The show opens with Chelsea Green’s emotional response to suffering an orbital injury immediately after her championship victory. The crew praises Green’s fiery babyface promo, the crowd’s investment in her journey, and WWE’s decision to give her 30 days to return and defend the title. They also examine the strength of WWE’s women’s championships, Fatal Influence’s fast rise, and Facade’s personal experience working with Green earlier in her career.

WWE’s growing relationship with AAA leads to a larger lucha discussion. The hosts consider a potential Penta–Rey Fenix tournament final, Roman Reigns wrestling in Mexico, El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr.’s Raw appearance, the AAA Cruiserweight Championship appearing on NXT, and WWE adjusting its schedule around football and other media partnerships.

The independent wrestling roundup includes 2PW’s Battle of the Barrel, RWA’s upcoming Renegade Rumble, and the final two Sorgstock match announcements: Brianna Bands against Reese Hayes and The Runway against Wild Wild South.

Facade then looks ahead to the Gathering of the Juggalos and Bloodymania. He discusses JCW’s transition from chaotic, insider-driven wrestling toward a more polished and accessible product—without abandoning attractions like Gore Games. Most importantly, Facade previews his three-way JCW World Heavyweight Championship opportunity against Josh Bishop and JCW American Champion Father Bronson.

The conversation shifts to Facade’s latest Power Slap appearance. He explains accepting the fight on extremely short notice, cutting nearly ten pounds, entering without a full training camp, and being knocked out by a clean strike from Power Slap opponent Bougie. Facade also raises concerns about how a referee repositioned his stance immediately before the slap, discusses competitor safety, and reveals what it would take to bring him back.

Finally, “What We Learned” covers Rey Mysterio’s seemingly ageless performance against Chad Gable, CM Punk’s misguided promo material against Kevin Owens, the latest Bloodline power structure, and Sorg rediscovering his enthusiasm for wrestling at a relaxed community show.

News stories and topics

• Chelsea Green’s injury and breakout promo

  • Green suffered a broken orbital bone shortly after winning her championship.
  • Nick Aldis gave her 30 days to recover, find a protective mask, and defend the title.
  • Mad Mike calls her response one of WWE’s strongest pure babyface promos in years.
  • The panel believes the injury angle may strengthen her connection with the audience.
  • Facade recalls managing Green and praises her personality and professionalism.

• WWE’s women’s championship scene

  • The hosts discuss the momentum surrounding WWE’s women’s singles titles.
  • Fatal Influence’s rapid rise and championship success receive particular attention.
  • Chelsea Green and Tiffany Stratton’s recent involvement is examined.

• Wrestling’s greatest ring slides

  • The Usos’ synchronized slides spark a debate about the best entrances into the ring.
  • Paul London, The Rock, John Cena, and Titus O’Neil enter the conversation.
  • The tangent expands into Samoan wrestling families and their shared athletic traits.

• WWE and AAA’s lucha crossover

  • The crew anticipates a possible Penta versus Rey Fenix tournament final.
  • Roman Reigns’ scheduled appearance in Mexico adds importance to the tournament.
  • El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. and El Fiscal appearing on Raw are discussed.
  • The AAA Cruiserweight Championship continuing on NXT is viewed as a natural extension of the partnership.
  • Michael Cole’s difficulty with lucha names becomes a running joke.

• WWE programming and scheduling

  • The panel discusses double tapings and earlier Raw start times.
  • WWE’s relationship with ESPN and the challenge of competing with Monday Night Football are considered.
  • The hosts note how wrestling scheduling increasingly works around larger sports partnerships.

• CM Punk visiting an NXT live event

  • Punk’s surprise appearance and physical interaction with Myles Borne are discussed.
  • The group jokes about Punk choosing a small Florida live event over other cities.

• Independent wrestling roundup

  • TNF’s Lethal Lottery and recent surprises receive a plug.
  • 2PW’s Battle of the Barrel featured four matches at a West Homestead fire department event.
  • Matches included Jason Tyler versus Phillip Archer, Paul Atlas and Marshall Gambino against Gory and Super Hentai, and Dennis Gregory versus Zach Nystrom.
  • Little Ginge’s appearance with Chest Flexor is highlighted.
  • RWA’s upcoming Renegade Rumble is previewed.

• Final Sorgstock match announcements

  • Brianna Bands will face amateur-wrestling standout Reese Hayes.
  • The Runway will meet the newly presented team of Shelby Wylde and Georgia South, Wild Wild South.
  • Sorg explains his goal of presenting fresh matches and unfamiliar combinations.

• Facade versus Ricochet

  • A viewer asks for a complete Facade–Ricochet rivalry.
  • Facade remembers facing Ricochet in a chaotic CZW Aerial Assault match that also featured Ruckus and AR Fox.
  • He confirms that Ricochet was already remarkably smooth and welcomes another match.

• JCW’s evolution

  • The group contrasts older, loosely produced Gathering matches with JCW’s current presentation.
  • Facade argues that a more accessible product can attract viewers outside established Juggalo culture.
  • Dangerous stipulations are now more effective when used for meaningful stories instead of appearing automatically.
  • Gore Games is presented as the major violent spectacle on the Bloodymania card.

• Gathering of the Juggalos memories

  • Sorg and Facade recall poorly lit matches, rings moved by heavy equipment, flashlight wrestling, and shows continuing until sunrise.
  • They discuss how audiences have learned that throwing objects can prevent wrestlers from delivering the performances fans want.
  • Faygo memories, vintage branding, and earlier JCW experiences provide several side trips.

• Facade’s JCW World Championship opportunity

  • Facade explains his path through the JCW American Championship picture.
  • He will challenge World Champion Josh Bishop in a three-way also involving American Champion Father Bronson.
  • A winner-take-all stipulation is discussed as a possibility, not a confirmed match rule.
  • Facade hopes Vanilla Ice might provide a live “Ninja Rap” entrance.

• Bloodymania card

  • The discussed lineup includes James Storm and Cocaine versus Mr. Anderson and Stephon Smith.
  • Sonny Kiss, Haley J, J-Rod, Mickey Knuckles, Caleb Konley, Kerry Morton, EC3, Willie Mack, Too Tough Tony, Yabo the Clown, Ruffo the Clown, Donovan Dijak, Big Vito, and others are mentioned.
  • Bloodymania will stream free on YouTube at approximately 2 a.m. Eastern Saturday morning.

• Facade’s short-notice Power Slap fight

  • Facade received the call while teaching at a parkour gym.
  • He accepted only days before the event without a dedicated training camp.
  • He reduced his weight from approximately 179 pounds to 169.5.
  • He expected the striking order to be redrawn but learned he would have to receive the first slap.
  • Facade believes the referee moved him out of his trained defensive posture before the strike.
  • He credits Bougie with delivering a legitimate, clean slap and holds no personal animosity toward him.
  • Facade is reluctant to compete again unless he receives the first strike.

• Power Slap safety and officiating

  • Other competitors’ experiences are used to question defensive positioning and officiating consistency.
  • A broken arm, fighters declining unsafe situations, and commentary that ignored Facade’s short-notice status are discussed.
  • Raj Dhesi’s victory over Jake Hager is highlighted as an emotional comeback.
  • The sport’s growing international schedule and involvement of wrestlers, athletes, and online creators are examined.

• Wrestlers finding opportunities elsewhere

  • Power Slap, Banana Ball, American Gladiators, MMA, and visual art are presented as alternate paths.
  • The hosts appreciate seeing wrestlers turn their personalities and athletic skills into new opportunities.

“What We Learned” breakdown

• The chat’s lesson: Solo Sikoa works surprisingly well as a babyface, while Roman Reigns’ order preventing Jacob Fatu from attacking LA Knight explains Jacob’s unusual inaction. The Usos also appear to have become Roman’s clear seconds-in-command.

• Professor T-Pop’s lesson: Rey Mysterio still refuses to age. His match with Chad Gable delivered match-of-the-year-level lucha action, while Gable’s increasing ability to blur the line between himself and El Grande Americano continues to strengthen the character.

• Mad Mike’s lesson: Even experienced talkers sometimes need stronger boundaries or scripting. CM Punk’s endometriosis reference during his exchange with Kevin Owens was confusing, needlessly insensitive, and weaker than the material available within the story. Mike believes Owens is carrying the more effective side of the feud.

• Sorg’s lesson: Wrestling is most rewarding when there is still room to experience it as a fan. Attending the relaxed 2PW fire department show—without being responsible for the entire production—helped him reconnect with old friends and remember what drew him to wrestling.

• Facade’s extension of the lesson: Wrestling has taken him from local shows to touring with musicians and competing in unexpected arenas. His advice is to pause, recognize those opportunities, and appreciate where the work has led.

• The larger takeaway: A passion project can become so focused on logistics and business that the passion disappears. Everyone involved should remember that they choose to be there, protect their energy, and leave situations that no longer justify the cost.

The crew starts with WWE’s AAA crossover and the tournament determining who will challenge Roman Reigns in Mexico City. Penta, Laredo Kid, Psycho Clown, La Parka, Dragon Lee, Rey Fenix and more enter the conversation as the hosts debate whether AAA wrestlers are being presented strongly enough on WWE television. They also give Corey Graves credit for putting in the work to explain AAA history and wrestlers to WWE’s broader audience—even while questioning the remote commentary setup being used for AAA programming.

From there, the conversation heads to AEW Grand Slam Mexico and CMLL, including the incredible atmosphere surrounding the crossover shows, Adam Copeland checking another item off his wrestling bucket list, the unique Bandido/Brody King/Hangman Page trio, and the wild format of CMLL’s massive Grand Prix match. T-Pop explains how the elimination format works and why Mexican wrestling continues to offer something structurally different from American wrestling television.

The expanding wrestling TV universe also gets examined through Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, MLW, NWA, AEW, ROH and CMLL. How important is immediacy in wrestling? Does a show lose momentum when its television is months behind the live tapings? And why does wrestling remain such attractive television programming compared with scripted productions?

On the local front, there is plenty to celebrate. The crew looks back at 2PW Summer Showdown, including the delightfully unexpected blindfolded Lights Out match, Gianni Michael Emricko and Gorgeous Gregory challenging The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Southeastern Tag Team Championship, and developments surrounding 2PW’s championships. There are also updates from 880 Wrestling’s Lethal Lottery, Prospect Pro Wrestling, Enjoy Wrestling and the upcoming Sorgstock.

And speaking of Sorgstock: Mikey Montgomery vs. Justin Idol in a Video Game Match is officially on the card for August 28. What exactly is a Video Game Match? Apparently, you’ll have to be there.

Then things get personal with CM Punk and Kevin Owens. The hosts revisit their complicated history, the real-life stories wrestling fans are already resurfacing, and why these two could create weeks of compelling television without needing to throw a single punch.

Plus: Chelsea Green’s injury, Johnny Gargano stepping away amid a difficult family situation, wrestling trading cards raising money for the Cauliflower Alley Club, Big Man Tater and his microwave helmet, Tatum Paxley arriving on SmackDown, Mickey Knuckles coming to VCW, and Sorg’s reflections after finishing a book about Rowdy Roddy Piper.

It’s another trip through the increasingly strange, global and wonderfully interconnected world of professionalized wrestling.

