pplpod

pplpod

pplpod is a podcast about people, places and lots of other stuff. Each episode takes a deep dive into the lives, choices, and legacies of fascinating figures from history, culture, music, and beyond. From icons who shaped entire generations to hidden stories that deserve the spotlight, pplpod brings you closer to the people behind the headlines and the legends. Thoughtful, engaging, and story-driven, pplpod explores what makes these lives extraordinary—and what we can learn from them today.

  1. 4 MINS AGO

    Cheers Season 6 Recap: The Kirstie Alley Era, Bar Wars, and Life After Diane

    In this episode of pplpod, we head back to Boston to break down Cheers Season 6, a pivotal moment in TV history that saw the classic 80s sitcom reinvent itself. We discuss the major cast shake-up as Kirstie Alley makes her debut as the neurotic corporate manager Rebecca Howe, filling the void left by Shelley Long’s departure. Join us as we explore how the show shifted focus from the "Sam and Diane" romance to a stronger ensemble dynamic. We cover key plot arcs, including Sam Malone selling the bar to the Lillian Corporation and returning as an employee, Carla Tortelli’s marriage to hockey player Eddie LeBec, and the deepening romance between Frasier Crane and Lilith Sternin. Plus, we look at the origin of the recurring "Bar Wars" rivalry, the impact of the 1988 Writers Guild strike on the intended season finale, and how the series managed to stay a ratings juggernaut on NBC’s Thursday night lineup. Keywords: Cheers Season 6, Kirstie Alley, Rebecca Howe, Ted Danson, Sam Malone, Sitcom History, Classic TV, Bar Wars, Frasier Crane, NBC Must See TV.

    24 min

  2. 6 MINS AGO

    Cheers Season 5 Recap: The End of Sam and Diane & That Thanksgiving Food Fight

    Join us on this episode of pplpod as we head back to the bar for a deep dive into Cheers Season 5. This pivotal season of the classic NBC sitcom marks the end of an era with the departure of Shelley Long as Diane Chambers, bringing the legendary Sam and Diane romance to a dramatic conclusion,. We break down the season's most memorable moments, starting with the resolution of the Season 4 cliffhanger (yes, it was Diane he called!) and leading up to the emotional season finale, "I Do, Adieu," where wedding bells are replaced by a heartbreaking goodbye. We also discuss the series' highest-rated comedic highs, including the iconic food fight in "Thanksgiving Orphans", and John Cleese’s Emmy-winning guest performance in "Simon Says". Plus, we look at the evolving ensemble: Frasier Crane and Lilith Sternin move in together, Carla Tortelli finds love with goalie Eddie LeBec, and Woody Boyd tries to keep his job despite a broken arm (writing in Woody Harrelson's real-life injury). Whether you are Team Sam or Team Diane, this recap covers everything you need to know about the season that changed the show forever.

    33 min

  3. 7 MINS AGO

    Cheers Season 4 Recap: Woody’s Debut, Frasier’s Spiral & The Proposal

    On this episode of pplpod, we head back to Boston to break down Cheers Season 4, a pivotal year for the legendary 1980s sitcom. We discuss the seamless introduction of Woody Harrelson as the naive farm boy Woody Boyd following the tragic loss of Nicholas Colasanto (Coach). Join us as we analyze the shifting dynamics at the bar, including Frasier Crane’s hilarious descent into alcoholism after being jilted by Diane, and the arrival of his future wife, Lilith Sternin. We also dive into the "Strange Bedfellows" arc featuring politician Janet Eldridge and debate the unforgettable season finale cliffhanger where Sam Malone makes a mystery marriage proposal. Whether you are rooting for Sam and Diane or just love classic TV history, tune in for this deep dive into the season that kept the lights on at Cheers.

    23 min

  4. 9 MINS AGO

    Cheers Season 3: Enter Frasier Crane, Goodbye to Coach & The Ultimate Love Triangle

    Join pplpod as we head back to 1984 for a pivotal year in sitcom history: Cheers Season 3. This is the season that transformed the show from a cult hit into a ratings juggernaut, introducing one of TV's most enduring characters and bidding a heartbreaking farewell to an original cast member. In this episode, we break down: • The Arrival of Frasier Crane: How Kelsey Grammer debuted as the upper-class psychiatrist intended to be a temporary rival for Sam Malone, only to become a permanent fixture. We discuss the new dynamic this brought to the "Sam and Diane" saga as Diane returns from a sanitarium with a new fiancé. • A Tribute to Coach: We discuss the tragic loss of actor Nicholas Colasanto, whose heart condition affected production and led to his untimely death in February 1985. We explore how the writers handled Coach’s absence in the final episodes and the legacy he left behind. • The "Sam and Diane" Rollercoaster: From Sam’s relapse and recovery to the globetrotting cliffhanger finale ("Rescue Me") where Sam chases Diane to Italy to stop her wedding. • Behind the Bar: We cover the hidden pregnancies of actresses Shelley Long and Rhea Perlman, Cliff Clavin's brief stint in jail, and Norm Peterson’s dark turn as a "corporate executioner". Whether you are Team Sam or Team Frasier, tune in for this deep dive into the NBC Thursday Night lineup classic that solidified Cheers as one of the best comedies of all time. Keywords: , Frasier Crane, Kelsey Grammer, , Shelley Long, Nicholas Colasanto, Coach Ernie Pantusso, 80s Sitcoms, Sam and Diane, TV History, NBC.

