Pod Meets World

Consider this your acceptance letter, with a full scholarship, to another Boy Meets World recap! NO WAITLIST NEEDED!  It’s time to rewatch the penultimate season 5 episode, with college looming in the distance for the John Adams gang. Sure, Topanga was a straight A student and Shawn barely passed - but they still want to attend the same college! Are we seeing Cory’s most “toxic” moment in the entire series, or has the fun not even begun? Plus, is Pennbrook even a good school?? Who’s running the Wilderness Store?? Our destinies lie in the hands of an admissions board - hold on tight, it’s a new Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some people go straight to heaven, others need more time to earn their wings. Will and Sabrina are watching “Toothless” starring Kirstie Alley, Dale Midkiff and Ross Mallinger.  This film premiered in 1997 as part of The Wonderful World of Disney on ABC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Production assistants might have the toughest job in Hollywood, especially before the internet, but the late nights and early mornings sure did make for some unforgettable stories. The gang is talking to former Boy Meets World PA, and current bigwig TV producer, John Beck, to find out what REALLY happened behind the scenes, from a whole new, entry level position. John reveals how, well before he created "Liv & Maddy," he was “accidentally” hired as a Production Assistant for the show, which he admittedly thought was called “Boy Meets Girl." We hear the highs and the lows, from driving scripts to cast members' houses to getting in trouble for bringing TOO MUCH Koo Koo Roo to the writers room. And with his vast production experience on shows like "Fuller House," "According to Jim" and "That Girl Lay Lay," he shares some invaluable advice for those looking to break into the industry. We’re meeting an unsung hero who climbed his way all the up the industry ladder, with a very familiar start - on an all-new Pod Meets World! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve once again asked for voice memos from YOU, the listeners, about a “very special episode” of Boy Meets World that was so controversial, it was banned from The Disney Channel. And now it’s time to hear your opinions on “If You Can’t Be with the One You Love!” Should it have been banned? Or should it have aired to instill fear in children everywhere? Our hosts seem to be on the same page, but the audience has a wide array of unique takes that just might sway them… Is it a cautionary tale or a college drinking game? Find out when we lift the ban for a new interactive Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since the beginning of the podcast, the gang has been dreading the infamous, Disney Channel banned, Prom night episode. And here we are. Or are we? Danielle, Rider & Will rewatch the ACTUAL episode and find themselves with a fresh new perspective, in love with a certain interaction between Cory and a scene-stealing guest star. And Rider shares some of the behind the scenes drama about *how* to handle the complex issue of ‘90s sex and reveals his attempts to change the script. Plus, they analyze how Cory, a self confessed invisible dork, somehow won Prom King, on a brand new, formally dressed, Pod Meets World.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

’Tis the season for a white Christmas… in Los Angeles?? Will and Sabrina are watching “The Ultimate Christmas Present” starring Hallee Hirsh, Spencer Breslin and Brenda Song. This film premiered in 2000 as a Disney Channel Original Movie. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve heard the gang endlessly wax poetic about the unseen heroes of Boy Meets World, and this week they’re talking to another example: one of their favorite actors from behind the scenes, Matt Kirkwood! Matt worked on Boy Meets World for 6 seasons as a stand-in, even playing Chubbie for an episode, and he’s got stories that run from the very best of times, to…just some times. Hear why child actors were cast for a real-life birthday party, and what happened when Matt yelled “cut!” on a scene he wasn’t directing. This stand-in is a stand up guy, so get to know him on the new Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all remember so many life lessons from Mr. Feeny, and now Bill Daniels, and his students, are here to help with you one more challenge…what gifts to buy this holiday season! Danielle, Will, Rider and Jensen suggest some perfect presents for the loved ones on your list, from skincare to meat thermometers! Plus, Bill and Bonnie (a.k.a. Dean Bolander) share gym tips that might save your life, so get ready to tear up - on a Black Friday edition of Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Danielle, Will and Rider have a lot to be thankful for - so they’ve decided to go home for the holidays and we saved you a seat at the table! Join the gang at Rider’s childhood home of Redwood Shire and hear their favorite Thanksgiving traditions and memories. Also, it’s time to find out who has the most entertaining colonoscopy videos! There’s always room for stuffing - on a celebratory episode of Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the gang creeps up to the Season 5 finale, things are moving fast. So fast, they forgot to tell Shawn. Will shares his reaction to watching the devolution of Eric in real time, from adorably dumb to complete buffoon (or whatever other word of the day can describe his silly antics). And find out the exact moment that young Rider’s soul completely left his body. Plus, we get into the nuts and bolts of rock operas and couples therapy, and say farewell to the Captain America underwear, on a new Pod Meets World.