News Stories & Topics Discussed

• WWE and AAA expand their crossover: A tournament featuring talent from WWE and AAA will determine a challenger for Roman Reigns in Mexico City, with Penta, Laredo Kid, Psycho Clown, La Parka, Dragon Lee, Rey Fenix and others discussed.
• Is WWE protecting AAA enough? The hosts question why AAA talent is frequently introduced to the Raw and SmackDown audience without being allowed to score important victories.
• Dominik Mysterio as AAA Mega Champion: The contradiction between Dom holding AAA’s top championship and AAA wrestlers sometimes feeling secondary on WWE television becomes a major point of discussion.
• Corey Graves and AAA commentary: T-Pop and Sorg praise Graves’ knowledge and enthusiasm while examining the awkwardness created by remote commentary involving Rey Mysterio and JBL.
• AEW Grand Slam Mexico: The Arena Mexico atmosphere, Mexican audience participation, Adam Copeland’s appearance and AEW leaning into its CMLL relationship all get praise.
• CMLL Grand Prix explained: T-Pop breaks down the enormous elimination match and its rotating tag structure, including why it feels so different from the usual American multi-person match.
• AEW/CMLL/ROH relationships: The hosts appreciate AEW’s willingness to work across promotions rather than trying to isolate its roster.
• Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling: The Canadian promotion’s weekly television presence is discussed along with Mauro Ranallo’s commentary and the opportunity created by changes in WWE’s Canadian distribution.
• MLW and NWA tape delays: Sorg and T-Pop talk about how months of unaired matches can reduce urgency even when the actual wrestling remains enjoyable.
• The economics of wrestling television: A discussion of live wrestling production leads to appreciation for how much WWE and AEW accomplish every week and why wrestling remains appealing programming for broadcasters.
• 2PW Summer Showdown: The hosts recap the show, including championship developments, the blindfolded Lights Out match and Some Guy Named John’s spectacular elbow drop to absolutely nobody.
• Gianni Michael Emricko & Gorgeous Gregory: Their NWA JCP Southeastern Tag Team Championship match against The Troublemakers is part of the 2PW recap.
• 880 Wrestling Lethal Lottery: T-Pop likes the unusual team of Dev Swayze and Tatiana, while Sammy Suntimer’s attempts to bond with Marco Narciso become a source of amusement.
• 2PW Friday Night Frights: The October 23 Halloween event and an announced casket match are previewed.
• Enjoy Wrestling’s anniversary: Lee Moriarty vs. Amazing Red is singled out as a match worth watching.
• Sorgstock announcement: Mikey Montgomery faces returning Pittsburgh wrestling favorite Justin Idol in a mysterious Video Game Match on August 28.
• CM Punk vs. Kevin Owens: The hosts love the early verbal confrontation and dig into some of the genuine history that can add another layer to the feud.
• Chelsea Green injured: Her orbital-bone injury leads to speculation about recovery time and whether it should affect her championship status.
• Johnny Gargano: The conversation turns serious while discussing Gargano stepping away to focus on his father during his battle with stage-four prostate cancer.
• Pittsburgh wrestling trading cards: Falcom Digital Imaging’s cards and wrestling-related fundraising lead into recognition of efforts benefiting the Cauliflower Alley Club.
• Big Man Tater: A gigantic Vader-inspired independent wrestler who enters wearing a microwave becomes an immediate Mayhem Show obsession.
• Tatum Paxley: Her SmackDown arrival has Mad Mike excited about the potential for increasingly spooky developments.
• MPX “Who Runs the World”: The chat points out the stacked women’s wrestling event featuring a wide range of notable talent.
• Mickey Knuckles headed to VCW: A breaking local wrestling announcement gets an enthusiastic reaction.
• Roddy Piper: Sorg discusses finishing the Piper book assembled after his death and reflects on the difference between Roddy Piper the character and the person underneath it.

“What We Learned” Breakdown

T-Pop: Sometimes the best way to introduce someone is simply to unleash them as a monster. He highlights the AAA debut of a WWE/LFG talent who attacks Psycho Clown, tears away part of his mask and chokeslams him onto a chair. The presentation immediately makes the newcomer feel dangerous.

Mad Mike: It was apparently a tremendous week for tater-related professional wrestling. First comes Big Man Tater, a giant Vader-inspired wrestler who enters with a microwave on his head. Then there’s Tatum Paxley, whose SmackDown arrival has Mike eagerly anticipating where her character could go next.

Sorg: Finishing the Rowdy Roddy Piper book helped reconnect dots between moments Sorg remembered as a fan and the life happening behind them. He particularly reflects on Piper becoming so immersed in the wrestling character that separating “Roddy Piper” from the person himself became difficult, while also remembering his wife getting a chance to meet one of her childhood wrestling heroes.

From the chat: Mercedes Moné’s wrestling anniversary gets recognized, along with excitement over MPX’s upcoming women-focused Who Runs the World card.

The episode starts locally with Dave highlighting Stormfreak, a Pittsburgh-area weather enthusiast who has built a following on Reddit by offering practical, level-headed forecasts without the sensationalism that often accompanies severe weather coverage. That leads into a bigger conversation about how Reddit, YouTube, and independent creators increasingly fill information gaps once occupied by traditional specialty television.

Sorg then takes a trip back to the video-store era with Binge Buster, a web experience that lets users browse movies available on their existing streaming subscriptions in an interface inspired by wandering through the shelves of a physical rental store.

Gaming takes over a large part of the conversation, including EA going private in a massive Saudi-backed deal, Netflix getting an extended GTA 6 preview, Atari showing signs of financial improvement, the possibility of accessing Xbox and PC Game Pass titles on Linux and Mac through the XODUS project, new content for the original Quake, and Sorg's experience comparing Xbox cloud gaming with NVIDIA GeForce NOW.

Then things get weird in the best possible way: Diablo is heading to amusement-park Halloween events, while a permanent Freddy Fazbear's Pizza experience complete with animatronics is planned for American Dream.

Dave also shares his latest experience with Adobe Project Indigo, including computational photography, AI photo critiques, and the increasingly blurry line between traditional editing and generative AI. The episode wraps with two ideas that bring physical experiences back into a digital world: Pittsburgh's Lost Lizard renting VHS, DVD, and even Betamax tapes, and Nature Calls Run, an upcoming crowdsourced app designed to help runners, cyclists, travelers, and people with medical needs locate bathrooms, water, and other resources.

Stories, Gadgets & Topics Discussed

• 300–600mm iPhone zoom lens — Dave points listeners toward iPhonography Podcast co-host Greg McMillan's detailed look at an enormous telephoto solution for iPhone photography.
• Stormfreak and Pittsburgh weather on Reddit — Dave highlights the local forecaster's calm, practical approach to Pittsburgh weather and the community that has formed around his posts. They discuss how independent online weather coverage can sometimes be more useful than national television coverage when people need highly local information.
• The changing role of specialty media — Sorg and Dave compare today's creator-driven information sources with the original promise of channels like The Weather Channel, Discovery, TLC, and Food Network.

• Binge Buster — Sorg tries a streaming discovery site that recreates some of the experience of browsing a video store. Users select the streaming services they already subscribe to and browse movies through virtual box art, descriptions, genres, trailers, staff picks, and more.

  https://bingebuster.net/

• Awesome Person of the Week: Lewis Latimer — Dave profiles the inventor, draftsman, engineer, and patent expert whose work intersected with both Alexander Graham Bell's telephone patent and the development of more durable electric-light filaments.

• Slice on Broadway pizza sauce — Dave discovers jars of Slice on Broadway's original pizza sauce while shopping at Labriola's Italian Market.

• EA goes private — Chachi's Video Game Minute covers EA completing its reported $55 billion sale to a Saudi-backed buyer and what private ownership might mean for the future of EA's games and monetization.

• Netflix and GTA 6 — Netflix is set to feature an extended look at Grand Theft Auto VI on August 27, prompting discussion about whether GTA really needs any additional publicity.

• Atari's financial comeback — Atari reports its strongest annual revenue in roughly a decade, giving Sorg and Dave an opportunity to talk about the strange history of the Atari name, its changing ownership, and the collection of gaming properties associated with it over the years.

• Xbox games potentially coming to Linux and Mac through XODUS — Sorg discusses an open-source reverse-engineering project designed to make compatible Xbox and PC titles accessible beyond Windows, including the possibility of accessing portions of a user's existing Microsoft gaming library.

• Xbox backward compatibility — The conversation touches on original Xbox and Xbox 360 games potentially becoming increasingly accessible through Microsoft's PC ecosystem.

• New Quake content decades later — Quake continues receiving new content around its 30th anniversary, giving players another reason to revisit the classic first-person shooter.

• NVIDIA GeForce NOW vs. Xbox cloud gaming — Sorg compares his experience streaming games like Doom: The Dark Ages and Forza Horizon, finding GeForce NOW's higher-end hardware particularly impressive for demanding, fast-moving games.

• Do you still need a gaming PC? — Cloud gaming raises a bigger question: if a service already supports hundreds of games in your library and provides continuously upgraded hardware, does spending thousands on a dedicated gaming PC still make sense?

• Diablo invades Cedar Point and Six Flags — Blizzard's Diablo becomes part of the Halloween amusement-park experience, leading to a conversation about licensed haunted attractions and the changing amusement-park industry.

• Cedar Fair/Six Flags consolidation and disappearing amusement parks — Dave looks back at the history of older amusement parks, including Pittsburgh-area memories of White Swan Park and the larger trend of parks disappearing as land was redeveloped.

• Freddy Fazbear's Pizza becomes real — A permanent Freddy Fazbear's Pizza experience featuring animatronic stage shows is planned for American Dream in 2027. Naturally, Sorg and Dave wonder whether anybody involved has actually learned the lesson of Five Nights at Freddy's.

• American Dream as the modern destination mall — The conversation expands into how malls are evolving from shopping centers into entertainment destinations with theme parks, water parks, skiing, restaurants, attractions, wrestling events, and other experiences.

• Adobe Project Indigo — Dave continues experimenting with Adobe's computational photography app, particularly challenging lighting situations and shooting directly toward a sunset.

• AI-powered photography reviews — Project Indigo can analyze a photo and provide feedback, giving photographers another way to evaluate composition and possible improvements.

• When an AI edit becomes a different photograph — Dave demonstrates an AI edit that substantially changes clouds and the sky, prompting an important conversation about the difference between enhancing a photograph and generating new visual information.

• AI quietly becoming another editing tool — Sorg shares his experience using AI to quickly create client graphics and discusses how generative tools increasingly feel less like a separate novelty and more like another part of a production workflow.

• Lost Lizard brings video rentals back to Pittsburgh — A Lawrenceville business is renting VHS tapes, DVDs, Betamax tapes, and even retro video games. The concept triggers plenty of nostalgia for independent video stores and their wonderfully strange horror collections.

• Physical media versus digital ownership — Reports of purchased digital movies disappearing from user libraries lead to a larger discussion about what consumers actually own when they "buy" a digital movie.

• Movies Anywhere and fragmented digital libraries — Sorg discusses the usefulness of synchronizing eligible purchases across services while acknowledging that licensing can still make digital ownership complicated.

• Maybe it's time to buy DVDs again — The uncertainty of digital licenses gives physical media another unexpected advantage: nobody can remotely remove a disc from your shelf.

• Nature Calls Run — An upcoming Pittsburgh-created app will crowdsource public restrooms, water sources, and other useful resources for runners, cyclists, travelers, parents, and anyone suddenly asking the most important question of the day: "Where can I go?"

  https://naturecallsapp.com/

• Restroom access as an accessibility and medical issue — The app also plans to educate users about restroom-access laws affecting people with conditions including Crohn's disease and IBS.

• GCXC running events — Dave also discusses upcoming Pittsburgh-area races and the community surrounding GCXC events.

  https://gcxc.com/events-pa

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The crew opens by asking a surprising question: Was SummerSlam more enjoyable than WrestleMania? They examine a second night filled with fan-service moments, major returns and championship developments. Topics include Chelsea Green’s victory, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns seemingly closing another chapter of their shared history, CM Punk versus Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens returning to the championship picture, Nick Aldis stepping back into the ring, Dominik Mysterio’s success in AAA and WWE’s evolving relationship with lucha libre.

