Uncommon Content

I'm back! On this episode of Uncommon Content I layout how my plan for a solo trip around the world for a year lasted five months, and only made it through 13 degrees of longitude. There were money mishaps, a soul-sucking paradise, Anthropological revelations, and the best roast chicken I have ever eaten.  

On this episode I discuss somebody discussing cartels, how I am feeling taller every day (thereby loving Mexicans even more), and how I should always deal with fear... whether it is legally stealing a car or literally making an ass of myself on camera.

On this episode I am entering the last ten days of the Mazatlán leg of my trip and I think it might have been the easiest part. I've started making videos and I look as dumb as expected, but I have plan. I also discuss my hatred of masks and how I can't believe we allow Americans in authority to wear them among us in America. 21 days and counting...

On this episode I discuss the vacation portion of my vacation; living it up for a day in the Golden Zone. I also delve deeper into the car washer patio show, and describe how I used to catfish girls using a pretty sister. 

Week one of my trip around the world is checked off the list! On this episode I visit a casino and shopping mall, stand half-naked naked on the patio admiring the citizenry, and discuss how we are all just one power outage away from a dystopian future, but it's ok because we are still wearing our Cardinal's gear. 

On this episode of Uncommon Content; all of my personalities have arrived safely in Mazatlán, Mexico. The Gonzo year of this podcast has begun and despite an immediate setback, due to our lack of awareness, we are all here - no worse for wear - and even a little bit taller.

On this episode of Uncommon Content I layout the plan for my solo trip around the world. My only goal is to spend one year abroad and see as much as I can. I want to see if for myself and I am going to spend every dime I have to do it. I have found that the two most important aspects of life are balance and perspective; every day cannot be a good day, and you wouldn't know a good day without a bad one with which to compare it. There are no exceptions to this rule. I have spent the last year staying sober and giving my life some balance, now I want to spend the next year giving that balance some perspective. 

This week on Uncommon Content... I discuss the Real ID cash-grab from the perspective of another unsatisfied customer of the State of Illinois, why bureaucratic Karens flock to DMVs, and how I intend to invoke my inner Spartacus and embrace the idea that you can't have suicidal thoughts and  be afraid for your life at the same time. 

This week on Uncommon Content... I discuss the constant reminder of my birth, give a shout-out to prison dogs keeping it real, discuss selling temporary pieces of me, and ask for prayers to Our Lady of Guadalupe that I get my passport and start my “old man on a budget” video journey around the globe. 

This week on Uncommon Content... I discuss the effectiveness of strategic procrastination when joining the gym, people who are working out furiously to keep up with friends because they are embarrassed to admit they can't afford Ozempic, and how an imaginary 2500 mile ride, ski, and row journey in my head turned into the very real trip around the world on which I am about to embark.

On this episode of Uncommon Content I discuss more writer’s block, tell a few pope jokes, and run a thought experiment on the shitshow that would occur if Trump died in office of natural causes. 

Chapter 29 - A Walk In The CityEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

Chapter 28 - The AnimalEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content we celebrate one year of the show! My goal for the first year was to generate 24 hours of original content, and the show has almost 30 hours and growing!There are only two chapters of Off The Reservation left to publish on the podcast. Thanks to everyone that has listened along! Season 3 of the podcast will start with a new format after the next two chapters are published.Uncommon Content will be back with with its new format in the coming weeks! Let me know if you want to be on the show.

Chapter 27 - Morally IndefensibleEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

Chapter 26 - Off The ReservationEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss adopted dogs from the wrong side of the tracks, how beer and dogfood built St. Louis, farming as a future, and how much it costs to put a block of butter in space.My guest is Kenny Walthes. He is a Principal and the Director of Operations for Taylor Roofing. We discuss roofing, the trades as a whole, and antique farming. Kenny is holding the Annual Corn Collectors Festival on April 11th & 12th in Breeze, IL. Come on out!

Chapter 25 - Turn Out The Lights, The Party's OverEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, I discuss an embarrassing congress, property taxes, whether or not to form your own nation, and the actual state of our union. No guest this week. I wanted to give my own State of the Union Address. If I had the chance to speak to congress, this is a portion of what I would say. It was as fun as it sounds! 

Chapter 24 - Someone Is HereEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss self-checkout statistics, whether or not aging gracefully is a good idea, dirt racing, cult classic movies from childhood, and hotel shenanigans. My guest is Shaun Spencer. He is the director of a hybrid retirement home and a kid at heart, so you couldn't ask for better perspective.

Chapter 23 - I Hate You, Don't Leave MeEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss whether or not reality television is child abuse, the definition of virtue signaling, and if friendships can outlast relationships.  My guest is Julia Yank. She is the artist formerly known as Mrs. Dank, the first mate on my lifeboat, and dog-mom to our pet velociraptor.  

Chapter 22 - Kicking The CoversEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, I discuss the fundraising gap between breast and prostate cancer, covering dog tracks in the snow, why SNL and I are both fifty years old and neither of us is funny, and how to watch old movies with Tom Hanks now that I know he is racist and anti-Christian. I did not have a guest this week, but I will be back next week with a great one!

