Yukio Mishima

Over cocktails we go deep into psychoanalyzing our own sexuality (same old, same old with this podcast) all the while exploring in more detail some of the dynamic prose that has made Confessions of a Mask a timeless classic. Oh, and we talk about that time the author randomly tried to overthrow the Japanese government. 

Over cocktails we go deep into psychoanalyzing our own sexuality (same old, same old with this podcast) all the while exploring in more detail some of the dynamic prose that has made Confessions of a Mask a timeless classic. Oh, and we talk about that time the author randomly tried to overthrow the Japanese government.

"Confessions of a Mask" by Yukio Mishima (Episode 16.2)

Co-host Zachary Kellian introduces one of his favorite authors to Gordon Macallan who in turn lends even more personal insight into the text... just what book clubs are all about! Join us for a frank exploration of closeted sexuality in post-war Japan and learn a little bit about one of the world's most enigmatic, outrageous, and talented writers to ever put pen to paper.

Co-host Zachary Kellian introduces one of his favorite authors to Gordon Macallan who in turn lends even more personal insight into the text... just what book clubs are all about! Join us for a frank exploration of closeted sexuality in post-war Japan and learn a little bit about one of the world's most enigmatic, outrageous, and talented writers to ever put pen to paper.

"Confessions of a Mask" by Yukio Mishima (Episode 16.1)

Was this podcast just a long and needlessly complex excuse to eventually discuss H.P. Lovecraft? Maybe... we're big fans of the grandfather of horror's cosmic approach to terror (even if we cringe at some of his more heinous personal beliefs). Join us for a dramatic reading followed by an in-depth discussion of the story.

Was this podcast just a long and needlessly complex excuse to eventually discuss H.P. Lovecraft? Maybe... we're big fans of the grandfather of horror's cosmic approach to terror (even if we cringe at some of his more heinous personal beliefs). Join us for a dramatic reading followed by an in-depth discussion of the story.

A Reading: "Dagon" by H.P. Lovecraft

Stephen King

We wrap up this season's foray into the world of Stephen King with an in-depth discussion on "the coming of age tale" and the unique rites of passage (or lack thereof) within American culture past, present, and future. Or at least that's what we thought we were talking about... full disclosure, we discovered a very real liquor brand called "Redrum" and it was too perfect for a Stephen King podcast to not down a whole bottle.  *Listener Warning: this episode contains  offensively bad Maine accents*

We wrap up this season's foray into the world of Stephen King with an in-depth discussion on "the coming of age tale" and the unique rites of passage (or lack thereof) within American culture past, present, and future. Or at least that's what we thought we were talking about... full disclosure, we discovered a very real liquor brand called "Redrum" and it was too perfect for a Stephen King podcast to not down a whole bottle.  *Listener Warning: this episode contains  offensively bad Maine accents*

"The Body (Stand By Me)," by Stephen King (Episode 15.3)

We continue to drink some corpse revivers as we read one of the master of horror's non-horror novellas, "The Body." In this episode we share some tips about  how to talk your twelve-year-old friends into seeing a dead body and explore the reason why boys (and men) so often play "at war."

We continue to drink some corpse revivers as we read one of the master of horror's non-horror novellas, "The Body." In this episode we share some tips about  how to talk your twelve-year-old friends into seeing a dead body and explore the reason why boys (and men) so often play "at war."

"The Body (Stand By Me)" by Stephen King (Episode 15.2)

We're drinking Corpse Revivers and reading Stephen King all month! What's a literary podcast doing examining the master of horror? If you're asking yourself that, you've not read enough King. The Body is his exploration of 12 -year-old boys, a subject he approaches with enough humanity and empathy to rank among the best of literary fiction. We hope you'll join us, King-aficionados and new-comers alike! (Don't worry, we'll get plenty nerdy when it comes to the King-metaverse, too). So grab your best friends, pack an overnight bag, make up some B.S. excuse to your folks, and let's go on an adventure!

We're drinking Corpse Revivers and reading Stephen King all month! What's a literary podcast doing examining the master of horror? If you're asking yourself that, you've not read enough King. The Body is his exploration of 12 -year-old boys, a subject he approaches with enough humanity and empathy to rank among the best of literary fiction. We hope you'll join us, King-aficionados and new-comers alike! (Don't worry, we'll get plenty nerdy when it comes to the King-metaverse, too). So grab your best friends, pack an overnight bag, make up some B.S. excuse to your folks, and let's go on an adventure!