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Close your eyes, make a wish… Will and Sabrina are watching “Stuck in the Suburbs” starring Danielle Panabaker, Brenda Song and Taran Killam. This film premiered in 2004 as a Disney Channel Original Movie. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to iconic ‘90s TV roles, it’s difficult to top Winnie Cooper - and the actress who gave the character life, Danica McKellar, is just as impressive! Danica shares the story of how she landed the beloved gig on The Wonder Years at just 12 years old and why many of her co-stars were just pieces of tape. And after a deep discussion comparing Winnie and Topanga, and their similar first IRL kisses, we learn how Danica found a new sense of purpose and identity after taking…a math class. All this and more on a holiday ready episode of - Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here’s the story, of a man named Peter Brady! Will and Sabrina sit down with Christopher Knight inside the Brady House in Los Angeles for a very special interview. GROOVY!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you visit an art museum, you might be moved, inspired or, apparently, reunited with the “perfect” guy. Buckle up, as the gang analyzes what might be ANOTHER “Trapanga” for Cory in the form of fine art, as they try to figure out why so many storylines started when they were children. The hosts dive deeper into Corpanga, and wonder if the duo ever actually listened to each other. Are they the perfect TV couple we always thought they were? And it’s finally time for Trina to shine! All that and the age old question: Would Will have liked Rider if he met him outside the world of Boy Meets World?? It’s a new Pod Meets World: a real masterpiece.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They’re a bunch of cool cats! Will and Sabrina are watching “Alley Cats Strike” starring Kyle Schmid, Robert Ri’chard and Kayley Cuoco. This film premiered in 2000 as a Disney Channel Original Movie. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even after 2 years of weekly podcasts, somehow the gang is still learning about how their show was made! And this week is no different when they talk to Andy Guerdat, an emergency freelance writer hired when the room ran out of ideas. Andy shares the stories behind his two Season 5 scripts, “A Very Topanga Christmas” and “Fraternity Row,” and takes us into the writer’s room to explain his unorthodox addition. We hear all about Andy’s contribution to another iconic sitcom and his continuing legacy on kids’ shows like Paw Patrol & Fancy Nancy. It’s time to dig into a writer whose time on BMW may have been short, but his impact has lasted forever.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a high school crossover event that’s only happened in falsetto dreams and the most unhinged fanfic… the gangs hanging out with Jenna Ushkowitz and Kevin McHale from Glee and the podcast, And That’s What You REALLY Missed. With the help of a first date worthy card game, we find out who fangirls who, a shocking off-brand fact about Rider and why Danielle isn’t quite as cultured as you’d think! So listen to this convo for the ages, then head on over to the And That’s What You REALLY Missed podcast feed to hear Part 2! SYNERGYYYYY!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Art thee prepared to ascend through an episode recap worthy of a sonnet? It's time to take Hollywood by storm and journey through the multiverse for the most meta Boy Meets World ever. Your favorite sitcom, “Kid Gets Acquainted with the Universe,” is on the air and ready for some big laughs, even if they're at the IRL actors' expense. A table of kids is full of Nepo babies and Will shares how he ended up with Jeff Goldblum and John Cleese while filming this episode! So hop in the golf cart and enjoy some unforgettable performances from Ben Sandwich, Schneider and whatever Topanga's other name is, on an all-new Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Everything is not what it seems. Will and Sabrina are watching “Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie” starring Selena Gomez, David Henrie and Jake T. Austin. This film premiered in 2009 as a Disney Channel Original Movie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s time to turn down the Sublime and check out this week’s interview with the only BMW guest star who knew Michael Jacobs AND Danielle before being cast. Vanessa Evigan played the Rhinoplasty healed Kimberly in "If You Can't Be with the One You Love...,” but it was her time as an 8-year-old background actor, and her role as Middle School “buddy,” that would connect her to the show forever. Vanessa delves deep into her time as a child actor and the growth she’s experienced since, and wonders