S1E1: Animal Control

Animal Control is a workplace sitcom that premiered on FOX in 2023. The series follows a specialized squad of Seattle-based officers whose jobs are complicated by the fact that the animals they rescue are often less erratic than the humans they assist. Starring Joel McHale as Frank Shaw, a sarcastic former cop. The show uses his encyclopedic knowledge of wildlife as a comedic foil to his social friction. The tone is a blend of sharp, modern workplace banter and the broad, physical comedy of wrangling exotic creatures in urban environments. Critics have praised Animal Control for its breezy ensemble energy and McHale’s reliable deadpan delivery. By centering on the "creature of the week" the show provides a fresh hook for the traditional network format. While it leans into the absurdity of its premise, the chemistry between the diverse cast of officers keeps the show grounded in relatable workplace dynamics. Is this show a Rare Specimen or is it just Total Roadkill? Listen as the S1E1 boys deep dive the pilot episode, "Weasels and Ostriches," and find out. Starring: Joel McHale, Vella Lovell, Michael Rowland, Ravi V. Patel, Grace Palmer, Kelli Ogmundson, & Gerry Dee www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

The Adventures of Pete & Pete is a surrealist masterpiece of 90s television that aired on Nickelodeon from 1993 to 1996. The series follows the lives of two brothers both named Pete. The show transformed mundane childhood struggles into epic, cinematic battles against the "International Adult Conspiracy". The world of their hometown of Wellsville was populated by characters like Artie, the Strongest Man in the World. The show is widely considered one of the greatest children’s programs ever produced, praised for its writing and indie-rock sensibility, famously exemplified by the house band, Polaris. Critics lauded Pete & Pete's ability to balance humor with deep insights into the fleeting nature of childhood. Will nostalgia take over when the S1E1 boys deep dive the show's first full-length episode, "The King of the Road"? Listen and find out. Starring: Michael Maronna, Danny Tamberelli, Alison Fanelli, Hardy Rawls, Judy Grafe, Toby Huss, & Geoff Pierson www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

"Raising Hope" is a sitcom that aired on FOX from 2010 to 2014. Created by Greg Garcia of My Name Is Earl fame, the series follows 23-year-old Jimmy Chance, a well-meaning but aimless pool cleaner living with his parents. His life is turned upside down after a one-night stand with a wanted felon results in a baby girl named Hope. When the mother is sent to the electric chair, Jimmy decides to raise the child, relying on the reluctant and unorthodox help of his parents. Critics and audiences embraced "Raising Hope" for its rare ability to blend absurdist, often crude humor with a surprising amount of genuine heart. The series was lauded for its sharp writing and a powerhouse ensemble cast. Despite never becoming a mainstream heavy hitter, it earned multiple Emmy nominations and a dedicated fan. Listen as the S1E1 boys deep dive the show's pilot episode to see if this is one worth raising or better off abandoned at the fire station. Starring: Lucas Neff, Martha Plimpton, Garret Dillahunt, Shannon Woodward, Skyler Stone, Gregg Binkley, Cloris Leachman, & Bijou Phillips www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

"Stumble" is a mockumentary-style workplace comedy that premiered on NBC in November 2025. The series follows Courteney Potter (Jenn Lyon), a high-octane, fourteen-time national champion cheerleading coach whose career at a prestigious college ends abruptly after a viral scandal involving a team party. To salvage her reputation and chase a record-breaking fifteenth title, Courteney takes the only job she can find: a dual role as a typing instructor and head cheer coach at the obscure and cash-strapped Heådlston State Junior College. Critics have praised the series for its sharp, deadpan writing and the authentic chemistry between its ensemble cast. While the format is familiar territory for NBC, reviewers highlighted the show’s ability to find sincerity in the absurdity of competitive cheerleading. Despite concerns about its niche subject matter, the series has carved out a loyal following for its blend of small-town heart and biting sports satire. Will "Stumble" stick the landing or is the squad is destined to fall flat? Listen as the S1E1 boys deep dive the show’s pilot episode. Starring: Jenn Lyon, Taran Killam, Anissa Borrego, Jarrett Austin Brown, Arianna Davis, Taylor Dunbar, Georgie Murphy, Ryan Pinkston, & Kristin Chenoweth www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

Buddies is a short-lived sitcom that aired on ABC in 1996, serving as a direct spin-off of the massive hit Home Improvement. The series followed Dave (Dave Chappelle) and John (Christopher Gartin), two best friends and business partners trying to get their video production company off the ground in Chicago. The series is often remembered more for its behind-the-scenes drama than its on-air run, specifically the controversial casting change that saw Jim Breuer replaced by Christopher Gartin just before filming began. Despite Chappelle's obvious star power, the lack of authentic rapport and a shifting time slot led to its cancellation after only five episodes. As result Breuer's removal will forever be linked to the lack of success the show found. Despite Buddies' short run is there enough here to earn a green-light from the S1E1 boys? Listen as they deep dive the show's first episode, "Lights, Camera, Yuck!" and find out. Starring: Dave Chappelle, Christopher Gartin, Paula Cale, Tanya Wright, Richard Roundtree, Judith Ivey, & Amy Hill www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

