The bromance is over, Knoxville is thriving, and restaurant bills are giving us heart attacks. Welcome to Episode 40 of Two Drinks and Again, where we're somehow still talking to each other after all this time!

We kick things off with a new format structured like an old-school newspaper (remember those?), diving into national, local, sports, and entertainment topics. The Trump-Elon breakup dominates our national discussion, as we analyze what happens when two massive egos collide and what it means for the political landscape. Why is Trump being so uncharacteristically quiet? Could Elon actually become a political force despite not being a citizen? Meanwhile, the Democratic Party faces its own generational struggles, pushing out younger voices just when they need them most.

Locally, we marvel at Knoxville's transformation, particularly the stunning new Smokies baseball stadium that's revitalizing once-avoided areas of the city. We're genuinely impressed by the thoughtful development happening throughout East Tennessee, even as we puzzle over how anyone affords those $3,000/month downtown apartments. Where are all these people working?!

On the entertainment front, we give enthusiastic reviews of Marvel's Thunderbolts (David Harbour continues to be a national treasure) and share our excitement for the upcoming Fantastic Four movie. And yes, we have strong feelings about Tom Cruise still doing his own ridiculous stunts at whatever age he is now.

Through it all, we wrestle with aging, parenting adult children who still somehow disrupt vacation plans, and the bittersweet reality of planning for retirement. Whether you're nodding along or shouting counterpoints at your device, we invite you to join our conversation about navigating life's absurdities with humor and perhaps just a touch of makers mark or glenlivet to ease the journey.

Give us a five-star review if you enjoy our ramblings – after all, we're just trying to be decent to each other in increasingly indecent times.

Every sports fan knows the unique agony of watching your team implode in a crucial moment, and in this episode, we experience the full emotional journey of Duke's stunning collapse against Houston in the Final Four. What begins as analysis of a basketball meltdown expands into a much deeper conversation about changes sweeping through college sports, particularly the NIL system that has fundamentally altered how players, coaches, and universities interact.

The transformative power of money in college athletics has created a "pay-to-play" environment where players like Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava threaten to withhold participation unless financial demands are met. We examine how this shift affects team loyalty, coaching strategies, and the sustainability of college sports as we've known them. For coaches caught between recruiting new talent and re-recruiting their existing roster yearly, the landscape has never been more challenging.

Between passionate sports discussions, we celebrate surpassing 1,000 total podcast downloads and humorously navigate the worlds of scotch and wine appreciation. However, the conversation takes its most revealing turn when we admit to becoming the "older generation" we once swore we'd never be. Our candid reflections on managing younger employees who expect promotions simply for existing rather than demonstrating exceptional performance strikes a chord with anyone navigating today's changing workplace dynamics.

The episode concludes with thoughtful commentary on political polarization, particularly discussing Bill Maher's controversial dinner with Donald Trump and the importance of maintaining civil discourse across political divides. When both extremes demand complete ideological alignment, finding middle ground becomes increasingly difficult but ever more essential. Whether you're nursing the wounds of sports heartbreak or contemplating generational divides, we hope you'll join us in striving to be decent to one another, regardless of which side of any fence we find ourselves on.

The stock market has plummeted 15% since inauguration day, and Americans are feeling the impact across their retirement funds, investment portfolios, and daily expenses. This economic nosedive forms the backdrop for our raw, unfiltered conversation about the political landscape transforming America before our eyes.

We explore how the current administration's economic policies, particularly regarding tariffs and reshoring manufacturing, promise long-term benefits but are causing immediate financial strain. The transition period between policy implementation and economic results leaves many Americans, especially those nearing retirement, in a precarious position. When your 401k takes a massive hit just months before your planned retirement, theoretical future benefits offer little consolation.

Politics has become increasingly polarized, with both parties failing to address what voters actually care about. Democrats made trans rights their hill to die on in the 2024 election while voters were primarily concerned with inflation and immigration. Meanwhile, Republicans struggle with their own mixed messaging. The Wisconsin Supreme Court election results signal potential shifts in battleground states, while revealing deeper issues about the politicization of judicial positions meant to be impartial.

Media bias receives significant scrutiny as we reflect on the demise of objective reporting. From the repeal of the Fairness Doctrine to today's partisan echo chambers, Americans increasingly struggle to find trustworthy information sources. We explore how podcasts and personalized media have replaced traditional news outlets, further isolating people within their political bubbles.

What's your line in the sand? When do you decide enough is enough? As political extremes pull the country apart, we contemplate what might finally break the cycle of partisan reversals without sustainable progress. Join us for this thought-provoking discussion about finding common ground in divisive times and rediscovering the decency, acceptance, and tolerance needed to move forward together.

Ready to hear perspectives that challenge both sides of the aisle? Listen now and share your own thoughts on where America goes from here.

Basketball heartbreak, career celebrations, and the high cost of live entertainment take center stage in our wide-ranging conversation about life's wins and losses.

When Tennessee fell to Houston in the Elite Eight, it wasn't just another tournament exit—it represented the continuation of a painful pattern for Vol fans watching former coach Bruce Pearl take Auburn to yet another Final Four. We break down what made this year's tournament unique, with all four number one seeds advancing to the Final Four for the first time since 2009, and why Duke has emerged as the team to beat.

