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Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, Harold Buchholz
The show where three cartoonists take an in-depth look at the greatest comic strip of all time-- Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz.
Total 136 episodes
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1978 Part 1 - Linus Versus The Power of Darkness
Schulz is honing his knuckleball and settling in for the end of the seventies, while Snoopy the Scoutmaster is heading for the edges of civilization itself. Elsewhere, Sally is in need of a protector or at least a new ruler. Plus: D and D. Harold mentions MST3K.com Michael mentions the 99% Invisible podcast about Luddites https://99percentinvisible.org/episode/blood-in-the-machine/ Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook, Blue Sky, and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:08:39
21/11/2023
1977 Part 2 - He’s Just Drawing Snoopy, Right?
The gang ponders characters with weird foreheads, characters without mouths, and the unspeakable horror of “Henry.” Meanwhile, back in Peanuts: Linus mansplains, Woodstock can’t shave, and Spike is a player. Plus: No more logo in the top left corner! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook, Blue Sky, and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
53:44
14/11/2023
1977 Part 1 - May the Force Be With You, Sweet Babboo!
The seventies are skywalking and it’s a time of beginnings and endings, as our old pal Shermy comes to bat for the last time and the greatest term of endearment in pop culture ever is exclaimed by Sally for the first time. Plus: Woodstock was in ‘Nam? Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook, Blue Sky, and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:20:45
07/11/2023
1976 Part 2 - Goodnight, Noodleneck
Marcie is the object of some unwanted affection, Woodstock gets a makeover, Jimmy explains Pennsylvania sales tax, and Peppermint Patty becomes an ace student…at obedience school. Plus: Joni James Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook, Blue Sky, and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:24:11
24/10/2023
1976 Part 1 - May I Pose a Different Way of Looking at It?
Beagles, Bummers, and the Bicentennial It’s a year of surreal surprises, and sad sequences as we say goodbye to Sally’s sentient school. But there’s always pleasure to be pulled from Peanuts… and even more in perusing its panels with one's pals. Plus: Dark Nights with Charles Schulz Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook, Blue Sky, and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:08:09
17/10/2023
1975 Part 2 - Eggs Benedict for My Brother Spike!
It’s a red letter day in the strip, as Snoopy’s brother Spike makes his first appearance. But it’s not all new stuff, as Charlie Brown, Linus, Sally, and Lucy all make strong appearances. Schulz is engaging with the culture, and the culture is pretty weird, which makes for some fun times in the funnies. Plus: The theology of St. Paul and Minneapolis Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:06:35
10/10/2023
1975 Part 1 - The Neighbors Hate Me
Snoopy gets enlisted as Peppermint Patty’s watchdog but gets foiled by a waterbed. Linus falls in love with someone named Truffles but can’t find her house, and Lucy gets what she wants simply by being Lucy. Plus: Harold goes to the Reubens! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
58:49
03/10/2023
You Have Dissociative Identity Disorder, Snoopy!
Everyone loves Snoopy. But which Snoopy is your favorite Snoopy? Does the Flying Ace send your heart soaring? Or is the vulture your fearsome fave? Well this week, we are hanging out with them and more as we do a special episode devoted to our beloved ex-head beagle’s many guises. Plus: the Skook. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:06:02
26/09/2023
Peanut Butter and Unrequited Love
The guys look at a selection of lonely heart strips that get to the lonely heart of the strip. Because, if there is one constant in the Peanuts strip, it’s unrequited love. From Sally and Linus to Lucy and Schroeder, all the way to Marcie and “Chuck.” Plus: Marnie Marquardt. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening. https://lizsumner.bandcamp.com/track/that-old-moody-river
01:03:44
19/09/2023
It Takes Two, Snoopy!
Our special focus season continues as the guys take a look at some of the best comedic duos in Peanuts. From Linus and Lucy, to Snoopy and Woodstock we read and discuss some of the greatest character comedy ever done in a comic strip. Plus: Simon and Garfunkel. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:22:42
12/09/2023
Go Back to School, Charlie Brown!
