The Mack & G Show
The Mack & G Show features two lifelong friends sharing conversations about life, fatherhood, tech, and everything in between. With humor and candid discussions, we dive into topics that resonate with everyday people—because every person’s story matters. Whether it’s advice, debates, or fun takes on the latest shows and trends, we’re here to keep it real, one episode at a time.
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Episodes
7 days ago
7 days ago
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
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Thursday Mar 20, 2025
Thursday Mar 20, 2025
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
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Monday Mar 17, 2025
Monday Mar 17, 2025
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?
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Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
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?
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Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
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
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Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we sit down with James Baker, a former professional pitcher turned coach, who takes us through his incredible baseball journey. From getting cut in high school to playing seven seasons of pro ball—including time with the San Diego Padres organization—James knows all about perseverance. Now, as the head coach at The Governor’s Academy and co-owner of Baker O'Flynn Sports, he’s mentoring the next generation of athletes.
We dive into everything from the grind of minor league baseball to coaching philosophy, player development, and what it takes to succeed at the next level.
Highlights Include:
• Overcoming setbacks in high school baseball• Making it to pro ball & minor league life• Coaching philosophy and training young athletes• Recruiting differences between college & prep school• The balance of coaching, business, and family
If you’re a baseball fan, coach, parent, or just love a great underdog story, this episode is for you!
Timestamps
00:00 Intro and Should Boston fans boo the Canadian anthem? (Four Nation's Face-off)01:13 Introducing James Baker: From Boxford to Pro Baseball04:55 Getting cut in high school & the turning point12:23 The inspirational story of Tim Bransfield16:26 Making it to the College World Series23:20 Minor league reality: The grind of pro baseball46:05 Coaching at Colby College (NESCAC)50:56 Coaching at Governor's Academy1:00:42 Velocity, control, or movement - which is most important?1:07:28 James coaching philosophy1:10:25 Favorite New England sports moments: Pedro & The Snow Bowl1:12:10 Upcoming baseball camps & how to train with James
Links & Mentions:
A Life Interrupted - A Moving Memoir by Tim BransfieldBaker O'Flynn Sports on FacebookBaker O'Flynn Sports on InstagramBOS Program GuidePedro Throws Don Zimmer to the GroundThe 1999 All Star Game was EpicThe Governor's Academy BaseballThe Wall of GaylordWichita Baseball
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Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we sit down with Jack Silva—a former Golden Gloves boxer turned endurance athlete and fitness coach. Jack shares his incredible journey from his early days in the ring to overcoming a career-ending injury and finding new challenges in Ironman races and marathons. With over 30 years of experience as a personal trainer and barber, Jack brings a unique perspective on discipline, longevity, and staying active as we age.
We dive into the world of boxing, including his experiences training with legends like Mickey Ward and Dicky Eklund, the mental toughness required for endurance sports, and the launch of his new online fitness coaching platform, Enduro Plus Fitness. If you’re looking for motivation to get moving—no matter your age—this episode is for you.
Highlights include:• Training with Mickey Ward and Dicky Eklund• The brutal reality of boxing and why it’s not for everyone• How Jack transitioned from boxing to Ironman races• The mental game of endurance sports• How men over 40 can stay fit and strong• The launch of EndurO+ Fitness
Whether you’re a former athlete looking to get back in shape or just need a kickstart, Jack’s story is packed with inspiration.
Timestamps
00:00 Welcome to Episode 17 - Like & Subscribe!01:42 The Eagles saved Brady’s legacy—Super Bowl banter03:56 Introducing Jack Silva: A fighter in and out of the ring06:02 Introducing Jack Silva: A fighter in and out of the ring07:15 From childhood boxing rings to Golden Gloves champion16:12 Career-ending injury and the pivot to endurance sports23:35 Funny story about Dicky Eklund’s botched hair dye job29:00 Training with Mickey Ward—sparring stories33:22 The insane world of Ironman races and marathons42:32 Fitness after 40: The biggest mistakes guys make43:50 Introducing EndurO+, Jack’s new online coaching platform51:05 Favorite workout music, boxing movies, and the best steak58:03 Final advice: It’s never too late to start getting fit
Links & Mentions:
Follow Jack's Instagram AccountBoston Hair Design (Lihue, HI) - https://bostonhair.rocks/InStyle Hair Designs and Skin Spa (Westford, MA)Julie Moss - Ironman 1982Southpaw Official Trailer (2015)
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Friday Feb 07, 2025
Friday Feb 07, 2025
In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we welcome Duke DeVilling—lifelong sports fanatic, entrepreneur, and father of two. Duke takes us through his journey from childhood sports obsession to launching a successful arcade business in New England. We dive into his skeeball league, managing 75 arcade machines, and balancing side hustles with family life. Oh, and did we mention he was there for Super Bowl 51, witnessing the greatest comeback in NFL history?
We also break down the upcoming Super Bowl matchup and whether anyone can stop Patrick Mahomes, plus some inside stories on managing a championship-winning softball team. This episode is packed with stories, laughs, and a whole lot of sports talk.
Highlights include: • How Duke turned a skeeball hobby into a thriving business • The wild world of arcade gaming in bars & breweries • The ultimate Super Bowl 51 experience • Managing a championship softball team in record time • Sports, fatherhood, and balancing it all
Whether you love sports, side hustles, or just a great underdog story, this episode has something for you.
