To say a lot has been going on since our New Year’s episode would be a massive understatement. On this episode Chris brings the audience up to date on some big personal news.

On this special episode which is shared on two separate podcast feeds (also episode 179 of the SmorgShow Podcast), Chris makes the announcement that he will soon be a grandpa! Also, he and Kim have sold their home of nearly 23 years and will soon be moving. Therefore, this will be the final recording from the original SmorgShow studio, so Chris brings out Jerry for one final session before the deconstruction of the studio begins. It is a bittersweet moment, but we had to do one final episode from the space that delivered so much creativity over the past 16 years.

Chris and Jerry toast to a new year and reflect on 2025. Chris gives an update on his mother-in-law who has taken up residence in his home since August.

Chris and Jerry discuss the assassination of Charlie Kirk and what it means for America. Also, life changes a bit for Chris after his mother-in-law moves in. Chris shares a story of how his lack of craftsman skills destroyed his power drill. Chris conquers his life-long fruit allergies. Chris and Jerry share their initial reaction to seeing the Spinal Tap sequel.

Chris is back from his European vacation to celebrate his 30th wedding anniversary and shares his nightmare experience of having his carry-on bag stolen from the hotel lobby while waiting for his room to be ready. Jerry is back from his road trip to Nashville to celebrate his 60th birthday where he suffered an eye ailment. The passing of Ozzy Osbourne. A brief discussion on how scary AI is quickly becoming.

After a rocky launch of this new podcast with Jerry nearly coughing up a lung on the last two episodes, Chris and Jerry are back in fine form. The men honor Dave Jackson on what would have been his 60th birthday and look back on their formative years as teenagers growing up in suburban Chicago. They reflect on Dave’s influence with introducing them to their first cup of coffee, late night road trips and smoking a full pack of cigarettes. They also offer their thoughts on the first two months of the new Trump administration.

Some trivia about presidential inaugurations throughout history: can Jerry identify the president? The new Trump cabinet. Recent drone sightings, plasma balls.

Chris and Jerry kick off the new year by closing the books on 2024 and the 42-year era of the Smorgasbord Radio Show. The duo share their decision to make some health changes for the new year including the abstinence from alcohol. On the eve of the Presidential Inauguration, they share tips for creating a festive inauguration watch party. Observations of the last 4 years, and what they are excited to see in the second Trump administration.

In this pilot episode, Chris discusses the background of the show and what to expect as we go forward. We hope to launch in early 2025.