It’s the launch of a special season where we look at some of the themes that made Peanuts a success. And since fall is here, we are hitting the books! The guys look at a sampling of strips featuring Charlie Brown, Linus, Sally and more. And maybe tell a few horror stories of their own. Plus: Who cares about tomorrow? Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
56:55
05/09/2023
With Ivan Brunetti - Author of Cartooning: Philosophy and Practice
This week, we chat with acclaimed cartoonist Ivan Brunetti. Ivan’s work has been seen in the New Yorker and he is currently writing children’s comics for TOON Books including the upcoming Shapes and Shapes. His brilliant nonfiction book Cartooning: Philosophy and Practice won a 2012 Eisner Award, and today he hops in the Time Machine with us to revisit the first week of Peanuts strips. Plus: Rain. Rain. Rain. Rain. Ivan mentions McSweeney's Quarterly Concern #13 from 2004, also An Anthology of Graphic Fiction, Cartoons, and True Stories from 2006. https://www.ivanbrunetti.com/ https://www.instagram.com/actuallyivanbrunetti/ https://toon-books.com Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Threads, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:23:06
15/08/2023
Season 5 Wrap Up 1970-1974 - Peanuts Jubilee
It’s a fond look back at the early 70’s, as the guys talk about the highlights of the decade so far. Then they take an in-depth look at PEANUTS JUBILEE, a fantastic book published at the halfway mark of Schulz’s run. Plus: Rubylith and the Zipatones. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:13:03
08/08/2023
1974 Part 2 - Let’s Hang Around the House and Deteriorate
Sally is talking to buildings. Woodstock’s got a bike. Lucy has some pitching advice, and someone called Loretta is selling Girl Scout cookies. Plus: Kiss! Kiss! Kiss! Kiss! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
58:00
01/08/2023
1974 Part 1 - Give Em the Ol’ Knuckle Shoe
Peppermint Patty drops out of society to beep ol’ Snoop on the nose. Can Marcie bring her back to reality? Also…what IS reality in Peanuts? Elsewhere, Sally really doesn’t want to watch someone throw up, and Snoopy lets it all hang out as he gives streaking a try. Plus: Wing It On Home! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:07:18
25/07/2023
Special Episode - Schulz’s Favorite Story
This week we take a long look at the famous “Mister Sack” storyline; a sequence of strips from 1973 that Schulz picked as his personal favorite. Charlie Brown wears a paper bag on his head to hide the weird baseball looking rash he has developed. The results of this turn his life upside down. Plus: What! Me Worry? Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:05:40
18/07/2023
1973 Part 2 - That’s Not a Grade, It’s Sarcasm
Is Linus a genius, or… not? Thibault the bully is back, but Marcie is having none of it! Miss Othmar is back too, with no fanfare at all. Is it because Schulz is now reckoning with the success of the animation? Plus: Big Little Books Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:09:10
11/07/2023
1973 Part 1 - Goodnight Mister Shlabotnik
Charlie Brown almost gets honored but then doesn’t. Peppermint Patty takes on the notion of Truth itself, and Snoopy achieves the Alpha State. Meanwhile, in the real world, it’s wedding bells for Charles Schulz! Plus: Who are the Beaker People? Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:19:56
04/07/2023
Special Episode - The Six Bunny Wunnies Get Banned!
In this special edition of Unpacking Peanuts, the guys take a close look at three of Schulz’s classic 1972 stories… Snoopy Versus The Cat Next Door, Thompson Is In Trouble, and The Six Bunny Wunnies Freak Out. Plus: Fear and Loathing in Hennepin County Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:11:03
