Erin and I spent our Christmas in Tennessee this year, taking time to visit my side of the family and eat copious amounts of butter. On an evening ride to Chattanooga, my cousin played for us an episode of My Brother, My Brother and Me. I was hooked by the end of Abba’s “Take a Chance on Me,” the podcast’s first theme song.
My Brother, My Brother and Me is an advice show hosted by three real brothers: Justin, Travis and Griffin McElroy (the names might sound familiar if you’ve ever listened to Justin’s equally entertaining Joystiq podcast). For all practical reasons, the podcast is listed as a comedy. The brother’s take questions through various formats and generally respond to such queries with coy quips. However, the thing that makes MBMBaM a completely worthwhile listen is that, if you aren’t being an ass about it, you might actually gleam some valuable advice.
Though the McElroys aren’t experts, they seem to have a fairly unique and practical view of how the world should work. It’s a rarity that a question is answered without someone being ridiculed, but these jokes are always made with good intentions. There is a warmth in MBMBaM, sometimes hidden under foul language and dick jokes or covered up by Justin’s infectious laugh, but if you listen long enough (and I mean really listen), you’ll realize that the McElroys love you. They genuinely, whole heartidly, love you. When you need help, they do what any good friend should. They help you find your way while laughing.This podcast is impressively witty and undeniably poignant.
They are often asked about the many complexities of interpersonal relationships in the various arenas in which people interact. Perhaps my favorite response, one that I’ve attempted to apply, is that you have to get interested in the other person. That’s how most any relationship can succeed, and in doing so you are going to become more interesting to whomever you’re interacting with. Though, sometimes they answer these questions by simply suggestion that you pack your bags and move away. Take it all with a grain of salt, I suppose.
It should be noted, also, that if your question comes from Yahoo Answers, you are most likely unloved. But hey, what are you doing seeking advice on Yahoo anyways? That’s like asking a child molester which candy is the best. No matter what answer you get, you’re still getting screwed.
MBMBaM has quickly grown in popularity, and recently joined the MaxFun network. You can find MBMBaM at www.MBMBaM.com or follow the podcast on twitter at twitter.com/MBMBaM. If you start listening to the podcast (which I highly recommend you do) make sure and subscribe on iTunes. And, if you’re interested, you can find Justin’s Joystiq podcast at www.joystiq.com/podcast.