Chapter 21 - The Devil Gives Me A Better JobEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, I discuss weight loss drugs for pets, veterinarian guilt trips, the loss of trust in America's institutions, and the necessity of alcohol for the development of civilization. My guest is Derik Reiser. He is the owner of Old Herald Restaurant & Brewery and Ardent Spirits Distillery. Our conversation revolves around how an Enterprise executive starts a second life making tasty beverages, the challenges involved managing all three operations, and Covid's effect on this burgeoning enterprise. 

Chapter 20 - Pretty Little RetardEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, I discuss the Pelosi's amazing investment strategy, Murphy's Law, and how people stealing from you use nice fuzzy names for the theft so you don't question them. I did not have a guest this week, unless you count the geese from the lake outside of my studio fighting for dominance. It sounds a lot like our leaders talking to each other. 

Chapter 19 - God Gets Me A JobEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss the social media "we Zuck" apology tour, the nature of animal lovers, the challenges and successes of JD Vance, and the power of perspective in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. My guest is Kim Hocher. She is a great friend, wife, mother, grandmother, animal lover, entrepreneur, and Big Sister. Even with that schedule she found time to be on the show!

Chapter 18 - You Can't Fire Me, I Quit!Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss empty government buildings, drinking like a gentleman, the progression of St. Louis into lawlessness, NFL friends, inaugural fashion, the pervasiveness of gambling, and the late-great Athina Miller.My guest today is Matt Eversgerd. He is a great friend with a rare zest for life and music. Matt spent fifteen years living in downtown St. Louis, and he has a better understanding than most of its decline.

Chapter 17 - I'd Like a Mulligan, Please.Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss the death of the local store, education supply's demand, why I hate most lawyers, but love little horses, and the efficacy of saltwater thrown on fires and politicians.  My guest today is Mary Jo Guinn. I have know her since childhood; she is a wife, mother, registered nurse, lawyer, and entrepreneur. She has a knack for facing challenges and I am grateful for her time.

Chapter 16 - The RestaurantEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, I discuss Jersey Shore aliens, snow days, surge pricing at grocery stores, and revisit the value of hair in the universe. I had no guest for this week. I didn't want to drag anybody out in the snow for my hobby. The last bit of this episode is from a show I did in August. If you didn't catch it the first time, give it a listen. Most people tell me it is their favorite.

Chapter 15 - Zero Sum GainEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss hopeful 2025 resolutions, finding a gym, food truck entrepreneurs, and meal insecurity around the world.   My guest today is General John E. Michel (U.S.A.F. Retired).  After 26 years in service to the Air Force, John has continued to help where it is needed by starting the Currency of Caring program and heading up the philanthropic arm of the television series, “Food Is Love”. 

Chapter 14 - Like A Penis, Only SmallerEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

Chapter 13 - The Perfect StallEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss the absolute evil that is McKinsey & Company, being a mom, restaurant shenanigans, and how sobriety and faith can make your life better when you are ready. My guest this week is Jovanna Becker.  She is a great friend and the first employee I hired at my last restaurant. She is currently the Bar Manager for Copperfire Restaurant & Bar, and one of the most loyal and honest people I know.Note: There will be no episode next week to celebrate Christmas. We will be back on January, 2nd!

Chapter 12 - Along For The RideEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss the status of college in society, why Black Rock wants your house, the disappearing labor force, and if having AI is better than having a degree. My guest this week Brendan McFarland. He is a 19 year-old Ironworker by trade, and I asked him to come on the show to give me some insight. Not just as a young tradesman, but young anything. I am becoming more fuddy duddy every day. I farted twice in public this week.   

Chapter 11 - WanderlustEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss mouse movers, working from home, the national debt, and how longtime friendships can feel more like brotherhood.  My guest this week is Chad Booth. Chad has allowed me to rent a room in his house, on and off, for over 20 years. We didn’t even scratch the surface on stories, but he will be back.   

Chapter 10 - I Am An Adult And I Have The Papers To Prove ItEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss colorful breakfast cereals, chicken emotions, cultivation and homesteading basics, and the legal differences between hemp and cannabis.My guest this week is Eddie Mac. Eddie is a good friend and well-know cultivation expert with two green thumbs. He has adopted a basic homesteading lifestyle and intends to start a cultivation channel on YouTube to share his knowledge.  

Chapter 9 - Just Say NoEqual parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing them on anyone. Thankfully for us, these unapologetic, darkly comic tales haven't been taken to the grave just yet.

This week on Uncommon Content, I discuss whether Eliza was the best online therapy choice, and how the Tyson fight reminded me that I am an old man now.My guests this week are the hosts of the podcast Aggressively Helpful, Dawn Ninness and Julia Yank. I produced their podcast in my studio, and they were kind enough to be my first guests. We discuss everything from Fifty Shades of Grey, the Philadelphia Eagles, and Aggressively Helpful's upcoming Christmas episode.