HOW NOT TO BOMB!

Michael Parise
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Entrepreneurship

How Not to Bomb is a straight-talk podcast hosted by comedian and entrepreneur Michael “Wheels” Parise. Each episode features honest conversations with entrepreneurs, creators, and professionals who have faced failure, setbacks, and reinvention—and came back stronger. From business disasters to personal comebacks, the show explores what really happens when things fall apart and how successful people recover, rebuild, and win again. Because bombing isn’t the end—it’s the setup for the comeback.

  1. 2h ago

    E.16. Anthony Butch Tartamella from Staten Italy, Mngr of Bruzzeses.

    The podcast episode features a conversation with Anthony Butch Tartamella, a first-generation Italian-American butcher, and manager at Bruzzese's Italian Gourmet. The discussion covers Butch's background, the meat business, Italian products, and popular sandwiches at his store. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the quality of cold cuts, the evolution of the meat industry, changes in neighborhoods, and the decline of traditional neighborhood bars. It also delves into the experience of growing up in Staten Island and the transition from meat cutting to butchery. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including personal experiences, work ethic, the meat industry, and the entertainment industry. It delves into the challenges and rewards of parenting, the impact of social media, and the changing landscape of Italian-American culture. The discussion also explores the art of dry aging beef, the qualities of a good steakhouse, and the aspirations for the future. The conversation covers a range of topics including career progression, the concept of limitless leasing, personal recreation, and the impact of AI on various industries. It also delves into the upcoming podcast 'The Big Bite' and the importance of customer service in the food business. Takeaways Family tradition and hard work are central to Butch's life and career.The South Shore of Staten Island is known for its Italian products and authentic food culture. Quality of cold cuts and changes in the meat industryEvolution of neighborhoods and traditional neighborhood bars Work ethic and family values are central to the conversation.The meat industry, dry aging beef, and the qualities of a good steakhouse are discussed in detail. Career progression and business venturesLimitless leasing and its unique value propositionPersonal recreation and fitnessThe impact of AI on various industriesThe upcoming podcast 'The Big Bite' and the importance of customer service in the food business Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Theme19:31 Discussion of Butch's Background and Italian Products36:14 The Transition to Butchery46:07 Personal Experiences and Connections51:37 Italian-American Culture and Identity59:53 Dry Aging Beef and Steakhouse Quality01:05:19 Parenting and Aspirations for the Future01:10:30 Introduction to Limitless Leasing01:18:29 The Impact of AI on Various Industries

    1h 32m

  2. Jun 2

    E.15. Joe Borress aka, Joey Malibu

    The conversation delves into the themes of reinvention and entrepreneurship as it explores Joe Borress's journey of leaving New York, moving to Malibu, and overcoming the challenges of penetrating the local community. It highlights the decision to start over, the challenges faced, and the ultimate success in establishing a presence in Malibu. The conversation covers topics such as building respect and relationships, transitioning to business ventures, the discussion on the LA mayoral change, the impact of technology on industries, and the health and fitness journey. Key takeaways include the importance of consistency and discipline in achieving and maintaining weight loss, the unlikely replacement of tradesmen by AI in the construction industry, the impact of technology on the food industry, and the importance of dedication and discipline in achieving fitness goals. The conversation covers topics related to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, aging, weight loss, nutrition, fitness, dietary choices, career aspirations, and overcoming adversity. It also delves into the importance of controlling the room and being in command, as well as passing on knowledge to the next generation. The speakers share insights on using AI for weight loss and health management, the challenges of aging and fitness, and the significance of consistency and routine in lifestyle choices. The conversation delved into the world of comedy, exploring the Wild West of comedy in the 90s and the camaraderie of veteran comedians. It also highlighted the impact of Joe Rogan's success, the pioneering of podcasting, and the importance of storytelling and personal journeys. Additionally, the significance of fitness and health, as well as the unpredictability of life's pathways, were discussed. Takeaways ReinventionEntrepreneurship Consistency and discipline are key to achieving and maintaining weight loss.AI is unlikely to replace tradesmen in the construction industry.The impact of technology on the food industry and the shift towards fine dining experiences.The importance of dedication and discipline in achieving fitness goals. Consistency in maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential.The importance of controlling the room and being in command. Comedy in the 90sThe evolution of comedyThe camaraderie of veteran comediansThe impact of Joe Rogan's successThe podcasting worldThe importance of storytelling and personal journeysThe significance of fitness and healthThe unpredictability of life's pathways Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Reinvention08:14 Moving to Malibu and the Challenges19:23 Penetrating the Malibu Community27:52 Building Respect and Relationships34:05 Discussion on LA Mayoral Change40:38 Impact of Technology on Industries50:27 Health and Fitness Journey01:08:35 Advice for the Younger Generation01:18:39 The Wild West of Comedy in the 90s01:24:07 The Significance of Fitness and Health01:36:39 The Unpredictability of Life's Pathways

