The idea of somehow commemorating the 50th Episode of The RLSG first occurred to me in early March. Bruce and I had just wrapped up recording a series of particularly energetic sessions, where the synergy among our guest editors, their conversational flow and gestalt of the venue all came together in inexplicably wonderful ways. This wasn’t just the wine talking, nor was it the tempting fare put forth by our genial hosts. Something more was happening here—and with recurring frequency. What lively banter! Such witty bot mots, good advice, astute opinions and smart observations! The thing that made these convos all the more intriguing (and surprising), was that these seemingly random gatherings were, well…random. In 95% of the cases, the folks we invited to join us ‘round our weekly RLSG restaurant tables didn’t know a darn thing about one another until moments before we started recording. Invariably, by the time Bruce turned off his trusty hand-held recorder, these heretofore “strangers” would linger for another 30 minutes or more—chatting and laughing, exchanging contact info, business cards, handshakes… even a hug or two.
Bruce and I would constantly marvel about the RLSG’s uncanny powers. In the course of 49 shows, we met (and introduced), so many charming, funny, informed, opinionated, impressive individuals. Therefore, wouldn’t it be great, if we could somehow enhance the magic? Imagine—if this guest from Episode 19 could meet that guest from Episode 34? If A could connect to B and C or H, we just know there would be such great chemistry…it would be so awesome! If only, we could get ALL of our guest editors together in one place, where they could meet one another…
“How do we make this happen?” Bruce asked.
“I think I know!” I replied.
And so: At our 50th episode party, we joyfully recorded and celebrated with many of these past “guides to modern living”. And then, we raised a glass to the NEXT 50 (and more), episodes –and announced the launch of the new & improved Real Life Survival Guide… with Chapters!
The first edition launches on Sunday, July, 15th, and we can’t wait to hear what you think. Please get back to us with your ideas for chapters, sub-chapters, footnotes and anything else that you think we should include. We couldn’t have come this far without you. Thanks for listening!!!
—Plus, some special thanks-
A HUGE THANK YOU goes out to our sponsor-heroes for our 50th bash. Their extraordinary generosity is greatly appreciated. We are very grateful to:
John Cavaliere and his incredible venue Lyric Hall Antiques & Conservation, for hosting us.
Michael Carleton, of New England Beverage Company, for supplying the fabulous selection of red and white wine.
Rob Leonard, of New England Brewing, for the brew-tastic beer.
Manjares Fine Pastries-Tapas Bar, for the scrumptious sandwiches.
Deb Grehn of Ruby Dooby Cakes for the delectable custom made cake.
Delaney’s Taproom & Restaurant, for the wings and after party revelry.
On behalf of Bruce, Duo, Kim, & Gary,
Onward!!
-CPG
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