Yeast Radio

  • Yeast Radio #1654: Madge Reflects on Sleep Apnea, TikTok Fame, Mental Health, and the State of the Democrats

    Yeast Radio #1654: Madge Reflects on Sleep Apnea, TikTok Fame, Mental Health, and the State of the Democrats

    Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:16:24 — 70.1MB)

    Ai Show Notes:

    In this deeply personal and candid episode of Yeast Radio, Madge Weinstein returns with reflections on her health, media frustrations, and emotional journey through aging and political disillusionment. She shares her struggles with sleep apnea, the dehumanizing effects of social media algorithms, and the unpredictable nature of online fame. Madge dives into mental health memories, including her own past hospitalization, and discusses how her podcast now serves not just as political commentary, but also as bedtime comfort for her loyal listeners. Political rants about Bill Maher, Donald Trump, intra-party feuding, and the erosion of Democratic unity are delivered with Madge’s signature wit and sorrow. A uniquely layered grum full of gut health, cultural shade, and calls for kindness.

    Chapters:

    0:00:00 – Sleep Apnea Data & CPAP Talk
    Madge discusses uploading her CPAP data and wonders about the metrics behind sleep apnea, recalling advice from former friend Gigatigger.

    0:02:06 – Grumbling and Radio Nostalgia
    Reflecting on her long history in podcasting, Madge reminisces about her radio roots and records a reluctant bumper for Steve Stahls-Lee.

    0:03:24 – Naked Phone & Ricardo’s Osso Bucco
    A sensual ode to her iPhone 13 mini leads to tales of fancy dinners, mafia vibes, and greasy aftermaths.

    0:05:15 – Ozempic, Fitness & Fatness
    Madge reflects on gym habits, aging, and resisting weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, despite exercising daily.

    0:06:38 – TikTok Anguish & Algorithmic Oppression
    She unpacks the frustrations of building an audience on TikTok, going viral for petty commentary but ignored for serious issues.

    0:11:03 – Podcast as Sleep Aid & Mental Health Reflections
    Madge reveals that many use Yeast Radio to fall asleep—a discovery she now embraces. She also recalls her 2002 mental hospital stay.

    0:14:26 – Planting, Pooping, and Prolapse Memories
    Madge recounts gardening, elaborate bowel movements, and sings an old Nurse Wonky tune about medical procedures.

    0:21:25 – AIDS, Death, and Friend Reunions
    A heartfelt segment on losing old friends and the emotional impact of ghosting, survival, and imagined reunions.

    0:25:03 – Kindness in Politics & Democrat Infighting
    She pleads for unity among Democrats, critiques online fighting, and stresses kindness as a revolutionary act.

    0:29:00 – Blaming the Voters & the Bill Maher Problem
    Madge challenges the idea that voters are never to blame and rails against Bill Maher’s divisive media tactics.

    0:44:00 – Musical Mashup Finale
    A fun and unexpected musical mashup closes the episode with a lighthearted, creative touch.

    Final Recording:
    Starts at 0:44:00 – a whimsical musical mashup that adds a delightful surprise ending to the episode.

    Contact Information:

    • Comments: Visit yeastradio.com
    • Follow Madge on Instagram, Bluesky, and Threads: @madgeweinstein
    • Phone: FIRM UTERUS
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Support Yeast Radio by subscribing to Madge’s Substack: madge.substack.com
    • Album Art by Taylor Haggerty: @fagg3rty on Instagram
    • Copyright (c) 2025 Madge Weinstein Yeast Radio
  • Yeast Radio #1653: True Duty and Queer Duty — Blue Origin Fecal Catastrophe + Steve Stalzle’s Military Trauma

    Yeast Radio #1653: True Duty and Queer Duty — Blue Origin Fecal Catastrophe + Steve Stalzle’s Military Trauma

    Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:36:46 — 89.2MB)

    Show Notes (by AI)

    General Description:

    In this unforgettable episode of Yeast Radio, Madge Weinstein delivers two stunningly different yet equally poignant segments. The show opens with a satirical, scatological radio play titled True Duty, a grotesque and hilarious tale of Gayle King’s space-bound gastrointestinal disaster aboard Blue Origin alongside Katy Perry and Lauren Sanchez. After this explosive opening, Madge shifts tone for an intimate and emotionally raw conversation with longtime listener and friend of the show, Steve Stalzle.