"The Body (Stand By Me)" by Stephen King (Episode 15.1)

We take a field trip for our second remote recording session, this time to New York City, NY! We sip some drinks just barstools away from where Dylan Thomas drank his last pint and marvel at the building's plumbing mishap that put Jack Kerouac in jail. There's Bob Dylan graffiti in the bathroom and an overall air of bohemian artistic freedom to be had at The White Horse Tavern, one of the most legendary literary locations in all of the United States. Join us for this journey into history and marvel at the patience of the staff who let us record well past 4am. 

We take a field trip for our second remote recording session, this time to New York City, NY! We sip some drinks just barstools away from where Dylan Thomas drank his last pint and marvel at the building's plumbing mishap that put Jack Kerouac in jail. There's Bob Dylan graffiti in the bathroom and an overall air of bohemian artistic freedom to be had at The White Horse Tavern, one of the most legendary literary locations in all of the United States. Join us for this journey into history and marvel at the patience of the staff who let us record well past 4am.

Special Episode: The White Horse Tavern in NYC... a legendary literary locale!

Michael Crichton

Lasers! Poison darts! Miss Gladys Stephens of Omaha, Nebraska! We talk about the climax of The Andromeda Strain as well as get a glimpse behind the scenes of the movie it later inspired.   Thanks for joining us on this journey back to our collective bookworm adolescence!

Lasers! Poison darts! Miss Gladys Stephens of Omaha, Nebraska! We talk about the climax of The Andromeda Strain as well as get a glimpse behind the scenes of the movie it later inspired.   Thanks for joining us on this journey back to our collective bookworm adolescence!

"The Andromeda Strain" by Michael Crichton Part 3/3 (Episode 14.3)

Our love of ASCII art graphs reaches its zenith with this novel. Today we're talking about Crichton's famous "Odd Man Hypothesis" wherein only unmarried men are deemed capable of making key decisions.  Do we agree? As two (at least as of this recording) single men ourselves, we speak to our own decision-making acumen, albeit over many, many cocktails. We also question the "beard science" behind this novel. 

Our love of ASCII art graphs reaches its zenith with this novel. Today we're talking about Crichton's famous "Odd Man Hypothesis" wherein only unmarried men are deemed capable of making key decisions.  Do we agree? As two (at least as of this recording) single men ourselves, we speak to our own decision-making acumen, albeit over many, many cocktails. We also question the "beard science" behind this novel.

"The Andromeda Strain" by Michael Crichton Part 2/3 (14.2)

After two years of a global pandemic, who's ready to read the all-time classic virus scare story?! We revisit one of our childhood favorites to see how the author of Jurassic Park's first novel has aged. Q: How has the "cutting edge" 1960s science held up? A: About as well as Bell Bottoms and Segregation.

After two years of a global pandemic, who's ready to read the all-time classic virus scare story?! We revisit one of our childhood favorites to see how the author of Jurassic Park's first novel has aged. Q: How has the "cutting edge" 1960s science held up? A: About as well as Bell Bottoms and Segregation.

"The Andromeda Strain" by Michael Crichton Part 1/3 (Episode 14.1)

A book club where we (those who identify as men and those who want to understand men better) review great works of literature and discuss what they have to say about masculine archetypes. We are two life-long friends, one straight, one gay, a writer, and a doctor of computer science and philosophy, who have vastly different ideas of what it means to be a man. We’re here to take a look at the good, the bad, and the ugly and to grow along the way.

Margaret Atwood

What conversation about The Republic Gilead would be complete without a thorough discussion of "Salvaging?" We also give the Aunts their due, especially as it relates to the masculine archetypes they appropriate to hold onto  power in this patriarchal society. And we ask the age old question: how close is Boston to actually becoming a biblical dystopia?

What conversation about The Republic Gilead would be complete without a thorough discussion of "Salvaging?" We also give the Aunts their due, especially as it relates to the masculine archetypes they appropriate to hold onto  power in this patriarchal society. And we ask the age old question: how close is Boston to actually becoming a biblical dystopia?

"The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood Part 4/4 (Episode 13.4)

Today we pick apart the sad sack that is Commander Fred and ponder what is it about the Commanders that the NFL found worthy enough to honor with a team name. We'll also take a virtual trip to Jezebel's and have an honest conversation around some of the myths of male sexuality. Just your average, light-hearted podcast conversations, brought to you by Gilead. 

Today we pick apart the sad sack that is Commander Fred and ponder what is it about the Commanders that the NFL found worthy enough to honor with a team name. We'll also take a virtual trip to Jezebel's and have an honest conversation around some of the myths of male sexuality. Just your average, light-hearted podcast conversations, brought to you by Gilead.

