landed in the right place. Spoiler: no Taylor Swift cameos, but plenty of civil engineering terror.

Abby, Todd, and Eric join forces once again as the Banned Book Club to discuss "1984" by George Orwell.

There are lessons to be learned here, but they are gonna bum you out...sometimes that is just how it goes.

Tis the season, ugh. The Hersey boys are up and chatting first thing in the morning like they always do...and this time they are a bit grumpier than usual. The culprit: Daylight Saving Time.

It is that time of year again! Todd and Eric (with some "help" from intern Craig) have assembled a tournament of breakfast champions, pitting popular breakfast cereal mascots against one another in mortal combat.

Only one can rise to the challenge and reign supreme. Listen as the Hersey boys go through the match ups, the upsets, and the weirdness (like George Costanza's appearance).

Get ready to buckle up and cruise with us because today, we're revving up our 1985 Dodge Omni for another wild adventure! 

Our trusty traveling companion whisks us off to explore the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Ireland. 

So grab your pint of Guinness and get comfy in those vintage red seats because this Omni's taking us on a Celtic ride through the Emerald Isle!

Now, let's dive into the history, geography, and charm of Ireland. Ready? Let's roll!

Geography:

• Location and Borders: Imagine sharing a house with leprechauns and rainbows—okay, maybe not—but Ireland does cozy up to the Atlantic Ocean and the Irish Sea, making it the perfect spot for a seaside getaway!

• Varied Terrain: Ireland's like a theme park for nature lovers! From rolling green hills to dramatic cliffs and ancient forests, it's a picture-perfect paradise straight out of a fairy tale.

• Climate: It's the eternal springtime party here, folks! Mild and misty by the coast, with a hint of chill in the air up north—just like Mother Nature's own mood swings!

History:

• Celtic Roots: Ireland's history goes back further than your granny's bedtime stories! The Celts were the original rockstars, bringing their music, myths, and magic to the island.

• Viking Invasions: Vikings didn't just raid—they settled down too! They left behind traces of their epic adventures, like the historic city of Dublin.

• Norman Conquest: The Normans arrived in style, leaving their mark on the landscape with castles, cathedrals, and tales of chivalry.

Notable Figures:

• James Joyce: The literary giant behind "Ulysses," navigating the labyrinth of Irish literature like a true wordsmith.

• Bono: The rockstar who put Ireland on the musical map with U2, belting out tunes that make the Irish countryside sing.

• Enya: Our satanic princess - The ethereal songstress whose music transports you to a world of enchantment and wonder.

Tourist Destinations and Attractions:

• Dublin: The craic's always mighty in Dublin! From historic landmarks to trendy pubs, there's never a dull moment in Ireland's vibrant capital.

• Cliffs of Moher: Prepare to be blown away—literally! These towering cliffs offer jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean, guaranteed to take your breath away.

Gear up for an adventure through the heart of Ireland—where history's a drama, geography's a jaw-dropper, and the pubs are as cozy as your favorite sweater!

Eric's has once again taken his family to some themed entertainment and has returned to share his experiences with Todd and the rest of the world! Listen as the Hersey boys discuss Disney on Ice's circuslike environment as well as the hazards of breathing at a Monster Jam event.

Can you guess which had better popcorn?

In another installment of "Top Ten(-ish) Things" we take a look at Barbie's resume and discuss the wild list of professions that she has had over her lifetime.

Topics Discussed:

Overview of "To Kill a Mockingbird":

• A brief summary of the novel's plot - YES we give away major SPOILERS. Go read the book and come back in 3-weeks.

• Introduction to the key characters and the narrative structure.

Harper Lee's Influence:

• Insights into Harper Lee's life, including her background and the motivations that led her to write this iconic novel.

Historical and Social Context:

• Exploration of the novel's setting in the 1930s and its reflection of the challenges of the Civil Rights Movement.

• How societal norms of the time influenced the characters and plot.

Banning and Controversies:

• History of bans and challenges the book has faced.