Quick Draw is a Western comedy that premiered on Hulu in 2013. The show follows Sheriff John Henry Hoyle (John Lehr), a recent Harvard graduate who attempts to bring the "cutting-edge" science of forensics to the Wild West. The show’s most distinctive feature was its largely improvised dialogue, which gave the historical setting a fast-paced, modern, and often absurdist comedic energy. Critics and viewers praised Quick Draw for its fresh take on the Western genre. While it never reached massive mainstream heights, it garnered a loyal cult following over its two-season run for its blend of slapstick and historical parody. Will the S1E1 boy find Quick Draw to be a real sharpshooter or a just a dud? Listen as they deep dive the show's pilot episode, "Murder at the Webb Ranch," to find out. Starring: John Lehr, Nick Brown, Allison Dunbar, Bob Clendenin, Tasha Ames, Michael Anastasia, & Brian O'Connor www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

The Sinbad Show is a sitcom that aired on FOX from 1993 to 1994, during the height of the titular comedian’s stand-up fame. The series centers on David Bryan (Sinbad), a carefree bachelor who must trade his lifestyle for the responsibilities of fatherhood after he adopts two orphaned siblings. The show’s DNA was built on Sinbad’s high-energy storytelling to navigate the hurdles of modern parenting and urban single-parent dynamics. Despite Sinbad's massive popularity and a time slot following The Simpsons, The Sinbad Show struggled to find a consistent tone, with critics noting that the "cute kid" tropes often clashed with the star's boisterous comedic persona. The series was ultimately canceled after just one season as part of a controversial programming shift at FOX. Is this show going to be a forgotten gem or is it just a sin how bad it is? Listen as they deep dive the show's pilot episode and find out. Starring: Sinbad, T.K. Carter, Erin Davis, Willie Norwood (Ray J), Lorraine Toussaint, & Salma Hayek www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

The Beverly Hillbillies is a landmark television sitcom that aired on CBS from 1962 to 1971. The series follows the Clampett family who find themselves overnight millionaires after oil is discovered on their property. With their newfound wealth the family decides to uproot themselves and head to Beverly Hills. The humor stems from the constant cultural clash between the Clampetts' backwoods simplicity and the superficiality of their high-society neighbors. Despite being panned by critics of the era for its lowbrow humor, The Beverly Hillbillies was a massive ratings juggernaut, holding the No. 1 spot for its first two seasons. Is this show going to be "Black Gold" or just "Texas Tea" with the boys? Listen as they deep dive the show's pilot episode, "The Clampetts Strike Oil," and find out. Starring: Buddy Ebsen, Irene Ryan, Donna Douglas, Max Baer Jr., Bea Benaderet, Raymond Bailey, Nancy Kulp, & Frank Wilcox www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

Going Dutch is a comedy that premiered on FOX in January 2025. Starring Denis Leary as the loudmouthed and arrogant U.S. Army Colonel Patrick Quinn, who finds himself reassigned to a remote base in the Netherlands after his General hears an unfiltered rant at his expense. Far from the war zones of his past, Quinn is punished with a command position at the "least important Army base in the world", which happens to be led by his estranged daughter, Captain Maggie Quinn (Taylor Misiak). Critics and audiences greeted Going Dutch as a sharp, satirical take on military bureaucracy that successfully weaponizes Leary’s signature "cranky charmer" persona. Reviews highlighted the strong comedic chemistry between the lead trio, particularly Danny Pudi as Quinn’s dry-witted executive officer, Major Abraham Shah. Is this show going to be more "Army Strong" or just "Base-ic" with the boys? Listen as they deep dive the show’s pilot episode and find out if this deployment is worth the tour of duty. Starring: Denis Leary, Taylor Misiak, Danny Pudi, Laci Mosley, Hal Cumpston, Catherine Tate, Joe Morton, Dempsey Bryk, & Arnmundur Ernst Björnsson www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

D.C. Follies was a syndicated comedy series that ran from 1987 to 1989 that was created by Sid and Marty Krofft. The show featured puppet caricatures of real-life celebrities and politicians, spending their free time hanging out at a bar. Unlike traditional sitcoms, the series relied on things like topical humor and musical numbers, with human celebrity guests occasionally interacting with the puppet cast. The series was one of the more unusual entries in late-’80s television, arriving at a time when political comedy was far less saturated than it is today. Critics were divided. Some appreciated the bold absurdity of turning some of Hollywood's elite into felt-faced vaudeville acts, while others felt the satire was broad and hit-or-miss. Still, D.C. Follies developed a cult following and even earned an Emmy Award during its run. Is this right up the S1E1 boy's alley or will the references be too dated? Listen as they deep dive the show's first episode, "Reagan Parachutes Into D.C. Follies". Starring: Fred Willard, Martin Mull, & The Krofft Puppets www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD