The Mack & G Show

We Lived Through This… But Our Kids Never Will

In this episode, Johnny Mack and Ricky G get nostalgic—and a little fired up—as they look back at “Things We Don’t Do Anymore.” From payphones to floppy disks and Blockbuster to pen pals, this is a dad-centric trip down memory lane packed with laughs, gripes, and the occasional sentimental moment.
They also debate which old-school habits we actually miss… and make bold predictions about what today’s kids will never do by the time they’re our age.
 
Highlights include:
• Growing up with landlines and dial-up modems• Forgotten school projects like pen pals and microfiche• Renting VHS tapes and the smell of a video store• Walkmans, Scholastic Book Club, and printed maps• What will our kids stop doing in 30 years?
Stick around for classic dad commentary, retro reflections, and what’s next for The Mack & G Show.
 
Timestamps:
00:00 Episode 28 Begins!02:08 Midlife Podcast Collaboration Tease04:25 Action Hero Bracket Preview05:56 Today’s Topic: Things We Don’t Do Anymore07:30 Payphones, Car Phones, and Corded Landlines10:42 Kids Taking Over CarPlay & Music Battles14:34 Pen Pals & Childhood Disappointments18:01 Scholastic Book Club & Book Nostalgia20:05 Physical Maps, AAA TripTiks & Navigation Memories23:30 Traveler’s Checks, Paper Tickets, and Phone Books26:00 Typewriters, Microfiche, and Floppy Disks31:12 Blockbuster, VHS Rentals & LaserDiscs33:33 Developing Film & Disposable Cameras35:30 CDs, Vinyl, and Record Stores37:28 Going to the Movies & Marvel Obsession42:20 What Our Kids Won’t Do in 30 Years46:54 Things We Miss vs. Glad Are Gone50:00 Sneak Peek: Upcoming Guests & Action Hero Bracket51:07 Patreon Plug & Final Sign-Off
 
Links & Mentions:
The Midlifers on YouTubeGary Gulman (Ode to the Discman)Gary Gulman (The Greatest Smartphone Story Ever Told)Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking
 
Support us:
Patreon Site
Visit the Mack & G Store
 
Follow us:
Facebook
Instagram 
YouTube
TikTok
Twitter
Join our Newsletter

Jimmy Marra’s Journey from FedEx Nights to Hardscape Days

In Episode 27 of The Mack & G Show, we sit down with Jimmy Marra—founder of JMarra Hardscapes and full-time FedEx driver—who’s juggling a booming backyard business, fatherhood, and life in the suburbs.
We dive into Jimmy’s journey from basic landscaping to launching his own hardscaping company. He shares the chaos of raising four sports-crazed kids, balancing side hustles with a demanding day job, and the DIY spirit that led him to install fiberglass pools and build outdoor kitchens. Along the way, we get into neighborhood beefs, tricky customers, lawn care tips, and how his dad inspired his work ethic.
Highlights include:
 • How Jimmy launched JMarra Hardscapes • Balancing FedEx work with his own business • Raising 4 kids in youth sports chaos • Installing fiberglass pools & outdoor kitchens • Crazy customer stories & neighborhood disputes • Lawn care tips for beginners • Fatherhood lessons and dad frustrations
Whether you’re a suburban dad, backyard project junkie, or just love hearing how regular guys grind and grow—this one’s for you.
 
Timestamps:
00:00 Episode 27 Cold Open05:12 Meet Jimmy Marra, Hardscape Pro & Dad of 407:08 Sports Chaos Raising Four Athletic Kids10:41 Why Lacrosse is Replacing Baseball13:04 From FedEx at 2:30 AM to Running a Business16:34 Mama Bear Moments That’ll Hit Home24:36 The Wildest Backyard Pool Build Story32:08 Backyard Golf Retreat for the Win37:15 Lawn Tips Every Dad Should Know44:22 Moles, Chipmunks & Backyard Battles53:14 How Jimmy Handles “Scope Creep” with Clients58:48 His Son’s Excavating Biz and Proud Dad Moment
 
Links & Mentions:
🧱 JMarra Hardscapes on Facebook🚜 Marra Excavation on Instagram🏛️ The Residence on Netflix💧 Rain Bird Irrigation🌱 Home Depot Overseeder Rental
 
