Personal Stories Episodes

Mike and Darin welcome guest J Ryan, who brings with him one of the wildest stories ever told on the show: how he ended up with David Letterman’s actual microphone from the Ed Sullivan Theater. The conversation covers Letterman history, late-night television, comedy writing, and the strange paths careers can take. J Ryan shares stories from his time working in entertainment and how obsession, opportunity, and bad decisions sometimes collide in unforgettable ways. This episode blends comedy, TV nostalgia, and genuine storytelling into one of the most memorable guest appearances in IDS history.

In this episode, Mike and Darin confront an uncomfortable realization: they may have unknowingly borrowed a joke that wasn’t theirs. What follows is a surprisingly honest and funny discussion about comedy, originality, and how bits can sneak into your brain without permission. The guys talk about joke theft, famous comedians, and the awkward moment when you realize something you thought was original absolutely wasn’t. There’s also a look at stand-up comedy, radio history, and how influence works whether you like it or not. It’s a rare behind-the-scenes peek at how comedians think—and overthink—their own material.

Mike and Darin tackle one of life’s greatest mysteries: what actually happens inside a TJ Maxx. From questionable clothing purchases to retail behavior that makes absolutely no sense, this episode leans hard into everyday absurdity. They also talk about Record Store Day, extended warranties, and how consumer culture manages to confuse, irritate, and exhaust people all at the same time. Along the way, new words are invented, old words are misused, and logic is thoroughly ignored. If you enjoy stories about shopping disasters, aging frustrations, and the slow unraveling of sanity, this one’s for you.

Mike shares a throwback tale about a neighborhood cake shop that had to improvise when they ran out of an ingredient. The result? The most epic birthday cake ever! Enjoy this Thursday Bonus Episode! #ThrowbackThursday #SanfordAndSon #Grady #MichaelJackson #BirthdayCake Support the Show.

In this episode of Irritable Dad Syndrome, Mike and Darin are both in a mood—which usually means things are about to get entertaining. The guys vent about LinkedIn, questionable workplace behavior, and the strange ways adults manage to overcomplicate simple things. They also dive into music nostalgia, Chick-fil-A chaos, and listener-submitted stories that prove the world is far more absurd than it needs to be. Along the way, they discuss why some people seem way too comfortable in public spaces and why that should probably stop. It’s a classic IDS episode filled with Gen X frustration, pop culture tangents, and the kind of observational humor that only comes from being just tired enough of everything.

Catch the latest episode where Darin faces off with a garage mouse - spoiler alert: It doesn't go as planned. 🐭 Also, who can explain the kids wearing shorts in winter trend? ❄️🩳 Mike's dropping a bombshell of an idea... Rage Against the Machine for kids! 🤘🎸 Tag your listening buddy and tune in for some fun! 📻💕 #MouseTrap #WinterFashion #TaylorSwift #RATM #Dune2 Support the Show.

In the latest episode this week, Mike experienced a memorable senior moment at Kroger while Darin encountered an intriguing personality at the Nate Bargatze's concert. Additionally, the duo dives deep into the Young Guns 1 and 2, explores the world of stress-free peanut butter, and shares about Darin's unique professional drumming gig. Moreover, we're dealing with a resurgence of trolls due to our remarks on the film Rebel Moon. We're glad to have you onboard for our show. #U2 #KROGER #NATEBA...

Is it fair for a car dealership to take months to fix your airbags? And ladies, it's time to rethink those bangs! Plus, we're discussing video games not suitable for your pup's eyes, hilarious ways to tease your spouse in public, unexpected letters from historical figures, and how to approach the sensitive topic of Viagra with your kids. This is one for the ages! Want to support Irritable Dad Syndrome? You can do so with a FREE trial! Yes, you heard it right... it's FREE! Visit our website (lin...

Yup, the last few episodes went live in a mix-up. Our main guys are here to share the inside scoop and how they're fixing it to prevent future mix-ups. Did you hear? Weed's legal in Ohio! A fan asked if Mike & Darin would do a show high. What do you think? Fun fact: Pat Morita nailed a Redd Foxx impression. And get this... Mike spotted a lady's custom license plate that's so scandalous, it made this episode come with double the warnings. You do NOT want to skip this one! #LegalWeed #Ohio #P...

For the first time in the history of Irritable Dad Syndrome, our broadcaster Dave Lay is with us in the studio! While Mike was having a blast in Vegas and Darin was enjoying himself in New York, Dave Lay found himself knee-deep in cranberries in the lively state of Rhode Island. Intriguing, isn't it? The IDS trio also talks about a hotel without soap and a woman who mistook Darin for a car thief at Kroger. This episode quickly becomes chaotic. However, you won't want to miss it as there's a we...

Darin hit up NYC for an epic party with all the legends who've worked with David Letterman. Meanwhile, Mike jetted off to Vegas for a U2 concert at the awe-inspiring Sphere. Stay tuned as they spill the details on these unforgettable life moments! #Letterman #U2 #RupertJee #Sphere #HelloDeli #AchtungBaby #WorldWidePants #u2UV #NewYork #LasVegas #EdSullivanTheater #lasvegas #newyork #msgspherelasvegas Support the Show.

