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 rant about music lyrics, corporate decision-making, and how marketing departments continue to invent words that absolutely don’t need to exist. From Old Navy rewards programs to brand loyalty that borders on cult behavior, nothing is safe. They also share stories from past jobs, questionable video production decisions, and moments where someone clearly didn’t understand the assignment. The episode blends workplace humor with pop culture frustration and plenty of side tangents. If you enjoy watching logic slowly collapse under the weight of bad ideas, this episode delivers.

Music debates take center stage as Mike and Darin argue about Metallica albums, band T-shirts, and whether people wearing them actually know the music. From Ride the Lightning to Master of Puppets, no opinion goes unchallenged. The episode also includes Easter candy excess, Peeps hangovers, and the strange joy of buying far more sugar than any adult should reasonably consume. There’s even a discussion about movies, pop culture gatekeeping, and the fine art of throwing misinformation into conversations just to see who notices. It’s loud, nostalgic, and unapologetically Gen X.

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.

This episode kicks off with a serious moment as Mike and Darin talk about a friend who survived a major car accident—and immediately pivot into imagining a future where he now has a “vibranium ankle.” From there, the conversation spirals into debates about Conway Twitty, whether non-country fans actually knew who he was, and why certain musicians feel way bigger in our memories than history might suggest. The guys also talk cars, homeownership frustrations, and the universal truth that HVAC systems never work the way you’re promised. It’s heartfelt, ridiculous, and exactly the kind of episode that sums up Irritable Dad Syndrome.

Mike and Darin celebrate a milestone episode by doing what they do best: breaking their own rules just enough to make it funny. The conversation ranges from Ghostbusters to religion, politics (barely), and the solar eclipse that turned Ohio into a temporary tourist attraction. The guys talk about watching the eclipse from home, the madness surrounding it, and how people managed to turn a cool natural event into complete chaos. There’s also a surprisingly thoughtful (and funny) discussion about pop culture, belief systems, and why certain movies are beyond criticism. It’s a loose, celebratory episode that blends nostalgia, curiosity, and classic Irritable Dad energy.

On this week's episode, was Darin reading an adult novel in the airport? Plus, Mike goes deep in conversation about why bananas don't taste like they're actually supposed to. And Darin finally saw John Wick 4. You don't want to miss his review Don't forget to tune in next week for our 200th episode and go to our website to buy a shirt! #THECANADIANMOUNTED #PLANESTRAINSANDAUTOMOBILES #BANANAS #CHICAGO #BOBNEWHART #UNITEDAIRLINES #BISCOFFCOOKIES #RAMBO #JOHNWICK4 Support the Show.

On this week's episode, the boys talk about legendary actor, M. Emmett Walsh, who NPR described as "Ham-Faced." Why would they do that? Plus, can somebody explain why Mike's KIA is acting all screwy? and Darin let his family watch one of the greatest comedies of all time... Better Off Dead! Listen to this podcast with someone you love and don't forget that you owe us two dollars! #MEMMETTWALSH #NPR #THEJERK #FLETCH #RAISINGARIZONA #BETTEROFFDEAD #GRUMPYOLDMEN #KIA #CARX #WOMPERS #DAVIDSEDARIS...

On this week's episode, the boys really want Ryan Gosling to be on the podcast and will do whatever it takes to get him as a guest! Also, did Darin's family try to lose him at the movie theater? Hear the story and you be the judge. Plus, Darin takes the Oscar quiz, Mike's attempt to get all the free water and another heated discussion about the best way to make pancakes. If you can't listen to this episode now, download it anyway and listen to it later. You'll be glad you did #JERRYFOLEY #ER...

OK here's what you need to know about this episode of Irritable Dad Syndrome Mike sounds exactly like the sandworms in Dune: Part Two Darin loves the AMC customer service bot There's a website about bent carrots and it's not really about bent carrots, if you know what I mean Listen to hysterical, uncensored outtakes from this episode by joining patreon at www.irritabledadsyndrome.com #MICHAELMCDONALD #DUNEPARTTWO #AMC #BENTCARROT #BACON #CATAN #ROOTBEER Support the Show.

Darin just made it to the Guinness World Records! Let's unpack that. Also, we're chatting about Dune Part 2, Moby Dick, Dr. Pepper flavored Peeps, and a shop stocked with more than 40,000 holsters! You're in for a treat with this episode! #BrickeysComedyClub #GuinnessWorldRecord #Dune2 #MobyDick #HermanMelville #DrPepper #Peeps #dunepart2 Support the Show.

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.

Catan has taken over Darin's house and it's causing some serious family feuds! Ever wondered the right way to hold a potato? Yeah, us too. Darin spills about another cringe-worthy standup comedy experience while Mike dares to compare Taylor Swift to Tool. Give this episode a listen... and then replay it with a buddy. If you're up for it, grab an Irritable Dad Syndrome tee at www.irritabledadsyndrome.com. We'd appreciate it! #Catan #SkinCare #Potato #TaylorSwift #StandUpComedy #RockMusic #Too...

On this week's episode, Mike went back to Las Vegas to see his favorite band again and all kinds of crap went wrong!. Darin says "Yeah" a whole lot. We shouldn't sell ourselves short... it's still a really good episode. #U2 #THESPHERE #LASVEGAS #HERTZ Support the Show.

Get ready for a real treat this week on our podcast! Mike and Darin are thrilled to welcome Craig Augenstein, the producer behind Vibraflux's latest album! New to Vibraflux? They're a group of talented young musicians who started an epic album in the late 1900s. Due to one wild turn of events after another, the album only just got finished last year. The journey of this album's creation is a story you won't want to miss! Tune in to this week's episode! #Vibraflux #JohnsonCity #WelcomeTo1979 ...

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...

Remember that guy who knows everything about game shows? That's our pal, Adam Nedeff and we're thrilled to have him back on Irritable Dad Syndrome! Adam joins us to talk about his newest masterpiece "Gong This Book" that tells you everything you've ever wanted to know about The Gong Show, Chuck Barris, The Popsicle Twins and more. Adam also gives us the inside scoop on other great moments in game show history, and the elusive Moth Man that once haunted West Virginia. Ooooooh scary! We promise...

After 3 years plus of doing this show, we've finally decided to pull a Disney and put some old episodes in the vault. We'll explain why and how you can still listen to them. Mike and Darin were on the damn radio!! If you missed it... we got the audio right here! Plus, Tommy Smothers, escape rooms, 80's action movies, Mystery Science Theater, making bread, life changing words of wisdom from Shadoe Stevens and the worst possible time to pause The Silence of the Lambs. Welcome to the show.... we...

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...

We're all about West Virginia love! Darin realizes he may have been a bit harsh in his comments about our beautiful Mountain State after getting feedback from a viewer. He's trying his best to make amends. By the way, Mike... seriously? Let's talk about kids watching war films and Game of Thrones. What are your thoughts? Ever thought of checking out a brand-new sweat lodge? Al's Lake House has got you covered! Stay tuned for more details. Don't miss this episode or you'll be missing out for t...

Join us for an encore presentation of one of our favorite episodes ROBOMONKEY! It's packed full of incredible classic stories... including a black Mexican dildo, dentists talking about movies and the most epic comeback of all time! But wait... there's more! We threw in a brand new story in the middle... and Mike and Darin count you down to the new year at the end! What better way to close out 2023 than with your best friends at Irritable Dad Syndrome! Happy New Year! #MEXICO #STRESSDREAMS #A...