Skull Rock Broadcast: A Stranger Things Podcast

We are reminiscing this week about the Stranger Things moments that were so good they gave us goosebumps. Every season is included (even five)! And if that’s not enough, enjoy Meghan and Stacy catching up about movies, Maya Hawke, and more. Meghan shares her shiny new Letterboxd top 4, and at some point we go on a fun tangent about millennial game shows and Dunkin. This is a fun one, folks. Check out our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to support our show and access bonus content including new taste tests and ad-free versions of all new episodes.

This week, Meghan and Stacy are reminiscing about all the immersive events and experiences that have been used to promote the show and allow fans to experience Stranger Things in real life. From Universal's Halloween Horror Nights beginning in 2018 to the brand new Netflix Houses opening last year, we are exploring some of the highlights. Meghan also got to visit the Netflix House in Philadelphia to see the first two episodes of Tales from ‘85 and is sharing her experience and initial thoughts on the new animated series. Please join us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to support the show and access bonus content, including ad-free versions of all new episodes.

On this week's episode, join Stacy and Meghan as we recount the highlights and our favorite moments from Season 5 of Stranger Things, including music, costumes, and characters. It’s quite a bit shorter than our ‘five fixes’ episode, but it got us excited to finally dive into season 5 episode by episode (coming very soon)! Check out our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to support our show and access bonus content including ad-free versions of all new episodes.

In this heartfelt episode, Meghan and Stacy discuss the power of entertainment in bringing much-needed comfort to our lives. We share the television shows, movies, and music that serve as emotional anchors during tough times, including Stranger Things of course. We also chat about what we are currently watching, including our thoughts and predictions about the last two episodes of The Pitt, the show we are currently obsessing over (that just happens to be the opposite of a comfort watch). Please check out our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to support our show, and access bonus content, including giveaways and ad-free versions of all new episodes.

In this week’s episode, Meghan and Stacy are joined by Mike and Charlie from Hotel Mira (who regular listeners have definitely heard mentioned once or twice…) to talk movies. We asked the guys about their favorite movies, filmmakers, actors, and what they watch on the road. You’ll either be in heaven like Stacy with the countless movie references or finish the episode like Meghan with tons of new movie recommendations. Don’t worry, we chat about Stranger Things in the beginning of the episode, as well as Twin Peaks, Heated Rivalry, and some other television shows, too. Fans of the band will get some fun behind the scenes anecdotes about recent tours. Join us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to support our podcast and access bonus content, including giveaways, ad-free versions of all new episodes, and deleted clips from this episode (yes, it was even longer). And make sure to stream Hotel Mira and sign up for their mailing list to hear about new music and upcoming shows at https://onpitch.io/hotelmira

In this episode, Meghan and Stacy welcome Joey (aka Cinco) back to the podcast to share his journey of setting a Guinness World Record for the largest collection of licensed Stranger Things merchandise. He discusses the meticulous process, challenges, and the excitement of achieving this milestone. We also talk about his thoughts on season five of the series, and the future of collecting Stranger Things merch. Don’t forget to join us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to support the show and access bonus content, including ad-free versions of all new episodes and a brand new Djo-themed giveaway that is happening now!

I couldn't name the episode tit for tit, Stacy... and we're back, guys! Listen in to hear Meghan and Stacy catch up after Meghan's vacation. We talk cruise comedians (and food), the book Half His Age by Jennette McCurdy, Stacy's Oscar predictions (which turned out to be pretty spot-on), updates for some Stranger Things cast members, and what tv and movies we've been watching lately. We also shout out our Patreon members (but somehow missed Amy and Shannon, thank you both for joining) and you can join the fun at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to access bonus content including ad-free episodes.

What would you change about season 5 of Stranger Things? Stacy and Meghan start this episode with a conversation about the movies we watched this week, including Cold Storage, "Wuthering Heights," and classic comedies This Is Spinal Tap and The ‘Burbs. Then, we each share five fixes we would make to improve the final season of Stranger Things, critiquing some of the writing choices, particularly the time jumps, character development, and notable absences of a few key characters. Join the fun on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to support the podcast and access bonus content, including an ad-free version of this episode.