The conversation shifts to how NIL deals are transforming college basketball, with freshmen like Cooper Flagg already appearing in national commercials while still playing for Duke. This economic shift might actually keep star players in college longer, reversing the one-and-done culture that has dominated the sport. Meanwhile, the controversial timing of the transfer portal opening during tournament play raises serious questions about loyalty and focus.

On the personal front, David shares exciting news about his promotion to Senior Director of Food and Nutrition at University of Tennessee Medical Center after 15 years at his previous position. The episode also explores the joys and heartaches of watching children complete their sports careers, and the valuable life lessons that team activities instill.

We lament the skyrocketing costs of concert tickets, with shows by major artists now costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars for decent seats. From AC/DC to Louis CK, we discuss upcoming events worth the splurge and why some performances have become "one and done" bucket list experiences rather than regular entertainment.

What's your line for when things have gone too sideways? Join us for this thought-provoking episode about basketball, careers, entertainment, and finding joy in a world of constant change.

Jump into the honest, unfiltered world of Jeff and David as they navigate everything from American politics to March Madness in this captivating conversation that feels like joining old friends at your favorite bar.

They kick things off examining President Trump's recent address to Congress, offering sharp observations about the deteriorating decorum in political discourse. "Democrats are trying to match Trump's unprofessionalism, and I think that's hurting them more than it's helping them," David notes, setting the tone for their no-holds-barred political commentary. From Gavin Newsom's podcast missteps to complex budget negotiations, they dissect the political landscape with refreshing candor.

Basketball fans will appreciate their passionate breakdown of the upcoming NCAA tournament. The hosts analyze Tennessee's inconsistent performances, Duke's impressive form, and Auburn's surprising dominance with the expertise of lifelong fans. "I am happy that Bruce Pearl is finally getting his due," they acknowledge, while debating whether teams like Clemson might be this year's tournament dark horses.

The conversation takes a nostalgic turn when they reflect on high school experiences and reunions, sharing vulnerably about reconnecting with people from their past. "I hated high school. I really did," David confesses, sparking a relatable discussion about our complicated relationships with former versions of ourselves. Their reminiscing extends to Kevin Smith's filmography and classic 90s pop culture, celebrating everything from "Clerks" to "Chasing Amy" with infectious enthusiasm.

What makes this episode special is the authentic friendship that shines through every topic. Whether they're imagining how George Carlin would respond to today's politics or sharing updates about their children's major life transitions, Jeff and David create a space where listeners feel like they're part of an intimate conversation between friends.

Subscribe now and join the conversation – we'd love to hear your thoughts on what topics we should tackle next! Please leave us a 5-star review on whatever podcast platform on which you catch us!

Struggling to manage workplace chaos? In this episode, we dive into the challenges and triumphs of navigating professional relationships, focusing on the art of managing people and fostering authentic connections. Sharing personal reflections from the past two years, we uncover the impact of maintaining a positive workplace culture amidst stress and turnover. With humor and insight, the conversation touches on the significance of individual team dynamics, the evolution of management styles, and the need for compassionate communication during transitions.

We also explore innovative marketing trends to sustain client relationships while adapting to modern practices. Discover how fostering an environment of laughter and understanding can enhance connection within your team, ultimately leading to a thriving workplace culture. It's all about growth—both professionally and personally—as we remind each other to be decent and kind in this ever-evolving world. Enjoy this engaging conversation, and don’t forget to join us for future episodes! Subscribe now and share your thoughts with us.

Parenting in the world of youth sports is a wild ride filled with early mornings, endless practices, and those unforgettable senior nights. Join us as Jeff and Dave share heartfelt anecdotes from the sidelines of their children's sports journeys, capturing the thrills and challenges that come with supporting young athletes. Reflecting on the emotional highs and the relief when the whirlwind finally calms, they offer a comforting hand to fellow parents navigating the demanding schedules of youth sports.

Shifting focus from the field to family dynamics, we delve into the intricate dance of parenting post-divorce. With honest reflection, we explore the weighty expectations placed on children in elite sports and the impact of family changes on their development. The conversation touches on the evolving relationships with our own parents, underscoring the importance of communication and understanding in the face of inevitable parental missteps. Navigating through these personal stories, we aim to offer insights and solidarity to those on a similar path.

The political realm takes center stage as we analyze the journey toward the 2028 election, spotlighting figures like Gavin Newsom and dissecting the state of California. With a blend of humor and critique, we traverse topics ranging from government spending woes to the unpredictable landscape of college sports. A lively discussion unfolds about the strategies of past political campaigns and the need for new leadership within established parties. Whether discussing Tom Brady's Super Bowl legacy or the call for moderation in political discourse, our conversation seeks to balance serious reflection with a touch of lightheartedness. Grab a drink and join us for a spirited exploration of parenting, politics, and sports.

This episode reflects on the challenges and moments of joy experienced in 2024, touching on themes of personal loss, sports highlights, generational dynamics, and family connections. We encourage listeners to embrace the lessons learned and stay hopeful as we transition into 2025.

• Reflecting on personal experiences of loss
• Celebrating sports highlights and the emotional investments involved
• Navigating generational differences in the workplace
• The importance of family bonds and holiday memories
• Looking forward with hope and resilience into 2025