John Cooper is back in the hot-seat and starting the year off right on the first episode in 2025!

In the first episode of 2025 Bad Beard and John Cooper discuss a range of topics reflecting on the challenges within the entertainment industry, particularly after a tumultuous year marked by the actors' and writers' strikes. They share personal anecdotes about Cooper's birthday and a trip to a cozy inn, which contrast with serious discussions about the evolving landscape of film industry opportunities, with many A list actors resorting to commercial roles due to a declining job market stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent industry strikes. Sam and John delve into the complexities post-strikes, including outsourcing production overseas and the implications of streaming service profitability on job availability, while also shedding light on the dangerous conditions faced by stunt performers and crew, emphasizing safety versus producers' financial motivations. The conversation further explores the role of unions, meal penalties, crew dynamics, and anecdotal experiences from film projects, all framed within a broader context of resilience and adaptation in the ever-shifting entertainment realm. After the hemming and hawing subsided, John shared his passion for vintage Japanese cars and motorcycles, and the detailing modifications planned for his basement storage space and new studio. Engaging anecdotes about their experiences with vehicles featured in popular media, such as a Magnum PI car and a motorcycle from "Falcon and the Winter Soldier," enrich the conversation. They discuss the challenges of maintaining their collection in cooler weather and express a desire to revive a popular podcast while fondly recalling previous successful episodes. Sam reflects on his experiences in Los Angeles, including a memorable encounter at a Ducati event meeting Keanu Reeves. As they look forward to automotive events like the AIM Expo and One Moto Show, they invite listeners to check event dates and emphasize the show's growth. The conversation highlights their enthusiasm for the automotive community and playful interactions with friends.