Good Times, Noodle Salad

For Episode #80 of Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt sits down with members of Thunderbird to talk music, skateboarding, Detroit-area venues, getting older, and somehow still finding time to make shit happen.Thunderbird started out playing covers before moving into their own original music, and they're now up to 14 original songs and several years of playing shows around Southeast Michigan. The conversation gets into how the band came together, their first shows, the challenges of keeping a band going when everyone has jobs and families, and what it's like to start playing live music later in life.Things inevitably spiral into a massive skateboarding rabbit hole, including Metrotrend, old Pontiac venues, Detroit's skate scene, building skate parks, and the DIY mentality that carried from skating into music.It's a very Good Times, Noodle Salad episode: music, local history, parenting, skateboarding, bad decisions, and a whole lot of malarky.Follow Thunderbird and check out their music on Spotify, and as always, thanks for listening to Good Times, Noodle Salad.Support the show

In Episode 79 of Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt sits down one-on-one with James Christiani, the creator behind No Flock in Troy, to talk about the growing controversy surrounding Flock Safety cameras and automatic license plate readers.James breaks down how Flock cameras work, why he believes they represent a major threat to privacy and personal freedom, and what he's uncovered while pushing back against their use in Troy and communities across Michigan. The conversation covers police misuse of surveillance technology, tracking people's movements, warrantless searches, false identifications, government accountability, hidden cameras, drones, and the potential expansion of mass surveillance far beyond simply reading license plates.Matt and James also get into the political divide surrounding surveillance, the Patriot Act, abortion and interstate travel, cannabis, the role of private companies in government surveillance, and whether technology designed to prevent crime can ultimately give authorities too much power. They also discuss some of the victories communities have already had in getting Flock cameras removed and why James believes public pressure can actually make a difference.It's a conversation about privacy, technology, government power, and the uncomfortable question of just how much surveillance we're willing to accept in the name of safety.Support the show

For Episode 78 of Good Times Noodle Salad, Paige sits this one out as Matt is joined by guest host Devin and special guest Bobby Caine, better known as Motorcitymoto313.Bobby talks about why he stepped back from riding motorcycles after getting a little too comfortable doing 150+ mph and lane splitting, the crashes that changed his perspective, and why he still isn't done with bikes. From there, the conversation takes a hard left into skateboarding, snowboarding, camping, Detroit's outdoor scene, and Bobby's mission to get more people outside and experiencing what Michigan has to offer.They also get into the insanity of Isle of Man racing, MotoGP, Group B rally cars, motorcycle crashes, social media hate, content creation, and why going viral isn't always the goal.It's motorcycles, outdoor adventures, Detroit, questionable life decisions, and three dudes arguing about things they probably should have researched beforehand.Episode 78 of Good Times Noodle Salad is here.Support the show

Comedian Nicole Melnyk joins Matt and Paige for a wild, funny, and occasionally heated conversation that goes everywhere from stand-up comedy and podcasting to Joe Rogan, Kill Tony, wealth, politics, surveillance, AI, and why Nicole might be the only person capable of turning a podcast appearance into a full-on debate.Nicole and Matt clash, agree, argue, and somehow keep the conversation hilarious as they discuss comedy influences, whether famous comedians inevitably become terrible people, the Saudi comedy festival, SNL, Flock cameras, privacy, misogyny in comedy, and the weird ways society reacts differently to men and women.Plus, Nicole gives us her thoughts on the Good Times Noodle Salad origin story, Matt explains why he avoided stand-up for years before finally becoming obsessed with it, and by the end of the episode, Nicole and Matt are already pitching Melnyk vs. Matt as a potential monthly debate series.It’s chaotic, opinionated, funny, and exactly the kind of conversation where nobody completely agrees—but everybody keeps talking.Support the show

For episode #76 of Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt and Paige sit down with comedian Griffin Daniel for a nearly four-hour conversation that goes absolutely everywhere.Griffin shares wild stories from more than two decades working in restaurants, including dangerous kitchen accidents, gas leaks, grease disasters, meat slicer injuries, terrible bosses, and the strange reality of being a skilled cook while servers can sometimes make more in a weekend. Matt and Griffin compare the chaos and safety culture of restaurant kitchens and construction sites, debate whether getting yelled at can actually keep people alive, and talk about the people who show up to a job thinking they know everything.The conversation also gets into Flock cameras and privacy, government overreach, workplace surveillance, weird hospital experiences, scars, comedy, music, Chef, Dave Matthews Band, GWAR, and the search for purpose in whatever you do.It’s a long one, a funny one, and full of the kind of stories that probably shouldn’t be told on a podcast—but we’re glad they were.Good Times, Noodle Salad is a Metro Detroit podcast hosted by Matt and Paige, featuring comedians, musicians, creators, and interesting people with stories worth telling.Support the show

On the 75th episode of Good Times Noodle Salad, Matt and Paige sit down with The Wild Life, a Michigan band from Frankenmuth made up of musicians who somehow managed to actually follow through on the classic “we should jam sometime” conversation. They talk about how the band came together, finding the right lineup, writing and releasing music, the struggle of being confused with another similarly named band, and what’s next as they gear up for a bigger push and new music.Of course, it wouldn’t be GTNS without the conversation going completely off the rails. The group gets into music recommendations, Dungeon Crawler Carl, teachers with side hustles, micro-sponsorships, Juggalo wrestling, old internet nostalgia, weird animals, gardening disasters, and the long saga of Gerald the duck. It’s over three hours of music talk, ridiculous stories, and the kind of conversation that starts with a band interview and ends somewhere completely unexpected.Support the show