Have you missed hearing us talk about Stranger Things? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered this week. In this episode, listen to Meghan and Stacy hang out and play a casual game of Guess Who, Hawkins style. We hope you’ll play along with us as you listen to this hilarious and slightly chaotic episode (we’ll post the list of characters we were using on the Patreon). We also chat about the tour that Djo just announced, opening for Tame Impala on the east coast of the United States, Joe Keery’s new film Cold Storage in theaters now, Harry Styles, Hotel Mira, and more. Join us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to support the show and access bonus content, including ad-free versions of all new episodes.

In this episode, Stacy and Meghan celebrate Valentine’s Day (Stacy’s favorite holiday) by discussing their favorite on-screen love stories from movies and TV shows. The conversation highlights our contrasting tastes, from quirky films like Dinner in America (2020) and interesting horror film choices, to iconic films such as William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet (1996) and poorly explained (on Meghan’s part) historical references in the Outlander television series. Be our Valentine and join us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to support the show and access bonus content, including ad-free versions of all new episodes.

In this episode, Stacy and Meghan welcome back Kelly, our friend and first-ever guest from two years ago, to discuss the continued viral success of Djo (the musical project of Joe Keery, who also played Steve Harrington in Stranger Things). We reflect on some memorable concert experiences from Djo’s Back on You and Another Bite tours last year and share our thoughts on The Crux and The Crux Deluxe, the two new albums he released in 2025. We also create our own mixtape, sharing some of our favorite tracks from the 1980s and chatting about the significance of music in pop culture. Finally, we share our anticipation for Joe’s upcoming projects, including the film Cold Storage, and predictions for more live music this year. Check out our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to support the podcast and access bonus content, including an ad-free versions of this episode.

"We are fandom girlies and there's just so much to discuss with music, movies, TV shows." In this episode, Stacy and Meghan kick off a brand new season of Skull Rock Broadcast by hopping on the nostalgia trend and discussing the pop culture of the year 2016. We reflect on the initial impact of Stranger Things, which premiered that year, as well as our experiences with various TV shows and movies, including The Walking Dead, Game of Thrones, and Orange is the New Black. We share the significance of certain moments in our lives during that time and discuss cultural phenomena of the year, such as Pokémon Go and Snapchat filters. We also share our thoughts on the recent Stranger Things documentary, discussing the behind-the-scenes efforts that went into the show's production and the emotional impact it had on fans. This episode gives a preview of what to expect from our show moving forward, as we continue to focus mostly on Stranger Things but begin to weave in other pop culture elements as well. Check out our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast to support the podcast and access bonus content.

Meghan and Stacy are excited to share our conversation with Trevor Rogers (@trevorwrogers on Instagram), who we talked to about his journey as an actor, including his experience working on season 5 of Stranger Things. Trevor describes the rewarding experiences and challenges of working as a stand-in, memorable moments on set, and the importance of community in the Atlanta film industry. We also have a blast talking (and laughing) with Trevor about his favorite movies and future projects. We follow the interview with some updates about Stranger Things merch and recent additions to Stacy’s collection. You can access bonus content and support our show at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

"It was a perfect send off." Picking up right where we left off in last week's episode, Meghan and Stacy share their thoughts on the epilogue portion of the Stranger Things season 5 finale. We share what we liked, what we loved, and what just didn't really work for us. We hope this helps you through your emotional hangover. And don't worry, the show might be over but this podcast isn't going anywhere! Support Skull Rock Broadcast on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

It’s finally time to talk about the finale. Meghan and Stacy share their viewing experiences, initial reactions, and emotions about the last episode of Stranger Things. Stay tuned for the second part of this episode where we discuss the epilogue. You can support the show on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

"We're back, baby!" In this conversation, Meghan is relieved to learn that volume 2 of Stranger Things 5 restored Stacy's faith in the show, and we don't have to fight it out in this so-called "therapy session." We talk about our experiences watching episodes 5-7 of the show on Christmas night, and what we really enjoyed (pretty much everything in the Upside Down lab scenes) along with our criticisms and unanswered questions (what was the significance of "Peter's school projects?"). Join us as we make sense of these episodes and our initial thoughts and emotions about them, as we prepare for the final episode of the series. You can access bonus content (including our recent holiday Boppers taste test) and support our show at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

From finally getting new Djo music in January, to finishing our season 4 re-watch in time for volume one of Stranger Things 5, the past year has been a rollercoaster over here at Skull Rock Broadcast. In this episode, Stacy and Meghan reflect on 2025, acknowledging some of the challenges while intentionally focusing more on all of the great things that happened this year. We re-cap all of our adventures on and off the air, from the Rocky Mountains to the barricade at the Djo show in New Haven. We also reminisce about all of the great guests we got to talk to on the podcast this year, including lots of other Djo fans, Stacy’s sister, our friends Brandi, Rachel, Juan, and the incredible Matt Gilbert! It was the year of djonuts (Djo & donuts, get it?) and we are ending it with no regrets. Come hang out with us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast and stick with us in the new year!

