Episodes

  • TAOMTP 024 - Swerve Back Onto the Emotional Road
    Oct 1 2025

    In this episode of 'The Art of Missing the Point', hosts Brian and Ruth explore various themes including the transition into fall, emotional awareness, personal style, and the complexities of friendships and family dynamics. They discuss the importance of setting boundaries in relationships, the challenges of navigating romantic feelings with friends, and the responsibility that comes with lending personal belongings. The conversation is light-hearted yet insightful, providing listeners with relatable anecdotes and thoughtful reflections on life and relationships. In this conversation, Ruth and Brian delve into the implications of AI in entertainment, discussing the emergence of AI-generated characters and their potential impact on human actors. They explore the motivations behind these developments, questioning whether they represent genuine innovation or merely marketing stunts. The discussion also touches on the intersection of art and technology, the future of creative industries, and the importance of protecting human workers in the face of advancing AI. Additionally, they share insights into the upcoming events in the pinball community, highlighting the camaraderie and competition within that space.

    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome to the Podcast

    02:44 Transitioning Seasons: Embracing Fall

    05:48 Friendship Dynamics: Navigating Feelings

    17:06 Understanding Rejection and Moving Forward

    22:11 Navigating Family Dynamics and Boundaries

    23:00 The Dilemma of Lending Personal Property

    28:55 Understanding the Consequences of Trust

    34:58 The Importance of Saying No

    37:05 The Rise of AI in Entertainment

    49:38 Ethics of AI in Creative Industries

    52:48 The AI Takeover Debate

    55:50 Cynicism in AI and Art

    58:31 The Human Element in Creativity

    01:02:01 The Future of AI in Art

    01:07:31 Pinball Adventures and Community


    Takeaways

    The transition into fall can evoke mixed emotions.

    Emotional awareness is crucial for mental health.

    Fashion can be a source of joy during seasonal changes.

    Navigating friendships with romantic feelings requires honesty.

    Setting boundaries is essential for personal well-being.

    It's important to communicate feelings clearly in relationships.

    Family dynamics can complicate personal decisions.

    Saying no is a valid and necessary response.

    Understanding personal responsibility is key in relationships.

    Friendships can evolve, and it's okay to take a step back. Human curiosity drives the exploration of bizarre scenarios.

    AI is being used for trivial and nonsensical applications.

    The rise of AI-generated characters raises ethical concerns.

    Human actors fear being replaced by AI in the entertainment industry.

    The creation of AI characters is often a marketing stunt.

    Art and technology must coexist without compromising human creativity.

    The future of AI in creative industries is uncertain and complex.

    Workers in creative fields must be protected from AI encroachment.

    The conversation highlights the need for agreements on AI usage.

    Pinball events foster community and competition among players.


    Keywords

    podcast, comedy, relationships, emotions, fashion, seasons, friendships, boundaries, family, personal responsibility, AI, entertainment, human actors, technology, creativity, marketing, art, industry, pinball, podcast


    Takeaways


    The transition into fall can evoke mixed emotions.

    Emotional awareness is crucial for mental health.

    Fashion can be a source of joy during seasonal changes.

    Navigating friendships with romantic feelings requires honesty.

    Setting boundaries is essential for personal well-being.

    It's important to communicate feelings clearly in relationships.

    Family dynamics can complicate personal decisions.

    Saying no is a valid and necessary response.

    Understanding personal responsibility is key in relationships.

    Friendships can evolve, and it's okay to take a step back. Human curiosity drives the exploration of bizarre scenarios.

    AI is being used for trivial and nonsensical applications.