Support us:
Patreon Site
Visit the Mack & G Store
 
Follow us:
Facebook
Instagram 
YouTube
TikTok
Twitter
Join our Newsletter

Stand-Up, Marriage Lessons & Action Heroes w/ Matt Moramarco

In this episode, we sit down with stand-up comic Matt Moramarco to talk about comedy, marriage, and the dumbest fight he’s ever had (hint: it involves a pillow). From performing at the iconic Comedy Store and bombing mid-set to navigating newlywed life, Matt brings honesty, laughter, and some surprising stories.
We also unveil Matt’s 32-action-hero March Madness-style bracket—think John Wick vs. Jason Bourne—and tease a new YouTube Shorts series to go with it.
Highlights include:
• The nightmare comedy set that ended in a fall• Moving cross-country and the infamous pillow fight• Behind-the-scenes at the Comedy Store & Hollywood Improv• The truth about dating during COVID• Ultimate Action Hero bracket—who makes the cut?
Stick around—this one’s packed with laughs and late-night wisdom.
 
Timestamps:
00:00 Cold Open00:42 Ireland Trip Recap + Boston Marathon Talk14:52 Guest Introduction: Matt Moramarco’s Family Ties15:24 Matt’s Comedy Origin Story20:33 First Show at the Hollywood Improv22:04 Comedy Store Set + Getting Paid26:28 Worst Bomb Ever: Forgot His Set30:56 Doing 5–7 Shows a Week in LA35:03 Meeting His Wife on Hinge During COVID41:18 The Infamous Pillow Fight Story47:19 Lessons From Year One of Marriage53:03 Comedy Showdown: Nostalgic Favorites1:10:31 Teaser: 32 Action Hero Tournament1:21:04 Closing Thoughts + Dumbest Fights Request
 
Links & Mentions:
🎤 Hollywood Improv🎭 The Comedy Store🤣 Sebastian Maniscalco🧠 Gary Gulman🎙️ Wayne Brady Skit on Chappelle’s Show🍽️ Key & Peele: Continental Breakfast
 
Follow us:
Facebook
Instagram 
YouTube
TikTok
Twitter
Join our Newsletter
Visit the Mack & G Store

Dillon Salva: From College Athlete to Rap Stars’ Bodyguard & Netflix Actor

In this episode, we sit down with Dillon Salva—a former college football and basketball player who turned rejection from the NFL into a springboard for something bigger. Dillon shares his wild journey from crushing tackles to guarding Fetty Wap and Kevin Gates, training in Hollywood gyms, and landing a spot on Netflix’s Running Point.
You’ll hear about nightclub shootouts, touring with rappers, transforming his body through bodybuilding, and the resilience that kept him going when everything else fell apart.
 
Highlights include:
• How a college coach broke his confidence—and built it back• Getting scouted by the Patriots without knowing it• The insane story of becoming Fetty Wap’s trainer• A baby mistaking Kevin Gates for a mom (!?)• What it’s like to witness a shooting on tour
Stick around—this one is packed with unbelievable moments and serious inspiration.
 
Timestamps:
00:00 Show Intro02:27 Family of Athletes: Records and Recruits  04:02 Early Lifting & Athletic Development  07:04 High School Transfers and Position Changes  10:09 Switching from QB to Tight End  13:18 New Coach, New Opportunities  14:47 Almost Playing in the SEC  17:04 Academic Struggles and Lost Scholarships  18:19 College Football at Kean & Injury Setbacks  21:00 Getting Moved Between Four Positions  22:02 Kicked Off Basketball Team After Spitting Incident  25:06 Brookdale Year and JUCO Hoops Success  27:19 Why Dillon Chose Merrimack  30:07 Coach Curran’s Tough Love Moment  34:03 NFL Interest, Patriots Scout Mention  36:11 Pro Days, Falcons & Redskins Tryouts  39:08 How He Met Jack Silva  41:11 CBD Line & Move to California  44:45 Meeting Jay Cutler & Larry Wheels  46:04 How Fetty Wap Found Him on Instagram  50:06 From Training Fetty to Being His Bodyguard  52:11 Wild Nights at Miami Swim Week  54:52 “Would You Take a Bullet?”  58:42 Witnessing Shootings on Tour  1:02:00 Meeting Kevin Gates at a Miami Club  1:06:50 Kevin Offers Bodyguard Job After Fetty’s Arrest  1:13:14 Why Kevin Gates is a Fitness Monster  1:15:03 Origin of the Nickname “Scutty”  1:16:12 Netflix Role in *Running Point*  1:18:42 His Acting Goals and SAG Eligibility  1:29:01 Prepping for Pro Card in Bodybuilding  1:32:00 Cheat Meals, Five Guys vs In-N-Out  1:34:00 Where He Hopes to Be at 40
 