• Reasons behind these controversies, ranging from racial themes to objections about language and content.

Impact on Pop Culture:

• Discussion on film and stage adaptations and their significance.

• How "To Kill a Mockingbird" has left a lasting imprint on popular culture, influencing literature, music, and other forms of media.

Deep Dive into Themes:

• Analysis of major themes, including racial injustice, moral growth, and empathy.

• Examination of character development, with a focus on Scout Finch's journey.

A Lasting Passage:

Maycomb was an old town, but it was a tired old town when I first knew it. In rainy weather the streets turned to red slop; grass grew on the sidewalks, the courthouse sagged in the square. Somehow, it was hotter then: a Black dog suffered on a summer’s day; bony mules hitched to Hoover carts flicked flies in the sweltering shade of the live oaks on the square. Men’s stiff collars wilted by nine in the morning. Ladies bathed before noon, after their three-o’clock naps, and by nightfall were like soft teacakes with frostings of sweat and sweet talcum.People moved slowly then. They ambled across the square, shuffled in and out of the stores around it, took their time about everything. A day was twenty-four hours long but seemed longer. There was no hurry, for there was nowhere to go, nothing to buy and no money to buy it with, nothing to see outside the boundaries of Maycomb County.

About Abby Hersey

Are you ready for some "Trojan Horsing"?

The Todcast PodCast brings to you “The Serial Podcast”….we mean, “The Cereal Podcast”. Todd Hersey and Eric Hersey take a mischievous dive into the cereal realm, putting a unique spin on the format made famous by the renowned "Serial" podcast. Well, not actually. They just talk about cereal. No murders.

Get ready for a deliciously deceptive exploration as they discuss Lucky Charms, Life, Frosted Mini-Wheats, name-brand cereals, and generics, all with a tongue-in-cheek approach.

Join Todd and Eric on this cereal-themed caper as "Trojan Horsing" puts a whimsical twist on the investigative podcast genre, all in the spirit of Serial. It's a breakfast saga that will keep you guessing until the last spoonful!

In this latest episode of The TodCast PodCast, your hosts Todd and Eric Hersey dive headfirst into the cinematic masterpiece, "The Shawshank Redemption." Brace yourselves for a rollercoaster of wit, humor, and insightful commentary as the dynamic duo kicks off their epic journey through the IMDB Top 250 Movies.

Be warned: spoiler alert!

If you haven't watched Shawshank (seriously, who hasn't?), press pause, watch it, and then join the TodCast fun.

Spotlight on the Stars: Join Todd and Eric as they shine a spotlight on the stellar cast of "The Shawshank Redemption." From Tim Robbins' resilience as Andy Dufresne to Morgan Freeman's iconic portrayal of Red, the hosts dissect the performances that make this film unforgettable.

90s Nostalgia: Take a trip down memory lane as the TodCast duo reminisces about the era when "The Shawshank Redemption" was filmed. Todd and Eric paint a vivid picture of the cultural backdrop that influenced this cinematic gem and those iconic films that made it tough for “The Shawshank Redemption” to come away with a ton of trophies and awards.

Playful Banter and Tone: Dive into the TodCast PodCast's signature tone – a delightful blend of humor, wit, and playful banter. Todd and Eric keep it light-hearted as they navigate the serious themes of Shawshank, proving that even prison dramas can be a laughing matter.

Get ready for an audio adventure like no other as Todd and Eric unravel the mysteries, celebrate the triumphs, and share a few laughs on their quest through the IMDB Top 250 Movies. Whether you're a devoted cinephile or just in it for the laughs, The TodCast PodCast promises an entertaining ride through the world of cinema. Tune in, press play, and let the movie magic begin!

If you enjoyed this IMDB movie review, stay tuned for upcoming episodes on The Godfather, Lord of the Rings, and 12 Angry Men.

Welcome, fellow pop culture enthusiasts, to the grand kickoff of the Top Ten(ish) series, where Todd and Eric, your hosts with a penchant for all things collectible, embark on a cosmic escapade through the vast world of pop culture treasures.