    31 min

  5. 10 MINS AGO

    Cheers Season 2 Recap: Sam & Diane’s Romance, Emmy Glory & 80s Sitcom Gold

    On this episode of pplpod, we pour a cold one and dive deep into Cheers Season 2. Join us as we explore how this 1980s sitcom classic transformed from a ratings underdog into a Top 35 hit and an Emmy Award winner for Outstanding Comedy Series. We analyze the dysfunctional yet iconic relationship between Sam Malone (Ted Danson) and Diane Chambers (Shelley Long), discussing their on-again, off-again romance that defined the season from "Power Play" to the dramatic finale "I'll Be Seeing You". We also breakdown key character arcs, including Cliff Clavin (John Ratzenberger) officially joining the main cast, Carla Tortelli dealing with her ex-husband Nick, and Norm Peterson's separation and reconciliation with Vera. From the writing of Glen and Les Charles to the direction of James Burrows, discover why critics hailed this season as the "best comedy on TV" despite the controversy surrounding the central couple. Plus, we touch on the real-life fire at Paramount Studios that threatened production. Tune in for a nostalgic look at the bar where everybody knows your name!

    31 min

  6. 13 MINS AGO

    Cheers Season 1: The Birth of Sam & Diane and How a TV Classic Survived Cancellation

    Pull up a stool at the bar where everybody knows your name! On this episode of pplpod, we are pouring one out for the legendary Cheers Season 1. We dive deep into the 1982 debut of this 80s sitcom icon, exploring how Sam Malone (Ted Danson) and Diane Chambers (Shelley Long) set the gold standard for "will they, won't they" TV romance. Despite being hailed by critics as sophisticated and well-timed, the show originally faced disastrous Nielsen ratings, finishing in 74th place and nearly facing cancellation by NBC. We discuss how the network’s decision to renew the series paved the way for it to become a comedy juggernaut. In this deep dive, we cover: • The introduction of the beloved ensemble cast, including Coach (Nicholas Colasanto), Carla Tortelli (Rhea Perlman), Norm Peterson (George Wendt), and Cliff Clavin (John Ratzenberger). • Key episodes from the pilot "Give Me a Ring Sometime" to the dramatic two-part finale "Showdown". • Behind-the-scenes trivia, including how creators James Burrows and the Charles brothers re-tooled the concept from a hotel to a Boston pub, and how Rhea Perlman’s real-life pregnancy was hidden during filming. • The show's massive success at the Emmy Awards, winning five trophies including Outstanding Comedy Series and Lead Actress for Shelley Long. Whether you are a longtime regular or a new patron, join us as we analyze the writing, the "Norm!" entrances, and the legacy of television’s favorite bar.

    31 min

  7. 14 MINS AGO

    Cheers: The "Must See TV" Dynasty & The Bar Where Everybody Knows Your Name

    Pull up a stool and join pplpod as we dive into the history of Cheers, the definitive Boston bar where everybody knows your name. In this episode, we explore how this legendary NBC sitcom went from ranking dead last in the ratings during its premiere season to becoming a "Must See TV" juggernaut and the most-watched show of the 1990s. We break down the iconic "will-they-won’t-they" romance between Sam Malone (Ted Danson) and Diane Chambers (Shelley Long) that defined the show's early years, and discuss the successful pivot to the Rebecca Howe (Kirstie Alley) era. We also look at the incredible ensemble cast, including Woody Harrelson, Rhea Perlman, and Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer), whose character launched one of the most successful spin-offs in TV history. Plus, we uncover behind-the-scenes trivia about the real Bull & Finch Pub, the tragic loss of Nicholas Colasanto (Coach), and how creators James Burrows and the Charles brothers crafted 275 episodes of television history.

    47 min

  8. 2 HRS AGO

    Does Human Resources Protect You or the Company?

    Human resource management (HRM) is a comprehensive business discipline focused on the strategic coordination of employees to improve organizational output and gain a competitive edge. The field emerged during the Industrial Revolution as theorists recognized that worker well-being directly impacts productivity, eventually evolving from simple administrative tasks to complex talent management. Modern HR departments oversee critical functions such as recruitment, training, compensation, and legal compliance to ensure the workforce aligns with company goals. Technological advancements have further refined the profession through e-recruiting, digital information systems, and virtual management tools that enhance efficiency. Beyond daily operations, the discipline is supported by professional associations, academic research, and ethical codes designed to protect both the organization and its people. Ultimately, the role serves as a vital bridge between employer objectives and employee needs within the global economy.

    17 min
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About

pplpod is a podcast about people, places and lots of other stuff. Each episode takes a deep dive into the lives, choices, and legacies of fascinating figures from history, culture, music, and beyond. From icons who shaped entire generations to hidden stories that deserve the spotlight, pplpod brings you closer to the people behind the headlines and the legends. Thoughtful, engaging, and story-driven, pplpod explores what makes these lives extraordinary—and what we can learn from them today.

Information

  • Creator
    pplpod
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    2K
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © pplpod
  • Show Website
    pplpod

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