if she’d let her kids have the same journey. Plus, hear stories from her star studded resumé, including a weird habit she learned from co-star Ben Affleck, on an all-new Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We once again turn to you, the listeners, to settle a debate even more heated than front yard vs. side yard: Is it a trap? Did Topanga manipulate Cory in “Torn Between Two Lovers?” Or is was it just bad writing? Our hosts have passionate feelings about it - how ‘bout you?The gang listens to voice memos sent in from listeners and hear all possible sides formulated from outside the bubble. Will anyone’s opinion change? Can everything really ride on just one word in the script?Only listen if you’re 100% sure you want to. It’s a brand new, interactive, Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve reached yet another historic milestone in the gang’s Boy Meets World rewatch: the first episode “banned” by the Disney Channel! It’s a polarizing storyline that has even Rider feeling uncomfortable almost 30 years later.It’s another rare Will-less BMW, so he’s ready to share his take as a viewer and dive deep into the expected tropes of a “very special episode.” And how exactly did a young Rider Strong know how to act “drunk” anyway???Get ready for some heavy drama and an ambitious take on underage drinking, on this episode of Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fans have been waiting for this one... Will and Sabrina are watching "Smart House" strring Ryan Merriman, Kevin Kilner and Stacey Sagal. This film premiered in 1999 as a Disney Channel Original Movie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s another deep dive into “And Then There Was Shawn,” now inviting another Jeff back on the pod: the episode’s writer, Jeff Menell! The life-long movie buff details how the episode materialized, his horror inspirations and for the first time ever, we hear about what was cut during rewrites (and Feeny got off easy!) For our last visit with the classic episode, we’re venturing onto the original script’s floppy disk, right here on Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Now that the “And Then There Was Shawn” recap is in the rear view, it’s time to get a different perspective - from behind the camera. The episode’s director, and reoccurring podcast guest, Jeff McCracken, reveals his unique approach for the spooky script, and how no audience and a single camera created some new challenges for the cast and crew. Plus…the gang asks McCracken about the “Yell Heard ‘Round the World,” and we hear the real reason for why they found out how long his fuse actually was. It’s an all-new, deep dive, Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We finally made it. Widely regarded as the most memorable episode in the entire history of Boy Meets World, “And Then There Was Shawn,” now has an official recap. And yes, we dropped it on Halloween. The gang shares their memories from making the scare fest, including how director Jeff McCracken was pushed to his breaking point and what Rider really thought of the twist ending. We’re pulling off the mask on SO many behind the scenes secrets, but remember…no one gets out alive! Death is on the menu tonight, for a big pencil-stabbing episode of Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HALLOWEEN IS COOL! Will and Sabrina are watching a Disney Halloween classic “Halloweentown” starring Debbie Reynolds, Kimberly J. Brown and Judith Hoag. This film premiered in 1998 as a Disney Channel Original Movie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our celebration of “And Then There Was Shawn” rolls on to Halloween, now with Professor Rider Strong holding Office Hours and riding solo to dive deep into why this episode has resonated, and stuck, with fans for so long. Rider engages in an in-depth analysis with horror scholar Kristopher Woofter, who shares his expert opinion on the evolution of horror in the ‘90s and the history of the slasher. Find out more about the “rules” of horror, the lure of a “mask,” and so much more in this scream-filled, and Strong, episode of Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As our “And Then There Was Shawn” recap approaches, and the gang preps for what many believe is the best Boy Meets World episode ever, we first had to find out what the fans think. After an open call for voice memos with your opinions, memories and hot takes, Danielle, Will and Jensen (producer/husband of the podcast) react to your reactions! Some found it legendary, some found it skippable and others were reported to their school for disturbing imagery Anyone could be the killer - even you - as we kick off a multi-episode celebration on Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The emotional roller coaster that is Cory and Topanga continues with a surprise visit from Lauren, which is creepy and weird - but also…they’re a good match? Who knows. Danielle, Will and Rider dive deep into the relationship drama of this season, and tackle a popular fan question about this episode: is Topanga manipulative? It’s a turning point in the BMW timeline, evolving from traditional sitcom to a more self-reflective drama… but also, why does Shawn have a scale in his apartment?? The answer