Two Brothers, One Dad (Dead)

If I had ever wondered what it was like to grow up with gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson, I’m pretty sure it might sound something like the Two Brothers, One Dad (Dead) podcast. From the first episode about the hoarding tendencies of the two brothers’ late father, the podcast explored the complexities of humans and their relationships, sprinkled throughout with astounding details, plot twists, unexpected humor and humanity. A vivid retelling of their father’s life first arrives like a freight train, and it quickly fills the listener’s imagination with the brothers’ childhood and adolescence.

These brothers are throwing down some real talk about their upbringing, and it is a rare treat to be allowed to eavesdrop on the conversation. They manage to conjure their dead dad in stories, impressions and memory snippets that get at the heart of a unique, eccentric, yet deeply loving, father-son relationship. The narrative voice that comes through in this podcast is what makes great writing. Save this one for a walk where you can really enjoy the kismet, contagious laughter and frankly, some pretty shocking details of a life well lived.

This is a courageous podcast in its honesty and reflection on self and family. It is a tribute of love often told through difficulty. I literally was laughing out loud at some points while on the verge of tears at others - sometimes truth is stranger, better, and more complicated than fiction. While the stories the two brother share are from their own lived experience, the specificity makes it universal as there are many entry points in to relate in some way to our own lives or of those near us. Rocky J and J-Bear are great storytellers, navigating listeners through the worlds they inhabit. The brothers cover some heavy topics with grace. Time is an uncredited character as this vantage on the past only comes with years in the rear view mirror that makes me thing about my own successes and struggles. I’m addicted to this podcast and would only hope to have a beer one day with these brothers.