As we continue to recover from the first volume of Stranger Things 5, we have a special conversation for you this week on Skull Rock Broadcast. In the introduction (recorded this week), Meghan and Stacy chat about watching The Great Escape together, manifesting the return of Boppers, and our Spotify Wrapped results. That conversation about music is the perfect segway into the rest of the episode, which is our previously unreleased Djo mini-episode discussing our two favorite songs from The Crux (recorded in the beginning of August). We start with a taste test of the Djo cold brew coffee collaboration and a casual conversation about true crime and Hotel Mira (note: Meghan has new favorite songs now). Then, we explore themes of identity, change, and the importance of support systems in navigating life's challenges while talking about Egg and Back on You. We are so grateful for everyone who has supported us on Patreon this year, and shout out our current members on this episode. You can find video versions of all of our Djo mini-episodes, including this one which will be posted soon, as well as other bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

Well, we finally made it! Stranger Things 5 is here. We have some complicated feelings and definitely needed this ‘therapy’ session. In this episode, Stacy and Meghan dive deep into the first volume of the fifth season of Stranger Things, discussing their differing perspectives on the show's character dynamics, emotional impact, and storytelling choices. This episode is a wild ride and we have a lot to say, so join us on the journey. Access bonus content and support our show at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Nine: The Piggyback. We did it! Less than 24 hours before the release of Season 5 of Stranger Things, Stacy and Meghan are here to discuss the final episode of Season 4. We explore the emotional stakes, character dynamics, and the intense battle against Vecna and the hive mind. The conversation highlights the significance of friendship and loyalty, as well as the sacrifices made by characters in their fight against the Upside Down. As we reflect on the episode and its Empire Strikes Back ending (including the death of our beloved Eddie Munson), we also set the stage for what to expect in the final season. You can access bonus content and support our show at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Eight: Papa. Meghan and Stacy continue the deep dive of season 4 with the episode we had to wait over a month for back in 2022. The episode is aptly named "Papa," referencing Dr. Martin Brenner and his influence over Eleven, who is still grappling with the trauma of her past. Nancy begins the episode trapped in a vision orchestrated by Vecna, who reveals his plan to her (and ultimately to Eleven as she listens in on her friends remotely). The Hawkins gang spend the rest of the episode making a plan to defeat Vecna, while Eleven tries to escape the Nina Project and get to them to help, despite Papa telling her she isn’t ready. And in Russia, Hopper and Joyce escape the Russian prison, but not before some startling discoveries. This episode is an exciting ride from start to finish, and includes even more Star Wars references and some of our all-time favorite scenes. Access bonus content and support our show at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Seven: The Massacre at Hawkins Lab. As we finish our deep dive of Season 4, Volume One, the anticipation for the final season has reached a new high and we are feeling nostalgic over here at Skull Rock Broadcast. We first watched this episode over three years ago and are only days away from Season 5, so we start this episode with some reflection on our journey. Then we discuss one of our all-time favorite episodes of the show, full of heartfelt reunions, huge reveals, and lots of sparkles. Don’t forget you can access bonus content and support our show at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Six: The Dive. “Skull Rock. Do you know it?” In this conversation, Meghan and Stacy discuss the significance of the Stranger Things episode that most shaped the identity of this podcast. From the iconic scenes at Skull Rock to Steve’s deep dive into Lover’s Lake, this episode is responsible for much of the lore surrounding our show. We discuss all of the memorable moments, impactful lines, and scenes that resonated with us in The Dive. The episode is full of references to other 80s movies and personal anecdotes. With just a few weeks left until the fifth season, we also catch up about Stranger Things day, the cast appearances at the LA premiere, the first five minutes of season 5, avoiding leaks and spoilers, and the seemingly endless supply of merch that continues to be released. And be