Timestamps
00:00 Intro & catching up after a short break01:15 Johnny Mack’s 31st wedding anniversary shoutout01:35 Introducing Duke DeVilling: sports fanatic & entrepreneur02:35 Duke’s childhood & moving from Ohio to North Carolina03:38 His father’s football career & Raiders connection10:09 College days & joining a fraternity13:18 Moving to Boston & embracing the sports culture26:31 Being at Super Bowl 51: The ultimate fan experience33:14 Managing a championship-winning softball team39:50 Turning skeeball into a business & launching SkeeBoston46:39 The business of arcade games: 75 machines in 18 locations53:04 Balancing work, side hustles, and fatherhood1:03:48 Super Bowl predictions & who takes home the trophy1:08:48 Next episode teaser: Jack Silva & Mickey Ward boxing stories
Links & Mentions
In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we welcome Duke DeVilling—lifelong sports fanatic, entrepreneur, and father of two. Duke takes us through his journey from childhood sports obsession to launching a successful arcade business in New England. We dive into his skeeball league, managing 75 arcade machines, and balancing side hustles with family life. Oh, and did we mention he was there for Super Bowl 51, witnessing the greatest comeback in NFL history?
We also break down the upcoming Super Bowl matchup and whether anyone can stop Patrick Mahomes, plus some inside stories on managing a championship-winning softball team. This episode is packed with stories, laughs, and a whole lot of sports talk.
Highlights include: • How Duke turned a skeeball hobby into a thriving business • The wild world of arcade gaming in bars & breweries • The ultimate Super Bowl 51 experience • Managing a championship softball team in record time • Sports, fatherhood, and balancing it all
Whether you love sports, side hustles, or just a great underdog story, this episode has something for you.
Timestamps
00:00 Intro & catching up after a short break01:15 Johnny Mack’s 31st wedding anniversary shoutout01:35 Introducing Duke DeVilling: sports fanatic & entrepreneur02:35 Duke’s childhood & moving from Ohio to North Carolina03:38 His father’s football career & Raiders connection10:09 College days & joining a fraternity13:18 Moving to Boston & embracing the sports culture26:31 Being at Super Bowl 51: The ultimate fan experience33:14 Managing a championship-winning softball team39:50 Turning skeeball into a business & launching SkeeBoston46:39 The business of arcade games: 75 machines in 18 locations53:04 Balancing work, side hustles, and fatherhood1:03:48 Super Bowl predictions & who takes home the trophy1:08:48 Next episode teaser: Jack Silva & Mickey Ward boxing stories
Links & Mentions:
New England Gaming WebsiteNew England Gaming on InstagramSkeeBoston WebsiteSkeeBoston on InstagramMindset: The New Psychology of SuccessBig Inflatable Pool Bar
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Thursday Jan 23, 2025
Thursday Jan 23, 2025
In this episode of The Mack & G Show, Johnny Mack and Ricky G reminisce about growing up in the ‘80s and the simple joys of childhood that shaped a generation. From bike rides and epic arcades to sneaking into movies and school lunch shenanigans, they explore how life then compares to kids’ lives today.
With candid stories and hilarious reflections, they ponder whether today’s childhood is safer but less adventurous. Highlights include:
• Biking mishaps and Evel Knievel-inspired jumps • Arcade memories: Donkey Kong, Galaga, and Grand Prix • The magic of shared TV moments like Happy Days and SNL • School lunches and the cookie girl mystery
Whether you’re nostalgic or just curious, this episode is a trip back in time!
Timestamps
00:00 Welcome to Episode 15: Nostalgia Wars00:39 The city kid vs. country kid perspective01:33 Biking adventures: From BMX tricks to epic wipeouts04:55 Inside the world of ‘80s arcades and the table game revolution09:00 Sneaking into movies and the backdoor hustle17:02 Football memories: Tackles, rivalries, and neighborhood legends23:30 School lunches, family dinners, and the cookie girl legacy34:22 Shared TV culture: Why ‘80s TV brought us together42:15 What we’d bring back—or take away—from childhood today
Links & Mentions
80's Prime Time TV ScheduleAladdin's Castle Vintage TeeDavid Letterman Book of Top Ten ListsDragon's Lair (1983) | Full play-throughMississippi Street Football Rush ExplainedMylec Street Hockey StoreStranger Things Vintage BikesThe TRUTH About Little Mikey and Pop RocksWheels Plus Facebook GroupWireless Retro Gaming Console (20,000+ Games!)X Saves the World: How Generation X Got the Shaft but Can Still Keep Everything from Sucking
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Thursday Jan 16, 2025
Thursday Jan 16, 2025
In this episode of The Mack & G Show, John and Rick break down some of the best streaming shows you should be watching right now. From the dystopian depths of Severance to the twisted games of Squid Game, we explore what makes these series binge-worthy. Plus, we tackle Taylor Sheridan’s ever-expanding universe and the mockumentary genius of What We Do in the Shadows.
We share personal anecdotes about binge-watching and debate the ultimate question: binge or weekly drops? Packed with humor, insights, and genuine recommendations, this episode is your go-to guide for your next streaming marathon.
Timestamps
00:00 Welcome to The Mack & G Show, episode intro03:28 Streaming shows we’re covering today: quick preview06:40 Diving into Severance: slow start, big rewards11:38 Squid Game: why the thrill continues18:14 Breaking down The Lioness: Taylor Sheridan’s action-packed series23:35 Landman: Billy Bob Thornton shines in Taylor Sheridan’s latest27:10 Shrinking: Finding humor in grief with Harrison Ford31:36 What We Do in the Shadows: A hilarious take on vampires39:35 Binge vs. weekly drops: which do you prefer?
Links & Mentions
Here is Subzero. Now Plain Zero (Arnold in Running Man)Rotten Tomatoes Website Stephen Colbert's Hilarious Severance AppearanceStep Brothers: Sweet Child of Mine (Singing in the Car)Squid Game Reality ShowWhat We Do in the Shadows: Each Character's Funny
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