S1E1: The Goldbergs

“Hank” was a sitcom that premiered in 2009 on ABC. The show starred Kelsey Grammer as Hank Pryor, a CEO whose lavish lifestyle comes crashing down after he loses his job and is forced to leave Manhattan behind for the small town of River Bend, Virginia. There he attempts to reconnect with his wife, kids, and a more grounded way of life. The series leaned heavily into the classic fish-out-of-water sitcom formula, mixing culture clash comedy with recession-era themes and Grammer’s trademark snobbish charm. Critics were far less enthusiastic about Hank than ABC had hoped. Many reviews criticized the series for feeling dated and overly formulaic, especially compared to fresher single-camera comedies debuting around the same time. Ratings steadily declined after the premiere, and ABC canceled the series after airing just five episodes. Was this just an old-school sitcom released at the wrong time, or was ABC right to cut its losses? Listen as the S1E1 boys deep dive the pilot episode and find out. Starring: Kelsey Grammer, Melinda McGraw, Jordan Hinson, Nathan Gamble, & David Koechner www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

The Goldbergs was an ABC sitcom that aired from 2013-2023. The show was based on the childhood of show creator, Adam F. Goldberg. Equal parts family comedy and time capsule, The Goldbergs packed nearly every episode with references to ’80s movies, music, trends, and the kind of parenting style that probably wouldn’t survive today. Critics and audiences embraced the series for its mix of heart and nostalgia, helping it become one of ABC’s longest-running modern sitcoms. The fans connected with Adam’s real home videos that inspired many storylines. How will the S1E1 boys feel about this one? Listen as they deep dive The Goldbergs pilot episode, "The Circle of Driving" to find out if nostalgia can only carry you so far. Starring: Wendi McLendon-Covey, Sean Giambrone, Troy Gentile, Hayley Orrantia, Jeff Garlin, & George Segal www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

"Where I Live" is a sitcom that aired on ABC's TGIF block in 1993. The series follows Doug (Doug E. Doug), a Trinidadian-American teenager navigating life in Harlem alongside his best friends Reggie (Flex Alexander) and Malcolm (Shaun Baker). Inspired by Doug E. Doug’s own upbringing, the show navigates school, family expectations, and the everyday chaos of city life, with laid-back humor that gave the show a distinctly authentic personality. Critics praised Where I Live for its authentic voice and realistic portrayal of urban teenage life. While the series struggled in the ratings and was short-lived, it earned respect for tackling real issues without losing its humor. Is this forgotten TGIF gem a hidden classic or just another sitcom lost in the shuffle of the ‘90s? Listen as the S1E1 boys head uptown and break down the pilot episode, "Occupant". Starring: Doug E. Doug, Flex Alexander, Shaun Baker, Lorraine Toussaint, Yunoka Doyle, Jason Bose Smith, Sullivan Walker, & Tammy Townsend www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

"Significant Mother" is a comedy that premiered on The CW in 2015. Starring Josh Zuckerman as Portland restaurateur Nate Marlowe, the series kicks off when Nate returns home from a trip to discover that his recently divorced mother Lydia is now dating his longtime best friend and roommate Jimmy. Now Nate has to come to terms with the horrifying realization that his best friend may become his stepfather. Critical reception to Significant Mother was mixed, with many feeling the series relied too heavily on its uncomfortable central premise without developing the characters much beyond the initial shock value. Does this unconventional romance belong in the family photo album or should be grounded indefinitely? Listen as the S1E1 boys deep dive the show's pilot episode, "Welcome To Bonetown" and find out. Starring: Josh Zuckerman, Nathaniel Buzolic, Krista Allen, Emma Fitzpatrick, Jay Ali, & Jonathan Silverman www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

Malcolm in the Middle: Life's Still Unfair is Hulu's 2026 revival of the iconic sitcom. The series finds an adult Malcolm (Frankie Muniz) still navigating through his life's struggles, only now from the perspective of a parent and overworked professional. The show brings back the beloved original cast, including Bryan Cranston as the ever-eccentric Hal and Jane Kaczmarek as the formidable Lois. In this 4 episode mini-series Malcolm attempts to break the cycle of his upbringing, only to realize that he’s becoming the parent he used to complain about. Critics and audiences alike greeted the nostalgic revival. Reviews highlighted the strong comedic chemistry that remains between the original cast. While some noted the shift to a more cynical tone, most praised the show for staying true to its roots. Was this show worth bringing back after all these years? Listen as the S1E1 boys deep dive Episode 1 to find out if Malcolm’s return is a stroke of genius or if life is still just as unfair as ever. Starring: Frankie Muniz , Bryan Cranston, Justin Berfield, Christopher Masterson, Keeley Karsten, Vaughan Murrae, Kiana Madeira, Jane Kaczmarek, & Caleb Ellsworth-Clark www.S1E1POD.com Instagram & X (Twitter): @S1E1POD

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