Episode 4, released July 21, 2016, is the one that started a tradition: the 80s Email Bag. This is the first episode released after the early batch of shows went public, so it is also the first time Bobby and Jason got to read real listener reactions on the air, and they clearly loved it.
Between the shout-outs, they get into arcade and Atari memories, the fans who used to travel from all over to the show, and one absolutely perfect listener email about what being a fan actually took before the internet. If you ever recorded a show off the TV or agonized over a handwritten fan letter, this episode is a time machine.
What you’ll hear in this episode
- Bobby cheerfully owning last week’s glitches, from the Super Duper Looper to the Back to the Future actress mix-up. [01:01]
- The first round of listener comments and shout-outs, and how floored they were by the response. [04:03]
- Memories of fans who traveled from all over the country to be at the show. [10:30]
- Escorting a fan to a Huey Lewis concert, and the night they went to see George Michael together at the height of his fame. [15:34]
- Deep Atari and arcade nostalgia, plus the freshly announced mini NES they could not wait to buy. [18:31]
- The Agata email, a beautiful account of analog fandom: taping shows every day, writing letters in cursive, and mailing off rolls of film to get developed. [23:31]
The episode formalizes the show’s favorite running joke, Jason’s delight whenever Bobby misremembers something:
“We can make a segment only about Bobby’s glitches.”
Jason, [03:36]
But it ends on something warmer. Reflecting on the fan mail era, Bobby explains why he always signed and answered his own:
“I thought if a fan took the time to write, that I should respond.”
Bobby, [27:00]
Original 2016 show notes
80s Nostalgia and memories continue as Bobby and Jason reach into the email bag and give shout outs to some listeners.
Some of the highlights (especially to Jason) are clearing up some of Bobbys ‘glitches’ from Episode 3.
Also who doesn’t love 80s video games? The guys break down some of the iconic games that kicked off in the first arcades. Q*Bert, Space Invaders, Pole Position, Pac-Man as well as quite a few fan favorites are discussed.
From roller skating rinks to bowling alleys Bobby and Jason feel the force and trade essential 80s memories.
Enjoy episode 4 of Bobby and Jason’s Awesome 80s Podcast!
FAQ
What is Episode 4 about?
It is the first 80s Email Bag episode, where Bobby and Jason read listener mail and reminisce about Atari and arcades, meeting fans on the show, and what being a fan was like before the internet.
When did Episode 4 air?
It was released July 21, 2016, as part of Season 1.
What is the 80s Email Bag?
It is the show’s recurring segment where Bobby and Jason read and respond to listener emails and comments. Episode 4 is the first one.
Where can I listen?
Play it right here on the episode page, or find Bobby and Jason’s Awesome 80s Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Amazon Music.
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