27/06/2023
1972 Part 2 - Toodle-oo Caribou!
Charlie Brown is the talk of the girl’s camp as Peppermint Patty meets the legendary Little Red Haired Girl, and Linus makes a bold move. Back at home Charlie Brown tries his hand at football, and Snoopy almost pens an epic. Plus: Woodstock takes the win. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:13:35
20/06/2023
1972 Part 1 - Time Alone Can Judge a Work of Art
Schulz’s life is in upheaval and that is mirrored in the strip. Linus is thrown out of the house, Lucy is thrown off the baseball team, and even Snoopy and Woodstock are breaking up. Elsewhere, it’s Peppermint Patty versus the dress code, and Sally versus a coat hanger sculpture. Plus: Hey hey they’re the Monkees! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:20:07
13/06/2023
1971 Part 2 - Here’s Joe Cool
Snoopy’s got a new persona, and it’s one for the ages. But is Charlie Brown an incompetent or just wishy washy? In the other neighborhood, Peppermint Patty and Charlie Brown go to a fair which ends in a romantic disaster. Meanwhile, in our world, Schulz plays the hits. Plus: Wait… why am I telling you about Sister Ruth? Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:38:03
06/06/2023
1971 Part 1 - For the Love of Miss Helen Sweetstory
Doomed romance is in the air as Snoopy falls in love with his favorite author, and Peppermint Patty writes a “Dear Chuck” letter. Elsewhere, we discuss Schulz’s personal life imploding and give our standard, insightful commentary on Peanuts, cartooning, and how to avoid the draft. Plus: Linus is MIA! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:34:20
30/05/2023
With Mark Crilley - author of Miki Falls, Akiko, Brody’s Ghost, and the Drawing Lesson
It’s an extra-special day at the studio—Mark Crilley is here! We had a great discussion with the author of the Miki Falls, Akiko and Brody’s Ghost book series, as well as amazing how-to-draw books and YouTube videos that have been enjoyed by millions. Don’t miss this one! Plus: Vegas, baby! You can find Mark on social media here: https://www.youtube.com/@markcrilley https://www.facebook.com/markcrilleyOFFICIAL https://twitter.com/markcrilley https://www.instagram.com/markcrilleyreal/ Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:12:35
23/05/2023
1970 Part 2 - Woodstock and The World Famous Grocery Clerk
At the Daisy Hill Puppy Farm, there’s a riot goin’ on! But amid the chaos, Snoopy finds romance, and Woodstock gets his name. It’s an action-packed year for Linus, Lucy, and “Chuck” too, so get ready to do a little heavy reading tonight! Plus: Love Balloon would be a great band name. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:25:33
16/05/2023
1970 Part 1 - Charlie Brown is the GOAT
It's a brand new decade, and things are getting weird. Is Snoopy the Head Beagle, or just a funny looking kid with a big nose? Well this year, he’s both, which Jimmy loves but makes Michael’s head hurt! Elsewhere, Peppermint Patty is being hassled about the school dress code, and Charlie Brown fears he is the goat… but it’s ok, ‘cuz we know he’s really the GOAT! Plus: Wacky Packages and Hockey Cards. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:17:14
09/05/2023
With Joel Hodgson, Creator of Mystery Science Theater 3000
It’s a very special day at Unpacking Peanuts, as the guys welcome comedian, actor, writer, and creator of the legendary Mystery Science Theater 3000… Joel Hodgson! We discuss Joel’s career, his early desire to be a cartoonist, his and Schulz’s shared Minnesota roots, and then dive into Joel’s favorite Peanuts strips. MST3K can be seen on gizmoplex.com Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:10:26
18/04/2023
Finale Season 4: You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown
We say so long to the Swinging 60’s, and set the stage for the Sunny 70’s as Jimmy, Michael and Harold look back on what is probably the greatest decade of work by any cartoonist ever. Then, special guests Marcia Hepps and Gay Merwin join Liz and the guys to talk about one of the first-ever amateur productions of You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown, and tell of composer Clark Gesner’s rave review. Plus: Our mission going forward! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:08:44
11/04/2023
1969 Part 2 - If You’re Late For The First Day of School, Do They Kill You?
Lucy’s year continues, and apparently even God is a fan! But all is not rosy, cuz the Little Red Haired Girl is moving away! Will Charlie Brown finally say hello? Will Sally survive school? And how did Lucy get Babe Ruth’s glove? Don’t ask. Plus: A perfect day for banana fish… or just a pretty good day for goop? Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:23:01
04/04/2023
1969 Part 1 - Feelin’ Groovy
It may be Lucy’s Year, but Schulz is raising the stakes and going to extremes… and maybe feeling a bit nostalgic for good ol’ Minnesota… as winter sports are everywhere in the strip. Meanwhile… Sally is living in fear, Linus is getting involved, and Snoopy is going to the moon. Plus: The final Shermometer! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter, and @unpackingpeanuts on Facebook and YouTube. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:08:00
28/03/2023
1968 Part 2 - That’s Art!
The world is changing, and Charles Schulz is changing with it. As America struggles (once again) with racial divide, Schulz integrates Peanuts. Elsewhere, Snoopy goes on a quest to meet the mysterious “Lila”, Linus learns what art is, and Peppermint Patty continues to keep it real. Plus: How come no one sings “Chloe” anymore? Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:21:12
21/03/2023
1968 Part 1 - Let’s Not Overlook The Possibility of Genius
What makes a bird a Woodstock? Well, someone must know, because even stupid questions have answers! We watch as the classic character slowly comes into focus, and marvel as Schulz remains firmly in the center of a changing zeitgeist. Then Michael takes us on a quick tour of Muscle Beach, and Snoopy kicks everyone’s butt in a sequence Jimmy believes reflects perfect management style. Plus: A square who doesn’t care, is no square at all. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:08:37
14/03/2023
Special Episode: Happy Anniversary To Us!