warned that our secret segment is a little extra spicy! We’d appreciate your support and would love to have you join us over on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Five: The Nina Project. In this 100th episode of Skull Rock Broadcast, we unravel the intricate layers of this episode, filled with nostalgia, suspense, and character development that keeps us on the edge of our seats. We discuss the Scooby-Doo and Nancy Drew vibes as the Hawkins gang puts together puzzle pieces and looks for clues at the Creel House, with Steve and Dustin getting a little tired of each other and Lucas and Max sharing a sweet moment of reconnection. El is taken to the Death Star-coded underground lab of the Nina Project, where we witness the return of Dr. Brenner and find out the plan to help her regain her powers. Joyce and Murray have a peanut butter filled flight and fight on their way to Russia, and we are left unsure of their fate. And Eddie loses his hiding places as the episode reaches its explosive conclusion and Vecna takes another victim. Finally we talk about the season 5 trailer, the start of the press tour, and of course all of the new merch. Be sure to find us on Patreon and support the show at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Four: Dear Billy. In this episode of the Skull Rock Broadcast, Stacy and Meghan dive deep into the emotional connections music creates, especially during tough times. Starting with another recap of recent Djo concert experiences, the conversation shifts to our rewatch of Stranger Things season 4, focusing on the fan-favorite episode 'Dear Billy.' We explore the character dynamics and intense action sequences of the fast-paced, emotional episode. Focusing particularly on Max's journey and the significance of music in overcoming darkness, we highlight the show's ability to blend horror with humor and heartfelt moments. From the Nightmare on Elm Street references to the iconic Running Up That Hill moment, we get into the many pop culture elements highlighted in the episode. Finally, we wrap up the episode discussing more of the seemingly endless Stranger Things merch being released in anticipation of season 5. The first 45 minutes of this episode were released early for Patreon members, and you can access bonus content and support our show at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Three: The Monster and the Superhero. In this episode of Skull Rock Broadcast, Meghan and Stacy start off by discussing their recent concert experiences together at the Djo Another Bite tour in New Haven, CT and All Things Go music festival in Maryland, which was a wild ride! The conversation then shifts to a detailed analysis of the next episode of Stranger Things season 4 as we continue our deep dive. We explore character interactions, emotional moments, and plot developments, including the emotional confrontation between El and Mike before she is taken away, the unlikely team-up of Nancy and Robin, and how great Steve looked, obviously. We ask the tough questions like is Ms. Kelly suspicious? And who is Peter and why do they take his school projects!? And we make some interesting personal comparisons between relationships in the show and our interactions during our time spent together recently (spoiler, Meghan is Nancy and Stacy is Robin). After lots of references to Vecna being plugged in, we talk about lots of merch, including Funko Pops, snacks, and the new Djo VIP merch. Finally, the secret secret segment makes its return! Support our show and access bonus content including new taste tests from Stacy at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Two: Vecna’s Curse. In this episode of Skull Rock Broadcast, Meghan and Stacy continue their deep dive into season 4 of Stranger Things. In this episode of the show, the characters begin to team up, Mike joining El and Will in California, Dustin and Max forming an alliance with Steve and Robin (and eventually Eddie), and Murray and Joyce becoming unlikely partners in crime. News of Chrissy’s death spreads through Hawkins, as we hang out in familiar locations like Family Video and the hangout formerly known as Benny’s Burgers. We’re also introduced to new locations like Reefer Rick’s boat house, and new characters like Wayne Munson, who tells us about Victor Creel. We discuss the character dynamics and evolving plotlines, as Vecna takes another victim, while also reflecting on our personal experiences and insights related to the show. Tune in to hear our thoughts on pivotal moments, emotional reactions, the unfolding mystery surrounding the Hellfire Club, and the Russian connection. You can support our show and get access to bonus content, including ad-free episodes coming soon, at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

