The Macademia Nuts

David Morris, Ph.D.; Alec Tefertiller, Ph.D., & Lindsey Maxwell, Ph.D.
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We’re media academics who chat about pop culture, media industries, news, and pretty much all things media

  1. JUN 11

    Episode 0100: The 100th Episode Extravaganza

    It’s the 100th episode, and it is a time to reflect on the Macademia Nuts’  journey, share humorous anecdotes about food preferences, and dive into the topic of unpopular opinions, particularly around reality TV and the concept of guilty pleasures. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the complexities of shame and embarrassment related to entertainment consumption, particularly focusing on the concept of guilty pleasures. They explore the psychological aspects of these feelings, the impact of streaming on community viewing experiences, and share controversial opinions on popular movies like Titanic. The discussion also touches on music legends, comparing the cultural significance of Elvis and The Beatles. They delve into the streaming wars, particularly the merits and drawbacks of subscribing to Max, and engage in a lively debate about Oscar-worthy performances, particularly focusing on Leonardo DiCaprio's career. The conversation then shifts to beloved films some dislike, leading to a heated debate about E.T. and The Wizard of Oz. The discussion transitions to the current state of college sports and the impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals, with differing opinions on how it affects the integrity of college athletics. Finally, the hosts celebrate their friendship and the milestone of reaching 100 episodes, reflecting on their journey together and teasing future changes to the podcast format.

    1h 11m

  2. JUN 4

    Episode 0099: Walton Goggins Is a National Treasure

    HBO is obsessed with Walton Goggins, and the Nuts are here for it. The Nuts are also interested in the success of video game adaptations, especially kid-centered adaptations like Super Mario and Sonic. They discuss the nostalgia factor that connects audiences of all ages to these films and the potential for future adaptations of other video game properties. The conversation shifts to the gaming industry, contemplating the future of consoles and personal gaming purchases, including humorous anecdotes about family dynamics and shopping experiences. The episode concludes with light-hearted discussions about cultural references and regional dialects

    1h 7m

  3. MAY 28

    Episode 0098: The Nuts Are Your Huckleberry

    Alec is very excited due to the news about the release of the film 'Coyote vs. Acme,' and the Nuts have thoughts about the film industry and the impact of mergers on movie releases. The Nuts collectively pour one out for Val Kilmer with a discussion about his legacy. The conversation shifts to a lively debate about the best Batman actors and concludes with thoughts on the future of Marvel and its characters. Other topics include Mr. Beast, children's media, and the missed opportunities in branding for franchises like Moana. Finally, the discussion touches on the future of film adaptations and the potential for sequels in the film industry.

    1 hr

  4. MAY 14

    Episode 0097: The Podcast is Now Tenured

    The podcast is now completely tenured and well-rested after spring break. The Nuts discuss academic culture, tenure requirements, and gardening. Streaming strategies and popular culture naturally arise as discussion topics, and the Nuts explore various TV shows and movies, including the Lisa Frank documentary, the Righteous Gemstones, and White Lotus.

    53 min

  5. APR 1

    Episode 0096: Children’s Television is Now Just YouTube

    It’s an episode focused on the latest and greatest in streaming television, including the new season of Reacher, the upcoming show Andor, and the Apple TV series Silo. Oh, and the Oscars are coming up, and the Nuts wonder if anyone cares. Other topics include the state of contemporary films, the impact of reality TV, particularly TLC shows, and the recent transition of the James Bond franchise to Amazon. Finally, the Nuts review the Mr. Beast game show, discussing its unexpected outcomes and the psychology behind player decisions, as well as the implications of sponsorship and branding in game shows, particularly in the context of children's content on YouTube.

    1h 2m

  6. MAR 31

    Episode 0095: Live from Academia, It’s Some Nuts

    Live from wherever you listen to podcasts, it’s Saturday night, or whenever you decide to listen to this episode. The Nuts celebrate the 50th anniversary of Saturday Night Live, discussing its cultural significance and their personal experiences with the show. A hockey discussion gives way to a discussion of the growth of MLS, and Lindsey’s disappointment with Canadian teams in the NHL. The Nuts discuss the Gabby Petito documentary, exploring the complexities of the case, the actions of the involved parties, and the emotional impact of the narrative. Finally, the Nuts have opinions about movies, the box office, and films yet to come.

    58 min

  7. MAR 30

    Episode 0094: In Love with the 90s

    The Super Bowl happened, and the Nuts discuss the commercials, Kendrick Lamar, and maybe the game, a little. Alec wants to know why we don’t define culture in terms of decades anymore, and the Nuts have opinions about the 90s. Also, Lindsey is really good at determining what year songs were released. Of course, favorite movies, nostalgia, documentaries, and a host of other topics are also covered.

    1h 8m

  8. MAR 3

    Episode 0093: Survivor, Celebrity Weddings, and More Celebrity Reality

    One of the Nuts has a former student competing on Survivor, and all three feel very old as they recount the series’ long history. Other topics include celebrity weddings and the upcoming Super Bowl. Alec tells the story of Steph Curry's experience with Nike, leading to a broader analysis of the recent controversial trade of Luka Dončić from the Dallas Mavericks. The hosts delve into the implications of market size and team value perception in the NBA, concluding with a light-hearted debate on the intersection of sports and entertainment. Beyoncé's historic win, conspiracy theories about celebrities like Avril Lavigne, celebrity feuds, and O.J. Simpson all make the conversation.

    1h 10m
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About

We’re media academics who chat about pop culture, media industries, news, and pretty much all things media

Information

  • Creator
    David Morris, Ph.D.; Alec Tefertiller, Ph.D., & Lindsey Maxwell, Ph.D.
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    101
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Macademia Nuts
  • Show Website
    The Macademia Nuts