Gianni also receives some major news live on the show. His scheduled match at Prospect Pro Wrestling has changed, and he and Gorgeous Gregory will now challenge The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Tag Team Championship. Gianni responds with an impromptu message for the champions and explains why the Italian Strongman plans to bring NWA gold home.

The conversation then turns toward Gianni’s recent match with EFFY at 880 Wrestling, his growing list of appearances throughout the region and the practical lessons he has learned while building his wrestling career. His advice is simple: get in the car, attend shows, help with the ring and production, introduce yourself and become someone promoters and wrestlers enjoy having in the locker room.

Sorg also reveals new details for Sorgstock, including a surprising battle between Psychedelic Dreams members Sammy Suntheimer and Billy the Alien, plus wrestling-theme music from Sykes.

After an official spoiler warning, the crew dives deeply into Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Gianni gives the film a 9.6 and calls it one of the most authentically Spider-Man stories yet. The discussion covers Peter Parker’s stripped-down life, the introduction of Jean Grey, Punisher’s role, mutant technology, the Hulk battle, Ned’s potentially significant handshake, Miles Morales speculation and possible connections to Secret Wars and the wider multiverse.

The episode closes with the viral video of Beastman and Sam Adonis helping break up a festival fight, followed by “What We Learned,” where Mad Mike argues that WWE is misunderstanding the basic appeal of Joe Hendry.

• The original Mayhem crew reunites: Sorg welcomes Rizz and Mad Mike, with early conversation covering Mad Mike’s LEGO Soundwave set, teaching and the increasingly responsible lives of the show’s longtime hosts.
• SummerSlam versus WrestleMania: The panel considers whether SummerSlam delivered a more consistently entertaining weekend than WrestleMania.
• WWE production mistakes: A misspelled commercial-break graphic launches a discussion about live production errors, unrealistic expectations and why even major companies make visible mistakes.
• SummerSlam’s fan-service-heavy second night: Chelsea Green’s title victory, Baron Corbin’s return and Kevin Owens reentering the championship picture make Sorg wonder whether someone secretly used his fantasy booking.
• Chelsea Green’s championship moment: The crew celebrates Green’s victory, the reaction from her fellow wrestlers and how her success contrasts with comments discussed from WWE: Unreal.
• Hell in a Cell: The match’s violence, ring destruction and feud-ending atmosphere are praised as an effective use of the stipulation.
• Seth Rollins versus Roman Reigns: The match is viewed as a possible closing chapter for The Shield, with particular interest in what comes next for Seth and a more independent Roman Reigns.
• Oba Femi and Brock Lesnar: Gianni offers a wrestler’s perspective on the decision not to perform a dangerous spot directly onto exposed wood.
• Roman Reigns and AAA: Roman’s interaction with Rey Mysterio creates fantasy-booking possibilities involving TripleMania, Worlds Collide, Penta, Jacob Fatu and The Lucha Brothers.
• Solo Sikoa’s changing audience reaction: The hosts discuss how the SummerSlam build helped Solo emerge as an entertaining and increasingly sympathetic figure.
• Dominik Mysterio’s popularity: The panel argues that Dominik feels like a major star in AAA and deserves a larger, more consistent role on WWE programming.
• Nick Aldis versus Gunther: Aldis’ return to the ring impresses the crew and sparks speculation about a longer in-ring run or a future match with Adam Pearce.
• CM Punk versus Cody Rhodes: The match receives a more measured defense than some online reactions, while Kevin Owens’ return sets up a potentially excellent microphone-driven rivalry with Punk.
• Nikki Bella’s heel turn: A possible injury to Brie Bella leads to fantasy booking involving Paige, AJ Lee and a potential legends-focused WarGames match.
• Liv Morgan versus IYO SKY: The opening match and its finishing sequence are highlighted as one of the weekend’s strongest performances.
• SummerSlam attendance and location: The crew discusses tarped seating, the lack of a public attendance announcement and whether Minneapolis was an ideal destination for a major summer wrestling event.
• Sorgstock announcement: Sammy Suntheimer will face his Psychedelic Dreams partner Billy the Alien, raising questions about tension inside the team.
• Gianni’s championship opportunity: Gianni and Gorgeous Gregory will challenge The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Tag Team Championship at Prospect Pro Wrestling.
• Gianni’s live promo: The Italian Strongman immediately delivers a message promising that the NWA championship will not remain on Glenn Spectre’s shoulder.
• Wrestling EFFY at 880 Wrestling: Gianni explains how the crowd quickly sided with EFFY, forcing him to adjust and embrace being the heel during the match.
• Breaking into new wrestling promotions: Gianni recommends traveling, introducing yourself, helping with setup and stepping outside your normal comfort zone.
• Locker-room reputation: Being positive, safe and helpful can be as important as social-media numbers when promoters decide whom they want to book again.
• Avoiding unhealthy environments: Gianni explains that a negative locker room—or a place where he does not feel safe in the ring—is unlikely to receive a return visit.
• Spider-Man spoiler discussion: The crew praises the film’s grounded version of Peter Parker, swinging sequences, action choreography and emotional tone.
• Jean Grey and the mutants: The movie’s mutant storyline leads to discussion of Jean Grey, Phoenix references, inhibitor technology and the future of the MCU’s X-Men.
• Punisher’s role: The panel examines Punisher’s hospital scenes, his public identity and how he fits into a world where Spider-Man has regained public support.
• Ned and Peter’s handshake: The hosts debate whether Ned consciously remembers Peter or simply feels a lingering connection that he cannot explain.
• Miles Morales and the multiverse: Potential clues are connected to Beyond the Spider-Verse, Doomsday, Secret Wars and the possibility of Miles eventually entering live action.
• Marvel physical media: Mad Mike displays elaborate Marvel and Harry Potter box sets, prompting nostalgia for collector editions filled with props, files and hidden compartments.
• Additional movie discussion: The crew briefly reviews Backrooms, Obsession, Eternals, New Mutants, the Fox X-Men films and the Spider-Man video games.
• Beastman goes viral again: Video from Tacos and Tequila shows Beastman and Sam Adonis helping break up a real fight, inspiring the suggestion that venues should hire Beastman as security.

Sorg:
Never start a fight when Beastman is nearby. After watching the viral festival video, Sorg’s larger conclusion is that Beastman may be the most effective security option available.

Gianni Michael Emricko:
Gianni learns the full details of his changed Prospect Pro Wrestling match during the episode. He and Gorgeous Gregory are receiving an NWA JCP Tag Team Championship opportunity, and Gianni confidently predicts that Glenn Spectre will not leave with his championship.

Mad Mike:
From Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Mike learns that it is okay to be sad. From wrestling, he learns that WWE appears confused about Joe Hendry. He argues that Hendry’s entire presentation is built around “say his name and he appears,” yet WWE repeatedly brings him out without anyone saying his name, cuts away from his entrance and presents his musical segments more like Elias. Mike believes this removes the elements audiences are already excited to see.

Rizz:
Rizz does not give a separate standalone lesson in the closing segment, but contributes to the discussion about WWE failing to preserve the established logic and audience appeal of Joe Hendry’s character.

The crew breaks down AEW Redemption, Kenny Omega and Kevin Knight, Will Ospreay and the Death Riders, Kyle Fletcher vs. Bandido, Maya World, Tommaso Ciampa and the continuing evolution of Ring of Honor.

Then it’s on to SummerSlam, including the two-night lineup, Punk and Cody, Roman and Seth, Penta vs. Chad Gable, the women’s ladder match and one extremely strange Joe Hendry/Danhausen segment.

Plus: WWE Radio and SiriusXM, changing wrestling streaming options, Rebel’s ALS benefit efforts, T-Pop’s complete AAA update, Dominik Mysterio joining forces with Omos, Penta’s AAA return, Sorgstock announcements, Pittsburgh indie wrestling and our weekly What We Learned!

Hosted by Sorg with Tina Keys and TruePrinceofPro.

More Wrestling Mayhem Show: www.wrestlingmayhemshow.com

Bradley has apparently purchased the Wrestling Mayhem Show for the afternoon and transformed it into “Bradley Radio,” which means there is only one order of business: finally settling his complicated relationship with Brianna. There’s just one problem—Brianna insists she already moved on.

Brianna talks about the personal and professional changes she has experienced since the last Summit, including taking time for herself after the loss of her grandmother, losing a longtime job and navigating a difficult stretch outside of wrestling. She explains why she feels ready to get back to a more regular schedule and how music from Madison Beer inspired both a change in outlook and the angel wings that have become part of her wrestling presentation.

The conversation also gets serious as Brianna reflects on her Fight for Pride match with Nikki Winters. Long before stepping into a real wrestling ring together, the two friends were creating themselves in wrestling video games and imagining the careers they wanted. Years later, they found themselves across the ring from one another for an emotional match celebrating representation—and realizing the impact their journeys could have on people watching.

Brianna also discusses growing her career beyond her home area, working across multiple states and Canada, and the role social media has played in creating opportunities. One infamous interaction involving Bradley has now reached approximately six million views.

Then it’s time for Bradley’s Declarations. He confirms that he really does have a job, celebrates winning $105 at Beastman’s Birthday Bash, explains his problem with WWE’s Green Shirt Guy, gets deep into some wrestling grievances and finally looks back at his own participation in the Wrestling Mayhem Show’s 20th anniversary event.

That anniversary experience leads to an unexpectedly insightful discussion about performance anxiety, preparation, improvisation and why getting into a wrestling ring—even just to talk—is much harder than fans may realize.

But the biggest declaration comes last.

After years of insults, social-media fights and Brianna repeatedly attacking Bradley’s shins, real-life struggles gave the two a different perspective on one another. Bradley admits that somewhere along the way, the feud turned into an actual friendship.

Brianna agrees.

Mostly.

And after the Summit, watch Brianna Bandz and the rest of the action from MV Young’s Big Ass BBQ 5:
https://www.indywrestling.network/videos/880-wrestling-mv-young-s-big-ass-bbq-5-1

Dani takes the crew aboard her cross-country family adventure by train, traveling from Pittsburgh through Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco and beyond. She talks about first-class Amtrak accommodations, observation cars, full meals, sightseeing, hiking through Yosemite, camping on the way to Las Vegas and seeing No Doubt at the Sphere. More importantly, Dani explains why disconnecting from wrestling—even briefly—helped her decompress and appreciate the experiences waiting outside the ring.

Back in wrestling, Dani discusses her acclaimed match with a visiting STARDOM competitor at Enjoy Wrestling, her desire to wrestle in Japan and the opportunities she has received to work with international talent. She also breaks down her unpredictable run in Juggalo Championship Wrestling, where she is expanding her character work, delivering longer promos, destroying cars, confronting Barnabas and navigating one of wrestling’s wildest fictional family dramas as a two-time JCW Women’s Champion.

Mad Mike reports from Madison Square Garden, including the energy surrounding CM Punk, the New York Knicks-themed celebration and a WWE show that sometimes felt like a televised house show built specifically for the local audience. The crew also discusses SummerSlam possibilities, Sami Zayn’s direction, Nick Aldis returning to the ring and the unseen wrestlers whose scheduled matches disappear whenever an authority figure creates a new main event.

The episode also features the first match announcement for Sorgstock, memories from Beastman’s Big Ass Birthday Bash, thoughts on WWE Unreal, questions about the value of Club WWE, AEW and STARDOM crossover, the G1 Climax and a spirited debate about roller coasters, wrestling-ring pools and the value of letting wrestling be fun.