On episode 74 of Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt and Paige sit down with comedian Stephanie Ann for a conversation that goes just about everywhere. Stephanie shares the incredible story behind her massive weight loss, becoming a mom, finding comedy, getting sober, and rebuilding her life along the way.They also talk about navigating the Detroit comedy scene, comedy drama, Stephanie's Diva Cup stand-up improv competition, her growing social media following thanks to her Downriver and Michigan content, appearing on Kill Tony, GLP-1 medications, documentaries, and plenty of the kind of stories that somehow get more ridiculous the longer the conversation goes.It's a funny, honest, occasionally unhinged episode with one of the most interesting stories we've had on the show.Support the show

Willie Page joins Matt and Paige for one of the most unhinged episodes of Good Times, Noodle Salad yet. Willie talks about coming up in the Detroit comedy scene, his approach to storytelling, raising seven kids, and the wild life experiences that give him plenty of material on stage.The conversation gets real when Willie and Matt bond over growing up with asthma and dealing with the brutal effects of Canadian wildfire smoke on their lungs. They also swap stories about probation, DUIs, sobriety, and the absurd situations that can come with being on the wrong side of the law.From Willie's garbage truck accident and his pre-comedy career to Matt's ongoing weight-loss journey, Ozempic, and the disastrous attempt to dress like Jazzy Jeff at a 90s-themed party, absolutely nothing stays on topic for long.It's Detroit comedy, ridiculous true stories, asthma, probation, weight loss, 90s nostalgia, and a whole lot of malarkey with comedian Willie Page.Support the show

Matt is joined one-on-one by comedian Vontae Bailey for a candid conversation that bounces between comedy, life, and the kind of stories you can't make up. Topics include Matt's ex-girlfriend being committed to a psychiatric hospital, the effort to launch a new open mic for comedians in Metro Detroit, whether paying for social media followers is ever worth it, dating someone who's completely unhinged, and the reality of having to start over after life knocks you down.Vontae shares the tough-love lessons that helped him rebuild after moving home from Las Vegas, while Matt and Vontae trade perspectives on personal growth, stand-up comedy, and learning from the chaos life throws at you. As always, the conversation takes plenty of unexpected detours, mixing serious moments with the kind of humor that's become a staple of Good Times, Noodle Salad.New episodes of Good Times, Noodle Salad drop every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday with comedians, musicians, creators, and interesting people from all walks of life.Support the show

Good Times, Noodle Salad #71 welcomes comedian Andrew McFarland for a conversation that bounces between the comedy scene, career changes, blue-collar life, and the ever-changing culture surrounding stand-up.Matt and Paige sit down with Andrew to talk about the closing of The Independent Comedy Club and what it means for local comics, before diving into Andrew's start in stand-up comedy and the winding road that got him there. They also discuss how the 2008 economic collapse pushed Andrew into an entirely new career, leading to a conversation about the pros and cons of trades versus office jobs and how different career paths shape people's lives.Of course, no comedy podcast would be complete without tackling the topic of comedians getting cancelled, where the three explore changing audience expectations, controversial material, and how comics navigate today's comedy landscape.As always, GTNS is full of side quests, laughs, questionable opinions, and the kind of unfiltered conversation that can only happen when three comedians sit around a table with microphones.Topics include: Andrew McFarland, stand-up comedy, The Independent Comedy Club, the 2008 recession, career changes, trades vs. office jobs, cancel culture, local comedy, and everything in between.Support the show

Good Times, Noodle Salad #70 welcomes comedian Andrew Guay for an episode that somehow manages to connect stand-up comedy, hyperscale data centers, engineering, Michigan politics, and a whole lot of nonsense.We dive into Andrew's journey through stand-up comedy before taking a surprisingly nerdy detour into the world of data centers, including the differences between closed-loop and open-loop cooling systems and why that stuff is way more interesting than it sounds. Along the way, we also get into the Michigan U.S. Senate race between Abdul El-Sayed and Haley Stevens, throwing around opinions, jokes, and the occasional half-baked hot take like only Good Times, Noodle Salad can.As always, the conversation rarely stays on track for long. Expect plenty of tangents, ridiculous stories, terrible puns, unexpected laughs, and the kind of conversational chaos that's become the show's trademark.If you enjoy podcasts about comedy, current events, engineering, music, and absolutely everything in between, this one's for you.Topics include: stand-up comedy, Andrew Guay, data centers, open-loop vs. closed-loop cooling systems, Michigan politics, Abdul El-Sayed, Haley Stevens, comedy writing, and everything in between.Support the show

Episode 69 is here, and we somehow spend over 2 hours talking about... almost nothing.We're joined by the guys from Armada Lodge for a conversation that wanders everywhere and nowhere at the same time. We dive into our mutual love of Periphery, question why certain other metal bands just don't click with us, marvel at the absurd talent of the new generation of professional disc golfers, and revisit the completely ridiculous Steve Vai inside joke that refuses to die.Between all that? An unhealthy number of terrible puns, nonstop malarkey, pointless tangents, and the kind of conversations that happen when nobody in the room is interested in staying on topic.If you're looking for deep life lessons, this isn't the episode. If you're looking to hang out with a group of friends who can't stop making each other laugh, you've come to the right place.Grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy Episode 69 of Good Times, Noodle Salad with Armada Lodge.Support the show

