The Odd Podcast with Joe Parisi

Step into a supersized dose of nostalgia on this episode of The Odd Podcast with Joe Parisi! Joe dives deep into the wild, colorful world of McDonald's nostalgia, Ronald McDonald history, and some of the most sought-after McDonald's collectibles ever made. First, Joe talks with Randy Kalin, a performer and magician who spent more than 30 years working as Ronald McDonald, sharing incredible behind-the-scenes stories about what it was like to bring one of the most recognizable characters in pop culture to life. From live appearances to the magic of the Golden Arches, Randy offers a rare inside look at an unforgettable era of McDonald's history. Then, Joe is joined by Dustin Mayfield (@dustydixie), a prolific pop culture toy and memorabilia collector who has bought, sold, and hunted down some of the coolest and rarest vintage McDonald's collectibles, including retro advertising pieces, restaurant décor, promotional items, and other fast food treasures that collectors dream about. If you love retro McDonald's, 80s and 90s nostalgia, Happy Meal memories, vintage advertising, restaurant memorabilia, and the strange corners of pop culture history, this episode is for you. 🍟 Topics include: What it was really like to be Ronald McDonald Rare and valuable McDonald's memorabilia Vintage Happy Meal toys and collectibles Classic McDonald's restaurant décor and advertising Why McDonald's nostalgia still hits so hard Whether you grew up with the PlayPlace, birthday parties, collectible glasses, menu boards, or the golden age of Ronald McDonald, this episode is a nostalgic trip back to one of America's most iconic brands.

MTV Changed Pop Culture Forever...Let's Rewind 📺 This episode of The Odd Podcast dives deep into the wild, colorful, and culture-shifting history of MTV. From the moment "Video Killed the Radio Star" launched the network in 1981, MTV didn't just play music videos, it reshaped music, fashion, celebrity culture, and an entire generation. In this episode, I take you on a nostalgic journey through the rise, peak, and evolution of MTV. We talk about: • The early days and explosive rise of MTV • Iconic music videos that defined the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s • The shows that changed the network forever (and changed TV itself) • How reality TV slowly replaced music videos • The long, strange "end of the music video era" Plus, a very special guest interview. I'm joined by FlexasaurusRex, the anonymous creator behind the viral MTV Rewind website - a free streaming experience that brings back the magic of watching music videos all day long. We talk about why he built it, the reaction it's getting online, and why people still miss the MTV era so much. If you grew up watching MTV, miss music television, or just love pop-culture nostalgia, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now and take a trip back to when the TV was always on… and the music never stopped. Follow Joe Parisi @joeparisivo Follow FlexasaurusRex @rexflexasaurus wantmymtv.xyz

Heather O'Rourke is forever etched into horror history as Carol Anne Freeling, the wide-eyed little girl who delivered one of the most iconic lines in movie history: "They're here." Cast in Poltergeist (1982) at just five years old, Heather instantly became one of the most recognizable child actors of the 1980s and a defining face of supernatural cinema. Before and after Poltergeist, Heather appeared in national television commercials and guest-starred on popular shows like Happy Days and Webster. She went on to reprise her role as Carol Anne in Poltergeist II and Poltergeist III, solidifying her place in horror fandom while quickly gaining a reputation as a remarkably gifted young performer. Tragically, Heather O'Rourke passed away in 1988 at only 12 years old, leaving behind an enduring legacy and decades of unanswered questions, myths, and fascination among fans of the Poltergeist films. In this episode, I'm joined by friend of the show Brian Pocrass, who has spent years working with his team on an upcoming documentary about Heather's life, career, and lasting impact. The film, She Was Here, is set for release in early 2026. Together, we discuss Heather's rise to fame, her cultural impact, and why her story continues to resonate with Poltergeist fans and horror lovers alike. This episode was originally released on December 27, 2025, on what would have been Heather's 50th birthday.   Follow Joe Parisi @joeparisivo

In this episode, Joe Parisi explores the #1 songs of the 1990s as ranked by the Billboard Hot 100. From chart‑toppers that shattered records to songs that launched major careers, and even a few that completely disappeared from the cultural conversation. This is a deep dive into what the charts were really telling us. The Billboard Hot 100 isn't just about hits. It's a snapshot of a moment in time. Each #1 song reflects a week, a season, or even a specific memory for millions of people. So put on your Starter jacket, pump up your shoes, and join Joe for a fun, nostalgic look back at the music that defined the '90s. Follow Joe @joeparisivo

Get ready for an irresistibly nostalgic deep dive into one of the most delightfully quirky parts of Pee-wee's Playhouse: the iconic claymation "Penny" segments! In this episode, we explore how these whimsical shorts were created, uncover who "Penny" really was, and connect the dots to a surprising web of pop-culture oddities that all tie back to her. I'm joined by two incredible guests: Prudence Fenton, the visionary animation director and producer behind Pee-wee's Playhouse, and Timothy Young, the artist and model maker who literally built Penny during Season 1. Together, they share behind-the-scenes stories, creative secrets, and the unexpected legacy of a tiny girl made of clay who left a huge mark on children's television. Tune in for nostalgia, creativity, and some seriously fun surprises!   Follow Joe @joeparisivo Check out Joe's other podcast "America's Pop Culture Trivia Show".  