News Stories and Topics Discussed

• Mad Mike’s Madison Square Garden experience: Mad Mike compares the reactions for CM Punk and the New York Knicks celebration while describing the unusual atmosphere of a WWE television show created heavily around its host city.
• CM Punk’s latest major moment: The crew discusses Punk’s return, championship victory and the difference between hearing a massive wrestling reaction on television and experiencing it inside the arena.
• New York Knicks crossover: The hosts examine the Knicks references, celebrity involvement and why parts of the show were especially rewarding for local basketball fans.
• WWE women’s tag-team speculation: The group considers whether the current champions are temporary and whether WWE could be building toward a SummerSlam program involving the Bella Twins.
• What happens next for Sami Zayn: Mad Mike questions Sami’s current direction and whether he could be added to another major match rather than being left without a clear SummerSlam story.
• Nick Aldis returning to competition: The hosts discuss Aldis moving from an authority role back into the ring, his extensive pre-WWE career and the importance of presenting him as a legitimate wrestler rather than merely an on-screen general manager.
• “Card Subject to Change”: A joke about wrestlers being removed from suddenly rearranged television cards evolves into a pitch for a comedy series focused on the performers who thought they had a match before the main event was rewritten.
• Mad Mike conquers the Royal Rumble arcade game: The crew revisits the game’s classic roster and attempts to guess which wrestler Mad Mike used to win. The answer leads to an enthusiastic appreciation of D’Lo Brown.
• Dani Mo’s cross-country train adventure: Dani describes traveling with her family in first-class Amtrak accommodations, sleeping in compact rooms, visiting the observation car and experiencing freshly prepared meals during the journey.
• Chicago, Seattle and San Francisco: The trip includes the Bean, Seattle’s Space Needle and gum wall, the redwoods, Alcatraz, Lombard Street, the Golden Gate Bridge and several of Dani’s signature travel handstands.
• Disconnecting from wrestling: Dani explains how the trip allowed her to stop checking messages, ignore most wrestling responsibilities and return feeling more relaxed—even when several planned bookings were unexpectedly canceled.
• Yosemite and dispersed camping: After leaving her family in San Francisco, Dani continues the adventure with a friend, tackles the difficult Mist Trail, earns a fire permit and camps while traveling toward Las Vegas.
• No Doubt at the Sphere: Dani talks about seeing Gwen Stefani up close, buying an impressive amount of merchandise and finally reaching the concert that served as the trip’s destination.
• Why travel matters: The group reflects on how seeing different regions, cultures and lifestyles can change a person’s perspective, even without leaving the United States.
• Enjoy Wrestling and international competition: Dani looks back on her standout match with a visiting STARDOM wrestler and explains why she believes her recent performances against Japanese talent show that she is ready for an opportunity in Japan.
• Dani Mo’s JCW evolution: Dani discusses developing a more aggressive and three-dimensional character, improving her extended promo work and becoming comfortable performing inside JCW’s deliberately chaotic environment.
• The Barnabas family saga: Dani explains the “daddy issues” driving her JCW storyline, including Barnabas, an adopted rival, implied drug jokes, a damaged car and increasingly personal confrontations.
• Two-time JCW Women’s Champion: Dani discusses working as champion while balancing recognizable babyface qualities with increasingly diabolical actions.
• Learning through promos: Because much of Dani’s recent JCW work has involved storytelling rather than traditional matches, she is gaining experience in an area she considers challenging but necessary for reaching a larger stage.
• Sorgstock’s first match announcement: Sorg officially announces Beastman vs. Gory in “The Big Bite-Off” for the No Limits Championship, reviving a match that could not happen during the previous special event.
• The Sorgstock atmosphere: The crew previews an unconventional party-style wrestling event featuring strange concepts, visual gags, music and an intentionally loose approach to wrestling canon.
• Beastman’s Big Ass Birthday Bash: Dani and Sorg revisit the themed decorations, fan activities, family involvement, weapons, cake and overall madness surrounding Beastman’s 40th birthday celebration.
• Wrestling shows built around individuals: Beastman’s birthday event, Jack Pollock’s benefit and other personality-driven cards inspire a discussion about shows that celebrate a specific wrestler’s identity and creative vision.
• Alternate versions of wrestling cards: Dani reveals that several wrestlers arrived at Beastman’s show expecting completely different stipulations, including a possible pillow fight and a thumbtack-and-door match.
• Inflatable wrestling-ring products: An online advertisement for a wrestling-themed pool sends the hosts into a search for inflatable rings and possible future Sorgstock accessories.
• Kennywood and roller-coaster bravery: Dani responds to allegations that she bullied Derek Dillinger into riding Phantom’s Revenge, leading to comparisons of Kennywood attractions and other intense coasters around the country.
• AEW and STARDOM crossover: The hosts discuss Triangle of Madness, STARDOM championships and the potential for more interaction between AEW’s women’s division and Japanese wrestling.
• G1 Climax viewing: Sorg shares his early enthusiasm for the tournament and Konosuke Takeshita while the crew repeatedly finds new ways to make the tournament’s name sound inappropriate.
• WWE Unreal: Mad Mike discusses the behind-the-scenes series, including CM Punk quietly telling John Cena that he would miss him and Cena explaining the creative logic behind his deliberately frustrating WrestleMania performance.
• John Cena and AJ Styles: The crew examines their tribute-filled match, the decision to use other wrestlers’ signature moves and backstage footage of Seth Rollins jokingly confronting them after they produced a difficult act to follow.
• A crowded wrestling calendar: The group discusses competing events in Chicago, WWE’s plans surrounding WrestleMania week, possible New York events and how promotions may fill the space created by WrestleMania taking place outside the United States.
• Club WWE: Sorg attempts to understand the subscription’s value, including exclusive merchandise, ticket access, workout content, personality-driven programs and John Cena’s “Unseen 17” concept.
• Wrestling and major-league merchandise: The hosts consider how WWE’s relationship with Fanatics may make city-specific sports collaborations easier than similar partnerships for other wrestling companies.

“What We Learned” Segment Breakdown

Mad Mike

Mad Mike’s lesson comes from watching WWE Unreal. During CM Punk’s “Doctor of Punkanomics” segment with John Cena, Punk quietly told Cena, “I’m gonna miss you.” It was an emotional detail that was easy to miss during the original broadcast.

That revelation leads to a broader discussion about Cena’s creative intentions during his final run. Mad Mike notes that Cena’s explanation of the WrestleMania match closely matched the show’s earlier interpretation: the slow, frustrating and intentionally boring presentation was designed to make the audience reject that version of Cena.

Dani Mo

Dani says the week reestablished how fun and incredible wrestling can be. Wrestling creates opportunities to travel, meet unusual people and share memorable experiences with friends, family and people who may have only met that day.

Her central lesson is that performers can become so serious about wrestling that they fail to appreciate the moment. Beastman’s birthday show may not have been the largest event she has worked, but dancing with her family, watching her niece become involved and enjoying the atmosphere made it one of the most fun.

Sorg

Sorg initially learns that he still does not fully understand what Club WWE is offering subscribers.

His more meaningful lesson comes from Beastman’s birthday show and other wrestler-centered events. Sorg appreciates cards that allow one person’s personality, community and creative definition of wrestling to shape the entire presentation.

The conclusion: wrestling needs more “non-canon” shows—events where promotions and performers can temporarily escape normal story structures, celebrate people and try concepts that would not fit on a traditional card.

Chat Room and Additional Takeaways

The chat highlights the increasingly crowded wrestling calendar and the unusual “battle lines” created when several promotions schedule destination events in the same city or on the same weekend.

The closing conversation reinforces that the wrestling world is large enough to contain serious competition, personal celebrations, bizarre comedy, international crossover and experiences that exist simply because they are fun.

Katie begins with Mama’s Night Off, a browser game inspired by Dungeon Crawler Carl and the Maeve Chocolate Dirty Shirley bar. Dave introduces Garmin’s new screenless fitness tracker, an alternative to smartwatches and subscription-heavy wearables. Sorg shares his experience setting up RetroArch on Apple TV, including its wide range of supported systems, open-source games, ROM management, controllers, and the tinkering required to make everything work.

The conversation expands into the tension between digital convenience and physical ownership. The hosts discuss GameStop’s response to Sony’s physical-media decisions, the rapid progress of PlayStation 5 emulation, and why consumers are returning to CDs, vinyl, cassettes, retro games, and other physical formats.

They also have an extended discussion about generative AI, creative production, AI-assisted image editing, automation tools, corporate responsibility, electrical-grid pressures, and the rapid construction of data centers. The hosts examine the difference between rejecting AI entirely and learning how to use it responsibly while still demanding accountability from businesses and government.

Later, the show looks at NASA’s Psyche spacecraft capturing a Mars flyby, Pittsburgh movie history through the Pastfinders app, a minimalist flip phone for people who want fewer distractions, a development board that turns old Nintendo Wii Remotes into customizable controllers, and Google Photos restoring a traditional search option alongside Ask Photos.

Stories and Gadgets Discussed

Awesome Things of the Week

• Mama’s Night Off and the Maeve Chocolate Dirty Shirley Bar

  • Katie shares a browser-based game connected to Dungeon Crawler Carl.
  • Players fire magical projectiles at cherries to help create Mama’s Dirty Shirley.
  • The hosts discuss the game’s intentionally retro presentation and voice work by Jeff Hays.
  • Play the game and view the chocolate bar: https://maevechocolate.com/products/virgin-dirty-shirley/?game

• Garmin’s Screenless Fitness Tracker

  • Dave introduces Garmin’s wearable fitness tracker designed without a screen.
  • The device offers health and activity tracking without requiring users to wear a full smartwatch.
  • The hosts discuss its approximately ten-day battery life, Garmin Connect compatibility, optional Garmin Connect+ subscription, and Garmin’s reputation for durable hardware and direct fitness feedback.
  • Engadget: https://www.engadget.com/2219713/garmin-finally-made-a-screenless-fitness-tracker/
  • Garmin product information: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/1989182/#specs

• RetroArch on Apple TV

  • Sorg explains how RetroArch can turn an Apple TV into a multi-system retro-gaming device.
  • The software supports numerous systems, including Nintendo, Sega, arcade, PlayStation-era platforms, and older computer games.
  • The hosts discuss Bluetooth controllers, open-source games, shareware versions of Doom and Wolfenstein, storage limitations, organizing ROM libraries, and troubleshooting incompatible files.
  • Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/retroarch/id6499539433
  • Supported platforms: https://www.retroarch.com/?page=platforms

Awesome Person of the Week

• Ralph Teetor and the Invention of Cruise Control

  • Dave highlights engineer Ralph Teetor, who became blind as a child and later earned engineering degrees.
  • Frustrated by the repeated acceleration and deceleration of drivers, Teetor developed an early version of cruise control.
  • The hosts discuss the evolution from basic speed control to adaptive cruise control and its relationship to modern driver-assistance systems.
  • Teetor later served as president of the Society of Automotive Engineers, and an SAE award for educators bears his name.
  • Automotive Hall of Fame: https://automotivehalloffame.org/honoree/ralph-r-teetor/

Chachi Says Video Game Minute

• Playing GTA III and Vice City Inside GTA: San Andreas

  • A PC mod allows players controlling CJ in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas to walk up to an in-game television and launch GTA III or Vice City.
  • The hosts compare the concept to a video-game version of Inception.
  • https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/pc-gaming/gta-3-and-vice-city-are-now-playable-inside-san-andreas-a-mod-lets-you-revisit-liberty-city-and-vice-city-without-leaving-san-andreas

• GameStop’s CEO Responds to the Decline of Physical Games

  • GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen argues that Sony reducing physical-disc support will not significantly hurt the company because new video-game sales represent a relatively small portion of its business.
  • The discussion includes GameStop’s continued interest in eBay and the changing economics of physical game retail.
  • https://www.ign.com/articles/gamestop-ceo-ryan-cohen-insists-sony-killing-physical-discs-doesnt-matter-at-all-because-video-game-sales-make-up-so-little-of-his-business

• PlayStation 5 Emulation Progress

  • Developers are making progress booting PlayStation 5 titles through multiple emulation projects.
  • Two-dimensional games are advancing more quickly, while fully rendering complex three-dimensional games remains a significant challenge.
  • The story sparks a broader conversation about game preservation, physical ownership, digital licensing, and consumer distrust.
  • https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/playstation/ps5-emulation-ramps-up-in-wake-of-sonys-end-to-physical-media-ps5-titles-now-booting-across-different-emulators-with-rapid-community-development-for-both-2d-and-3d-games

AI, Creative Work and Data Centers

• The hosts discuss the growing use of AI-assisted tools in image editing, video production, business documents, email, captions, background extension, and design mockups.