In this debut episode, join Todd and the encyclopedic Eric as they delve into the whimsical universe of Star Wars, counting down the Top Ten(ish) Most Expensive Kenner Star Wars Action Figures. It's a journey sprinkled with humor, nostalgia, and enough astronomical price tags to make even Han Solo raise an eyebrow.

So fasten your seatbelts, because this podcast promises a ride through the stars where action figures are not just playthings; they're the stuff of dreams and bank accounts only the bravest can fathom

Episode Highlights:

1. Star Wars Vintage Blue Snaggletooth: A Minted Marvel
2. Yakface (Powers Of The Force): Overseas Elegance
3. Empire Strikes Back Special Action Figure Sets: A Gift Set Extravaganza
4. Telescoping Lightsaber Legends: A Forceful Rarity
5. Vinyl Cape Tatooine Jawa: A Cloaked Enigma
6. Star Wars Droids: Vlix – Brazil’s Exclusive Gem
7. Rocket-Firing Boba Fett: A Prototype’s Journey

If you enjoyed exploring expensive Kenner Action Figures, stay tuned for upcoming episodes on Barbie’s, Lego, He-Man, and more.

Get ready to buckle up and cruise with us because today, we're revving up our 1985 Dodge Omni (yep, you heard that right!) for another wild adventure. Eric's first car is our trusty traveling companion, working its magic a lot like Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, whisking us off to explore the sunny shores of the Dominican Republic. 

So grab your coconut drink and get comfy in those vintage red seats, because this Omni's taking us on a tropical ride through paradise!

We dive into history, geography, wildlife, and everything in between, all from the comfy, time-worn seats of our silver steed. Ready? Let's roll!

Geography:

• Location and Borders: Think of it as sharing a house with Haiti, with the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea as your front and backyard. Talk about a sweet location!

• Varied Terrain: It's like a nature theme park here! From stunning beaches to mountain majesties, valleys so lush you'll want to camp out, and rainforests that look straight out of a nature documentary.

• Biodiversity: Picture this: A-list birds like the palmchat, parrots holding non-stop gossip sessions, and the VIP of the mammal world—the elusive Hispaniolan solenodon. Seriously, this guy's the unicorn of the animal kingdom!

• Climate: It's the eternal summer party here, folks! Toasty and steamy by the coast, cooler vibes up in the heights—just like Mother Nature's AC system.

History:

• Columbus's Arrival: 1492, Columbus makes his grand entrance, marking the beginning of the European takeover.

• Spanish Rule: Hispaniola becomes Spain's favorite vacay spot. Santo Domingo's been around since 1496, proudly holding the title of the oldest European settlement in the Americas. Talk about historic!

• Independence (1821): Cue the celebration! Feb 27, 1844, marks the big independence day. Spain gets shown the door.

• Trujillo's Dictatorship: Enter Trujillo, the dictator who ran the show for over three decades until his dramatic exit in '61. Cue the democratic music!

Notable Figures:

• Pedro Martinez: Baseball legend, Hall of Famer, and the pitcher who made baseball look easy!

• Sammy Sosa: The guy who swung the bat like he was born with it!

• Oscar de la Renta: Fashion icon who dressed celebs like they were walking red carpets daily.

Tourist Destinations and Resorts:

• Punta Cana: Grown-up Disneyland with beaches so flawless, they'd make your screensaver feel inadequate!

• Puerto Plata: Golden beaches, museums, and waterfalls that’ll make you forget your 9-to-5!

• Santo Domingo: History lesson with a street party twist, approved by UNESCO!

• Samaná Peninsula: Beaches, whales (yes, whales!), and caves even Batman would envy!

Gear up for an adventure through the Dominican Republic - where history's a drama, geography's a jaw-dropper, and the beaches are out of this world! 

Oh, and don't forget to tip your hat to the rare and fabulous Hispaniolan solenodon along the way! 