This week on Good Times Noodle Salad, we're joined by special guest Jake Mattes for a wildly entertaining conversation that somehow connects Game of Thrones, The Bear, Shameless, Toy Story 5, and the strange world of irreverent horror movies with terrible puns.Along the way, the crew debates why cheating sounds like way more work than it's worth, Matt jokingly informs Paige that if she ever cheated she'd be "pig shit within a week," everyone shares some Fireball, and the studio slowly transforms into a sweltering sauna. As the episode unfolds, Jake and Matt also discover they share a deep appreciation for filmmaker and comedian Kevin Smith, leading to plenty of nostalgic movie talk.It's another unpredictable mix of pop culture, questionable life advice, ridiculous tangents, and laughs that could only happen on Good Times Noodle Salad.Topics include:Game of ThronesThe BearShamelessToy Story 5Weird pun-based horror moviesWhy cheating seems like way too much effortFireball-fueled conversationThe studio becoming unbearably hotA shared love of Kevin Smith and his filmsAnd plenty more nonsense along the waySupport the show

Matt and Paige sit down with comedian Troy Foust for an honest conversation that blends humor with some of life's heavier moments. Troy shares what it was like growing up as a military brat, moving through 13 different states before eventually calling Michigan home, and how that constant change shaped who he is today.The conversation dives into Troy's journey through addiction and recovery, the lasting impact of losing his brother to mental health struggles and addiction, and what it's been like becoming a stepfather while chasing a career in comedy. They also talk about pursuing dreams later in life, balancing ambition with the responsibilities of being an aging father, and finding purpose through it all.To lighten things up, Matt and Troy discover they have something unexpected in common as they compare notes on life with GLP-1 medications, leading to plenty of laughs along the way.It's a heartfelt, funny, and deeply personal episode about resilience, family, second chances, and never giving up on the life you want.Support the show

On Episode #66 of Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt sits down one-on-one with Farmer Beth Wojo for an honest and fascinating conversation about life on the farm, family legacy, and finding purpose through hard work.Beth shares what it was like growing up in the family business at Wojo's Greenhouse, why she made the transition into dairy farming, and how navigating a difficult divorce shaped the person she is today. Along the way, Matt and Beth dive into the surprisingly clever, low-tech solutions farmers use every day—simple, elegant tricks born from generations of problem-solving and ingenuity.If you've ever wondered what life is really like behind the scenes on a working farm, this episode offers an authentic look at resilience, family businesses, agriculture, and the practical wisdom that keeps farms running.🎙️ Topics include:Growing up at Wojo's GreenhouseTransitioning from greenhouse work to dairy farmingLife after divorce and personal growthClever farming hacks and practical problem-solvingFamily businesses and rural lifeThe realities of modern agricultureIf you enjoy conversations about farming, entrepreneurship, resilience, family businesses, and the people behind essential industries, be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Good Times, Noodle Salad.#Podcast #DairyFarming #Farming #Agriculture #FamilyBusiness #WojosGreenhouse #MichiganFarming #RuralLife #Entrepreneurship #GoodTimesNoodleSaladSupport the show

Paige sits this one out as Matt goes one-on-one with Jackson, Michigan's own Hyporium, the genre-bending band that's built a unique sound by blending metal, rap, trap, and EDM into something entirely their own.The conversation dives deep into finding purpose through music, the creative process behind making meaningful art, and how becoming parents has changed their perspectives both on and off the stage. The guys also talk about bringing Hyporium back to life after a multi-year hiatus, rebuilding momentum, and what the future holds for the band.Of course, this wouldn't be a Good Times, Noodle Salad episode without a little chaos. What starts as a routine bathroom break quickly spirals into disaster as an unexpected accident leaves half the podcast set in shambles, turning an already great conversation into one of the funniest moments in GTNS history.If you're a fan of heavy music, creative minds, parenting stories, or watching things go completely off the rails, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Topics Include: The return of Hyporium  Blending metal, rap, trap, and EDM  Finding purpose through creativity  Creating art that matters  Parenthood and personal growth  Life after a hiatus  The future of the band  The Great Pee Break Incident™ Listen, laugh, and enjoy another serving of Detroit's best comedy podcast, Good Times, Noodle Salad.Support the show

This week on Good Times, Noodle Salad, Paige takes the episode off while Matt sits down with married comedians and actors Dani Lee and Malachi Lee for one of the most honest and emotionally layered conversations the podcast has had.The three dive into the challenges of building a relationship while navigating grief, including Dani's heartbreaking story of losing her sister through a series of devastating family events. The conversation also explores race and identity, with Matt opening up about witnessing discrimination through the experiences of his mixed children and how that has changed his perspective on the world around him.Along the way, they discuss the strange realities of modern dating, balancing marriage with creative ambitions, and what it takes to pursue careers in comedy and acting while dealing with life's inevitable hardships.Equal parts funny, thoughtful, and deeply personal, this episode is a reminder that behind every performer is a story that rarely gets told on stage.Support the show

This week on Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt is joined in the studio by the members of Triple Threat Entertainment for a conversation about what it really takes to keep a music group together while balancing the responsibilities of everyday life.The crew shares stories from performing live shows, building a loyal fan base, and maintaining friendships and relationships with bandmates through the highs and lows of chasing a dream. They also open up about raising kids while pursuing their passion for music and the challenge of finding balance between family, work, and the stage.As always, the conversation takes a few unexpected turns, including a discussion about the hilarious nicknames that come from working on job sites. Then Matt breaks out one of his favorite games, "Guess the Artist's Real Job," where the guys try to figure out what musicians did to pay the bills before making it in the entertainment world.It's a fun episode packed with laughs, behind-the-scenes music stories, and a reminder that the road to success is usually built one day job at a time.Like, subscribe, and leave a review to help more people discover the show!Support the show