In this conversation, Meghan and Stacy are joined by our friend and Elm Street-enthusiast Brandi to explore the connections between the A Nightmare on Elm Street franchise and Stranger Things. We delve into character parallels, themes of trauma and mental health, and the evolution of Freddy Krueger as a cultural icon. The discussion also highlights the significance of visual effects in horror and the impact of horror on pop culture. We share lots of humorous moments from Meghan’s experience watching the first three films for the first time with Stacy, and speculate on future plot developments in season 5 of Stranger Things based on connections the Duffer Brothers may continue to make to these movies. We also get into the recent explosion of new Stranger Things merch as we quickly approach the final season. Access bonus content and support our show at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter One: The Hellfire Club. In this episode of Skull Rock Broadcast, Meghan and Stacy finally dive into season 4 of Stranger Things. This iconic episode of the show is one of our all-time favorites, as it introduces the world to Eddie Munson. It also reintroduces all of the characters we’ve come to love both in Hawkins, Indiana and all the way out in California. We analyze the parallel experiences of Max and El navigating the struggles of high school after so much trauma, laugh as Dustin and Mike scramble to find a substitute for Lucas at their D&D campaign, and cheer for the Sinclair siblings as they lead their teams to victory. Throughout the episode, we note how it is difficult to watch the struggles of characters with their mental health and the new challenges in their relationships with each other, and the dark themes intensify with the horrifying conclusion to the episode. Don't forget you can access bonus content and support the show at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

Welcome to season 4 of Skull Rock Broadcast! To kick off the new season, Stacy and Meghan are joined by Rachel to talk about the epic summer of 2022, which we have officially named the summer of Munson. Starting from the first moments of Joseph Quinn showing up on our screens as the iconic Eddie Munson, we break down the timeline of his rise in popularity and the emotional impact of Eddie's character in season 4 of Stranger Things. We share memorable moments from the promotional tour in Brazil, his first convention appearances, meeting Metallica at Lollapalooza, and more. We discuss our personal experiences at conventions, the role of social media and TikTok in shaping fandom, as well as fan theories about Eddie's potential return. This is a fun trip down fangirl memory lane and the perfect way to begin to revisit this epic season of our favorite show. Support our show and access exclusive bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

In this episode, Stacy and Meghan savor the end of summer vibes by returning to Starcourt Mall for a trip down memory lane. We discuss the rise and fall of the shopping mall, including our own experiences and how it was portrayed in season 3 of Stranger Things. Then we window shop the fashion of Stranger Things, focusing on our favorite iconic styles from the show, the impact of malls on fashion trends, and the evolution of character styles. The conversation highlights memorable outfits from characters like Steve Harrington, Eddie Munson, Dustin Henderson (an underrated fashion icon), and more, showcasing how these styles reflect the 80s culture and nostalgia. The discussion also touches on our excitement surrounding new merchandise and collectibles, as we get ready for season 5! Be sure to support our show and access exclusive bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

We are still celebrating Summer-ween! This week, Meghan and Stacy had a blast chatting with our friend Juan about movies that are perfect for setting the mood for summer spooky season. We talk about everything from classic slasher films and cult classics, to psychological thrillers and underrated gems. Blanket spoiler warnings for all of the films we talk about during this episode, as we chat about the plot of many of them, along with our nostalgic memories associated with the films. Check out the full list of movies we discussed, along with other bonus content, over at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

