In this latest episode of Storied, Benji Rosenzweig sits down with David Manheim of the acclaimed Dopey Podcast to explore the crossroads of rock history, addiction, and recovery culture. From Lou Reed’s Jewish roots on Long Island to the raw groove of The Velvet Underground, they trace the ripple effect that carried through punk, grunge, and modern alternative music. The episode dives into how Bob Dylan’s legendary meeting with The Beatles changed everything — from sparking Rubber Soul and the psychedelic revolution to reshaping what it meant to be a songwriter. Along the way, Benji and David unpack forgotten stories about Al Arnowitz, Maureen Tucker, George Harrison, The Band, and Daniel Johnston, plus how addiction, recovery, and creativity intersect across generations of artists. David also shares the origin story of the Dopey Podcast, a show that began as darkly funny tales of drug use and evolved into a cultural touchstone in the recovery community, now celebrating its tenth year. If you love classic rock, music history, or stories of resilience, this episode hits all the right notes — part musicology, part recovery storytelling, all heart. -- Learn more about Storied: www.Storied.showFollow us on Instagram, YouTube, FacebookCheck out our upcoming live events on our website! Check out our sponsor @YonaTees on Instagram or at their website www.yonatees.com for custom merch, or some incredible Jewish band mashups! If you would like to sponsor the show, please reach out to us at Benji@Storied.show Storied was started in The J Detroit in partnership with The Berman Theater Check out our sponsor, Tekiah Taquila, for 100% kosher & 100% additive-free Tequila. Buy.TekiahSpirits.com Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Benji Rosenzweig.Producer: Ryan StormEditing: Andrea RizzutoProduction and Project Management: Eric Nelson - Hello@Storied.ShowBooking by Leanne Deutsch of 16 Mile Talent Leanne@16mile.comDesign: Tessa Hewitt Research by Avishai BaumanMusic was recorded by Evan ShermanThe song was written by Benji's late father, Rabbi Yosil Rosenzweig, as the original opening of the song that he wrote for the diaspora Yeshiva band, Pitchu Li If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with a friend, and join us as we continue exploring the Jewish contributions to music history.