New year, new season of the TodCast! Listen as we walk through what to expect in 2024 from the Hersey boys. For those of you who have been with us for a while, you will learn what we are changing from the previous seasons. For anyone that is new, you'll get a taste of what is to come. We certainly hope that you enjoy it and are looking forward to season 8 with the same excitement we have!

You may have heard the Hersey boys talk about their "12 listeners in Saskatchewan" on the TodCast before, so they attempt to honor them with an episode just for them!

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Despite any of the bad things that may have happened this year, the Hersey boys are looking at the bright side of things and telling the tales of their recent acquisitions for their hobbies...which fulfil life-long dreams.

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We promise this is the last one! The final Ra: a sun god, an album, or both? Listen to find out!

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The Hersey boys continue with the silliness they started last week, drawing from a random line in their notebook and running with it full steam. Hooray!

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You know what? Its probably easier for you to listen to the episode to see what this madness is all about than for me to try to explain it here. So give it a listen, we hope you enjoy it!

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Tomorrow is USA Turkey Day, and the Hersey boys intend to feast. They have also come to realize that for all their previous talks of getting healthy it has all ended in failure. So they take up the "reverse psychology" approach, which is presented here.

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It's been a while since the Hersey boys have forced odd groups to compete in a ridiculous challenge for "The Championship", so here we are. Though they used ChatGPT to generate the bracket, they provide all the play by play and color commentary you never asked for.

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The Hersey boys talk networking (the "meeting up with new people" variety, not computers, though Todd does try to steer things that way). How do you handle networking, making new friends, and the like? If all ese fails you can...

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Todd plucks some literary gems from the back of the wagon...for what might be the last time. Yet something new shines on the horizon!

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The Hersey boys set out to have themselves a Halloween episode, and of course get sidetracked. Listen along and join them on their journey through haunted houses and so much more, some of which actually relates to the holiday.

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Eric has not won a Super Bowl, but nonetheless he (and his family) are trekking to the other side of the country to visit the place where it all started. He tells us how, why, and how he needs to prepare differently than his usual trips to WDW.

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Eric wakes up with mystery cuts, Todd wants to know what women would do if they could become invisible. So, a typical morning conversation with the Hersey boys.

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The Wheeling Herseys made a weekend pilgrimage to the shrine to music that is the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Eric took Todd on a verbal tour and they discussed their expectations and impressions.

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Once again, the Hersey boys have a ridiculous debate on a topic of dubious importance. Chosen randomly from a pile of sealed envelopes prepared by our Executive Producer Abby, they each blindly pick a side and go to it!

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The Hersey Boys riff on their favorite numbers, explain why they are their favorites, and why some folks (like Todd) have different choices depending on the circumstances.

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It turns out that you can see at least one Hersey brother on YouTube. And where Todd is lacking in that arena, Eric (and his family) more than make up for it. Listen as Eric tells about:

We pick up the tale of Todd as he embarks on a journey of higher education...and proceeds to just keep playing games. Though he does manage to invent a fast food classic and sell a portion of himself for cigarette money... so there's that.

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Disney+ has dropped a new Star Wars series...and the Hersey boys are here to chat about it. Todd fills Eric in on a very high-level history of Anakin's former padawan, but only after venting on his one major gripe with this series first.

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Eric (im)patiently awaits the arrival of his handyman, which once again turns into an impromptu episode on time, timeliness, and the like.

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As is often the inspiration for the TodCast, the Hersey boys start their morning chatting about a random thing and turn it into an episode. Today's topic: axe throwing, which quickly turns into a sports podcast. Enjoy Todd's inexpert hot takes (and Eric's corrections)!

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Much like Eric has tried D&D and Todd has attempted fantasy football, the Hersey boys once again embark on a cross-pollination of past times. This time, Eric is taking Todd to a professional wrestling event! Eric gives Todd the lowdown on what to expect and how to prepare.

Stick around post credits for an additional history lesson from Eric!

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