Author and Podcaster Mark Malkoff joins Joe for an in-depth discussion about Johnny Carson's fascinating life and career. Mark recently released the book "Love Johnny Carson: One Obsessive Fan's Journey to Find the Genuis Behind the Legend". If you love hearing stories from Hollywood's Golden Age, and exclusive stories from behind the curtain of The Tonight Show, this episode is right up your alley. Enjoy our 135th episode...Here's Johnny! Follow Joe @joeparisivo More about Mark - markmalkoff.com

Diving in to the legend of 2Pac with 9x New York Times Best Selling Author Jeff Pearlman. In October 2025, Jeff released his latest book "Only God Can Judge Me: The Many Lives of Tupac Shakur".   Follow Joe @joeparisivo Follow Jeff @jeff_pearlman

In this spine-tingling episode, Joe Parisi explores the legacy of Elsa Lanchester, the unforgettable actress who brought The Bride of Frankenstein to life. But the story doesn't end on screen. Recently, true-crime and Hollywood historian Scott Michaels (Dearly Departed Tours/Findadeath) uncovered the mysterious truth about the whereabouts of Lanchester's remains. Hear how decades of rumor, misinformation, and Hollywood lore finally led to a surprising discovery. Joe also dives into the life and tragic death of Colin Clive, the brilliant but tormented actor who portrayed Dr. Frankenstein himself, revealing the haunting parallels between his real life and the Gothic horror he helped create. If you love classic monster movies, Hollywood history, and real-life mysteries, this episode is for you. Follow Joe Parisi @joeparisivo Follow Scott Michaels @iamscottmichaels 

On this episode of The Odd Podcast with Joe Parisi, we explore a lesser-known chapter of Elvis Presley's life, his deep passion for karate. Joe is joined by special guest Billy Stallings, also known as Spa Guy, who owns and operates the Tiger Man Dojo & Museum in Memphis, Tennessee, the very same dojo where Elvis trained from 1970 to 1974. Learn how Elvis got into martial arts during his Army days, and how it became a major part of his life during his peak fame and his later years. Discover the history of the dojo just down the street from Graceland, and how Billy lovingly restored it to look just like it did during Elvis's training days. Whether you're a lifelong Elvis fan, martial arts enthusiast, or history buff, this episode is packed with rare stories, fascinating history, and insights into a side of The King you've never seen before. Topics include: The true story behind "Karate Elvis" Elvis's personal martial arts journey The restoration of the original dojo Behind-the-scenes stories from the Tiger Man Dojo & Museum How fans can visit this hidden Elvis landmark Follow Joe @joeparisivo Visit www.thetigermanmuseum.com  #ElvisPresley #KarateElvis #TigerManDojo #ElvisPodcast #Graceland #MartialArts #SpaGuy #ElvisHistory #MemphisTourism #ElvisPresleyMuseum

Join Joe Parisi and Brian Pocrass for a fun deep dive on Back to the Future Part 2.  It's a trip back in time to 1989 when we all saw what things were possibly going to look like in 2015. We discuss everything from the lesser known cast members to filming locations and screen used props.

Joe Parisi exlplores the incredible story behind the 1996 alt rock song "Standing Outside A Broken Phone Booth with Money In My Hand" by Primitive Radio Gods. Follow Joe @joeparisivo

Join Joe as he discusses a recent trip to Las Vegas and all of the fun & quirky pop culture-related things he had on the itinerary, including a David Copperfield show at the MGM Grand, Maroon 5 at the Dolby Theatre, a desert road trip to see Area 51, the town of Rachel Nevada, the Little A'le'in, The Clown Motel, The Sphere, filming locations from Swingers and Back to the Future 2, the 2pac Memorial and more!    Follow Joe @joeparisivo   Find Joe's other show - America's Pop Culture Trivia Show

On this episode we take a DEEP DIVE on Steve Urkel Mania, which managed to sweep the nation in the 90s. We discuss Family Matters, TGIF, Urkel Merchandise, Crossover Episodes, Lost Media, and so much more. Hollywood insider Brian Pocrass joins Joe Parisi for a fun discussion that will pull you right back into the glorious 90s!