Good Grief, we made it a year! Join us as we pat ourselves on the back, talk about our other influences as cartoonists, and… oh yeah! Talk about Peanuts! It’s been a wonderful year, so please enjoy this bonus episode as a thank you from us to you. Plus: Jimmy makes a true confession that will rock the Unpacking Peanuts Universe to its core! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:25:58
07/03/2023
1967 Part 2 - No One Understands My Generation Either
It's the Summer of Love, and we discuss the real world inspiration for the Little Red Haired Girl. Meanwhile, Schulz continues to fine tune the characters in both design and personality, as he fills out the year with a mix of long sequences (The Burning of the Blanket) and sharp one offs (Bird Hippie!). Plus: What is “Peak Forehead?” Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:16:35
28/02/2023
1967 Part 1 - The Day I Threw My Strike
Linus continues his reign as the master of sincere sarcasm. Sally gets hysterical, which Michael finds upsetting; and Charles Schulz, now the calm center of a worldwide phenomenon, works to integrate his flood of new ideas while maintaining his beloved core cast. Plus: Shermy lets it all hang out. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:23:07
21/02/2023
Happy Valentine’s Day, You Blockhead!
Love is in the air… or is that despair? Sometimes it’s the same thing, especially for Good Ol’ Charlie Brown. In this episode, we read through all of the Valentine’s Day strips Schulz produced in the first decade and a half of Peanuts. Lots of classics here, from loverboy Snoopy to frustrated Lucy, and the ongoing comic tragedy of Charlie Brown and the Little Red Haired girl. Plus: Plus nothing… it’s just the Valentine’s strips. Whaddya want? Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:17:51
14/02/2023
The Football Strips - Special Episode
In honor of the “Big Game” we take a look at all of the annual Charlie Brown versus Lucy football gags from the first 16 years of Peanuts. Is Charlie Brown an innocent? An optimist? A dupe? We may never know. But one thing’s for sure, Lucy sure can play him like a fiddle. Plus: The death of Krazy Kat? Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:16:30
07/02/2023
1966 Part 2 - The Name’s Patty… “Peppermint” Patty
There’s a new girl on the scene and she’s set to be a star, as Schulz turns the kid comic genre on its head with the debut of a startlingly modern new heroine; the immortal ‘‘Peppermint” Patty. Meanwhile, Snoopy is living an adventurous life, and Charlie Brown has no idea what’s going on. Plus: Engelbert Humperdinck. No, the other Engelbert Humperdinck. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:04:02
31/01/2023
1966 Part 1 - I Only Dread One Day at a Time
Snoopy’s latest persona is a pop culture sensation, and he’s threatening to take over the entire strip! Unless the French Foreign Legion calls him away. Elsewhere, Sally still has her eye patch, Charlie Brown is still Charlie Brown, and Linus and Lucy are moving away! Plus: maze, M-A-Y-S, maze. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:12:44
24/01/2023
With Benjamin Clark, Curator of the Charles M. Schulz Museum
Today, the guys welcome Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center Curator Benjamin Clark. Benjamin leads a team of professionals dedicated to the preservation, display, and interpretation of the life and art of Peanuts comic strip creator, Charles M. Schulz. We talk about the excitement and challenges of working for the Peanuts brand, the care that goes into each exhibit at the museum, and the process of writing the new book Charles M. Schulz: A Life in 100 Objects. Plus: the origin of the Radio 914! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:28:46