On this episode of Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt sits down one-on-one with Detroit stand up comic Omer Perry for one of the most unfiltered conversations the podcast has had yet. The two dive into the funniest debate imaginable: what’s the blackest thing Matt has ever done versus the whitest thing Omer has ever done, and why white people somehow always seem to “own stuff for no reason.”Matt and Omer also get brutally honest about relationships, jealousy, and the complicated balance of knowing too much about your partner’s sexual history. The conversation spirals into stories about their boldest romantic encounters, awkward dating realities, and the weird psychology behind insecurity, confidence, and modern relationships.As always, the episode bounces between hilarious stand up comedy observations, uncomfortable truths, and completely reckless jokes that somehow become weirdly insightful. One minute they’re talking about race and class, the next they’re debating hookup ethics and life decisions that absolutely should’ve stayed private.Classic GTNS chaos from start to finish.Support the show

Episode 61 of Good Times, Noodle Salad welcomes special guest Paul Artale — a motivational speaker, stand-up comedian, former football player, and collegiate coach — for a conversation that balances comedy, life lessons, sports, and storytelling.Paul shares the journey from his football career into coaching at the collegiate level, and how those experiences eventually led him into motivational speaking and stand-up comedy. Matt and Paul dive deep into the realities of parenting kids involved in sports, the pressure that comes with competition, and the challenge of helping young athletes grow without losing sight of what matters most.The episode also shifts into a love letter to great writing and character development, as Matt and Paul break down what makes shows like Better Call Saul and Ted Lasso so impactful. From layered storytelling to emotional payoffs and unforgettable dialogue, the two explore why excellent writing sticks with audiences long after the credits roll.A thoughtful, funny, and inspiring episode packed with sports stories, comedy, parenting perspectives, and appreciation for elite storytelling.Support the show

This week on, Matt sits down one-on-one with returning guest for a laid back but hilarious conversation about comedy, parenting, ambition, and trying to balance real life with creative goals.The two dive into doing stand up comedy, why bands always seem to be at their absolute best right before they blow up, and the weird pressure of constantly making content to stay relevant in entertainment and sports. Garrett also talks about parenting kids involved in sports and how social media has changed the way athletes build their careers from a young age.Matt and Garrett also get into the struggle of missing time in the gym because life keeps getting in the way, along with the guilt of trying to prioritize everything at once. Garrett shares stories from acting in his very first movie and what it was like stepping into a completely different world outside of stand up comedy.If you like comedy podcasts with honest conversations, creative struggles, dad life, sports talk, and comedians trying to figure it all out in real time, this episode is for you.Follow, rate, and share wherever you get your podcasts.Support the show

This week on, Matt and Paige sit down with stand up comedian for one of the funniest and most unexpectedly emotional episodes yet.The crew dives into parenting, life after raising children, and what it’s like for April to officially become an empty nester now that her only child is grown. The conversation takes a serious turn as they discuss comedian and his heartbreaking book about the loss of his daughter, leading to a raw conversation about grief, family, and finding humor through tragedy.Of course, things quickly spiral back into chaos as April explains why she’s entering her self-proclaimed “Hand Job Era,” along with stories from the comedy scene, dating, getting older, and surviving life one uncomfortable laugh at a time.If you like unfiltered comedy podcasts, Detroit stand up stories, brutally honest conversations, and complete nonsense, this episode is for you.Follow, rate, and share wherever you get your podcasts.Support the show

Episode 58 of Good Times Noodle Salad welcomes legendary Detroit musician Marq Speck and his wife Jan into the studio for a deep conversation with hosts Matt and Paige. From the early days of Sweet Crystal to celebrating an incredible 50-year career in Detroit music, Marq shares stories from decades on stage, the evolution of the band, and the challenges of transitioning into the Christian rock scene.The conversation dives into faith, marriage, personal growth, and what it really means to recenter a relationship around God while navigating life, music, and family. Along the way, Matt finds himself questioning his own use of swear words, leading to some unexpectedly hilarious and honest moments.Topics include Detroit rock history, Christian music, marriage and faith, balancing creativity with spirituality, lessons learned from 50 years in music, and the power of staying true to your purpose.Support the show

#57 - Toi Too Tall Survived Airbnb Nightmares & Dominated Detroit ComedyThis week on Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt and Paige sit down with special guest Toi Too Tall — a Detroit-based comedian and voice actor who’s been grinding in the comedy scene for the last 7 years.We talk insane Airbnb horror stories, getting started in stand-up through Bill Bushart’s Comedy 101 class, studying The Comedy Bible by Judy Carter, developing stage confidence, and the reality of building a comedy career in Detroit. Toi also talks about winning Dave Crumbley’s Women’s Cup and how that changed things for her as a performer.Expect comedy talk, chaos, behind-the-scenes stand-up stories, and the usual Good Times Noodle Salad nonsense.#DetroitComedy #StandUpComedy #Podcast #ComedyPodcast #GoodTimesNoodleSaladSupport the show

Episode 56 of Good Times, Noodle Salad brings in special guest Venom of Virtue for a deep dive into the realities of life inside a band—and everything that comes with it. From maintaining friendships while navigating creative differences, to building content beyond music, this episode explores what it takes to keep a band together both on and off stage.We get into how their band expanded into media, including the creation of a game show segment within their own podcast, and what it means to evolve as entertainers in a digital world. Venom also reflects on growing up in the era of VHS editing and early media arts, sharing how those hands-on beginnings shaped their creative process today.The conversation also tackles the steep learning curve of editing audio, the behind-the-scenes grind of producing quality content, and of course—the inevitable drama that can come with being in a rock band. Honest, funny, and packed with stories, Episode 56 is a must-listen for musicians, creators, and anyone curious about the chaos behind the curtain.Support the show