    1h 40m

  3. May 26

    E. 14. Daniel LeBlanc. The Psychology of Modern Society

    The conversation covers a range of topics, including the impact of technology on communication, business operations, and personal life. It delves into generational differences in communication habits and the evolution of technology accessibility. The discussion also explores the challenges and benefits of technology use in family dynamics, business growth, and tax deductions. Additionally, the conversation touches on the role of artificial intelligence in business operations and the impact of technology on consumer knowledge and decision-making. The conversation covers topics related to tax deductions for vehicles over six thousand pounds and the impact of technology on safety and crime prevention. It also delves into the challenges of credit reporting and the use of personal information for business lines of credit. The conversation covers a range of topics including the impact of credit scores on financial planning, the dynamics of relationships in the age of social media, and the ownership and usage of firearms. It delves into the complexities of credit score dings, the influence of social media on relationships, and the considerations of gun ownership and usage. The conversation covered a range of topics including range preferences, a controversial incident at Franklin High School, teaching resilience, community culture, living in the suburbs, divided families, headphone frustrations, starting a podcast, technology preferences, tech industry rivalry, remote work platforms, accounting software, podcast sponsorship, social media promotion, and co-hosting possibilities. The conversation also highlighted the value of adapting to new technology and the potential for co-hosting as an engaging format for future shows. Takeaways Real conversationsImpact of technology Tax deductions for vehicles over six thousand poundsThe impact of technology on safety and crime prevention Credit score impactFinancial planningRelationship dynamicsGun ownership and usage Adapting to new technologyThe value of co-hosting Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Show05:59 Technology Accessibility and Impact on Business11:02 Technology Evolution and Impact on Communication17:35 Consumer Knowledge and Technology Use23:14 Tax Deductions and Mileage Tracking42:30 Credit Score Impact and Financial Planning47:30 Relationship Dynamics and Social Media53:06 Gun Ownership and Usage01:01:11 Range Preferences01:07:08 Divided Families01:12:29 Remote Work Platforms

    1h 19m

  4. May 17

    E.13. Bill Branca on Michael Jackson.

    A bonus episode featuring legendary agent Bill Branca, who shares insights about his relationship with Michael Jackson and his brother's involvement in the biopic. The episode delves into personal encounters with Michael Jackson and the dynamics of their professional relationship. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including nostalgia for the past, the impact of technology on society, political divisions, and local government issues. The discussion also delves into personal experiences and reflections on historical events. Takeaways Michael Jackson's personal and professional relationships had a significant impact on those around him.Leveraging personal connections and relationships can lead to significant business opportunities and collaborations. Nostalgia for the pastImpact of technology on societyPolitical divisions and government issues Chapters 00:00 Relationship with Martin Lawrence and Diane Cannon's Wedding Crash32:41 Nostalgia for the Past

    57 min

  5. May 14

    E.12. Comedian Arynne Wexler, This Episode Will Probably Offend Somebody

    The conversation delves into the impact of cancel culture, the challenges of being outspoken, and the evolving landscape of comedy in the age of social media. It also explores the journey into comedy, the navigation of social relationships, the experience of going viral, the handling of criticism, the dynamics of political views in relationships, the impact of social media, the political climate in New York City, and the cultural shift during the Obama era. The conversation delves into the intersection of comedy and politics, exploring the challenges and nuances of navigating political commentary within the realm of comedy. It also touches on the impact of political corruption and the effectiveness of governing, as well as the distinction between edgy and political comedy. The discussion concludes with a focus on the public pursuit in comedy and the importance of authenticity and confidence in comedic performances. Takeaways Cancel culture impactComedy and social mediaChallenges of being outspoken Comedy and PoliticsNavigating Comedy and Political Commentary Chapters 00:00 The Culture War and Cancel Culture07:21 Comedy and Cancel Culture17:03 Political Views and Relationships22:24 Impact of Social Media27:37 Comedy and PoliticsFollow Arynne Wexler on Instagram @arynnewexlerGo to arynnewexler.com for all her comedy show dates and persnal appearances. 33:20 Navigating Comedy and Political Commentary