Joe Parisi and Brian Pocrass take a deep dive on the 1993 cinematic classic Dazed and Confused. They discuss the film in depth, along with many of the other coming-of-age highschool films they enjoy.   Follow Joe on insta @joeparisivo

A recap of Joe's recent trip to Hollywood that was packed full of Hollywood history, filming location visits, iconic LA haunts, and more.  PLUS, a full 30+ minutes on the special Odd Podcast field trip to Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary. This is the final resting place of Marilyn Monroe and hundreds of other Hollywood celebrities. Brian Pocrass joins the show live from LA with a wealth of information about this extremely unique, celebrity-filled cemetery.  Brian gave Joe and his family a private tour of the cemetery during their visit and on this episode he shares all sorts of odd and interesting facts with the listeners. The show open through 49:40 features a recap of everything Joe and his family visited in and around Hollywood. 49:40 on is all about Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary.

Examining the bizarre and fascinating life and career of a fringe Old Hollywood celebrity known as The Amazing Criswell.  Joining me is the author of the book " Fact, Fictions, and the Forbidden Predictions of the Amazing Criswell", Edwin Lee Canfield.   Instagram: @joeparisivo  

    A deep dive into the 1996 film Swingers.  Joe Parisi is joined by Deena Martin Delucia, who played Christy (The Vegas Waitress).

  Al Leong has probably been in your favorite action movie. In fact, he's probably been in half of the action movies you saw in the 80's and 90's.  Join Joe Parisi and Al Leong for a fun discussion about the martial arts film genre and Al's incredible life on screen.

  A deep dive on the 1986 pro-wrestling comedy "BodySlam". Join host Joe Parisi and cast member Michael Moynahan, who played "Pee Wee Hutchens" as we discuss this somewhat obscure 80s cult classic.

If you spent time watching ABC's TGIF lineup in the 90's, this episode is for you!  Join Joe Parisi and guest Brian Pocrass as they take a deep dive into one of the most beloved sitcoms of the 90s.

A deep dive into the 2004 classic Napoleon Dynamite.  Join Joe Parisi and Trevor Snarr (who played "Don" in the film) for a fun look back at this highly influential movie.

F_ _ _ FACE!  In 1989, Fleer released their annual set of baseball cards, having no idea what was about to happen and what had slipped past them.  A few weeks after the cards started being sold, word started to spread that the Bill Ripken card  in the set featured a very explicit phrase written on the handle of the bat he was holding in the picture.  As the company scrambled to halt production, save face, and edit the card, a frenzy among collectors broke out and copies of the card became highly sought after.  30 years later, people still actively search for this card and many questions still remain unanswered.  Over the years, many of the stories and explanations have been changed. Join Joe Parisi for a deep dive on this historic incident that changed the trading card industry forever.  We're also visited by Jon Pederson who runs the website dedicated to this card, www.billripken.com 

Dissecting the 1985 John Hughes classic "Weird Science".   Joining Joe Parisi is longtime Hollywood character actor Britt Leach who played the father of "Gary" (Anthony Michael Hall) in the film.  Also, Rhonda Wong joins the show.  Rhonda worked as a background performer in the iconic party scene at the end of the film and was in the blue kitchen!  

Joe Parisi is joined by Brian Pocrass for a deep dive on 1991's odd coming of age hit "My Girl".  

Join Joe Parisi and Brian Pocrass as they dissect the 1991 cult classic Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead.

Join Joe Parisi, Brian Pocrass and Jen Chaney (author of the book "As If: The Oral History of Clueless as told by Amy Heckerling, the Cast and Crew") as they take a trip back to 1995 and explore this influential teen film.

The unlikely story of an unlikely hit: LFO's Summer Girls.  Joining Joe to explore this 1999 hit is LFO member Brad Fischetti.

Exploring the Punky Brewster show which originally ran from 1984-1988.  Along for the ride is Hollywood insider and filmmaker Brian Pocrass and Hollywood dog trainer Robert Weatherwax (who worked with "Brandon" on multiple occasions).  

DC The Brain Supreme joins me to look back at the party anthem that took over the world in 1993, Tag Team's hit single "Whoomp (There it is).  We also discuss the song's resurgence thanks to the Geico ad campaign featuring Tag Team.  

A deep dive into The Karate Kid 3.  Join Joe Parisi and Brian Pocrass as they examine the strange third installment in this classic film franchise.  Cast member William Christopher Ford (who played "Dennis", a sidekick of Mike Barnes) joins the program to share some behind the scenes stories.   Will the Cobra Kai series start bringing in cast members from The Karate Kid 3? Brian and Joe make their predictions.

Ice Ice Baby took the world by storm in the fall of 1990.  But it was more than just another hit song.  On this episode I'm going to present a theory that this turned out to be one of the most influential songs in pop culture history.   Join Joe Parisi and DJ Earthquake (who produced and appears on the track) as they sort out the fact, the fiction and the incredible legacy of "Ice Ice Baby".