Episode #55 of Good Times Noodle Salad brings it full circle with special guest Charles Hill—a comic who didn’t just grind his way into the scene, but helped build it from the ground up.Charles takes us back to how he first got started in comedy and what inspired him to launch the open mic at One Night Stan’s—creating opportunities for comics who just needed a shot… including Matt, who got his very first stage time thanks to Charles. From that moment to now, the stories come full circle in the best way.Speaking of stories—Matt goes on an all-time run of puke stories that gets so vivid it actually makes Charles nauseous in real time. It’s disgusting, hilarious, and completely on-brand chaos.But the episode also takes a serious turn as Charles shares a deeply personal and traumatic experience—nearly suffocating from a bad reaction to medication before surgery. That moment became a turning point in his life, ultimately pushing him toward stand-up comedy and giving him a new perspective that still shapes his material today.We also get into Charles’ time on the Mic-O-Holics tour, life on the road, and what it really takes to stick with comedy through the highs and lows.It’s a mix of origin stories, near-death experiences, gross-out comedy, and real-deal perspective—exactly the kind of ride GTNS is built for.Support the show

Episode #54 of Good Times Noodle Salad brings in Kenny from Skroove, a homegrown lifestyle apparel brand out of Royal Oak, Michigan that’s rooted in skateboarding, snowboarding, and now—somehow—golf.Kenny breaks down what it was like starting Skroove while still in college at Saginaw Valley, figuring things out on the fly and building something real without a blueprint. Devin—who originally put us on to Skroove—pulls up to the studio as well and jumps into the conversation, adding to the chaos and backstory of how everything came together.From there, the conversation spirals into the kind of random, unforgettable adventures that seem to follow Kenny and his brother everywhere—including somehow ending up hanging out with Tom Green.We get into the different creative swings Skroove has taken over the years, from throwing live shows around Royal Oak and Ferndale to putting together “Skroove Sessions,” a series of music performances with local artists that helped blur the line between clothing brand and creative community. Skroove has also made a name for themselves through apparel collaborations with local ski hills across Michigan, tapping directly into the culture that inspired the brand in the first place.Of course, it wouldn’t be a Skroove episode without talking boards—skateboarding roots, snowboarding culture, and the inevitable transition into golf as the body starts to fight back a little more each year.It’s a laid-back but inspiring episode about building something from nothing, chasing ideas that don’t always make sense on paper, and staying creative no matter where life takes you.🎧 Tap in and ride with us.Support the show

Episode #53 of Good Times Noodle Salad gets real fast as Matt and Paige are joined by comedian Kate Dore for one of the most emotional — and hilarious — conversations yet.What starts as a deep dive into stand-up comedy quickly turns into something heavier, as the trio unpack generational trauma, childhood experiences, and how those things shape not just who you are, but how you perform on stage. A talk about Matt's kids going through their own trauma leads to Matt and Kate both crying.They also get into the realities of comedy culture — from why “cancel culture” doesn’t stick in stand-up the way people think, to giving flowers to comics they respect, including Louis CK and Dave Attell.Plus, they talk about coming up in the scene, including what it’s like taking Bill Bushart’s 101 class at Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle and how it helps shape new comics in the Detroit area.It’s raw, it’s funny, it’s uncomfortable in the best way — and it’s one of those episodes that sticks with you.Support the show

Episode 52 of Good Times Noodle Salad brings in special guest Autistic Spitfire for one of the most raw and unfiltered conversations the podcast has had yet.A stand-up comedian with a story that goes way beyond the stage, Spitfire opens up about losing hundreds of pounds, the harsh reality of food addiction, and how it led to losing his teeth—something he talks about with both honesty and dark humor. The episode dives deep into his journey through addiction in all forms, from food to porn, sex, and drugs, and what it’s taken to get sober and start rebuilding his life.He and Matt also get into what it was like growing up in the 90s and early 2000s with autism—long before it was widely understood or openly talked about—while Matt offers an outside perspective and keeps the conversation grounded. Along the way, the two bond over their shared love of films, adding some lighter moments and genuine chemistry to an otherwise heavy episode.This episode doesn’t hold back—it’s real, uncomfortable at times, but ultimately about resilience, growth, and finding a way forward.Support the show

Episode #51 of Good Times Noodle Salad brings back Floyd Jones for his second appearance, and it’s straight chaos from the jump.Matt and Floyd get into the ongoing studio drama that might force a move, plus the realities of traveling for comedy and trying to get stage time on the road. Floyd breaks down his experience performing on Kill Tony, and Matt talks about still being a Joe Rogan fan despite all the controversy.The conversation takes a turn into mushrooms, watching the Beastie Boys, and a mix of completely unhinged topics including Captain Spaulding, Dave Chappelle, and Chappell Roan.No structure, no filter—just comedy, stories, and a whole lot of malarky.Drop a comment with your favorite moment and subscribe for more episodes.#podcast #comedy #killtony #joerogan #standupcomedySupport the show