Happy Summer-ween! We might be a little late to this celebration but just go with it… because Meghan and Stacy are back and joined by Matt Gilbert – an author, movie nerd, and lover of all things spooky. Matt’s new junior novelization of Stranger Things’ first season just released at the beginning of the month and we loved getting to chat with him about that and the other tie-in books he’s published, including Hawkins Horrors: A Collection of Terrifying Tales and the Hawkins Middle School/Hawkins High School Yearbook. Our conversation covers how Matt got started writing licensed television tie-in books for several well-loved franchises (starting with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), the joys and challenges of his writing process, the resurgence of novelizations and how they can be instrumental in encouraging kids to read, and the concept of gateway horror. Matt and Stacy seriously nerd out over movies and snacks, and of course we dig into Matt’s thoughts on Stranger Things, including his hopes and predictions for season 5. Please consider supporting our show at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Eight: The Battle of Starcourt. Happy Battle of Starcourt Day! In this podcast episode, Meghan and Stacy dive deep into the complexities of the final episode of season 3 of Stranger Things, which is set on this very day in 1985. One of our favorite episodes of the show, this is a dramatic, fast-paced, and action-packed cinematic masterpiece, reminiscent of nostalgic 80s blockbuster films, and one of the best pieces of television to ever exist (in our humble opinions). From humor to heroic moments, characters like Hopper, Nancy, and Steve steal the show with a fireworks-filled Starcourt Mall as the backdrop. Our conversation touches on the epic musical moment between Dustin and Suzie, as well as other songs used throughout the episode. We discuss the emotional performance Dacre Montgomery gives as Billy Hargrove, and the themes of redemption and sacrifice. The aftermath of the events in season 3 is also highlighted as we discuss the emotional epilogue. Finally, we give some updates on what else to expect from the podcast this summer, shout out some fun merch we’ve added to our collections this past week, and give a little reading update. You can support our show and access bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Seven: The Bite. In this podcast episode, Meghan and Stacy explore the seventh episode of season 3 of Stranger Things, analyzing its nostalgic elements, character dynamics, and the ongoing threats of the Russians and the Mind Flayer. The conversation is filled with humorous anecdotes, personal experiences, and reflections on the emotional connections to the characters. Some highlights of ‘The Bite’ include lots of fireworks, questionable first aid, trash popcorn, confusing time travel, apologies and confessions, favorite carnival rides, and lots of laughter. We had a blast chatting about this action-packed episode that prepares us for the blockbuster movie of a final episode. You definitely don’t have to be an American citizen to join in this patriotic fun! Don’t forget to check out our current giveaway on Instagram @skullrockbroadcast and support our show and access bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Six: E Pluribus Unum. In this episode of our Stranger Things podcast, Stacy and Meghan celebrate the start of summer break, discussing an exciting giveaway and Patreon specials. Then we dive into a detailed analysis of the sixth episode of Season 3, exploring its heavy themes, character dynamics, and the significance of the episode title. The conversation flows from the setup of the Fun Fair and the chaos in the hospital, to the misadventures of the Scoops Troop in the Russian base. There are some hard scenes to watch as Steve Harrington and Robin Buckley get caught and go through some awful things at the hands of the Soviets, and we explore the emotional connection formed through their shared trauma. Dustin and Erica are real American heroes, coming to their aid. There is also an exploration of trauma through Billy's character, as El enters his mind to search for the Mind Flayer. Hopper, Joyce, Alexei, and Murray finally start to understand each other, and their dynamic brings some much needed levity and humor to an otherwise dark episode. It’s the one year anniversary of our Patreon community, so come celebrate with us at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Five: The Flayed. In this episode of Skull Rock Broadcast, Stacy and Meghan provide a detailed recap and analysis of another episode of Stranger Things, highlighting the episode's fast-paced action, character dynamics, and humor. We explore the episode's homage to classic action movies, as Joyce and Hopper come face to face with the Russians, and the intense body horror elements and cliffhanger as Jonathan and Nancy take on their flayed former bosses. There is lots of screaming and fighting balanced by some tender moments, especially between the kids when a vending machine becomes an olive branch for Mike and El. And we can’t forget the classic Scoops Troop moments in this episode as they (barely) make it off the elevator and further into the underground Russian base, only to discover that it might be more related to the Upside Down than Dustin and Steve originally realized. Support our show and access bonus content including deleted clips from this episode at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

An in-depth discussion of Chapter Four: The Sauna Test. In this episode of Skull Rock Broadcast, Meghan and Stacy dive back into the waters of season three with this fun episode of Stranger Things. The Sauna Test balances intensity and emotion with strong comedic timing in the conversations between the characters, and allows the characters to further investigate the mysteries that have come to light. Hopper and Joyce track down the motorcyclist that attacked Jim at the lab, and he starts to realize that Joyce may be smarter than he thinks. Nancy and Jonathan have a difficult conversation after being fired from the local paper, but Karen Wheeler encourages Nancy not to give up on the story. Robin continues to be the brains of the operation as the Scoops Troop gets a new member and infiltrates the secret Russian “room.” And El isn’t quite ready to let go of what happened with Billy and Heather, so when the boys tell them that the Mind Flayer might be back, they try to figure out if it has found a new host. We explore the emotional stakes as the characters navigate complex themes of class struggles, gender dynamics, and the realities of relationships. In this episode, we also dive deep into speculations about Season 5 of Stranger Things, sharing insights from the much anticipated date announcement and the bittersweet feelings about the show's conclusion. Support our show and access bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

In this conversation, Meghan and Stacy chat with Lizzie about the music and lyrics of Djo (also known as Joe Keery). In each mini-episode, we discuss two Djo songs and explore the themes, interpretations of the lyrics, and our personal connections to the music. We start by analyzing the nuances of the song ‘Slither’ from the album Decide, focusing on the artistry of the vocal performance and the complex themes of fame and self-perception. Then we discuss the song 'Charlie's Garden,’ a whimsical favorite from Djo’s new album The Crux, exploring its themes of friendship, support, and personal growth as well as Joe Keery’s friendship with Charlie Heaton and his other Stranger Things co-stars. Finally, we talk about the joy and imperfections of live music, as Lizzie prepares to see Djo live in the UK this week. Extended video version of the episodes in this series are available at https://patreon.com/SkullRockBroadcast