Joe Parisi and Brian Pocrass take a deep dive on a little known Christmas film from 1991 called "All I Want for Christmas".  Why is it that so many Christmas movies from this era have become "classics" but this film has been widely forgotten?  

A look back at the career of the late-great Jonathan Brandis.  He made so many cool contributions to pop culture throughout the 90's.  Join Joe Parisi and Brian Pocrass for a trip back to the 90's! 

Darryl Vidal has the incredible honor of being one of the people who competed on-screen in the 1984 "All Valley Karate Championship" in the movie The Karate Kid.  In fact, he went all the way to the semi-finals in the film where he faced off against Johnny Lawrence.  Well, Darryl played a much larger role than anyone really knew as he is also credited as the creator of the Crane Kick as we all now know it. Join me and Chinese Kenpo Grandmaster Darryl Vidal as we hear his first hand account of working on this classic film.

Exploring the 1985 cult classic "Heaven Help Us" with actor Jay Patterson who played "Brother Constance".

Robert Weatherwax is a 3rd generation Hollywood dog trainer.  Between his grandfather, his father and himself, this family has trained some of the most famous and beloved dogs in all of film and television.  Lassie is just the tip of the iceberg!

  Exploring the history of Our Gang/The Little Rascals and the life of Carl "Alfalfa" Switzer.

Johna Stewart famously had her nail broken in the 1992 movie Ladybugs.  Her Hollywood journey as a child actor landed her in Beverly Hills 90210, Boy Meets World, Pacific Blue, The Legend of Galgameth and more!

  Our guest is Lori Fetrick who was "Ice" on the 90's television show American Gladiators.

A 2 hour long deep dive into and appreciation of Pee Wee's Playhouse.  Guest include George McGrath who was a staff writer and also voiced "Globey", "Cowntess" one of the flowers and one of the fish AND Vic Trevino who played "Ricardo". Discussing everything from the Penny claymation sequences, the Christmas special, the Del Rubio Triplets and more!

Actor Matt Doherty is here to talk about life as an actor...the Mighty Ducks franchise (where he played Averman), So I Married An Axe Murderer (where he played Heed), Home Alone and more! Follow Matt on Instagram @archiedohman   

Exploring the 1990 John Hughes Christmas classic...the film that turned Macauley Culkin into an international superstar.  Brian Pocrass joins the show to tell some incredible stories about the locations used.  I also dive into the Elvis conspiracy theory.   Home Alone Filming Locations Film Crawl Video By Brian Pocrass- https://youtu.be/ALK7pdBaBBY 

Exploring the 1984 John Hughes film "Sixteen Candles" with the help of Debbie Pollack who played "Marlene" (the girlfriend of Long Duck Dong)  

Exploring the 1978 comedy classic Animal House with the help of Mark Metcalf who played Doug Neidermeyer in the film.  We chat with Mark about the making of this iconic film and about his memorable guest role as "The Maestro" on Seinfeld.  

Exploring the 1988 cult classic "Hobgoblins" with help from creature creator Kenneth J. Hall.  Kenneth made the actual hobgoblin puppets used in this film and he has worked on several of the classic creature films from the past 3 decades. Join us as we take a deep dive into Rick Sloane's odd little film.   Find Kenneth online at https://www.totalfab.com 

Taking a deep dive into the 1990 film Kindergarten Cop.  Our guest in Christian Cousins, who as a young child played "Dominic".   This episode looks at everything from Arnold's early 90's string of hit films to the large number of child actors who slip into complete anonymity as adults.  

We take another look at 1985's Stand By Me. Our guest is actor Andy Lindberg who played the role of "Lardass Hogan".  Andy and I chat all about how he ended up in this film, the ins and outs of filming the pie eating contest scene and a whole lot more! https://www.andylindberg.com/

Exploring the 1990 action movie LIONHEART. Joining us is Sheldon Lettich (the writer & director) & Jeff Langton (Cynthia's Fighter "Sonny"). We discuss everything from casting choices, the various interesting fight venues, how filmmaking differs today and more!  

Exploring the history of the legendary Sunset Strip hotel, Chateau Marmont.  Best selling author Shawn Levy has just completed his book "The Castle on Sunset: Life, Death, Love, Art and Scandal at Hollywood's Chateau Marmont" and he is with us to share some incredible stories from this Hollywood landmark's history. From Bogart to Belushi to Britney, we cover a lot of ground in this short quick 45 minute episode. www.shawnlevy.com 

Examining the 1990 Tim Burton classic "Edward Scissorhands".  Joining me are the film's production designer, Bo Welch (4 x Oscar Nominee) and Michael Burmeister- the film's location manager.  They take us back to that crazy-colored neighborhood and teach us all about this one-of-a-kind film, how they pulled this off logistically and much more!