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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • TAOMTP 023: The Prophet Mike Judge
    Sep 22 2025

    In this episode, hosts brian botkiller and Ruth Dove explore various themes including nostalgia for 90s culture, the impact of social media on relationships, and the role of comedy in society. They discuss the relevance of shows like Beavis and Butthead, the complexities of navigating jealousy in relationships, and the implications of AI in the future of comedy. The conversation is filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and cultural commentary, making it a relatable and engaging listen. In this engaging conversation, Brian Botkiller and Ruth Dove explore a variety of themes ranging from the absurdity of modern politics and social media etiquette to personal growth and the evolution of pinball as a game. They reflect on the impact of humor in coping with societal issues, the role of AI, and the importance of community support. The discussion is punctuated with personal anecdotes and insights, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Comedy and Nostalgia

    03:17 The Impact of Beavis and Butthead

    06:09 Censorship and Comedy's Role

    08:44 The Importance of Humor in Society

    11:33 Navigating Relationships and Jealousy

    16:41 Understanding Emotional Boundaries

    21:52 Final Thoughts on Relationships and Self-Worth

    24:37 Introduction to the Horrors of the Internet

    25:31 Sibling Relationships and the Stinky Era

    28:13 Navigating Middle School Challenges

    31:41 Shoutout to Riverside: The Podcasting Tool

    34:17 AIpocalypse and Dumb Criminals

    44:58 The UFC White House Event: A New Low

    47:55 Introduction to Pinball and Personal Connections

    48:37 Reflections on Society and Humor

    51:52 The World of Pinball: Community and Events

    54:08 Generational Connections Through Gaming

    55:40 The Debate: Is Pinball a Video Game?

    58:22 Upcoming Pinball Tournaments and Events

    01:03:53 Brian's Journey as an Independent Musician

    01:12:19 TAOMTP - outro video with music .mp4


    Takeaways


    The podcast explores the question of whether we are missing the point in life.

    Nostalgia plays a significant role in shaping our cultural references.

    Comedy serves as a mirror to society, reflecting its absurdities.

    Social media can complicate relationships, especially regarding trust and jealousy.

    AI is becoming increasingly relevant in the world of comedy and content creation.

    Navigating jealousy requires communication and understanding in relationships.

    The hosts emphasize the importance of humor in coping with life's challenges.

    Cultural references from the 90s resonate with listeners and evoke nostalgia.

    The conversation highlights the absurdity of modern life, akin to the themes in idiocracy.

    The hosts encourage listeners to embrace their individuality and support each other. Idiocracy serves as a warning about our current society.

    Social media interactions can blur personal boundaries.

    Modern politics often feels absurd and disconnected from reality.

    Insecurities in relationships can stem from a lack of communication.

    Entertainment today often reflects the chaos of real life.

    Self-reflection is crucial for personal growth and understanding.

    Humor can be a powerful tool for coping with difficult situations.

    AI's influence on society raises important questions about our future.

    Pinball fosters connections and community engagement.

    Community support is vital for personal and collective growth.


    Keywords

    comedy, relationships, social media, nostalgia, AI, Beavis and Butthead, Mike Judge, cultural commentary, podcast, humor, Idiocracy, social media, relationships, entertainment, personal growth, humor, AI, pinball, community, support



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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • TAOMTP 022 - Align Your F*cking Chakras
    Sep 22 2025

    In this episode of 'The Art of Missing the Point,' hosts Brian and Ruth explore various themes surrounding productivity, personal experiences with standing desks, and the dynamics of relationships. They delve into the balance between sitting and standing, the challenges of moving furniture, and the importance of setting boundaries in both personal and family relationships. The conversation also touches on humorous anecdotes and Reddit scenarios, particularly focusing on the question of whether someone is an asshole for their actions. Through laughter and insightful discussions, the hosts navigate the complexities of modern life and relationships. In this conversation, Brian and Ruth explore the complexities of family dynamics, cultural identity, and the impact of generational trauma. They discuss the importance of setting boundaries, the challenges of parenting, and the significance of community support in healing. The dialogue transitions into a cautionary tale about a Ponzi scheme in Hollywood, highlighting the intersection of ethics and ambition. The conversation concludes with a light-hearted discussion about the world of pinball and the joy it brings.

    Takeaways

    Standing desks can be beneficial but come with challenges.

    Sitting is not inherently bad; balance is key.