17/01/2023
1965 Part 2 - The Flying Ace Takes Off!
Peanuts is peaking and we are here for it! Charlie Brown goes to camp and makes a good temporary friend. Not content with becoming a mere pilot, Snoopy also launches both his writing and surfing careers. Lucy cures Charlie Brown with Psychiatry à Go Go, and Linus manifests the gift of prophecy. Plus: Sydney or the Bush?! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:43:42
10/01/2023
1965 Part 1 - Young Beagles In Love
Snoopy’s late night rendezvous with a certain girl beagle leads to thoughts of marriage. But will Snoopy get left at the altar? Meanwhile, Patty and Violet get a late career star turn, Linus gets something called a “cinch notice,” and Annette Funicello grows up. Plus: Jimmy meets Gene Simmons, and it does not go well. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:22:15
03/01/2023
Special Episode - A Charlie Brown Christmas
As much a part of the holidays as Rudolph and mistletoe, the legendary first Peanuts special has lived in the hearts of millions since its debut in 1965. In this special episode Jimmy, Harold, and Michael examine the strips that were adapted for the show, discuss the story behind the production, and relay their own experiences with viewing… or not viewing… the classic program. Plus: More graphics get blandished! Download super-listener Joshua Stauffer's PDF of the strips used in the animated special: https://bit.ly/3Cyt1vd Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:43:24
13/12/2022
With Stephen J. Lind, Author of A Charlie Brown Religion
In this episode, we chat with Stephen Lind, author of the fascinating book A Charlie Brown Religion. We discuss the ever-evolving nature of Schulz’s faith, hear about the challenges of writing a book of this type, and marvel at Schulz’s ability to bring people together. Plus: we ask the most important theological question of all… Has it ever occurred to you that you might be wrong? Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:04:32
06/12/2022
With Will & Kevin Hines, Hosts of Screw It We’re Just Gonna Talk About Comics podcast
Today, the guys are joined by hilarious UCB comedians, and hosts of the popular “Screw It, We’re Just Gonna Talk About Comics” podcast, Will and Kevin Hines. We discuss the brothers' relationship with Peanuts through the years as well as the poignancy of Joe Shlabotnik, the progressiveness of Schulz, and the realism of Peppermint Patty. Then we delve into the lost comedy masterpiece… Garfooled! Plus: Screw it… we talk about the Beatles. On Twitter and Instagram: @screwitcomics Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:35:01
29/11/2022
The Unpacking Peanuts Charles M. Schulz 100th Birthday Spectacular!
November 26th is Mr. Schulz’s 100th birthday, and we’re throwing a party! You won’t believe who shows up to celebrate the greatest cartoonist of all time! Grab a treat from the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine, watch your step around the Zamboni, and join us for the Peanuts bash of the century. Featuring guest appearances by: Terry Moore, Bill Morrison, Carolyn Belefski, Steve Conley, John Gallagher, Jamar Nicholas, Mark Mariano, Chris Mariano, Marty Baumann and more! Plus: A Charles Schulz carol? Guests include: Terry Moore: https://abstractstudiocomics.com/ Carolyn Belefski: https://www.carolynbelefski.com Jamar Nicholas: https://jamarnicholas.weebly.com John Gallagher Https://maxmeow.com Mark Mariano: Instagram: @mypalmark Bill Morrison: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bill-MorrisonAtomic-Battery-Studios Chris Mariano: https://www.marianobros.com Todd Webb: HTTPS://Toddbot.com Marty Baumann: https://martybaumann.com Steve Conley: https://steveconley.com William Pepper https://charliebrownpodcast.libsyn.com/ Stephen J. Lind https://stephenjlind.wixsite.com/stephenjlind Jenna Clay https://www.935wtpa.com/ ****** Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
56:57
22/11/2022
Finale Season Three - 1960-1964
We wrap up the first half of the sixties in style with a look back at Schulz’s best unseen characters, listener questions, and some Peanuts comic book stories penned by the man himself. Plus: DJ Jenna Clay on the Little Red Haired Girl! (If you want to follow our discussion of the comic book stories attributed to Schulz, and you have a library card, you can visit hoopla.com to check out the Peanuts Dell Archive). Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:24:33
15/11/2022
1964 Part 2 - Thrillsville!
It’s Linus for President, and young Master Van Pelt proves to be an expert orator… but will his belief in the Great Pumpkin sink his candidacy? Elsewhere, the Little Red Haired Girl continues to make non-apparent appearances, Michael makes a triple play, and Linus figures out that Charlie Brown is depressed. Plus: That’s Tuesday Weld! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:22:19
08/11/2022
1964 Part 1 - Good Ol’ Wishy-Washy Charlie Brown
In a true Peanuts epic, Lucy presents Charlie Brown with a slideshow of his faults, and Linus fanboys for Doctor Horwich (who used to be Miss Frances) in a deep-cut Peanuts callback. Meanwhile, Snoopy is getting aggressive, and we see more of newcomers 3, 4, and 5… but Shermy is becoming a straggler! Plus: Michael has a sliver in his finger. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:05:07
01/11/2022
1963 Part 2 - Why Don’t You Ever Call Me Cutie?
Lucy finds out she is an “uncutie.” Snoopy needs to take it on the lam. And we meet a boy named “5.” Also, the guys discuss perhaps the most controversial strip in the Schulz canon and how it has been understood and misunderstood in the years since. Plus: Lot’s of fun at Finnegan’s Wake! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimmy, Michael, and Harold, visit unpackingpeanuts.com. Thanks for listening.
01:03:25
25/10/2022