• Sorg explains how AI can help reformat posters for different social-media dimensions without replacing the original creative work.

• The discussion distinguishes generative AI from other machine-learning tools, such as automated transcription, rotoscoping, search, and image organization.

• Dave raises concerns about social-media challenges potentially being used to gather free voice-training data.

• The group discusses how Google, Adobe, Canva, and other platforms increasingly build AI functions directly into existing software.

• The hosts argue that professionals cannot simply ignore the technology, but they should evaluate where it is appropriate and disclose its use when needed.

• The discussion also addresses the electrical demands of new data centers, corporate incentives, local government decisions, environmental protections, grid capacity, and the disproportionate placement of industrial infrastructure near lower-income communities.

• Their central argument is that rapid technological growth must be accompanied by accountability, regulation, public representation, and responsible development.

NASA Psyche Mars Flyby

• NASA’s Psyche spacecraft used a Mars flyby as a gravitational assist while traveling deeper into the solar system.

• The mission captured detailed images and a time-lapse view of Mars during the maneuver.

• Dave highlights the value of scientific exploration driven by curiosity and the desire to understand more about the universe.

• https://science.nasa.gov/blogs/psyche/2026/07/17/nasas-psyche-mission-delivers-mars-flyby-data-time-lapse-video/

Pittsburgh Bridges on Film and Pastfinders

• Sorg highlights a collaboration between Pastfinders and the Pittsburgh Film Office focused on Pittsburgh bridges featured in movies and television.

• Examples discussed include locations connected to Mayor of Kingstown, Sweet Girl, Jack Reacher, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, The Dark Knight Rises, Dogma, The Silence of the Lambs, and Mindhunter.

• The hosts discuss how the Pastfinders app sends location-based notifications about historical sites, movie locations, landmarks, and unusual local stories.

• Pastfinders:
  https://www.pastfinders.app/

• Pittsburgh Film Office bridge-tour post:
  https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1458603939638716&set=pcb.1458603999638710

The Light Flip Minimalist Phone

• The hosts examine a modern minimalist flip phone inspired by classic designs.

• It uses physical buttons, T9-style typing, a small screen, and a dedicated operating system rather than standard Android.

• The group discusses the appeal for people who want calls, messages, navigation, and limited apps without carrying a high-powered smartphone.

• They also consider whether younger users might adopt simpler phones to reduce social-media use and screen time.

• https://9to5google.com/2026/07/21/light-flip-minimalist-phone-announcement/

OpenMote: Repurposing the Nintendo Wii Remote

• Sorg introduces OpenMote, a drop-in development board that turns a Nintendo Wii Remote into a customizable controller.

• Demonstrations include pointing the remote at lamps to control them.

• The hosts brainstorm uses for smart-home controls, games, production equipment, lighting effects, custom 3D-printed controllers, and event technology.

• OpenMote:
  https://openmote.io/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio

• Instagram demonstration:
  https://www.instagram.com/reels/Da8p5B7PNKP/

• OpenMote Instagram:
  https://www.instagram.com/openmote.io/

Google Photos Restores Classic Search

• Google Photos is adding an option that lets users choose between the newer Gemini-powered Ask Photos experience and a more traditional search interface.

• The hosts discuss why some users prefer entering straightforward terms rather than asking an AI-generated question.

• The change becomes an example of why providing a choice can reduce frustration when companies add AI to familiar products.

• https://9to5google.com/2026/07/20/google-photos-classic-search-toggle/

Also Discussed

• The return of CDs, vinyl records, cassettes, retro games, and physical media.

• The difference between owning digital media and licensing access to it.

• Consumer distrust of large technology companies.

• The space required to store large physical-media collections.

• Using Gemini to interpret business acronyms and generate a first draft of a statement of work.

• Severe-weather alerts and Katie briefly leaving the podcast during a tornado warning.

• Dave’s upcoming races, including the Two-Face Race and Trick or Trot 5K.

• The next AwesomeCast interview with Spotter Global and its technology for detecting drones and identifying operators.

Support the show at:
https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast

Discover more from the Sorgatron Media Podcast Network:
https://sorgatronmedia.com

Sorg also begins downloading the iOS 27 public beta during the show, despite Katie’s warnings and a few concerns being saved for the Patreon aftertalk.

Stories and Gadgets Discussed

• A wireless microphone saves the podcast: When Dave’s regular microphone setup breaks, he switches to a compact dual wireless microphone system that connects through USB-C. The plug-and-play backup works with phones and laptops without a complicated setup.
• Omron 7 Series Bluetooth blood pressure monitor: Dave reviews a new connected blood pressure monitor after getting inconsistent readings from an older device. He highlights its larger arm cuff, support for two users, storage for multiple readings, three-reading averages, Apple Health integration and the ability to export results for a doctor. https://amzn.to/4yncwxY
• Pinwheel phones, watches and home phones for kids: Katie introduces Pinwheel’s managed technology ecosystem for children and teenagers. Parents and caregivers can control approved contacts, monitor texts, restrict social media, set bedtime schedules, review locations and gradually unlock features as a child gets older. The company also offers a standalone smartwatch and a Wi-Fi-powered corded home phone that brings back the satisfaction of dramatically hanging up. https://www.pinwheel.com
• Kennywood’s reopening and the mystery bag gamble: Sorg recounts a delayed visit to Kennywood after a water-main break interrupted opening day. His $5 mystery merchandise bag produced a Kennywood gaiter, a vintage postcard and a Jack Rabbit 100th-anniversary pin.
• Awesome Person of the Week — Rory Cooper: For Disability Pride Month, Dave profiles inventor, engineer and Paralympic medalist Rory Cooper. After becoming paralyzed while serving in the military, Cooper designed a lighter wheelchair and built a career improving mobility technology. His Pittsburgh work includes the Human Engineering Research Laboratories, a collaboration involving the University of Pittsburgh and the Department of Veterans Affairs. https://www.invent.org/inductees/rory-cooper
• WhatCable diagnoses confusing USB-C connections: Sorg tests a free Mac utility that reveals what connected USB-C cables, chargers, docks and ports can actually do. The app displays negotiated speeds, charging details, supported USB standards and potential bottlenecks—useful for anyone wondering why a drive, monitor or video device is underperforming. https://www.whatcable.uk/
• LEGO’s Fast & Furious Toyota Supra MK4: Katie finds a new LEGO Speed Champions version of Brian O’Conner’s Toyota Supra from The Fast and the Furious. The set includes the bright orange movie car and a Brian O’Conner minifigure in his signature T-shirt and jeans. https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/the-fast-and-the-furious-toyota-supra-mk4-77260
• Speed and racing technology at the Carnegie Science Center: The hosts preview an upcoming speed-focused exhibit featuring an interactive track and specialized vehicles connected to the Petersen Automotive Museum. https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1PZqTmHP4J/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Using AI to teach respectful sports camera work: The team examines guidelines designed to prevent women athletes from being sexualized through revealing angles and unnecessary slow-motion replays. Sorg discusses turning the concept into an AI-generated pro wrestling camera guide that can help videographers recognize respectful framing, understand consent and avoid exploitative shots. https://www.reddit.com/r/interestingasfuck/comments/1uwaxzx/some_of_the_new_guidelines_that_have_been/
• Instagram reverses its public-profile AI remix feature: Dave explains the backlash surrounding a Meta AI feature that could use images from public Instagram profiles in AI creations without first requiring users to opt in. The hosts discuss predictable abuse, privacy risks and why technology companies need more diverse voices involved before launching features like this. Meta subsequently disabled the feature. https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2026/07/13/meta-disables-ai-feature-instagram-backlash/90899917007/
• Jizai Arms bring Doctor Octopus technology closer to reality: A Japanese research project demonstrates wearable robotic arms that can be attached, removed and exchanged between users. The hosts debate whether the project represents meaningful cyborg research, performance art or technology created without enough consideration for how the public will interpret it. https://jizai-arms.com/ Additional commentary: https://www.instagram.com/refashionedhippie/
• Fortnite launches “Hot Bat Summer”: Batman, Harley Quinn, Catwoman and Poison Ivy receive beach-ready DC skins in Fortnite. The discussion naturally turns toward the absurdity of a game where swimsuit Batman can share a battlefield with Bugs Bunny, Homer Simpson and an armed dog in a bee costume. https://www.polygon.com/fortnite-hot-bat-summer-skins-dc-batman-harley-quinn-catwoman-poison-ivy/
• A shirtless protester attacks a Waymo vehicle: Video of a man climbing onto and damaging a Waymo in East Hollywood launches a wider conversation about autonomous vehicles, public surveillance, camera networks and the lack of privacy in modern public spaces. The hosts also discuss how easily hacked or deleted accounts can remove years of digital purchases. https://kotaku.com/shirtless-man-starts-butlerian-jihad-against-waymo-in-east-hollywood-2000715911

Support AwesomeCast and receive the Patreon aftertalk at:
https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast

AwesomeCast is part of the Sorgatron Media Podcast Network:
https://www.sorgatronmedia.com

Production services provided by Sidekick Media Services:
https://www.sidekickmediaservices.com

Supporting Pittsburgh podcasting with the perfect pepperoni pizza:
https://www.sliceonbroadway.com

Katie brings a larger, easier-to-open pill organizer that solves real daily medication frustrations. Dave recommends Dell Refurbished for affordable business-class computers, and Sorg shares how Aeroplay brings NVIDIA GeForce Now streaming to Apple TV, with a few login caveats.

The crew also highlights Herman Hollerith for Disability Pride Month, reacts to Sony’s reported physical disc and digital library controversies, explores functional LEGO F1 cars, checks out Pittsburgh’s upcoming Science of Speed exhibit, watches a Waymo drive through fireworks, and discovers the surprisingly adult world of Fisher-Price Little People collector sets.

Get geeky. Get awesome.

Mad Mike gives his live perspective after WWE Raw in Chicago, including CM Punk’s title win, the Chicago crowd, and why Sami Zayn’s short championship reign still has everyone fired up. The crew debates whether Sami got screwed, whether WWE ever truly backed him as champion, and what the lack of Sami merchandise says about the company’s priorities.

The show also covers AEW Beach Break, Kenny Omega vs. MJF, the Casino Gauntlet, AAA’s WWE/TKO era, Damian Priest entering AAA, Vikingo’s injury, El Grande Americano’s massive popularity in Mexico, and whether AAA should stay one hour.