Episode 50 of Good Times Noodle Salad hits a milestone with a raw one-on-one between Matt and Brian from Rivit—and this one goes way deeper than your typical music convo.Brian breaks down what it really takes to bring a musical vision to life, including the decision to work with studio musicians to turn ideas into something real. The conversation weaves through his unique upbringing between Africa and Michigan, what boarding school was actually like, and how those experiences shaped both his life and his sound.Things take a heavy turn as Brian shares the intense, real-life story of his dad being kidnapped in Africa—adding a layer of perspective you don’t hear every day on a music podcast.They also get into the grind behind the scenes: engineering music, working in a studio on the side, and what it’s like balancing passion with the reality of building something sustainable.It’s honest, unpredictable, and easily one of the most memorable episodes yet.Support the show

Episode #49 of Good Times Noodle Salad brings in special guest Drebb for a chaotic, hilarious ride through pop culture, music, and some absurd games.From 50 Cent’s all-time petty antics to the Fast & Furious franchise completely losing the plot, nothing is safe as the conversation bounces between hot takes and wild opinions. Matt and Drebb also test their movie knowledge with a ridiculous improv game—connecting actors through co-stars and films until someone inevitably crashes and burns.The episode also dives into the music scene in Northern Michigan, the contrast with Metro Detroit, and what it’s like trying to build something creative in a smaller, more spread-out community.It’s a mix of sharp takes, dumb games, and real talk—classic Good Times Noodle Salad energy.Support the show

Episode 48 of Good Times Noodle Salad brings in special guest Mind Riot for a wide-ranging, chaotic, and hilarious conversation.We get into Paige’s book club taking a hard left turn into full-on smut territory, sparking a debate on what people are actually reading behind closed doors. Mind Riot dives into the evolution from playing in a cover band to writing and recording original music, breaking down the risks, growing pains, and creative payoff that comes with finding your own sound. The conversation also hits the realities of playing shows around Metro Detroit—from grindy gigs to standout moments—and what it takes to build momentum locally.On top of that, we explore what it’s like growing up in a family-run brewery, how that environment shapes work ethic (and drinking tolerance), and the unexpected lessons that carry over into music and life.It’s a fun mix of music talk, local scene insight, and unfiltered nonsense.Support the show

On this episode of Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt Smith sits down one-on-one with comedy veteran Steven Lolli. With decades of experience in stand-up and writing credits for Katt Williams, Steven brings road-tested insight, comedy philosophy, and plenty of wild stories from life in the industry.Often nicknamed “The Urban Jew” for his reputation of absolutely crushing in Black comedy rooms, Steven talks with Matt about learning to read different audiences, earning respect in rooms that don’t know you yet, and what it takes to make any crowd laugh. The two also get into the realities of touring as a comic—the late-night drives, unpredictable crowds, and the strange situations that only seem to happen on the road.The conversation explores the balance between conflict aversion and being overly confrontational, both in comedy and in everyday life, and how comedians walk that line when tackling real-world topics on stage.This episode also carries a heavier backdrop. It was recorded just about five miles away in West Bloomfield while an attempted terror attack targeting a synagogue in the area was unfolding. Matt and Steven take time to address the rise of conspiracy theories online that fuel antisemitism and other forms of hate, and talk about why those narratives are dangerous when left unchallenged.Comedy is about honesty, perspective, and sometimes saying uncomfortable truths out loud—but hate has no place in that conversation.Stop Jewish hate.A mix of comedy war stories, cultural commentary, and real talk from two comics who’ve spent years navigating the stage and the world around it. 🎙️Support the show

Episode 46 of Good Times, Noodle Salad features musician Nic Stevens for a wide-ranging conversation about life in the local music scene and the weird social games that happen at concerts. Nic talks about the differences between playing in bands versus going solo, the creative freedom that comes with each, and the realities of performing and building a career as an independent musician.The conversation also dives into what it’s really like working as a booker for a music venue in the age of social media—from dealing with endless DMs from bands to navigating online promotion, egos, and the constant hustle required to fill a room.Of course, things go off the rails as Matt and Paige talk about telling way too much truth on the podcast, and the ridiculous games they play at concerts. These include searching the crowd for the mysterious “Jeremy Matheson” (a completely made-up person) and confidently lying to strangers about being much older than they actually are just to see what happens.Music industry stories, comedy chaos, and questionable social experiments — it’s all happening in this episode.Topics include:Playing in bands vs going soloBooking shows and promoting concerts in the social media eraOversharing on podcastsThe fake search for “Jeremy Matheson” at concertsConvincing strangers you’re way older than you actually areSupport the show

Episode 45 of Good Times, Noodle Salad features Matt flying solo in the host chair while sitting down with Static Lace, a husband-and-wife rock duo making loud, gritty rock music while navigating real life offstage.The conversation gets honest right out of the gate. BA shares the powerful story of getting sober and rebuilding her life after a near-death car accident pushed her to leave an abusive relationship. It’s a raw look at survival, recovery, and how music became part of putting the pieces back together.Naturally, the episode also goes completely off the rails. Matt proudly explains how he intentionally started a rumor that his own grandma is racist just to commit to a joke at a wedding—because sometimes the bit is worth the chaos.They also get into raising kids while chasing creative work, the songwriting process behind Static Lace’s music, and the reality of trying to raise chickens when you’re absolutely terrible at it.And in classic Matt fashion, the studio nearly implodes when he realizes he accidentally recorded Static Lace’s camera angle in slow motion, filling up the storage and almost derailing the whole episode. Technology is hard.Recovery, rock music, bad poultry farming, questionable family rumors, and a host who still hasn’t mastered his own recording setup.Support the show

