The S1E1 Podcast

"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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Quick Draw is a Western comedy that premiered on Hulu in 2013. The show follows Sheriff John Henry Hoyle (John Lehr), a recent Harvard graduate who attempts to bring the "cutting-edge" science of forensics to the Wild West. The show’s most distinctive feature was its largely improvised dialogue, which gave the historical setting a fast-paced, modern, and often absurdist comedic energy.

Critics and viewers praised Quick Draw for its fresh take on the Western genre. While it never reached massive mainstream heights, it garnered a loyal cult following over its two-season run for its blend of slapstick and historical parody. Will the S1E1 boy find Quick Draw to be a real sharpshooter or a just a dud? Listen as they deep dive the show's pilot episode, "Murder at the Webb Ranch," to find out.

Starring: John Lehr, Nick Brown, Allison Dunbar, Bob Clendenin, Tasha Ames, Michael Anastasia, & Brian O'Connor

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The Sinbad Show is a sitcom that aired on FOX from 1993 to 1994, during the height of the titular comedian’s stand-up fame. The series centers on David Bryan (Sinbad), a carefree bachelor who must trade his lifestyle for the responsibilities of fatherhood after he adopts two orphaned siblings. The show’s DNA was built on Sinbad’s high-energy storytelling to navigate the hurdles of modern parenting and urban single-parent dynamics.

Despite Sinbad's massive popularity and a time slot following The Simpsons, The Sinbad Show struggled to find a consistent tone, with critics noting that the "cute kid" tropes often clashed with the star's boisterous comedic persona. The series was ultimately canceled after just one season as part of a controversial programming shift at FOX. Is this show going to be a forgotten gem or is it just a sin how bad it is? Listen as they deep dive the show's pilot episode and find out.

Starring: Sinbad, T.K. Carter, Erin Davis, Willie Norwood (Ray J), Lorraine Toussaint, & Salma Hayek

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