Links & Mentions:
🎥 Dillon’s Instagram📺 Watch Running Point on Netflix💪 Team Personal Record (Larry Wheels’ Brand)🎤 Kevin Gates Tour Info
 
Follow us:
Facebook
Instagram 
YouTube
TikTok
Twitter
Join our Newsletter
Visit the Mack & G Store

From the Herald to the Patriots: Paul Perillo’s Story

In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we welcome Paul Perillo—editor of Patriots.com and co-host of Patriots Unfiltered. Paul brings decades of New England sports experience to the mic, with stories spanning from Everett High to the Boston Herald newsroom and into Gillette Stadium’s media room.
We dive into his early athletic career, the hustle of breaking into sports journalism, and the evolution of youth sports and sports media. Paul reflects on working with legends like Bill Simmons, Michael Felger, Tony Massarotti, and Mike Reiss, all while bringing humor and humility to his journey.
 
Highlights include:
• Growing up in Everett’s sports culture• Playing baseball at BU & becoming team captain• Breaking into the Boston Herald• Covering high school, college & pro sports• Patriots insider stories & working with the Krafts
Whether you’re a sports fan, aspiring journalist, or nostalgic for old-school ball, this episode’s for you.
 
Timestamps:
00:00 Show Intro03:25 Growing up in Everett and early sports memories08:45 Writing sports articles while playing for Everett23:00 Baseball at BU and the story of becoming a college pitcher36:24 Getting inducted into the BU Baseball Hall of Fame40:25 Breaking into journalism at the Boston Herald46:00 Working at the Herald with Tony Massarotti, Michael Felger, and Bill Simmons53:45 Transitioning to the Patriots in 19991:04:30 Why all wide receivers are divas (except Larry Fitzgerald)1:19:18 The 2001 Superbowl - The start of Patriot dynasty1:30:30 Inside the Media1:38:25 Patriots pick at #41:46:56 Advice for an aspiring sports writer
 
Links & Mentions:
🔵 Official website of the New England Patriots🎙️ Patriots Unfiltered Podcast🏒 Don Lucia speech on Player Development🏈 The Seven Blocks of Granite at Fordham📰 Boston Herald Sports🐺 Northeastern Athletics
 
Follow us:
Facebook
Instagram 
YouTube
TikTok
Twitter
Join our Newsletter
Visit the Mack & G Store

Podcasting, Street Hockey & Train Wreck TV – w/ Josh Kaplan

In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we sit down with Josh Kaplan—one of the voices behind the podcast Friends Talking Shop. Josh shares how three finance industry veterans turned late-night conference chats into a hilarious and relatable show that’s now over 85 episodes strong.
We dive into Josh’s Philly sports fandom, his 15-year journey playing in an adult street hockey league, and how he juggles podcasting, family, and a full-time career. The conversation also explores social media struggles, viral moments, and unexpected documentary obsessions.
 
Highlights include:
 • How Friends Talking Shop got started • Podcast dynamics: Dave the host, Omar the wildcard • Street hockey stories (and injuries) • Growing on Instagram with help from the kids • Favorite shows from Love is Blind to Dr. Pimple Popper
Whether you’re over 50 or just feel like it, this episode is a fun, relatable ride.
 
Timestamps
00:00 Episode 23 Show Intro07:22 Street hockey league: gear, injuries, and adult camaraderie13:12 The Stretch Zone20:40 Internships, sticker fails & early career mishaps22:23 How Friends Talking Shop was born around a fire pit26:24 Omar the wildcard: single life, eccentric style, and spontaneity30:12 Josh’s “social media vault” strategy and posting tips38:35 Why podcasting should always be for fun48:51 When TikTok turned into a battlefield over “Jingle Bells”54:45 Streaming picks: Jay & Pamela, Baylen, Love Is Blind, Lincoln Lawyer1:03:28 Karen Read case – the local true crime twist1:07:59 Show Wrap Up
 