Plus: Sorgstock returns, Enjoy Wrestling and AIW Absolution previews, Top Rope Tabletop, 880 Wrestling, VCW, and a heartfelt “What We Learned” about wrestling fandom, real-life connection, ALS awareness, and stepping outside your comfort zone as a fan.

The hosts also dig into digital game ownership, GTA VI’s physical copy controversy, Nintendo-style game key cards, Sorg’s new AI video experiment “It Came From AI,” Meta and Snap’s latest smart glasses, Apple price increases tied to AI hardware demand, hand-crafted animation, Minion singing contests, and a wild pro wrestling Nintendo moment involving an NES cartridge.

Links discussed in this episode:

Rubin Observatory space camera:
https://www.space.com/astronomy/rubin-observatory-begins-filming-the-greatest-cosmic-movie-ever-beginning-a-new-era-of-astronomy
https://rubinobservatory.org/

Red Bull F1 filming drone:
https://www.instagram.com/reels/DaFPQ8pOEXN/
https://www.redbull.com/us-en/worlds-fastest-filming-drone-build

Martine Rothblatt:
https://achievement.org/achiever/martine-rothblatt-ph-d/

Chachi Says Video Game Minute:
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjrg52egw1ro
https://www.polygon.com/1000-dollar-game-steam-10-minutes-congratulations-on-your-purchase/
https://www.cbr.com/universal-five-nights-at-freddys-3-gary-dauberman-screenwriter/

It Came From AI:
https://www.instagram.com/itcamefromai/reels/

Animation by dad for child:
https://www.facebook.com/reel/3485866488230002

Meta AI glasses:
https://www.meta.com/ai-glasses/meta-glasses/

Snap AR glasses:
https://www.tomsguide.com/news/live/snap-specs-launch-live-latest-updates

Apple price increases:
https://www.cultofmac.com/news/ouch-apples-mac-and-ipad-price-hikes-brutal

Minion singing contest:
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8G67fFM/

Nintendo wrestling moment:
https://apple.news/A2iJBMG51SlKOCgHFRwk6xA

Support the show at https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast and get exclusive aftertalk content for as little as $1 a month.

AwesomeCast is part of the Sorgatron Media Podcast Network. Find more at https://sorgatronmedia.com/

The newly crowned champs explain “Fraternity Rules,” the T-Pop Drop, Mickey Morris’ role in the championship picture, and what is next for DOJ at 880 Wrestling’s No Ceilings 2. The crew also talks AEW Forbidden Door, MyAEW, WWE Night of Champions, NXT Great American Bash on The CW, AAA’s Los Perros del Mal reveal, TNA shakeups, and the Pittsburgh wrestling scene.

Plus: support Jack Pollock’s “I Want a New Hip!” benefit show by watching the full event online, sharing it, and donating via Venmo at @JPollsBeard.

Stories and gadgets discussed:

• Dave’s Awesome Thing of the Week: Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 headphones
  Dave finally upgrades from cheap running headphones to the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2, praising the open-ear / bone-conduction-style design for running safety, comfort, sweat management, USB-C charging, and situational awareness.
  Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2HKCMBP?maas=maas\_adg\_api\_582366218564361552\_static\_9\_129&ref\_=aa\_maas&tag=maas&aa\_campaignid=lv\_IGvrl5TTBxiweexlXK&aa\_adgroupid=lv\_fdLHIcjvJhpJZvQxFb&aa\_creativeid=lv\_MMLFRb8MTdZvGlnqFv&gad\_campaignid=23921418215&gbraid=0AAAABDw\_RJg26Vr6MY-sVAPsmwCxwK4mX&gclid=CjwKCAjw3ejRBhAdEiwADkqPn36qoEfzRElmQ3e9OXSxZdGKjw0DyckEdeqo82D8qqlMdTFDyLXuXhoCVn8QAvD\_BwE&th=1
• Valve opens the door to SteamOS installs on AMD PCs
  Sorg talks about Valve allowing SteamOS installs on normal PCs with AMD GPUs, giving PC gamers a way to build their own living-room Steam Machine instead of buying Valve’s new box. The conversation also touches on Steam Deck, Linux gaming, Proton, GPU costs, tariffs, and the economics of gaming hardware.
  Link: https://www.pcgamer.com/hardware/steam-machines/valve-greenlights-steamos-installs-on-normal-pcs-with-amd-gpus-so-you-can-go-make-your-own-steam-machine-if-you-dont-wanna-fork-over-usd1-049/?brid=YWdncwFV2uAIYy2jMECl21FxWfGS
• Bazzite as an open-source SteamOS-style alternative
  Sorg brings up Brother Sorg’s recommendation of Bazzite, a Linux-based gaming OS with Steam gaming mode and support for launchers like Xbox Game Pass, Battle.net, EA, Epic Games Store, GOG, Rockstar, and Ubisoft Connect.
  Link: https://bazzite.gg/
• Pride Month tech history: Jon “maddog” Hall
  Dave spotlights Jon “maddog” Hall, a major Linux and Unix figure, sharing stories about Hall’s long programming history, his connection to Linus Torvalds, and the importance of recognizing LGBTQ contributors in technology history.
  Article: https://www.lpi.org/blog/2025/09/10/a-lifetime-in-code-jon-maddog-hall-reflects-at-linuxfest-northwest/
  Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=758QuvXrttM
• Chachi Says Video Game Minute: GTA 6, Nex Playground, and Ubisoft news
  Chachi covers three gaming stories: GTA 6 cover art and pre-orders, the Nex Playground motion-based console for kids, and the death of Claude Guillemot, co-founder of Ubisoft.
  GTA 6: https://www.ign.com/articles/gta-6-cover-artwork-revealed-pre-orders-begin-june-25
  Nex Playground: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czx50rrz7zro
  Claude Guillemot: https://apnews.com/article/france-assassins-creed-ubisoft-plane-crash-2df2ea469c3fca0a45c38ae8805a6033
• Baja SAE filmed on a “gas station camera”
  Sorg highlights a low-fi, retro-looking Baja SAE reel from Fairfield University, celebrating the charm of VHS-style and “bad camera” aesthetics in modern social media content.
  Link: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DZ6BjfCtzo-/
• World Cup referee technology, digital twins, sensors, and 3D body scans
  Sorg discusses advanced soccer officiating tech, including camera sensors, player tracking, digital twins, and automated offside detection that can help reduce blown calls and give officials faster alerts.
  Link: https://apple.news/ABeSFqwyjRpehEy0x8Nc9nQ
• Ribbie turns MLB games into pixel-art broadcasts
  Dave shares Ribbie, a fan-built project that uses real-time Major League Baseball data to recreate live games as a retro 16-bit-style baseball broadcast. The conversation connects it to vibe coding, AI-assisted development, and new ways fans can build creative sports experiences.
  Link: https://techcrunch.com/2026/06/23/ribbie-turns-real-time-baseball-stats-into-arcade-like-pixel-art-broadcasts/
• Commodore phone brings retro branding to a distraction-light flip phone
  Dave and Sorg look at the Commodore phone, a Sailfish OS-based flip phone designed as a step above a dumbphone, with calls, texting, maps, music apps, Uber/Lyft, classic Commodore games, and limited/no social media access.
  Link: https://order.commodore.net/callback-audio/?brid=YWdncwHwIXnsUg8Nsyh9q\_45Lj2C
• DoorDash accidentally tags T-Pain in soccer posts
  The episode wraps with a funny social media fail where DoorDash appears to tag T-Pain instead of soccer player Tim Payne during World Cup-related posts. Sorg and Dave discuss automation, agency workflows, social scheduling, and why T-Pain’s response made the whole situation better.
  Link: https://www.instagram.com/p/DZ56tKCnedX/?brid=YWdncwG5YHkt5InxWn1IZ1Apa3Gc&img\_index=2

The crew discusses Chris LeRusso's experiences in wrestling, stories from around the industry, and the relationships that help keep independent wrestling thriving. The conversation also turns to the wrestling community coming together to support fellow wrestler Jack Pollock during his recovery.

This episode highlights Jack Pollock’s “I Want a New Hip!” benefit show, supporting Jack during his hip replacement recovery. Fans can attend or watch the event, participate in raffles, purchase benefit merchandise, and donate to help Jack while he is unable to work.

Topics Discussed
Chris LeRusso joins Wrestling Mayhem Show
The Pittsburgh independent wrestling scene
Building and maintaining a wrestling career
Memorable experiences from independent wrestling
The value of community within professional wrestling
Jack Pollock’s “I Want a New Hip!” benefit show
Ways fans can support Jack Pollock during recovery
The wrestling community rallying around one of its own
What We Learned
Longevity in wrestling comes from relationships, adaptability, and passion.
Independent wrestling succeeds when communities support one another.
Veterans like Chris LeRusso continue to play an important role in mentoring and strengthening local wrestling scenes.
Wrestling fans consistently show up to support performers both inside and outside the ring.

The crew spends much of the episode unpacking AAA’s Mask vs. Mask match and the unexpected rise of Chad Gable through the El Grande Americano story. What started as a strange masked character has become one of the most exciting wrestling stories of the year, leading to a debate over whether WWE should immediately elevate Gable into a major championship program.

The conversation also covers WWE’s international shows, Clash in Italy, the future of Brock Lesnar and Oba Femi, and possible King and Queen of the Ring outcomes. Chelsea Green gets strong support as a potential Queen of the Ring winner.

Sorg also praises AEW Double or Nothing, especially Stadium Stampede, Okada vs. Takeshita, and Lio Rush’s new character direction. Mad Mike celebrates Lucha Underground returning to YouTube, while the crew reflects on why lucha storytelling still feels so special.

The episode wraps with “What We Learned,” including Sorg’s production tip for indie wrestlers: buy a simple wireless lapel mic and make your promo audio better.

The crew celebrates May 19, the 20th anniversary of WWE’s See No Evil, with Some Guy Named John delivering an increasingly detailed breakdown of Kane’s horror movie legacy. Rizz celebrates becoming an elected official, Mad Mike shows off wrestling collectibles, and the conversation spirals through WWE Films, NXT on YouTube, Saturday Night’s Main Event, AEW Double or Nothing, 880 Wrestling, RWA, VCW, and more.