This week on Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt and Paige sit down with comedian William Harvey for a raw, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt conversation about life in and around the stand-up comedy scene.The episode kicks off with some wild stories about recent local comedy drama, including the absurd trend of fake AI screenshots stirring up nonsense in the scene. From there, William tells us about his chaotic and legendary Hot Set Mic—a show where comedians have to eat ghost peppers before they perform. As you might expect, the results are equal parts pain, panic, and incredible comedy.But the conversation also gets real. William opens up about growing up surrounded by addiction, the impact it had on his life, and what it’s been like navigating adulthood and comedy after losing his mother. It’s an honest look at how comedians often turn difficult experiences into something meaningful—and funny—on stage.Of course, we also dive deep into the craft of stand-up comedy: bombing, building sets, weird shows, and the grind of trying to make people laugh night after night.It’s an episode that swings from ridiculous to real in the best possible way.Support the show

Episode 43 of Good Times, Noodle Salad features the hilarious and legendary Simply Shanell—a beloved local comic who brings big laughs and real-life wisdom to the table. In this episode, we talk about everything from the chaos of working in direct care for the elderly to the underrated security system of driving a stick shift (because apparently car thieves can’t drive them anymore).Shanell shares stories from her life in comedy, what it’s like grinding it out on stage, and why sometimes the smartest financial move is just staying home so you don’t spend any money. The conversation also dives into her dream of opening a backyard comedy club at her home in North Carolina—a laid-back, grassroots space where comics and audiences can connect in a totally different way.Alongside the laughs, Shanell also opens up about something much more personal: grieving the loss of her mother and how that experience has shaped her perspective on life, work, and comedy.It’s funny, honest, and full of the kind of real conversation that makes Good Times, Noodle Salad what it is. Pull up a chair and hang out with us for Episode 43.Support the show

In Episode 42 of Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt sits down with Michael, Jordan, and Pauly of Breakfast at 2PM for a wide-ranging conversation about creativity, technology, and the strange cultural moment we’re all living through.The group dives headfirst into the growing controversies around AI—why it seems like every week there’s a new industry people are told to be outraged about, from data centers and pipelines to automation and artificial intelligence. Are these existential threats… or just the latest step in how technology and industry evolve?They also get brutally honest about the grind of trying to make it in the arts. From unreliable collaborators to the emotional rollercoaster of creative work, the guys talk about the real-world frustrations artists face when passion collides with logistics, egos, and the reality of trying to build something from nothing.And of course, the elephant in the room: AI as a creative tool. Is it unethical to generate art instantly with tools like ChatGPT, or is it simply the modern equivalent of using better equipment? When real artists can be brilliant but also a pain in the ass to work with, is convenience starting to win?It’s a funny, thoughtful, occasionally spicy conversation about creativity, technology, outrage culture, and the shifting rules of making things in the modern world.Pull up a chair, grab a bowl of noodles, and enjoy the ride.Support the show

 In this one-on-one episode of Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt sits down with comedian James River for a wide-ranging conversation. They dive into the craft of comedy, debate the impact of Reaganomics and the fateful decision to let Wall Street gamble on mortgages, and share their love for the late Norm Macdonald. Insightful, irreverent, and unapologetically funny, this episode is perfect for anyone who loves smart comedy and big-picture conversations about culture and economics. Support the show

On episode 40 of Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt and Paige sit down with musician Josh Story for one of the most honest and heavy conversations we’ve had yet.Josh opens up about his battle with cancer and the physical toll radiation took on his body — from the unexpected side effects to the long-term impact on his strength, energy, and identity. As a lifelong musician, one of the hardest blows was losing the ability to sing the way he once could. We talk about what it feels like to have a core piece of yourself altered, and how you begin redefining who you are when your abilities change overnight.Beyond music, Josh shares what it’s like running a day center for adults living with mental illness — the emotional weight of that responsibility, the purpose it brings, and how his own health battle reshaped the way he approaches compassion and leadership.The conversation also turns toward the brighter parts of life: getting married, having kids, and learning how to adjust expectations while still showing up as a husband, father, and creative. Josh talks candidly about adapting his life to meet his post-treatment reality — physically, emotionally, and spiritually — and how resilience isn’t always loud… sometimes it’s just continuing to move forward.This episode dives into:The hidden havoc radiation can causeIdentity loss and rebuilding after illnessFatherhood during crisisMarriage under pressureMusic, creativity, and adapting when your body won’t cooperateFinding purpose in service to othersIt’s vulnerable. It’s real. It’s heavy at times — but it’s also hopeful.Episode 40 is about strength that doesn’t look like strength.Listen, share, and as always — thanks for hanging out with us.Support the show

Episode 39 of Good Times, Noodle Salad features special guests King Norman for a loose, three-hour conversation that drifts between music, comedy, culture, and real-life habits.The crew gets into favorite stand-up comedians and how comedy influences performance, timing, and confidence on stage. There’s plenty of band talk too — writing, rehearsing, gigging, and what it actually takes to keep a group moving forward while balancing work and real life.They also wade into the controversies surrounding Dan Schneider and the broader discussion about accountability in entertainment, including the legal case involving Drake Bell and his conviction for attempted endangerment of a child. It’s an honest conversation about media narratives, fame at a young age, and how public opinion shifts over time.Add in a real discussion about quitting cigarettes — the mental battle behind it and what finally pushes someone to make a change — and you’ve got another wide-ranging episode of Good Times, Noodle Salad that goes wherever the conversation takes it.Support the show