Links & Mentions:
🎙️ Friends Talking Shop Podcast🥃 Deacon Whiskey (FTS sponsor)📺 Jay and Pamela on TLC📺 Baylen Out Loud on Max🧘 Stretch Zone🔔 Controversy over Jingle Bells Fun Fact (Tik Tok)🤢 Dr. Pimple Popper📺 The Trial of Karen Read🎵 “I Wish Grandpa’s Never Died” by Riley Green
 
Follow us:
Facebook
Instagram 
YouTube
TikTok
Twitter
Join our Newsletter
Visit the Mack & G Store

Godsmack, Family & the Road to a Solo Album: Lee Richards’ Rock Journey

In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we sit down with Lee Richards, an accomplished musician, songwriter, and producer best known as the original guitarist for Godsmack. Lee takes us through his career—from the early days of forming one of rock’s biggest bands to stepping away for fatherhood, and now, gearing up for his first solo album, Lee Richards & Friends.
We explore his journey through music, working with legends, and how he balances rock and family life. He shares untold stories from the road, the inside scoop on writing hit songs, and what keeps him inspired after decades in the industry.
 
Highlights include:
• Godsmack Origins & Leaving for Fatherhood• The Reality of the Music Business• Songwriting Secrets & Collaborating with Rock Legends• The Craziest Crowd Lee Ever Played For• Balancing Music & Family Life• What’s next? Lee Richards’ debut solo album
Lee’s stories are raw, real, and full of wisdom—whether you’re a music fan, an aspiring artist, or just love a great conversation.
 
Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro: Welcome to The Mack & G Show01:00 – Meet Lee Richards: Godsmack Origins08:20 – Forming Godsmack & Early Days in the Band12:40 – Why Lee Left Godsmack for Fatherhood17:04 – The Harsh Reality of the Music Business19:50 – Lee’s Songwriting Process & Inspiration33:50 – Working with Producer Dave Jerden43:40 – The Most Surreal Crowd Lee Ever Played For48:31 – Touring in the U.S. vs. Europe: Key Differences53:45 – Lee’s Upcoming Solo Album Lee Richards & Friends56:42 – How Lee Balanced Music & Fatherhood1:03:42 – Advice for Young Musicians Today
 
Links & Mentions:
• Another Animal on Spotify• Dropbox on Spotify• Godsmack on Spotify• Dropbox - Wishbone• Another Animal – Black Coffee Blues• Another Animal – Broken Again• John Kosco & Lee Richards - Touché• Richards/Crane feat. Myles Kennedy - Black & White (Official Video)• Bamboozled.Boston Podcast• Jordan vs Bird C64 Gameplay• Russell Autobody in Pelham, NH• Fletch - Put it on the Underhills Tab
 
Follow us:
Facebook
Instagram 
YouTube
TikTok
Twitter
Join our Newsletter
Visit the Mack & G Store

Streaming Hits & the Ultimate “Uncool Dad” List

In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we celebrate a major milestone—our 21st episode! That officially puts us in the top 1% of podcasts (at least according to statistics). To mark the occasion, we dive into the latest streaming hits, including Running Point, White Lotus, Zero Day, and more. Plus, we debate whether getting a full-body health scan is genius or just a way to stress yourself out.
But the real fun? We unveil the ultimate “Uncool Dad” list—habits that dads think are cool but… absolutely are not. Are you guilty of any?
 
Highlights Include:
 • Best & worst new streaming shows • The truth about full-body health scans • The “Uncool Dad” list—what NOT to do • Ricky G’s Dual Lingo struggles • A sneak peek at upcoming shows we’re excited for
Whether you’re looking for your next binge-worthy show or just trying to avoid embarrassing dad habits, this episode has something for you. Let’s dive in!
 
Timestamps
0:00 Welcome to Episode 21—Why This is a Milestone2:30 The Stats Behind Podcast Survival Rates4:32 The Catch-Up: Life Updates & Dog Shenanigans6:38 Should You Get a Full-Body Scan? Worth It or Just Anxiety Fuel?13:00 Streaming Shows We’re Watching: Hits & Misses24:30 Upcoming Shows We’re Excited For29:18 The “Uncool Dad” List—What Not to Do34:30 Can 700 Days on Duolingo Actually Teach You to Order Dinner?36:08 Next Week’s Guest: Founding Member of Godsmack
 
Links & Mentions:
Why 21 Episodes MattersRunning Point – Watch on Apple TV+Paradise - Watch on HuluHow to Stop Destructive Chewing in DogsFull-Body Scans: Pros & ConsShoutout to the ‘Friends Talking Shop’ PodcastDuolingo: Can Ricky G Ever Order Dinner?
 