For this mini-episode, Meghan and Stacy are joined by Kayla, who they first met at the Upside Down con, to discuss the music and lyrics of Djo (also known as Joe Keery). In each episode, we discuss two Djo songs and explore the themes, interpretations of the lyrics, and our personal connections to the music. In this conversation, we begin by discussing the first track on The Crux, ‘Lonesome is a State of Mind,’ analyzing the themes of loss and change and the unique production elements that enhance the listening experience. Then we discuss ‘Link,’ getting into the themes of conformity and the nostalgic references. We unpack the emotional impact of the lyrics in these two songs, some of our favorites from the album, and talk about how The Crux represents a departure from Djo's previous work, focusing on raw and authentic sound. Finally, we chat about some of our favorite moments from the Back on You tour, which Kayla also attended, and our excitement for the Another Bite tour later this year. Extended video version of the episodes in this series are available at https://patreon.com/SkullRockBroadcast

As we anxiously await a trailer for Stranger Things season 5, let’s revisit all of the trailers and teasers for the first four seasons of the show! In this episode, Stacy and Meghan begin by discussing the excitement for new Stranger Things content at the upcoming Netflix TUDUM event. We take a deep dive into the art of movie and TV trailers, sharing memorable examples and the impact they have on audience anticipation. Then we travel (upside) down memory lane, discussing the origins of the show, the clever use of music, nostalgia, and marketing in the trailers, and the darker and more complex themes of the season 4 trailers and teasers. The conversation highlights how all of the trailers effectively captured the essence of the show while building anticipation over time. Finally, we finish by sharing some of our hopes for the final trailers as we approach the bittersweet fifth season.

And we’re back (on you) with more Djo! In this episode, Stacy and Meghan discuss their experiences attending Joe Keery's recent tour, sharing personal stories and insights from the concerts they attended in DC, Boston, Philadelphia, and New York. We talk through our individual experiences at each show, since we weren’t at any of these tour dates together, reflecting on the joy and healing power of live music, the energy of the crowds, and the connections formed at concerts. As a heads up, Stacy discusses some health challenges and Meghan talks about the loss of a pet, as these events during the tour shaped our experiences at the shows. We also discuss memorable moments during the shows, our favorite performances, and the emotional connection Joe builds with the audience. Our conversation touches on how we are coping with post-concert blues (spoiler: there are more concert tickets involved) and all the great Djo merch available at the shows and from great small businesses and Etsy shops. Finally, we bring back the secret segment (shhh) since it’s been way too long. Don’t forget you can support our show, access bonus content, and (soon) have the chance to win some slippers from The Crux Hotel over at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

In this conversation, Meghan and Stacy are joined by Eli for our first mini-episode since the fever dream of attending the Back on You tour this past month, to discuss the music and lyrics of Djo (also known as Joe Keery). In each episode, we discuss two Djo songs and explore the themes, interpretations of the lyrics, and our personal connections to the music. In this episode, we analyze the evolution of Djo’s music from the track 'BNBG' on his first album all the way to the title track, 'Crux,' from his most recent album. While these two tracks couldn’t be more different in many ways, we take a look at the common threads in the themes of companionship and love, and the emotional depth of lyrics. We also chat about the songwriting process, our recent concert experiences, and connections formed through music and community. Extended video version of the episodes in this series are available at https://patreon.com/SkullRockBroadcast

Cue the John Denver, because we are finally filling you in on our trip to Colorado! In this episode, Meghan and Stacy share all the hilarious details of our adventure to see Djo and Post Animal perform live in Denver. We recount the trip, from crabcakes in Maryland and The Exorcist stairs in DC, to rooftop views of the Rockies and singing along to all of our favorite songs with Joe Keery and thousands of other fans. Throughout the conversation we reflect on the importance of taking time to enjoy life amidst personal challenges, the absolute magic of live music, and the unique moments that make travel memorable.