"The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood Part 3/4 (Episode 13.3)

We're drinking "Blessed be the Fruit" cocktails courtesy of the Stardust's wonderful bartender (and suspected Eye) Crystal. Our exploration of the men within the society of The Handmaid's Tale continues with discussions  about Nick, the guardians, and the fertility doctors. So, the conversation isn't getting any less grim, but we at least take a few cheap shots at religion once the booze kicks in. 

We're drinking "Blessed be the Fruit" cocktails courtesy of the Stardust's wonderful bartender (and suspected Eye) Crystal. Our exploration of the men within the society of The Handmaid's Tale continues with discussions  about Nick, the guardians, and the fertility doctors. So, the conversation isn't getting any less grim, but we at least take a few cheap shots at religion once the booze kicks in.

"The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood Part 2/4 (Episode 13.2)

The Handmaid's Tale, from the perspective no one wants to tackle: The Men of Gilead! But seriously, even those supporting and defending this nightmarish patriarchy seem miserable. If the men aren't enjoying this dystopia created to solely benefit them, who is it for?! In this episode we talk about the mechanics of Atwood's brilliant writing-- how she creates this masterpiece of sci-fi/horror. And we'll also be looking into what makes Luke and some of the Angels tick. And as always, we'll be drinking enough to try to ignore just how much this novel gets right about our society as a whole. Under his eye! 

The Handmaid's Tale, from the perspective no one wants to tackle: The Men of Gilead! But seriously, even those supporting and defending this nightmarish patriarchy seem miserable. If the men aren't enjoying this dystopia created to solely benefit them, who is it for?! In this episode we talk about the mechanics of Atwood's brilliant writing-- how she creates this masterpiece of sci-fi/horror. And we'll also be looking into what makes Luke and some of the Angels tick. And as always, we'll be drinking enough to try to ignore just how much this novel gets right about our society as a whole. Under his eye!

"The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood Part 1/4 (Episode 13.1)

This week we're doing another dramatic reading by previewing our featured author for July, Yukio Mishima, with this shocking short story set in post-war Japan. Not only are there strong themes about fragile masculinity and the role of men as societal provider, but there are also rich under currents of anti-consumerism and a  yearning for Imperial restoration. It's a short story that packs a punch and one you won't soon forget. Join us as we read the story in its entirety and join us afterward as we sit down at the Stardust Lounge and discuss its many layers over a cocktail or two.

This week we're doing another dramatic reading by previewing our featured author for July, Yukio Mishima, with this shocking short story set in post-war Japan. Not only are there strong themes about fragile masculinity and the role of men as societal provider, but there are also rich under currents of anti-consumerism and a  yearning for Imperial restoration. It's a short story that packs a punch and one you won't soon forget. Join us as we read the story in its entirety and join us afterward as we sit down at the Stardust Lounge and discuss its many layers over a cocktail or two.

A Reading: "Three Million Yen" by Yukio Mishima

Anthony Bourdain

The gloves of off on this one! We must've still be harboring some St. Patrick's Day binge-drinking vigor because we come out of the gate hot and heavy on the antiquated masculinity Bourdain likes to champion in this book. But worry not, we make sure to give Anthony his due, as all men who desire to change and better themselves should be accorded. The later half of the episode features some frank discussion on Bourdain's choice to end his own life, so be aware as you listen if those kinds of conversations trouble you. We started this podcast to tackle the heavy issues as it relates to modern masculinity, but that doesn't mean our listeners need to put themselves through every dire situation we discuss.  Anthony Bourdain was a talent who left his mark on the world and whose legacy lives on with an entire generation of restaurateurs and culinary artists and we're grateful for the opportunity to share his memoir with you all.

The gloves of off on this one! We must've still be harboring some St. Patrick's Day binge-drinking vigor because we come out of the gate hot and heavy on the antiquated masculinity Bourdain likes to champion in this book. But worry not, we make sure to give Anthony his due, as all men who desire to change and better themselves should be accorded. The later half of the episode features some frank discussion on Bourdain's choice to end his own life, so be aware as you listen if those kinds of conversations trouble you. We started this podcast to tackle the heavy issues as it relates to modern masculinity, but that doesn't mean our listeners need to put themselves through every dire situation we discuss.  Anthony Bourdain was a talent who left his mark on the world and whose legacy lives on with an entire generation of restaurateurs and culinary artists and we're grateful for the opportunity to share his memoir with you all.

"Kitchen Confidential" by Anthony Bourdain Part 3/3 (12.3)

We're back in studio (a darkly lit booth at the back of the Stardust Lounge) with our special guest, Chef David, to discuss more of Anthony Bourdain's pseudo-non-fiction memoir, "Kitchen Confidential." In this episode we peel back the layers of  masculinity (both toxic and puerile) described in Bourdain's kitchens and David gives us an insight into how the #MeToo movement has changed the restaurant industry. We also are three negronis deep into the evening, so expect several random references to obscure Saturday Night Live sketches and the occasional bleeped curse word. 