Follow us:
Facebook
Instagram 
YouTube
TikTok
Twitter
Join our Newsletter
Visit the Mack & G Store

Saving Lives & Leading EMS: Inside the World of Paramedics – w/ Rich Raymond

In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we sit down with Rich Raymond, President & CEO of Armstrong Ambulance, and a paramedic with over three decades of experience. From his early days as an EMT to responding to major disasters like Hurricane Katrina and the Wakefield workplace shooting, Rich shares a firsthand look at the high-pressure world of emergency medical services (EMS).
We discuss the intensity of first responder work, the challenges of leadership in EMS, and the unforgettable moments that define a career in saving lives. Whether it’s navigating mass casualty events or the everyday heroism of paramedics, this episode is a deep dive into the life of a frontline worker.
 
Highlights Include:
• The Wakefield mass shooting – responding to a workplace tragedy• Deploying for Hurricane Katrina – chaos, disaster relief & makeshift hospitals• The realities of EMS – from 911 calls to saving lives• Crazy first responder stories – the wildest calls you won’t believe• The importance of CPR training & knowing how to stop a bleed
Whether you’re interested in EMS, healthcare, or just love jaw-dropping real-life stories, this episode delivers.
 
Timestamps
00:00 Intro & Welcome to Episode 2000:52 Red Light Therapy – Does it Work?04:40 Growing Up in East Boston & Childhood Stories08:55 Wild High School Stories – The Dom Savio Years24:15 Becoming an EMT & Moving Up in EMS36:42 The Man Who Got Run Over & Walked Away – Wildest EMS Calls49:45 Deploying for Hurricane Katrina – Responding to Disaster57:18 The Wakefield Workplace Shooting – Inside the Response1:01:45 The Mental Toll of First Responders & PTSD in EMS1:07:41 The Life of a St. Bernard Owner (Rich’s 175lb Puppy)1:12:18 Why Everyone Should Learn CPR & Stop the Bleed Training1:19:48 Teasing Next Episode – Founding Member of Godsmack Joins the Show
 
Links & Mentions:
Armstrong Ambulance ServicesBeem Light SaunaEdgewater Technology shootingFind EMT & Paramedic Training Near YouLearn CPR & Stop the BleedRed Light Therapy: What is It?
 
Follow us:
Facebook
Instagram 
YouTube
TikTok
Twitter
Join our Newsletter
Visit the Mack & G Store

The Ultimate Winter Survival Kit (Stay Warm, Stay Sane!)

Winter is here, and if you’re trying to keep the house warm, the driveway clear, and your sanity intact, this episode is for you. Johnny Mack and Ricky G break down The Ultimate Winter Survival Kit—covering everything from frozen pipes and drafty windows to comfort foods, winter drinks, and the best ways to stay entertained indoors and out. Whether you’re battling ice dams, whipping up a killer chili, or just trying to keep the family from driving you nuts, we’ve got the tips and laughs to get you through.
 
Highlights Include:
 • Preventing frozen pipes and home disasters • Best winter comfort foods & drinks • Why calcium chloride beats rock salt • The best winter movies & activities • Worst cabin fever moments
And don’t miss our big announcement about an upcoming giveaway—details later in the episode!
 
Timestamps
00:00 Intro: Welcome to Episode 19!01:53 The Ultimate Winter Survival Kit for Dads04:38 Frozen pipes: How to prevent and fix them11:08 Ice dams and why your roof hates winter16:00 Car winter must-haves (spoiler: get a Snow Joe!)21:35 Top comfort foods that get us through winter33:20 Hot cocoa vs. coffee—let’s settle this39:02 Outdoor fun: Skiing, sledding, and why no one snowshoes47:10 The best board games and Jackbox Party Packs52:30 Ricky reorganizes socks (yes, really)55:20 Winter hacks: Ice melt, furnace tips & more58:48 Giveaway details: Win some awesome gear!
 
Links & Mentions:
Get Your Own Snow Joe Snow BroomHawaiian Ham & Swiss Slider RecipePaul Hardcastle - Nineteen - 1985 (Official Music Video)Roof Rake - 30 ftThe Jackbox Party PackWhite Mountain 1000 Piece Puzzle
 
Follow us:
Facebook
Instagram 
YouTube
TikTok
Twitter
Join our Newsletter
Visit the Mack & G Store