Emotional, heart-wrenching, kind of brilliant… In this special episode, Meghan and Stacy share their initial reactions to the long-anticipated new Djo album, The Crux, exploring the musical influences evident in the songs and the nostalgia it evokes. We discuss the album's journey from heartbreak to healing, the significance of friendships and family in the music, and the personal growth reflected in the lyrics. Interspersed throughout our conversation are voice memos from other Djo fans who shared their first impressions and favorite songs. Collectively, we all connected very deeply to this album, finding the themes relatable and inspiring. If you haven’t listened to Joe Keery’s third and most personal album, go check it out immediately and then tune in to this episode to hear how it resonated with fans.

This week, Hannah Sarah is back on the podcast with Stacy and Meghan for a mini-episode discussing the music and lyrics of Djo (also known as Joe Keery), to build excitement for his current tour and newly released album. In each episode, we discuss two songs and explore the themes, interpretations of the lyrics, and our personal connections to the music. In this conversation (recorded right before the album released and the tour kicked off) we analyze the themes of nostalgia and heartbreak in 'Delete Ya,' the second single from The Crux. Then we talk about the song ‘Fool,’ focusing on the power of lyrics to evoke feelings and the importance of authenticity in music. The conversation is filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and a shared passion for music. Extended video version of the episodes in this series are available at https://patreon.com/SkullRockBroadcast

In this episode, Stacy and Meghan catch up about Meghan’s recent trip to New York City to see Stranger Things on Broadway and Sadie Sink’s new play, John Proctor is the Villain. Stacy was sick and missed the trip, so Meghan recounts it for her in great detail, including culinary adventures, navigating the city, and unexpected celebrity encounters. We get into the immersive aspects of the production, as well as the character development and emotional impact of the First Shadow. If you don’t want too many details about the plot, you may want to skip 34:15-38:30 and 40:25-42:58 which get into minor spoiler/content warning territory. Finally, Meghan attended a listening party for Joe Keery’s new Djo album The Crux in Brooklyn and recounts that experience as well. Follow along to feel like you were on this NYC adventure, too! Support our show and access bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

In this special episode, Stacy and Meghan are joined by Stacy’s sister Alexis for a long-anticipated conversation about the world of Stephen King. Alexis and Stacy share the impact of King's storytelling on their childhood and how it shaped their interests in horror and literature. They discuss the challenges of adapting King's extensive works into films and series, sharing their thoughts on various adaptations and what makes them resonate with audiences. We delve deep into the themes present in Stephen King's works, like It, Stand By Me, Firestarter, and more, discussing the supernatural elements, the nature of fear, the role of children in horror narratives, and the emotional depth of characters. We also explore the nostalgic feelings evoked by Stranger Things and how it draws from King's influence, particularly in character arcs and thematic elements. Finally, the discussion touches on the anticipation for the upcoming season five of Stranger Things, and Alexis shares some of her hopes and theories. Support our show and access bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/skullrockbroadcast

We’re back with the rest of our conversation with Eva (@evaography) for our Djo mini-episodes, where we build excitement for Joe Keery’s upcoming tour and new album. In each episode of this series, we discuss two songs and explore the themes, interpretations of the lyrics, and our personal connections to the music. This picks up where we left off, as we explore the optimistic tone, themes of self-love, and saxophones on the track ‘Keep Your Head Up.’ Finally, we get into our thoughts on the upcoming listening parties for The Crux, Stacy’s vinyl record collection, and Joe’s quirky relationship with Fisherman's Friends. The full, extended video version of this episode and all episodes in this series are available at https://patreon.com/SkullRockBroadcast

In this not-so-mini-episode, Eva (@evaography) joins Meghan and Stacy to discuss the music and lyrics of Djo, also known as Joe Keery, to build excitement for the upcoming tour and new album. Eva attended several of the Laneway Festival performances and we were excited to hear about her personal experiences of seeing Djo live. We also reminisced about the joy of meeting Joe in person at the Upside Down convention in October, which Eva also attended. In each episode of this series, we discuss two songs and explore the themes, interpretations of the lyrics, and our personal connections to the music. In this conversation, we cover the lyrically rich song ‘Change,’ exploring how the lyrics reflect universal experiences while also being deeply personal. Stay tuned for part 2 of the conversation where we talk about the standalone track ‘Keep Your Head Up.’ The full, extended video version of this episode and all episodes in this series are available at https://patreon.com/SkullRockBroadcast