This week on Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt sits down one-on-one with touring comedian Chris Harvey for a real behind-the-curtain conversation about life in stand-up.Chris shares what it’s actually like touring with Steve-O — from wild crowds to the discipline required to survive the road — and how the day-to-day grind of being a working comedian is way less glamorous than people think. The two get into staying humble while chasing success, learning your love language, and why relationships can be harder than bombing on stage.It’s part comedy talk, part self-reflection, and part therapy session — the kind of honest conversation that happens after the show when the mics are still on.Expect laughs, perspective, and some surprisingly real moments about balancing ambition, ego, and connection while trying to make people laugh for a living.Support the show

Matt and Paige are joined by musician Stick Boovy and stand-up comedian Floyd Jones for a chaotic, funny, and surprisingly philosophical hang.Floyd talks about performing on Kill Tony — what the experience was really like, the pressure of those sixty seconds, and how brutally honest live comedy feedback changes the way you write jokes afterward. The group dives into bombing vs. killing, chasing stage time, and why comedians willingly put themselves through psychological warfare for laughs.Stick shares the moment he realized his TV was quietly murdering his creativity… so he sold it. That decision spiraled into a deeper conversation about boredom, discipline, and why removing distractions is sometimes the only way to actually make art. He also explains the legendary pizza tattoo — yes, it got him free pizza for a year… but only once a month, so technically 12 pizzas total. Worth it? Debatable.Also discussed:Motivation vs comfortCreative habits that actually workThe comedy grind in MichiganThe strange psychology of artistsWhether small rewards can trick your brain into big productivityA classic Good Times, Noodle Salad episode — equal parts jokes, existential crisis, and terrible life decisions that somehow make perfect sense.Support the show

This week on Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt sits down with stand-up comic Peggy Beatie to break down the emotional rollercoaster of doing your first ever set — the nerves, the silence, the laughs you didn’t expect, and the jokes that absolutely betrayed you.They get into what it’s really like trying to carve out a place in the Michigan comedy scene, why a heated garage might secretly be the perfect social environment, and the eternal internal argument between doing the responsible thing and doing the thing you actually want to do.It’s part comedy talk, part life philosophy, and part justification for questionable choices.Expect: • bombing stories • comedy process talk • garage hang theory • rational decisions vs self-indulgence • Matt reliving his first set trauma in real timeFollow, rate, and share if you enjoy honest conversations with funny people figuring life out as they go.Support the show

On this episode of Good Times, Noodle Salad, hosts Matt Smith and Paige Teregan sit down with special guests Forge The Sun for a fun mix of music talk and absolute nonsense.The band breaks down how they eventually figured out their real sound (after plenty of trial-and-error eras), and why songs mysteriously get played way faster once you’re on stage. From adrenaline-fueled tempos to the weird quirks that only happen during live performances, the conversation turns into a behind-the-scenes look at what actually goes through a musician’s brain mid-set.Naturally, things spiral into a discussion about hilariously dumb pun-based horror movies — including Santa Jaws and Zombie Ass: Toilet of the Dead — and why terrible movies sometimes end up being the most memorable.Music philosophy, stage chaos, and completely unserious debates — classic GTNS.Support the show

On episode 34 of Good Times, Noodle Salad, Matt and Chris are joined by the band Aqua Monkey for a wide-ranging, unfiltered hang. Paige sits this one out, and things get loose fast.The crew digs into what it’s really like managing relationships within a band — creative tension, egos, communication, and staying friends while chasing something bigger. They also wade into the controversy surrounding Ozempic use, culture, body image, and where health conversations can go off the rails. And somewhere along the way, Matt shares the story of his first-ever mushroom experience, lessons learned included.As always, it’s honest, funny, slightly unhinged, and very GTNS.Support the show

Episode 33 of Good Times, Noodle Salad sits down with special guest Drew Alkema for a grounded, honest conversation about chasing purpose through art while balancing real life. Drew talks about finding meaning in creativity, why acoustic guitar is wildly underrated and often overlooked, and what it’s like being a dad with a dream that refuses to die. The crew also digs into the nuts and bolts of building genuine relationships with local venues, showing up consistently, and carving out space in your scene without selling your soul. Thoughtful, funny, and relatable for anyone trying to create something while still paying the bills. Support the show

Comedian Darren Lewis joins Good Times Noodle Salad for a raw and hilarious conversation about starting stand-up comedy, finding his voice, and learning the hard way what freedom actually costs.Darren shares the wild story of getting arrested for handing out food to the homeless, the moral whiplash that followed, and how it shaped his worldview. He also opens up about the pressure from church to marry the wrong woman, navigating guilt, expectations, and choosing his own path.Plus, a family twist you won’t see coming: Darren’s dad used to sell drugs, then completely flipped his life by getting into the very unexpected business of breeding koi fish.Funny, honest, and deeply human — this one goes places.Support the show

Former Good Times, Noodle Salad co-host Christopher Michael Smith returns for a special birthday episode as Matt (January 22) and Chris (January 19) celebrate another year and reopen the GTNS vault. Recorded just a couple hours before Matt’s birthday party—where a dozen friends showed up for a full-blown Guitar Hero tournament—the energy is loose, reflective, and very on-brand.The conversation goes where it probably needed to go a long time ago: Chris’s abrupt departure from the show, the oddly specific personality quirks he and Matt share, and how being fully honest and authentic can quietly take power away from other people’s expectations. Along the way, things get philosophical, slightly uncomfortable (in a good way), and unexpectedly heavy—right down to uncovering the sad truth behind the beloved Tool song “4 Degrees.”Equal parts reunion, reckoning, and pre-party hang, this episode brings old GTNS energy with a more honest edge. 🎙️🎂Support the show