#THEOFFSPRING #JIMMYBUFFETT #podcast In today's episode, the guys say goodbye to the legendary Jimmy Buffett, with Darin recounting a crazy incident involving unwanted attention towards his wife at a Buffett concert. Speaking of concerts... Darin took his son to The Offspring and they got to see a lot of weed and boobs! Oh and Mike ran into a yellowjacket and two of the worst children of all time while waiting in line for donuts. This episode is so gripping, you'll wish you could savor it lik...

#podcast #DIABLO4 #WOODTURNING #TICTOK #OPENMICNIGHT Dive into this week's episode where Darin spills the beans on his most cringe-worthy moment in his standup comedy career. Equal parts brutal and hilarious, it's a story you don't want to miss! In other news, Mike finally defeated Lillith, Walmart is getting a major side-eye, and one listener sparks a debate: Does Kroger really sell the best milk ever? This episode is bursting with hilarious bloopers and non-stop laughter from start to finish...

The Best of Year Three! Come with us on a moronic ride back through the best clips of our third year of episodes! #bethesda #kelvin #cottonelle #shadoestevens #patcronin #kevinruppert #adamnedeff #meganmitchell #heywoodbanks #mikechisholm #pancakes #thrice #davemustaine #megadeth Clip Times: 0:56 Chris and Lisa get engaged! 4:28 Mike Attacked by a Bug 7:36 Thou Shalt Not Use Kelvin 9:25 Fugue 10:12 Mike Pisses Himself on Valentine's Day 17:30 Jack Kirsch and Flushing Bethesda 26:07 The Great P...

On this week's episode, Darin's wife Libby had to have back surgery... and wow,,, pain medicine sure will make you say some crazy things. Plus snakes, race horses, Pee Wee Herman, Sinead O'Connor and Discount Tuesday! Huge thanks for all your downloads and support! #OXYCODONE #UCBEARCATS #PEEWEEHERMAN #SINEADOCONNOR #DISCOUNTTUESDAY Support the Show.

Mike and Darin went to Florida over the 4th of July! Find out what Mike saw in the ocean, how Darin's son got injured during the fireworks and Mike's true feelings about Fudpucker's Restaurant. This episode is so hot you'll need to apply sunscreen before listening. #FLORIDA #SHARKS #DESTIN #MIRAMAR #BUCEES #STINKYSFISHCAMP #FUDPUCKERS #JOANJETT #4thOfJulyMadness #FudpuckersReview Support the Show.

This week's episode: Mike & Darin talk about their shady adventures at the gym, Costco, and the movies 🏋️‍♂️🛒🎬 Witness their first ever Star Trek debate! 🚀 If you skip this episode, Santa won't bring you anything for Christmas. 🎅 #Costco #StarTrek #Rambo #DnD #TomHanks #dungeonsanddragons Support the Show.

🎉Hey everyone! We've put together a hilarious compilation of "the ends" of our podcast episodes for you to enjoy. From bloopers to downright silliness, we've got it all in one place! 😂 Thank you for your continued support and for being a part of our journey! 🙌 We hope these moments bring a smile to your face and brighten your day. Don't forget to share with friends who might enjoy a good laugh too! 😄🎧 #podcast #bloopers #funnymoments #thankyou #support #laughteristhebestmedicine Support the Sh...

On this episode, Mike and Darin go completely off the rails discussing The Star Wars Christmas Special, The Little Mermaid and Dune 2. Plus... a video game where if you screw up, a woman and her daughter die of starvation. How fun is that!? Listen at your own risk... this one's totally on fleek. #STARWARS #THELITTLEMERMAID #DUNE2 #GARDENSCAPES Support the Show.

#HEYWOODBANKS #TOAST #BIGBUTTERJESUS #BOBANDTOM Legendary comedian Heywood Banks talks to Mike and Darin about the inspiration behind Toast, Big Butter Jesus and several other classic comedy songs! Talking to him was a thrill and a delight. We really hope you enjoy this episode. All audio clips and original songs were used with permission by Heywood Banks. Support the Show.

On this week's show, Darin's son broke his wrist, Mike joined a nerd computer game facebook group, the 5/2 rule for mowing your lawn, an update on the bag of dog poop in Mike's tree and Darin wore 2 different deodorants at the same time. Plus, we plug a couple of other podcasts where we're making guest appearances. Have you ever wondered what happens when we run out of things to talk about? Well, all your questions will be answered this week! #COCAINEBEAR #FORRESTGUMP #RAINMAN #ULTIMADRAGONS #...

On this week's show, the boys talk about the awesome Breaking Bad Super Bowl commercial, Mike's dog who won't listen, forgetting people's names, stupid characters in the Hunger Games, and a Cracker Barrel story you'll be telling your grandchildren. Plus Darin interviewed the guitarist for Kansas, and this podcast is soon going on the TV! Don't miss any of the juicy details, this week on Irritable Dad Syndrome!! #BREAKINGBAD #POPCORNERS #HUNGERGAMES #CRACKERBARREL #KROGER #KANSAS Support the ...

Comedian Kevin Ruppert returns to the show! Join the boys as they talk about the highs and lows of stand up comedy, The Lord of the Rings, stealing from the Dollar General Store and what happens when sugargliders get in your pants. #kevinruppert #lordoftherings #sugargliders Listen to this podcast... then rewind it and listen to it again Support the Show.

The epic return of IDS - with the first episode recorded in 2023! This one is all over the place with births, tossed religious icons, #Avatar, #TheWhale, and #breakingbad comes up yet again! Also, Darin learns a new card game from his kid - and much, much more! DO NOT miss this episode!! Support the Show.