    55 min

  6. May 13

    E.11. Steve Grillo from the Howard Stern Show and Grillo's AftershockXL

    The episode features a conversation between Michael Wheels Parise and Steve Grillo, a former Howard Stern Show intern. They discuss Grillo's experience on the show, interactions with Howard Stern, and the legal issues surrounding the show. Additionally, they touch on Grillo's involvement with Scores, a popular club in New York. The conversation covers various topics related to Howard Stern's show, including behind-the-scenes stories, personal experiences, and insights into the lives of the show's cast members. It also delves into the financial aspects of working on the show and the impact of leaving the show on one's career and lifestyle. The conversation covers a range of topics, including a mysterious email, Steve Grillo's career journey, and his experiences in the entertainment industry. The discussion also delves into his podcast, Aftershock XL, and his book, 'Gorilla Parts'. Takeaways Stand-up comedy insightsBehind-the-scenes of the Howard Stern Show Behind-the-scenes stories from Howard Stern's showFinancial aspects of working on the showImpact of leaving the show on one's career and lifestyle Career transitions and challengesNavigating the entertainment industry Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Show Overview10:03 Grillo's Journey to the Stern Show17:08 Howard Stern's Off-Air Persona22:18 Involvement with Scores Club27:46 Life on the Stern Show38:26 Reflections on Howard Stern and the Show45:26 Career Transitions and Challenges56:26 The Entertainment Industry and Aftershock XL01:03:31 Steve Grillo's Book and Podcast

    1h 6m

  7. May 9

    E.10. Daniel LeBlanc, Aliens and Topos @ The WAWA

    In this engaging episode, host Michael Wheels Parise welcomes Daniel LeBlanc, CEO of White Olive CPA and a talented musician, to discuss entrepreneurship, the realities of stand-up comedy, and the mysteries of UFOs and aliens. They explore the business side of comedy, the skepticism around extraterrestrial life, and innovative ideas for music and media ventures. In this engaging conversation, Daniel LeBlanc and Michael Wheels Parise explore music, creativity, and the journey of an artist. They discuss songwriting, performance, industry insights, and personal stories, offering valuable tips for aspiring musicians and entertainers.

    1h 13m

  8. May 5

    E.9. Kristin Falcone aka Aunt Carol

    The episode features Michael Wheels Parise and his special guest, Kristin Falcone, a hairdresser and social media comedian. Michael introduces Kristin and discusses her unique comedic style, which captures the essence of family conversations and nostalgia. Kristin shares her journey into comedy and her vision for a modern-day variety show. The conversation also delves into personal connections and the influence of family on Kristin's comedic style. Kristin Falcone shares humorous anecdotes about her family, her work as a hairdresser, and her social media presence. She discusses her passion for creating characters and the meaningful purpose behind her wig department. The conversation also delves into her personal and professional life, showcasing her vibrant personality and dedication to her craft. Takeaways Nostalgia and family dynamics are central themes in Kristin Falcone's comedic style.Kristin Falcone is working on a modern-day variety show that aims to bring back old-school, comforting humor.The influence of family and personal connections plays a significant role in Kristin Falcone's comedic journey. Family influencePassion for character creationPurpose-driven wig departmentBalancing personal and professional lifeSocial media strategy Chapters 00:00 Introducing Kristin Falcone20:36 Kristen's Vision for a Modern-Day Variety Show28:20 Family Anecdotes and Character Creation33:34 The Purpose-Driven Wig Department49:47 Social Media Strategy and Presence

    54 min
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About

How Not to Bomb is a straight-talk podcast hosted by comedian and entrepreneur Michael “Wheels” Parise. Each episode features honest conversations with entrepreneurs, creators, and professionals who have faced failure, setbacks, and reinvention—and came back stronger. From business disasters to personal comebacks, the show explores what really happens when things fall apart and how successful people recover, rebuild, and win again. Because bombing isn’t the end—it’s the setup for the comeback.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Parise
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Michael Parise
  • Show Website
    HOW NOT TO BOMB!