    Moving furniture can be a frustrating experience.

    Productivity can be achieved in various ways, including sitting still.

    Setting boundaries is crucial in roommate dynamics.

    Family dynamics can involve toxic love language.

    It's important to communicate expectations clearly.

    Reddit scenarios provide humorous insights into human behavior.

    Everyone has their own experiences with relationships and boundaries.

    Aging brings different perspectives on life and relationships. Navigating family dynamics can be challenging and complex.

    Cultural identity plays a significant role in personal experiences.

    Breaking generational cycles is essential for personal growth.

    Setting boundaries is crucial for mental health.

    Parenting requires awareness and understanding of past traumas.

    Toxic relationships can have lasting impacts on individuals.

    Self-discovery is a journey that often involves difficult conversations.

    Finding joy in the process is important for overall well-being.

    Community support can aid in healing and personal development.

    Ethics and ambition often intersect in unexpected ways.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Art of Missing the Point

    02:51 The Standing Desk Dilemma

    05:53 Balancing Sitting and Standing

    08:46 The Challenges of Sitting Still

    11:32 Reddit and Human Interaction

    15:24 Roommate Rules and Boundaries

    24:51 Navigating Roommate Dynamics

    27:42 Boundaries and Personal Peace

    31:44 The Complexity of Responsibility

    35:23 Understanding Age Differences

    37:57 The Little Shithead Dilemma

    39:56 Lessons in Co-Habitation

    43:12 Toxic Family Dynamics

    46:23 Setting Boundaries with Parents

    48:56 Navigating Family Dynamics and Ideological Chasms

    51:32 The Impact of Generational Trauma

    54:47 Parenting Through the Lens of Past Experiences

    58:57 Breaking the Cycle of Toxicity

    01:02:55 The Importance of Healthy Boundaries

    01:06:28 Dumb Criminals: The Case of Zachary Horowitz

    01:21:16 The Rise and Fall of a Ponzi Scheme

    01:24:08 The Consequences of Greed

    01:26:26 The Ethics of Hustling

    01:30:06 The Importance of Doing It Right

    01:34:50 Lessons from a Failed Scheme

    01:35:28 Pinball and Intellectual Property

    01:43:32 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    Keywords

    podcast, standing desk, productivity, family dynamics, Reddit, relationships, boundaries, humor, personal experiences, creativity, family dynamics, cultural identity, generational trauma, boundaries, parenting, toxic relationships, self-discovery, community, ethics, pinball


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    1 hr and 48 mins
  • TAOMTP 021 - The Sociology of Reddit
    Sep 9 2025

    In this episode of The Art of Missing the Point, Brian and Ruth discuss various topics ranging from their thoughts on the new Alien: Earth TV show to nostalgic reflections on the Ninja Turtles and Timothy Olyphant. They explore the impact of streaming services on fandoms, the legacy of the Alien franchise, and the charm of campy cinema like The Toxic Avenger. The conversation also delves into a cold read segment where they analyze a Reddit post about attraction and race, emphasizing the importance of communication in relationships and the subjective nature of personal preferences. In this conversation, Ruth and Brian explore the complexities of adult relationships, particularly in the context of emotional safety and consent, especially when influenced by AI technologies. They discuss the implications of AI in creative fields, particularly music, highlighting the controversy surrounding AI-generated bands like Velvet Sundown. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations of using AI in creative processes and the importance of community building through shared interests like pinball tournaments.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Alien Show Discussion