Breakdown:
Rizz wins election day
Rizz talks about seeing his real name on the ballot.
The crew jokes about wrestling, politics, campaign speeches, and Kane also being a politician.
May 19 and WWE’s See No Evil
Some Guy Named John celebrates the 20th anniversary of See No Evil.
The crew discusses Kane as Jacob Goodnight, the film’s strange WWE marketing tie-ins, the May 19 angle, and the movie’s budget and box office.
Later, they dive into See No Evil 2, the Soska Sisters, horror movie logic, and WWE Films history.
WWE movie universe chaos
Discussion includes The Marine, Countdown, Legendary, That’s What I Am, WWE’s direct-to-video era, and the wild concept of WWE wrestlers as secret agents.
The crew jokes about turning WWE’s old novel Big Apple Takedown into a TV series.
UpUpDownDown Uno nostalgia
Mad Mike shows off a sealed UpUpDownDown Uno deck.
The group remembers Xavier Woods / Austin Creed, pandemic-era Uno content, and WWE YouTube culture.
WWE and NXT discussion
Eosky and EVIL’s wedding comes up.
The crew discusses EVIL’s NXT name change and how WWE handles renamed international stars.
Sorg shares that full NXT episodes are available through CW Sports on YouTube.
Saturday Night’s Main Event preview
The crew runs through the card, including Penta, Ethan Page, Becky Lynch, Sol Ruca, women’s tag title action, and more.
They joke about Penta being the poster boy and world champions skipping Fort Wayne, Indiana.
AEW Double or Nothing / Owen Hart Tournament
The hosts preview AEW’s tournament brackets.
They discuss Will Ospreay, Samoa Joe, Swerve Strickland, Bandido, Claudio, Brody King, Willow, Athena, Mina Shirakawa, and more.
Athena’s long championship reign is highlighted.
Some Guy Named John and Leaders By Example
John explains how Gianni Michael Emricko was “absorbed” into Leaders By Example.
He breaks down the group’s contract logic, ownership of Gianni’s music and robes, and Gianni’s suspension.
The new unpaid intern Mitch is praised as a better fit for the group.
880 Wrestling storylines
The episode previews the ongoing Leaders By Example drama at 880 Wrestling.
John discusses CPA, taxes, unsafe spaces, and why his friends do not pay taxes.
The crew plugs a big indie wrestling weekend across 880, RWA, and VCW.
RWA Regional Championship controversy
John claims that he and Clayton King are collectively the RWA Regional Champion.
He insists he did not interfere physically and says Leaders By Example are the true heroes of RWA.
Gorgeous Gregory’s upcoming title opportunity is discussed.
VCW tag title opportunity
John talks about Clayton King being robbed of the VCW Championship.
Leaders By Example now aim for the VCW Tag Team Titles against White Trash Wilderness.
Point Park wrestling chaos
John discusses invading Austin Karnes’ live podcast event at Point Park.
Casey and a mascot get involved, and John threatens to investigate future wrestling events on campus.
What We Learned
Some Guy Named John wants to have a sing-off match.
The chat learns that Mason Rook’s NXT theme is the same music Mason Ryan had in WWE ’12.
Mad Mike learned that See No Evil has a surprisingly deep production history.
The group reflects on the value of weekly independent wrestling and how 880 Wrestling continues to happen through sheer love of the game.

This week, Sorg dives into the new Dungeon Crawler Carl graphic novel release and how the series has become a multi-format obsession across audiobooks, print books, Webtoon, and comics.

Dave shares Dazz Cam, a retro iPhone camera app that recreates vintage film, disposable camera, VHS, and analog looks for photos and video.

They also spotlight Ajay Bhatt for AAPI Heritage Month, recognizing his role leading Intel’s USB development team and how USB changed everyday computing.

Stories and Gadgets Discussed
Dungeon Crawler Carl graphic novel
Sorg talks about the physical release of the Dungeon Crawler Carl comic/graphic novel and how it compares to the Webtoon, audiobooks, and print editions.
Link: https://amzn.to/4dy0nfR
Dazz Cam retro iPhone camera app
Dave highlights Dazz Cam, an iPhone app that simulates vintage cameras, film looks, VHS-style video, borders, and analog-style photos.
Link: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dazz-cam-vintage-camera/id1422471180
Ajay Bhatt and the invention of USB
For AAPI Heritage Month, Dave discusses Ajay Bhatt, who helped lead the Intel team behind USB and made modern plug-and-play devices possible.
Link: https://news.sparkfun.com/6774
Apple accessibility features for iOS 27
Dave covers Apple’s upcoming accessibility features powered by Apple Intelligence, including visual intelligence-style phone assistance, live captions, better voice control, and accessibility hardware support.
Link: https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/05/apple-unveils-new-accessibility-features-and-updates-with-apple-intelligence/
Google I/O 2026 and agentic AI
Sorg and Dave discuss Google I/O’s heavy focus on AI agents, Gemini, AI-powered search, Workspace tools, shopping/cart assistance, Android XR, and smart glasses.
Links:
https://9to5google.com/2026/05/19/google-io-2026-news/
https://www.theverge.com/tech/933415/google-io-2026-biggest-announcements-ai-gemini
Transformers: The Movie Apology Tour
Sorg gets nostalgic about the 1986 Transformers movie, the Optimus Prime trauma, the 40th anniversary re-release, soundtrack editions, vinyl, and pink cassette release.
Links:
https://www.bigbadtoystore.com/product/transformers-movie-soundtrack-reformatted-edition-bbts-exclusive-hot-rod-red-vinyl-lp-189634
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1506127744310466&set=pcb.1506127774310463
Fortnite returns to iOS
Dave notes that Fortnite is back on the iOS App Store around much of the world after years of legal battles.
Link: https://www.epicgames.com/site/news/fortnite-is-back-on-the-app-store-around-the-world-as-the-final-battle-approaches
Chachi Says Video Game Minute
Chachi covers GameStop’s failed eBay offer, Amazon canceling its Lord of the Rings MMO, and Dodi Repacks stepping back from piracy.

The crew breaks down WWE Backlash, Asuka’s possible farewell, Danhausen and Minihausen’s breakout WWE moment, Lil Yachty’s surprisingly great wrestling energy, the John Cena Classic announcement, WWE/TKO roster cuts, creator reaction-stream takedowns, and AEW’s golf course wrestling experiment with Darby Allin and PAC.

Liberty L also talks about her post-title run in 880 Wrestling, working with RWA and Enjoy Wrestling, betting on herself, and the rise of powerhouse women in wrestling.

Plus: Pittsburgh Marathon stories, Dungeon Crawler Carl audiobook talk, Chachi’s Video Game Minute, and why Fortnite might secretly be every game now.

Support AwesomeCast at patreon.com/awesomecast.

They dig into the good, the weird, and the frustrating parts of WrestleMania weekend, including Danhausen’s buzzworthy appearance, the growing frustration over ESPN commercial breaks, the rising cost and complexity of keeping up with WWE across multiple platforms, and whether the WrestleMania experience feels less fan-friendly than it did five or ten years ago.

George also shares firsthand stories from the indie side of WrestleMania week, including bizarre gimmick matches, Sandman’s chaotic final match appearance, touring with JCW, and the kind of surreal moments that only happen during Mania weekend. The crew also talks about intrusive fan behavior around wrestlers in public, why boundaries matter more than ever, and what this all says about modern wrestling fandom.

Plus, the gang closes out with a memorable What We Learned segment touching on Vegas, Roman Reigns, Corey Graves, and more wrestling absurdity.

The crew also talks WrestleMania build, WWE’s ESPN strategy, Trick Williams’ momentum, the surprising appeal of Oba Femi vs. Brock, and why AAA has become such a fun watch lately. Along the way, there is classic Mayhem energy: jokes about episode 1000, Roman numeral math, Department of Jocks hazing, commentary on branding the new live events, and plenty of appreciation for everyone who helped turn the April Fools concept into a real wrestling show.  

Sorg and Podnar open with one of the week’s best feel-good tech stories: Artemis 2 made it home successfully, and Dave shares the unexpectedly charming story of the mission mascot RISE. In a week that needed some good news, the conversation lands on something larger than space hardware alone. This was about optimism, engineering, and a rare moment of collective excitement. 

Then the show pivots back to Earth with the kind of story that feels custom-made for AwesomeCast: yes, someone got early Mac OS X running on a Nintendo Wii. It is not practical. It is not necessary. It is absolutely wonderful. That same spirit carries into Sorg’s hands-on experiment with Mythic, a tool aimed at helping M-series Mac users access Windows games through the Epic ecosystem. The conversation explores how much better Apple Silicon has become for compatibility, even if some rough edges still show up in real-world testing. 

A big chunk of the episode also digs into Amazon Luna’s latest changes. Sorg reacts to the platform ending game purchases and outside store access, and the discussion quickly becomes about more than Luna itself. It becomes a conversation about trust in digital platforms, cloud gaming ownership, and what happens when convenience gets taken away after users have already bought in. It is one of the sharpest segments in the episode because it blends personal use with a bigger industry trend. 

There is also a lighter side this week. Dave shares The Weather Channel’s retro weather experience, which sends both hosts into a funny and surprisingly thoughtful conversation about the old cable era, nostalgic interfaces, and how channels drift from their original purpose. On the more practical side, they also touch on Overcast’s new transcript support and Waymo’s plan to help cities identify potholes using vehicle data. That latter topic turns into a very Pittsburgh-flavored discussion about 311 systems, local government tech, and whether cities are really taking advantage of the tools they have.

Finally, Dave closes with his Arab American History Month spotlight on Tony Fadell, best known for his work on the iPod and Nest. It is a fitting end to an episode that is really about the many layers of tech: breakthrough engineering, strange experimentation, product design, infrastructure, nostalgia, and how all of it shapes everyday life.  Links from this episode:

Artemis / RISE: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/artemis/how-artemis-2-commander-reid-wiseman-saved-the-missions-moon-mascot-its-hard-not-to-love-this-little-guy-i-cant-let-rise-out-of-my-sight

macOS on Wii: https://apple.news/AJdU3eghQT2-jfhrGvzI2_g

Mythic: https://getmythic.app/

Amazon Luna: https://www.ign.com/articles/amazon-luna-will-no-longer-allow-owners-to-buy-games-access-game-stores-or-third-party-subscriptions-starting-today?utm_campaign=trueAnthem%3A+Manual&utm_medium=trueAnthem&utm_source=facebook

Amazon Luna alt link: https://apple.news/A2cb25SwgQX-AuvSPHdRsHw

Waymo potholes: https://apple.news/AnxW6o9QWQJOcCGLqCsW6XQ

Overcast transcripts: https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/08/overcast-launches-podcast-transcripts-in-new-app-update-for-iphone/

Retro Weather Channel: https://weather.com/retro/

Tony Fadell: https://design.mit.edu/community/people/tony-fadell

Subscribe for more tech talk from Pittsburgh and support the show at Patreon.

This week, Sorg and Mad Mike are joined by The Unwilting Tatiana and Shotgun Adams to preview the upcoming Wrestling Mayhem Show Presents April Fools event. If you were expecting a calm, straightforward card rundown, you may be in the wrong place. This episode is full Mayhem energy in the best way possible.

Tatiana talks about stepping back into the Top Rope Tabletop Match Part 2, reflecting on the first match where, as she puts it, “everybody died,” and teasing a new strategy for the D&D-inspired madness. There’s a lot of talk about spells, chaos, and the challenge of facing people you actually like once wrestling gets involved. Meanwhile, Shotgun Adams brings a completely different kind of energy as he prepares to face MV Young in a match built around one of Pittsburgh’s most sacred and ridiculous traditions: the parking chair. Or, depending on who you ask, a totally fake concept that should not exist.

Beyond the April Fools card, the conversation branches into WWE and wrestling culture more broadly. Mad Mike shares his experience attending Monday Night Raw at Madison Square Garden, including the huge atmosphere, Stephanie McMahon’s appearance, and a crowd reaction for Oba Femi that felt impossible to ignore. The crew also gets into a lively debate about celebrity involvement in wrestling, whether WWE is leaning too hard into streamers and crossover stars, and what that means compared to promotions where the in-ring product stays front and center.

There’s also plenty of wrestling lifestyle talk along the way. Mike reviews the Squared Circle Cafe in New York City, the panel swaps karaoke stories, and everyone reflects on the changing shape of WrestleMania week and indie wrestling’s place around it. Like the best Mayhem Show episodes, it’s part analysis, part comedy, part event hype, and completely driven by a shared love of wrestling in all its forms.

If this episode proves anything, it’s that April Fools is not just another wrestling card. It’s a show built around the particular sense of humor, creativity, and controlled nonsense that the Wrestling Mayhem Show has always embraced. And if this is the energy heading into 1000, the milestone episode is going to hit even harder.

Sorg, Katie, and Dave Podnar kick things off with their Awesome Things of the Week, and the lineup is wonderfully varied. Dave looks ahead to Artemis II, the upcoming crewed moon mission that will send astronauts beyond low Earth orbit for the first time in decades. The conversation covers how the mission works, why the far side of the moon still creates communication challenges, and why “just rebuilding Apollo” is not nearly as simple as some people assume.