We're back in studio (a darkly lit booth at the back of the Stardust Lounge) with our special guest, Chef David, to discuss more of Anthony Bourdain's pseudo-non-fiction memoir, "Kitchen Confidential." In this episode we peel back the layers of  masculinity (both toxic and puerile) described in Bourdain's kitchens and David gives us an insight into how the #MeToo movement has changed the restaurant industry. We also are three negronis deep into the evening, so expect several random references to obscure Saturday Night Live sketches and the occasional bleeped curse word.

"Kitchen Confidential" by Anthony Bourdain Part 2/3 (Episode 12.2) 

Season 2 kicks off with a three-part discussion of Anthony Bourdain's "Kitchen Confidential." This week's episode also features our first special guest, master chef and loyal listener, David. He's here will give us an additional glimpse behind the butler doors and help put into perspective what this nonfiction work has meant for the industry it exposes. So, light up your grill with cooking sherry and shield yourself in false male bravado, because we're pulling no punches with the classic restaurant industry "tell-all." While Bourdain's tome hasn't aged well, it's clear from his legacy with "No Reservations" and "Part Unknown" that men can grow and evolve and that's what we're all about here at Literary Guise. As we kick off our second season, we thrilled to have you along for the journey to learn and grow with us.  

Season 2 kicks off with a three-part discussion of Anthony Bourdain's "Kitchen Confidential." This week's episode also features our first special guest, master chef and loyal listener, David. He's here will give us an additional glimpse behind the butler doors and help put into perspective what this nonfiction work has meant for the industry it exposes.  So, light up your grill with cooking sherry and shield yourself in false male bravado, because we're pulling no punches with the classic restaurant industry "tell-all." While Bourdain's tome hasn't aged well, it's clear from his legacy with "No Reservations" and "Part Unknown" that men can grow and evolve and that's what we're all about here at Literary Guise. As we kick off our second season, we thrilled to have you along for the journey to learn and grow with us.

"Kitchen Confidential" by Anthony Bourdain (Episode 12.1)

Mix up your favorite cocktail and join us on a trip down memory lane as we discuss the inaugural season of Literary Guise: the highs, the lows, and the lessons we learned through the great (and not so great) works of literature we explored. Then stick around for our announcement of the FULL Season 2 selection of books. Head out to your favorite independent bookstore and show them some love by scooping up an entire year's worth of great reads!Literary Guise: Season 2... coming March 7th!

Mix up your favorite cocktail and join us on a trip down memory lane as we discuss the inaugural season of Literary Guise: the highs, the lows, and the lessons we learned through the great (and not so great) works of literature we explored.  Then stick around for our announcement of the FULL Season 2 selection of books. Head out to your favorite independent bookstore and show them some love by scooping up an entire year's worth of great reads! Literary Guise: Season 2... coming March 7th!

Season 1 Recap / Season 2 Preview

Annie Proulx

We finish off our first full season of Literary Guise with another conversation exploring the themes of Brokeback Mountain. Far from just "that gay cowboy story," it's one of the best explorations of masculinity in modern literature. We talk about the  love between Ennis and Jack, but we also explore the powerful female characters existing in the fringes of these men's lives. A special thanks to our favorite drinking locale on earth: The Stardust for allowing us to occupy a booth for hours every week and talk about challenging issues. Stay tuned in early 2022 for a new season of Literary Guise!

We finish off our first full season of Literary Guise with another conversation exploring the themes of Brokeback Mountain. Far from just "that gay cowboy story," it's one of the best explorations of masculinity in modern literature. We talk about the  love between Ennis and Jack, but we also explore the powerful female characters existing in the fringes of these men's lives. A special thanks to our favorite drinking locale on earth: The Stardust for allowing us to occupy a booth for hours every week and talk about challenging issues. Stay tuned in early 2022 for a new season of Literary Guise!

Episode 11.2: "Brokeback Mountain" by Annie Proulx

Literary Guise: A Book Club for Modern Men

The best podcast episodes of the most interesting stories and things. From skyping someone while they're in space, to tracking down and meeting a telephone scammer in person, to the story of a Galapagos. These episodes will keep you and all your friends entertained and captivated for hours. Learn something new in every episode! Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

Best Episodes: Interesting Stories & Things

The best podcast episodes on parenting. Interviewing experts and talking through common issues surrounding parenting. This topic is filled with important lessons and insights for anyone listening. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!