    02:52 Exploring the Alien Universe and Character Development

    05:34 Nostalgia and Fandom: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

    08:28 The Impact of Streaming Services on Viewing Habits

    11:28 Alien and Predator: A Deep Dive into the Franchise

    14:23 The Toxic Avenger and Campy Cinema

    17:21 Reflections on Highlander and Its Legacy

    20:09 The Role of Humor in American Media

    22:59 Closing Thoughts and Future Recommendations

    26:24 Exploring Interpersonal Dynamics on Reddit

    29:25 Am I the Asshole? Segment Introduction

    29:37 Attraction and Racial Preferences

    46:55 AI and Relationship Boundaries

    56:45 Navigating Adult Relationships and Workplace Dynamics

    59:18 Consent and Emotional Safety in Relationships

    01:02:12 The Impact of AI on Personal Relationships

    01:06:04 The Rise of AI in Music and Creative Arts

    01:32:25 The Human Element in AI Music Creation

    01:34:35 AI Tools for Accessibility in Music

    01:36:30 Consent and Compensation in AI Music

    01:37:57 Ethical Considerations of AI in Music

    01:40:18 The Mystery of Velvet Sundown

    01:43:11 Cultural Impact of AI Music

    01:49:52 The Future of AI in Music Creation

    01:54:46 Community and Collaboration in Music

    01:57:40 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions


    Takeaways

    The evolution of fandoms with streaming services.

    Nostalgia plays a significant role in personal preferences.

    Alien movies have a complex legacy among fans.

    Timothy Olyphant is a beloved actor for many.

    The Ninja Turtles represent a unique childhood nostalgia.

    The Highlander franchise has a mixed reception.

    Campy cinema has its own charm and audience.

    Attraction can be influenced by personal experiences.

    Relationships require open communication and understanding.

    Cultural identity can impact personal preferences. Adult relationships require respect and emotional safety.

    AI technologies can complicate personal relationships.

    Consent is crucial in all interactions, especially in relationships.

    Public humiliation can have lasting effects on relationships.

    AI-generated music raises ethical and copyright concerns.

    The Velvet Sundown controversy highlights issues in the music industry.

    Community events can foster connection and growth.

    Creative arts should prioritize human input and authenticity.

    AI tools can be beneficial but must be used responsibly.

    Building supportive communities is essential for personal growth.


    Keywords

    podcast, alien show, Timothy Olyphant, Ninja Turtles, streaming services, Alien movies, Highlander, Toxic Avenger, Am I the Asshole, relationships, AI, relationships, consent, emotional safety, music industry, Velvet Sundown, copyright, creative arts, pinball tournaments, community building






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    2 hrs and 4 mins
  • TAOMTP 020 - The Walnut of Disingenuous Caring
    Sep 2 2025

    In this episode of The Art of Missing the Point, Brian and Ruth explore various themes including language and identity, the role of technology in society, critiques of wealth and privilege, the importance of community, and navigating criticism. They engage in a humorous yet insightful discussion that challenges listeners to reflect on their own perspectives and societal norms. In this episode, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about various topics, including the value of businesses, the impact of AI on jobs, and the complexities of separating art from the artist, particularly in relation to controversial figures like J.K. Rowling. They explore personal experiences and opinions on these subjects, emphasizing the importance of navigating social issues in art consumption and the implications of universal income models in the context of AI advancements.


    Takeaways


    The podcast humorously questions societal norms and perceptions.

    Language and identity play a crucial role in personal experiences.

    Technology can both connect and isolate individuals in society.

    Wealth and privilege often dictate societal structures and opportunities.

    Community support is essential for personal growth and resilience.

    Criticism can be a tool for growth if approached constructively.

    Navigating personal challenges requires self-reflection and support from others.

    The hosts emphasize the importance of critical thinking in a tech-driven world.

    Humor can be a powerful way to address serious topics.

    The conversation encourages listeners to engage with their own experiences and perspectives. The conversation highlights the importance of engaging with audiences on platforms like Reddit.

    Business models should focus on adding value rather than detracting from it.

    The 'Am I the Asshole' segment provides a humorous yet insightful look at social dilemmas.

    Separating art from the artist is a complex issue, especially with beloved franchises like Harry Potter.

    Personal experiences shape opinions on controversial artists and their works.

    Navigating social issues in art consumption is crucial in today's society.

    The discussion on AI raises concerns about the future of work and job displacement.

    Universal Basic Income and Universal High Income are debated in the context of AI advancements.

