The S1E1 Podcast

Animal Control is a workplace sitcom that premiered on FOX in 2023. The series follows a specialized squad of Seattle-based officers whose jobs are complicated by the fact that the animals they rescue are often less erratic than the humans they assist. Starring Joel McHale as Frank Shaw, a sarcastic former cop. The show uses his encyclopedic knowledge of wildlife as a comedic foil to his social friction. The tone is a blend of sharp, modern workplace banter and the broad, physical comedy of wrangling exotic creatures in urban environments.

Critics have praised Animal Control for its breezy ensemble energy and McHale’s reliable deadpan delivery. By centering on the "creature of the week" the show provides a fresh hook for the traditional network format. While it leans into the absurdity of its premise, the chemistry between the diverse cast of officers keeps the show grounded in relatable workplace dynamics. Is this show a Rare Specimen or is it just Total Roadkill? Listen as the S1E1 boys deep dive the pilot episode, "Weasels and Ostriches," and find out.

Starring: Joel McHale, Vella Lovell, Michael Rowland, Ravi V. Patel, Grace Palmer, Kelli Ogmundson, & Gerry Dee

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The Adventures of Pete & Pete is a surrealist masterpiece of 90s television that aired on Nickelodeon from 1993 to 1996. The series follows the lives of two brothers both named Pete. The show transformed mundane childhood struggles into epic, cinematic battles against the "International Adult Conspiracy". The world of their hometown of Wellsville was populated by characters like Artie, the Strongest Man in the World.

The show is widely considered one of the greatest children’s programs ever produced, praised for its writing and indie-rock sensibility, famously exemplified by the house band, Polaris. Critics lauded Pete & Pete's ability to balance humor with deep insights into the fleeting nature of childhood. Will nostalgia take over when the S1E1 boys deep dive the show's first full-length episode, "The King of the Road"? Listen and find out.

Starring: Michael Maronna, Danny Tamberelli, Alison Fanelli, Hardy Rawls, Judy Grafe, Toby Huss, & Geoff Pierson

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"Raising Hope" is a sitcom that aired on FOX from 2010 to 2014. Created by Greg Garcia of My Name Is Earl fame, the series follows 23-year-old Jimmy Chance, a well-meaning but aimless pool cleaner living with his parents. His life is turned upside down after a one-night stand with a wanted felon results in a baby girl named Hope. When the mother is sent to the electric chair, Jimmy decides to raise the child, relying on the reluctant and unorthodox help of his parents.

Critics and audiences embraced "Raising Hope" for its rare ability to blend absurdist, often crude humor with a surprising amount of genuine heart. The series was lauded for its sharp writing and a powerhouse ensemble cast. Despite never becoming a mainstream heavy hitter, it earned multiple Emmy nominations and a dedicated fan. Listen as the S1E1 boys deep dive the show's pilot episode to see if this is one worth raising or better off abandoned at the fire station.

Starring: Lucas Neff, Martha Plimpton, Garret Dillahunt, Shannon Woodward, Skyler Stone, Gregg Binkley, Cloris Leachman, & Bijou Phillips

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"Stumble" is a mockumentary-style workplace comedy that premiered on NBC in November 2025. The series follows Courteney Potter (Jenn Lyon), a high-octane, fourteen-time national champion cheerleading coach whose career at a prestigious college ends abruptly after a viral scandal involving a team party. To salvage her reputation and chase a record-breaking fifteenth title, Courteney takes the only job she can find: a dual role as a typing instructor and head cheer coach at the obscure and cash-strapped Heådlston State Junior College.

Critics have praised the series for its sharp, deadpan writing and the authentic chemistry between its ensemble cast. While the format is familiar territory for NBC, reviewers highlighted the show’s ability to find sincerity in the absurdity of competitive cheerleading. Despite concerns about its niche subject matter, the series has carved out a loyal following for its blend of small-town heart and biting sports satire. Will "Stumble" stick the landing or is the squad is destined to fall flat? Listen as the S1E1 boys deep dive the show’s pilot episode.

Starring: Jenn Lyon, Taran Killam, Anissa Borrego, Jarrett Austin Brown, Arianna Davis, Taylor Dunbar, Georgie Murphy, Ryan Pinkston, & Kristin Chenoweth

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Buddies is a short-lived sitcom that aired on ABC in 1996, serving as a direct spin-off of the massive hit Home Improvement. The series followed Dave (Dave Chappelle) and John (Christopher Gartin), two best friends and business partners trying to get their video production company off the ground in Chicago. The series is often remembered more for its behind-the-scenes drama than its on-air run, specifically the controversial casting change that saw Jim Breuer replaced by Christopher Gartin just before filming began.

Despite Chappelle's obvious star power, the lack of authentic rapport and a shifting time slot led to its cancellation after only five episodes. As result Breuer's removal will forever be linked to the lack of success the show found. Despite Buddies' short run is there enough here to earn a green-light from the S1E1 boys? Listen as they deep dive the show's first episode, "Lights, Camera, Yuck!" and find out.

Starring: Dave Chappelle, Christopher Gartin, Paula Cale, Tanya Wright, Richard Roundtree, Judith Ivey, & Amy Hill

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