Katie’s pick is much closer to home, at least for Pittsburghers: Heinz Verified. The new site helps users find restaurants that serve Heinz ketchup, making it both practical and hilarious for anyone who has ever been personally offended by mystery catsup in a diner bottle. The crew immediately starts checking cities they’ll be traveling to and appreciates that users can nominate restaurants for inclusion.

Sorg’s pick highlights Chachi’s 3D-printing Etsy shop, Plastic Fun Time. From the now-famous bag of Fs to the Rock Lobster and other fun prints, it’s a cool look at somebody taking a maker hobby and turning it into a real side business. It also turns into a broader appreciation for creative small-scale production and clever product design.

The middle of the episode gets more serious with a discussion around a Stanford study on AI chatbot advice. Katie explains how researchers tested large language models against stories from the “Am I the Asshole?” subreddit and found that chatbots often validated problematic behavior more than humans did. That opens the door to a bigger conversation about AI agreeability, emotional dependency, digital literacy, and what it means when people begin treating chatbots like close confidants instead of tools.

The AI thread continues with What’s Up With That, a browser extension built to help readers analyze articles, pull out new signals, simplify jargon, and better connect ideas across sources. For anyone doing research-heavy work, the crew sees real promise in the concept.

On the creative side, Dave shares Adobe Illustrator’s Project Turntable, which can rotate 2D vector art in 3D space. That sparks a discussion about animation workflows, creative accessibility, and the kinds of production bottlenecks tools like this might reduce.

The episode also finds time for ChannelSurfer.tv, a retro-TV style interface for YouTube, plus a look at Apple’s TikTok presence, where the company seems to be leaning into a Finder-inspired mascot to help explain macOS features in a more playful way.

Dave also wraps up Women’s History Month by spotlighting several women who shaped space science, leading to a thoughtful discussion about visibility, representation, and why stories like these matter.

And then, in true AwesomeCast fashion, the crew ends up hyped about LEGO Zelda sets, including Ocarina of Time: The Final Battle and the Great Deku Tree, prompting nostalgia, sticker shock, and renewed debate over whether Sorg finally needs to properly play Ocarina of Time.

If you like your tech podcasts with equal parts curiosity, commentary, and chaos, this is a great episode.

Links from this episode
Chachi’s Etsy shop / Plastic Fun Time
https://www.etsy.com/shop/plasticfuntime/?etsrc=sdt
Heinz Verified
https://www.heinz.com/heinzverified
Artemis II launch article
https://www.wired.com/story/artemis-ii-countdown-how-and-when-to-watch-the-launch-of-the-manned-mission-to-the-moon/
Women who shaped our understanding of space
https://womenshistory.si.edu/blog/five-women-who-shaped-our-understanding-space
Channel Surfer
https://channelsurfer.tv/?ch=14
What’s Up With That
https://whatsupwiththat.app/practice/
Adobe Illustrator Project Turntable article
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/30/adobe-illustrator-now-lets-you-rotate-2d-vectors-in-3d-space/
Apple on TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@apple?_r=1&_t=ZP-959iBFWcaSN
LEGO Ocarina of Time: The Final Battle
https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/ocarina-of-time-the-final-battle-77093?cmp=PSO-FBIG-AMS-EN-RE-PO-LPV-LR_EXCLUSIVE_PRODUCT_LAUNCH-SHOP-HA-LkAd-PRS-Always_On-GAMINGZ_P&utm_campaign=120242713322920054&utm_content=120245958217060054&utm_id=120242713322920054&utm_medium=paid&utm_source=fb&utm_term=120242713322930054
LEGO Great Deku Tree 2-in-1
https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/great-deku-tree-2-in-1-77092

First, the crew breaks down the weekend’s big talking points coming out of Elimination Chamber, including match reactions, what’s clicking (and what isn’t) on the road to WrestleMania, and how quickly the conversation shifts when a certain very-evil, very-nice wildcard shows up. Danhausen’s debut sparks debate about crowd reactions vs. internet reactions, plus what WWE can do with him now that he’s officially in the mix. 

From there, the show bounces through the wider wrestling world: AEW chatter (including the crew’s love of social-media moments and crowd chants), AAA’s Rey de Reyes sword lore, and plenty of classic Mayhem tangents—including the important hard-hitting question of the week: what is the most hardcore ice cream? 

Then Referee George Ross takes us inside his recent weekends in the trenches, including a deep dive into the world of CZW—from the 27th anniversary weekend and ultraviolence chaos, to why the company’s venue/schedule momentum feels genuinely exciting again (including the brewery “black light” shows). 

The episode closes with a full “What We Learned” round—covering Danhausen-related life lessons, why you shouldn’t judge a two-minute moment before the follow-up, and Sorg’s backstage notes from New Japan Pro Wrestling work (yes, including the “New Japan is a slumber party” theory). 

In Team Warr: Allison & KC Warr, celebrating nine years (and their first-date-iversary is today) and proudly proving that yes, Tinder can work.

In Team Bearcat: Karielle & Keith Haught, together for over a decade, married for two years, and bonded through pro wrestling (and a first date at Steak ’n Shake).

The rules are simple: answer in secret, guess your partner’s answer, and try not to start a “hard conversation” on the drive home. The questions? Wrestling-coded, slightly unhinged, and frequently… whoopee-adjacent.

Topics include WWE’s streaming-first presentation, the growing importance of short-form highlights, and the impact fewer house shows have on wrestler development and the industry as a whole.

The show features a special guest appearance by recently retired “The Gavel” David Lawless, who reflects on his career, memorable moments, and the role adaptability and reliability played in his longevity.

The episode closes with What We Learned, connecting industry trends with personal lessons from a life in wrestling.

Listen now at www.wrestlingmayhemshow.com

One issue with supersonic air travel is the sonic boom. This X plane is trying to minimize that We talked with one of the guys working on it at Aero Design! https://www.tiktok.com/@sae_universityprograms/video/7226713920218746154 NASA's sci-fi-looking X-59 'quiet' supersonic jet roll out of the hangar https://www.space.com/nasa-x-59-quiet-supersonic-jet-hangar-video

iOS 17 Updates to CarPlay sharing and Visual Voicemail Previewhttps://9to5mac.com/2023/06/30/ios-17-carplay-apple-music-shareplay/#:~:text=The%20process%20of%20initiating%20a,that%20other%20people%20can%20scan

https://9to5mac.com/2023/07/15/iphone-live-voicemail-how-to-use-turn-off-on/

Open sourcing AudioCraft: Generative AI for audio made simple and available to allhttps://ai.meta.com/blog/audiocraft-musicgen-audiogen-encodec-generative-ai-audio/

Sorg has access to Beeper: an all in one messaging service (like Trillian! https://www.beeper.com/

Sorg is on Blue Sky and it feels like twitter! When no one was on yet . https://bsky.app/profile/sorgatron.bsky.social

GM’s Ultium-based EVs will be able to power your home by 2026 https://techcrunch.com/2023/08/08/gms-ultium-evs-v2h-bidirectional-charging/

Premiere Pro has a transcript optionhttps://helpx.adobe.com/premiere-pro/using/speech-to-text.html

What is keeping some industries like banking and health to dig into AI?

Sorg just got an offer for the Whistle pet tracker. https://www.whistle.com/

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We're winding down to our year-end episode, but before we get to the year in review, Sorg and Chilla are sharing some of the week's tech news, including:

• Chilla is sharing his pleas for NASA to save Tony Stark as his Awesome Thing of the Week.
• Sorg's Awesome Thing of the Week is how Doug Engelbart predicted the future - 50 years ago.
• The Huawei finance chief was arrested in Canada.
• Our friend Brian likes experimenting with tech in his bathroom, and he found a solution for his Echo Dot.
• It seems like it's been forever, but Apple Watch has an ECG app for heart rhythm notifications.
• The recent Giphy update integrates TrueDepth camera and a universal keyboard.
• There's a live action MarioKart race in Florida?!?!
• There's a hipster nativity, and Sorg approves.
• How about a VR experience of Van Gogh's Starry Night?
• Marvel Alliance has a Nintendo Switch exclusive.
• Street Fighter will display in-game advertising.
• Sorg saw some advertising that worked to get his attention for the RETRO Color 8-bit iPhone case.
• The Fire/Echo device is having a fire sale. *badum tss*
• John Romero gifts Doom 18 new levels for its 25th birthday.

After the show remember to:

Eat at Slice on Broadway (@Pgh_Slice) if you are in the Pittsburgh area! It is Awesome! (sliceonbroadway.com)

Check out our sponsors as a part of YaJagoff’s HOLLA-day Gift Guide:

• Pittsburgh Things Pittsburgh themed apparel n’at.
• Core Life Eatery at the Block at Northway on McKnight Rd
• Sprezzatura creates and serves heritage-inspired cooking for events and the public.

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Have you seen our AwesomeTips videos?

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Remember to check out our friends at the River’s Edge (@RiversEdgePGH) and The 405 Media (@The405Radio) who replay the show on their stream throughout the week!

Also, check out sorgatronmedia.com and awesomecast.com for more entertainment; and view us livestreaming Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST

Chilla is on vacation this week, so we replaced him with our OTHER tech guru from Big Bank International! Krause, Katie, and Sorg are talking this week in tech, including:

Krause is sharing Android Pie as his Awesome Thing of the Week.
Pie is working well to help balance work and home life.
Katie is sharing a VR interview with the Ninja Turtles as her Awesome Thing of the Week.
Sorg is getting REALLY excited about the interactive games at the movie theater.
Speaking of movies…Sorg has been having some woes over MoviePass. So, he upgraded to the AMC A-List. AND, IT WORKS!
Quake Champions is free to play!
Mario Kart is coming to your mobile device in 2019.
Sorg loves all of the PokemonGO gifts he’s getting – so much that he just upgraded his bag.
Nintendo Switch’s online service is set to launch in September – and the price can’t be beat.
Nintendo Switch is also getting a dedicated battery pack designed by Anker – and they’re usable for your phone, too.
The Parker Solar Probe is the fastest human-made object, and we’re sending it to the sun!
Fortnite is now available on non-Samsung Android devices.
Pro Tip: Be careful about installing third party apps to your Android devices.
Katie got to hang out with Facebook last week.
Katie is really excited about Instagram tips and tricks she learned.
Krause is dropping some Samsung DeX knowledge on us.

After the show remember to:

Eat at Slice on Broadway (@Pgh_Slice) if you are in the Pittsburgh area! It is Awesome! (sliceonbroadway.com)

Want to be part of our studio audience? Hit us up at awesomecast@sorgatronmedia.com and we’ll save you a seat!

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!

Follow these awesome people on Twitter: Katie (@Kdudders), Chilla (@chilla) and Sorg (@Sorgatron)

Have you seen our AwesomeTips videos?

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Remember to check out our friends at the River’s Edge (@RiversEdgePGH) and The 405 Media (@The405Radio) who replay the show on their stream throughout the week!

Also, check out sorgatronmedia.com and awesomecast.com for more entertainment; and view us livestreaming Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST!

Follow Basic Sorganomics on Facebook, Youtube, Google Music, Spreaker, iTunes, Stitcheror TalkShoe, or subscribe to the Sorgatron Media Master Feed on Stitcher and iTunes. Need more help? Find out more about our business services at Sidekick Media Services!

Follow Basic Sorganomics on Facebook, Youtube, Google Music, Spreaker, iTunes, Stitcheror TalkShoe, or subscribe to the Sorgatron Media Master Feed on Stitcher and iTunes. Need more help? Find out more about our business services at Sidekick Media Services!