    The hosts emphasize that ethical consumerism is challenging under capitalism.

    The episode concludes with reflections on the ongoing journey of understanding these complex issues.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Purpose

    02:41 The Challenges of Consistency in Podcasting

    05:05 The Importance of Commitment and Time Management

    08:21 Skepticism and Belief in the Unknown

    11:32 Dark Humor and Political Commentary

    13:03 Community Engagement and Personal Responsibility

    15:58 Am I the Asshole? A Cold Read Segment

    20:02 Accent Bias and Cultural Sensitivity

    22:23 Language and Identity

    25:04 Educational Standards and Expectations

    27:37 Misrepresentation and Self-Respect

    30:05 Privilege and Language

    32:55 The Art vs. Artist Debate

    35:34 Conclusion and Reflections on Identity

    41:55 Literary Influences and Historical Context

    45:23 Navigating Controversial Authors

    48:10 Art vs. Artist: A Personal Dilemma

    54:46 The Complexity of Ethical Consumerism

    01:00:24 AIpocalypse: The Future of Work and AI

    01:11:07 The Human Brain and Computing

    01:13:33 The Role of AI and Technology in Society

    01:16:28 Universal Basic Income and Wealth Distribution

    01:21:44 The Nature of Altruism and Human Behavior

    01:27:03 The Future of Work and Automation

    01:32:40 Personal Experiences and Community Engagement


    Keywords

    podcast, comedy, language, identity, technology, wealth, privilege, community, criticism, personal growth, podcast, AI, art, Harry Potter, universal income, Reddit, social issues, business models, value, engagement



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    1 hr and 41 mins
  • TAOMTP 019 - Don't Be An Asshole To Yourself While Listening to The Wu-Tang
    Aug 27 2025

    In this episode of 'The Art of Missing the Point,' hosts Brian and Ruth explore themes of chaos, clumsiness, and self-reflection, particularly in the context of birthdays. They discuss the humorous aspects of being clumsy and how it affects relationships, as well as the challenges of digital hoarding and the importance of health awareness. The conversation also touches on navigating friendships and the lessons learned from humorous or chaotic situations, all while maintaining a light-hearted and comedic tone. In this engaging conversation, Brian and Ruth explore the complexities of wealth, morality, and the consequences of greed, particularly through the lens of the Wu-Tang Clan's unique album sale. They discuss the impact of peer pressure on personal choices, the struggles of youth, and the importance of accountability in the art world. The dialogue is rich with insights and reflections on societal values, making it a thought-provoking listen.


    Chapters

    00:00 Birthday Reflections and Aging

    02:45 Digital Memories and Hoarding

    05:28 Self-Reflection and Life Choices

    08:28 Memory and Forgetting

    11:11 Navigating Relationships and Communication

    13:57 The Art of Editing and Sharing Online

    18:31 Navigating Crushes and Peer Pressure

    20:11 Navigating Relationships and Peer Pressure

    22:50 The Complexity of Young Love

    26:32 The Dilemma of Honesty in Relationships

    30:48 Consequences of Actions and Social Dynamics

    37:52 Reflections on Youth and Personal Growth

    39:42 Reflections on High School Memories

    40:44 Clumsiness and Chaos in Daily Life

    42:25 Understanding Clumsiness: A Deeper Look

    45:40 The Importance of Eye Health

    49:28 Health Concerns and Family Dynamics

    51:59 Taking Health Seriously: A Personal Responsibility

    54:31 Navigating Clumsiness and Health Awareness

    57:22 Dumb Criminals: A Shift in Focus

    01:00:17 The Unique Concept of Once Upon a Time in Shaolin

    01:05:12 The Controversial Buyer: Martin Shkreli

    01:09:51 The Legal Fallout and Wu-Tang's Response

    01:13:35 The Album's Legacy and Cultural Impact

    01:17:59 Reflections on Art, Greed, and Justice


    Takeaways

    It's okay to feel weird about getting older.

    Chaos can be a part of life, especially in social settings.

