Past Shows
TFG Unbuttoned: Mistaking a Doritos Bag For a Firearm?
10.28.25 | Tim and John discuss Halloween preparations, and Marjorie Taylor Greene’s “outraged” remarks about an episode of the children’s show “Strawberry Shortcake.” Then the talk turns to retail changes, specifically outdoor outfitter Orvis and their decision to close stores. Lastly, an AI security system mistakes a bag of Doritos for a gun, resulting in a young boy being handcuffed by police.
Oscar Nominated Screenwriter Josh Olson
10.22.25 | Tim and John welcome screenwriter Josh Olson, who discusses his journey in adapting the graphic novel “A History of Violence” into a critically acclaimed film. (Now available from the Criterion Collection at Deep Discount.) Caught My Eye reveals that rocker Rod Stewart is a model train aficionado, and the one and only Hair Museum has closed in Missouri. Our Business Birthday celebrates that famed Italian American Ettore Boiardi or as we all know him: Chef Boyardee.
TFG Unbuttoned: Take the Long Way Home
10.21.25 | In this episode of TFG Unbuttoned, John and Tim banter about “holding music,” the current political climate, and Halloween. Chocolate costs too much! Also, the US government wants to restrict flights from China that fly over Russia to get here. Russia has restricted US airlines from flying over its airspace to get to China creating longer trips and costs for US carriers versus their Chinese competitors. MTV is ridding itself of music after four decades and Halloween is not immune from the Trump Tariffs.
Exit Through the Gift Shop
10.15.25 | In this episode of The Focus Group, John Nash and Tim Bennett discuss various topics ranging from holiday decorations to TV show recommendations and consumer experiences in hotels. They delve into insights about the LGBTQ+ community based on recent data, celebrate the birthday of infomercial pioneer Kevin Harrington, and explore the innovative retail strategies of the MoMA Store. The conversation is light-hearted yet informative, providing listeners with a mix of entertainment and valuable insights.
TFG Unbuttoned: Texas Is Over the Rainbow
10.14.25 | Tim and John reflect on their recent reunion with college friends, exploring themes of nostalgia, personal growth, and the enduring connections formed during formative years. They discuss the impact of political decisions on LGBTQ rights, the emergence of adventurous travel experiences tailored for the LGBTQ community, and the surprising resurgence of 80s music among younger generations via TikTok. The conversation highlights the importance of friendship, community, and the cultural shifts that shape our lives.
Understanding Gen Z
10.08.25 | Shop Talk discusses an op-ed from Suzy Welch about Gen Z in the workplace and how only 2% of the cohort surveyed had attributes that were prized by hiring managers. Caught My Eye looks at the world’s tallest suspension bridge in China and a $19,824 parking ticket in Denver. Our Business Birthday celebrates Reed Hastings, the co-founder of Netflix. Listen, laugh, and learn on this week’s The Focus Group.
TFG Unbuttoned: She Works Hard for the Money
10.07.25 | A Connecticut CFO also accepted a job as Town Administrator 2,000 miles away in Wyoming. The Wilton, Connecticut town leadership was not happy, and she resigned to stay in Wyoming where she was on Family Medical Leave. Then, an anti-LGBTQ South Carolina state legislator, RJ May, is accused of trading lude images and contacting underage children for sex. This child pornographer was also “Legislator of the Year” thanks to the pathetic anti-LGBTQ org Moms for Liberty. The Family Values Party continues to amaze. Finally, learn all about RuPaul and performance studies through lip sync and song at Harvard with drag queen LaWhore Vagistan.
The Best Path to Happiness
10.01.25 | Shop Talk reveals the one thing we can all do to find happiness and live a life of no regrets. Caught My Eye covers a smelly prank in South Carolina and Kodak releases a keychain sized digital camera called the Charmera. Our Business Birthday celebrates Dave Goldberg, the founder of Launch Media and former leader at Survey Monkey. Listen, laugh, and learn on this week’s The Focus Group.
TFG Unbuttoned: Americans Accused of Flag-Jacking by Canadians
09.30.25 | What is flag-jacking? It’s when you wear or show another country’s flag when traveling to pretend you are from somewhere else. Specifically, Canadians are saying that Americans are flag-jacking while traveling overseas and “identifying as Canadians” to avoid anti-American sentiment. Then, people are spending an insane amount of money at McDonald’s—particularly when they use a food delivery app. Finally, to honor the 40th anniversary of “Songs from the Big Chair,” Tears for Fears is releasing an expanded reissue of the album.
The Japanese Guide to a Long Life
09.24.25 | Shop Talk looks at 5 science-backed longevity habits that are inspired by Japan’s record number of centenarians. Caught My Eye looks at “lost” ball caps and other items found at Yellowstone near the thermal hot springs and geysers. Also, a faulty debit card program for the Summer Youth Employment Program drains about $17 million from NYC ATMs in 2 days. Our Business Birthday celebrates Franklin Mars, the founder of chocolate, candy, and pet food products powerhouse Mars Inc. Reminder: September is Criterion Month on the show. Listen to “Johns Says, Pick That Flick” for a chance to win.