may shock you. Hide in a jacket and may the jelly beans land in your favor - it’s an all-new Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A dog is a man’s best friend! Will and Sabrina are watching “Life Is Ruff” starring Kyle Massey, Kay Panabaker, Carter Jenkins and Mitchel Musso. This movie premiered in 2005 as a Disney Channel Original Movie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The menus at Chubbie’s! A “New Principal is Weeny” headline! The infamous “red drink!” These are just some of many legendary props that made Boy Meets World so special, and we’re talking to the man who made it all appear!! David Glazer was Prop Master for all 7 seasons of BMW and he’s ready to share how all these iconic artifacts came to life. Find out how he handled the tight turnarounds and what inspired some of his most memorable contributions…like the “candy clown.” Plus, we get an unexpected update from the “Magnum PI” shirt guy - on a prop-er episode of Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve kidnapped Will, Danielle and Rider and won’t let them leave until they recap a new, and baffling, Valentines Day episode of Boy Meets World! Shawn’s ex-girlfriends, all returning guest stars, commit multiple felonies to “protect” Angela, and that might just be the least confusing part of the script! Find out what the gang thinks would’ve happened had Shawn’s friends never intervened and what new accessory Will is wearing IRL. Trina is praised, Corpanga gets more esoteric and handcuff keys magically appear on this installment of - Pod Meets World…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let’s keep spooky season going! Will and Sabrina are watching “Mom’s Got a Date with a Vampire” starring Caroline Rhea and Matt O’Leary. This movie premiered in 2000 as a Disney Channel Original Movie. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alan Matthews is back - this time as a director! The gang is once again hanging out with William “Rusty” Russ to get the story behind his first time behind the camera for “Heartbreak Cory,” one of the most infamous Boy Meets World episodes ever. Rusty shares his memories working with Linda Cardellini, an experience that forever helped him become an affective director, and recalls helming THAT moment. You know the one we’re talking about. Plus, he holds nothing back when sharing the differences in working on Lizzie McGuire vs Boy Meeets World, and what directing an episode of Girl Meets World was like all those years later. Dad’s home! So get ready for some fatherly wisdom on an all new Pod Meets World…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

THE TIME HAS COME, PEOPLE. Cory, Shawn, Topanga and Angela are hitting the slopes, and Cory’s sprained ankle introduces one of the most controversial characters in BMW history: Lauren - played by the always outstanding Linda Cardellini. But was it Cory’s fault? Did he do anything wrong? Do the rules change once you’re married? The gang dives deep into ethics and monogamy and their varied takes might just surprise you… Plus, it’s William Russ’s first time directing, and boy, did they hand him a big one. Come recap every anger inducing detail, from one of the series’ most memorable storylines, on a highly anticipated Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andy Carson is officially one of the boys… Join Will and Sabrina as they watch “Motocrossed” starring Alana Austin, Trever O’Brien and Riley Smith. This movie premiered in 2001 as a Disney Channel Original Movie. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re stepping outside the Boy’s “world” for an episode to explore the sitcom Will did AFTER BMW ended - UPN’s “The Random Years.” While recapping the Pilot, Will takes us behind the scenes of his controversial casting, and into his approach for a more “adult” role. Hear every detail of how the show was made (and allegedly sabotaged), which cast member Will dated, and why it should have been the heir apparent to “Friends.” Some shows last a lifetime, while others get 4 episodes. Learn all about the difference on a new, and spin-off, Pod Meets World! Check out the Pilot episode of The Random Years, and the second episode if you want, here: https://youtu.be/rTlSSTavvRk?si=sw8cjSLQTK1cdFJ3See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mr. Feeny assigns Shawn the task of getting Super Bowl tickets, but Danielle, Rider and Will have a much more realistic goal: to recap another Season 5 episode! We hear the story behind the meme-tastic “soup or bowl” scene and just how Danielle was flung off Ben’s back and right onto the kitchen floor. The gang reveals a bit too much about their sleeping attire and we try to figure out the history of a certain hand motion that goes with “taco” on BMW. You don’t want to be the last one on a freezing cold billboard, so come in where it’s warm - on a brand new Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imagine a personal journal turning into a best selling novel… Will and Sabrina are watching “Read It and Weep” starring Kay and Danielle Panabaker. This film aired in 2006 as a Disney Channel Original Movie. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Would you rather attend a film festival curated by Rider Strong OR Will Friedle?? The choice is yours when Will and Rider are forced to choose 5 movies to feature in their very own PMW film festival! But the films aren’t the only factor to consider. The guys also have to pick snacks to go along with their selections, and the competition gets heated! So grab a ticket, get a good seat and don’t forget to visit the snack bar, cause it’s time for the newest Pod Meets World! Vote for your favorite now on our Instagram @PodMeetsWorldShow…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re aggressively shoving our hosts right into another thrilling season 5 recap! Alan Matthews is one of the all-time great TV dads, but even he makes mistakes! We analyze his parenting style and offer some hacks to prevent these type of dilemmas in real life. We get to hear some crazy stories about filming the skydiving scene, and how one guest star felt weird about his classic Coen Bros. character. And which Matthews family member was an adrenaline junkie in real life? So join us for some unforgettable lines, a bunch of new (or old) sets, and a lesson that will change your life, on an all-new, top 5 Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TWIN WITCHES! Will and Sabrina are watching “Twitches” starring Tia and Tamara Mowry. This film aired in 2005 as a Disney Channel Original Movie. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The gang is headed back into the writer’s room to hang out with Lara Olsen, a co-writer on some of the most iconic (and controversial) Season 5 Boy Meets World episodes! We hear how she jumpstarted her writing career as a 2-for-1 special, what led her to BMW and how she crafted the episode where America’s favorite couple ran into a little problem named Lauren. We also learn about why maybe one script was a little confusing and go behind the scenes of her work on Kim Possible. Also, we won’t let her leave until she updates us on her current gig of rebooting Baywatch! And do you want to buy something from Will’s unsuccessful clothing brand? Learn all about it on a brand new Pod Meets World…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christmas comes early when the gang relives Topanga’s complicated (and annoying) holiday traditions, which leads to a discussion on guest etiquette in the BMW-verse. The gang questions if “Christmas Eve Day” is even a thing and Rider noticed the Caroling moment may have been a bigger deal in his memory than it ended up being on the screen. Plus, Danielle shares her revelatory experience in Las Vegas that has transformed her into a Dead Head, on a new yuletide edition of Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A girl who just wants to be prom queen is having a bad hair day and in possession of a stolen necklace?? Will and Sabrina are watching “Bad Hair Day” starring Laura Marano and Leigh-Allyn Baker! This film aired in 2015 as a Disney Channel Original Movie. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we’ve got an amazing guest - of this I am sure.Nunzio himself, actor Jonathan Del Arco, is hanging out with the gang and looking back on his scene-stealing turn as a dancing waiter in the Season 5 episode, “Last Tango in Philly.” There aren’t many actors in Hollywood who made the jump from The Wonder Years and Blossom to The Sopranos and Star Trek, but he somehow pulled it off, all while navigating the unwelcoming waters for gay actors in 1990s Hollywood.In addition to his incredible on-screen career, Jonathan has become a philanthropic force, working with 5 Presidential campaigns and winning the 2013 Visibility Award from the Human Rights Campaign. But even with all these accomplishments, he still has some words for Rider about a long-standing grudge he has with the Strong boys. Learn all about it - on a brand new Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we’ve got some Hot Stuff to recap! It might be a meme-friendly and beloved BMW episode, but the gang still has some major questions! Is this Mexican restaurant just an alternate universe Chubbies? Is dancing with a man cheating on your boyfriend? And WTF is going on with the side/front/sidewalk yard? Another guest star steals the show and Fenny’s salad plate is starting to look full. Plus, Will and Rider take us behind the scenes of the iconic dance sequence to find out what the legendary Bill Daniels might have personally choreographed - on a brand new Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Stevens family is on holiday! Will and Sabrina are watching “The Even Stevens Movie” starring Shia LaBeouf and Christy Carlson Romano. This film aired in 2003 as a Disney Channel Original Movie. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

His time has come, so Jack Hunter is popping by once again! Matthew Lawrence is back and ready to share some insight on Season 5 and what makes a perfectly choreographed wrestling match. We dive deep into “Jaric," and why we all want to see more of the Jack/Eric bromance, or at least the couple to vacation with the Lawrence brothers. All while we learn more about prop Easter Eggs in the background and obviously...lizards. Plus, find out what the BMW boys REALLY thought about *NSYNC, on an all-new Pod Meets World!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.