    Digital hoarding can lead to nostalgia and regret.

    Self-reflection is important, especially on birthdays.

    Communication is key in relationships, especially when addressing concerns.

    Clumsiness can be a source of humor and connection with friends.

    Health issues should be taken seriously, even if they seem trivial.

    Navigating friendships can be complicated, especially with peer pressure.

    It's important to check in on friends and family regarding their well-being.

    Life lessons often come from humorous or chaotic situations. Wealth can often come with moral dilemmas.

    The Wu-Tang Clan's album sale was a unique commentary on art and ownership.

    Greed can lead to significant consequences, as seen in the case of Martin Shkreli.

    Peer pressure can influence personal decisions in profound ways.

    Youthful mistakes can lead to long-lasting regrets.

    Art should be accessible and not commodified to the point of exclusion.

    Accountability is crucial in both personal and professional realms.

    The universe balances good and evil in unexpected ways.

    Cultural references can help contextualize modern dilemmas.

    Engaging in self-reflection is essential for personal growth.


    Keywords

    comedy podcast, self-reflection, digital hoarding, health, relationships, clumsiness, chaos, memory, birthday, humor, wealth, morality, Wu-Tang Clan, album sale, greed, power, peer pressure, personal choices, youth, regret, accountability




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    1 hr and 27 mins
  • TAOMTP 018 - The Tightwadness that is the United States
    Aug 18 2025

    Summary


    In this episode, Brian and Ruth explore various themes ranging from personal preferences in numbers to the dynamics of band formations. They discuss summer vibes, the quirks of pets, and the ethics of pet ownership. The conversation shifts to human behavior and social norms, leading to a segment on Reddit's 'Am I the Asshole?' where they analyze personal boundaries in public spaces and the implications of nudity in private settings. In this conversation, Ruth and Brian explore the complexities of parenting, body image, and societal norms surrounding nudity. They discuss the impact of prudishness on children's self-perception and the cultural differences in attitudes towards nudity. The conversation then shifts to the realm of technology, particularly AI, examining the human element behind tech innovations and the unsettling nature of tech leaders. Finally, they delve into the vibrant world of pinball culture, highlighting community engagement and personal experiences in tournaments.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Numbers and Preferences

    02:05 Cafe Confrontation Scenario

    26:13 Navigating Social Norms and Personal Boundaries

    37:17 The Right to Privacy in Personal Spaces

    52:28 Cultural Perspectives on Nudity

    55:30 The AIpocalypse: A Look at AI's Impact

    01:07:22 The Human Element in Technology

    01:12:47 Pinball Passion and Community

    01:26:35 TAOMTP - Outro


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    1 hr and 28 mins
  • TAOMTP 017: Scapegoat Trash Bag
    Aug 11 2025

    In this episode of "The Art of Missing the Point," hosts Brian and Ruth explore the gap between futuristic expectations and today's reality, diving into societal issues and personal anecdotes. They humorously dissect posts from the "Am I the Asshole" subreddit, discuss the implications of AI on society, and share updates from the vibrant world of pinball tournaments. Join them for a thoughtful and entertaining conversation that challenges perspectives and celebrates community. #Podcast #AI #PinballChapter list:

    1. Introduction and Welcome

      • Hosts Brian and Ruth introduce the podcast and set the stage for the episode.
    2. Expectations vs. Reality

      • Discussion on futuristic expectations like flying cars and teleportation, and the reality of today's world.
    3. The Human Condition

      • A deep dive into societal issues, personal experiences, and the concept of "missing the point."
    4. Reddit and AITA Segment

      • Exploring the "Am I the Asshole" subreddit, with humorous and serious takes on various posts.
    5. AI Apocalypse

      • A segment on the impact of AI on society, critical thinking, and the environment.
    6. Pinball Passion

      • Ruth shares updates on pinball tournaments and the community's camaraderie.
    7. Final Thoughts and Farewell

      • Closing remarks, reflections on the episode's themes, and gratitude to listeners.
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    1 hr and 28 mins