    Steve shares his powerful story of joining the Navy in the 1980s and the deeply traumatic experience that followed. He reveals the psychological torment of military life as a queer recruit, including coercive enlistment, homophobic abuse, and the dehumanizing process of trying to escape. Steve’s honesty and vulnerability paint a harrowing portrait of institutional cruelty—and his survival. Madge and Steve also reflect on homelessness, sobriety, AI voice cloning, and podcasting dreams. The episode is a testament to the enduring power of queer storytelling, humor, and resilience.

    Chapters:

    0:00:00 – True Duty: Gayle King’s Space Disaster

    Madge presents a radio play satire featuring Gayle King, Katy Perry, and Lauren Sanchez in a zero-gravity nightmare of diarrhea, floating feces, and malfunctioning life support systems aboard Blue Origin.

    0:04:40 – Phil’s Resurrection

    Phil is back. Yes, that Phil.

    0:06:00 – Madge and Steve Reconnect

    Madge and Steve reflect on their shared podcasting history and Steve’s support of the show for nearly 20 years.

    0:09:00 – A Call for Help

    Madge urges listeners to support Steve financially, detailing his recent experience with homelessness and encouraging donations via Venmo (@steve-stalzle).

    0:11:00 – Big Head Baby: Steve’s Medical Childhood Memory

    Steve recalls discovering medical records stating he had an “abnormally large cranium” as a child—something his parents never told him.

    0:14:00 – AI Comedy with Bissy the Robot

    Madge introduces her AI assistant Bissy, who fields questions about cranial size, prolapse risk, and future predictions with robotic politeness.

    0:17:00 – Steve’s Queer Navy Trauma Story

    Steve tells the harrowing story of how he joined the Navy under duress in 1986. What follows is a graphic and deeply emotional account of life in basic training, homophobic interrogation, and the mental breakdown that led him to fake his way out of military service under the accusation of being gay—a strategy that came with terrifying personal cost.

    0:34:00 – Institutional Abuse and Survival

    Steve describes the humiliating questioning by Navy lawyers, their abusive homophobic taunts, and the ongoing psychological impact of this traumatic experience. His story is one of queer resistance and survival.

    Final Note:

    No full music recording or performance was included at the end of this episode.

    Contact Information:

    • Comments: Visit yeastradio.com
    • Follow Madge on Instagram, Bluesky, and Threads: @madgeweinstein
    • Phone: FIRM UTERUS
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Support Yeast Radio by subscribing to Madge’s Substack: madge.substack.com
    • Support Steve directly on Venmo: @steve-stalzle
    • Album art by Taylor Haggerty
    • Copyright (c) 2025 Madge Weinstein Yeast Radio.
  • YR1652 The Circle Game of Doody

    YR1652 The Circle Game of Doody

    Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:42:58 — 95.0MB)

    Episode Summary

    In this raw and rumbling return, Madge gives you a microphone check from beyond the grave, welcomes Bissy the AI co-host who talks too much, and somehow makes a sincere tribute to dead podcasters while detailing one of the most dramatic dumps in Yeast Radio history. There’s talk of chia, plungers, haunted turds, Simply Sara, haunted turds, necrophilia, blocked queens, and haunted turds. Did we mention haunted turds? Oh, and don’t worry — Bissy raps.

    Highlights from “The Circle Game of Doody”

    • Political Snark: Madge references Trump being president again and expresses frustration with the public’s complicity. This is touched on both seriously and with biting sarcasm.
    • TikTok Obsession: Ongoing discussion of how TikTok has replaced podcasting as Madge’s main creative outlet — mentions of high-performing videos and content about bowel movements.
    • AI Co-Host Drama: Bissy, the AI sidekick, struggles to keep up with Madge’s vulgarity and gets scolded repeatedly for being too prudish or literal.
    • Gastrointestinal Focus: Besides the epic bowel movement story, Madge explores earlier turd memories, fart analysis, plunger technique, and chia’s bowel-altering power.
    • Death and Memorials: This episode is framed by death — with the passing of Simply Sara, Archer, and Ramble Redhead being lovingly (and clumsily) honored.
    • Forbidden Pizza: The eternal struggle of food, shame, and timing. Madge considers sneaking pizza while her spouse is away at a Lady Bunny concert.
    • Theatrical Interludes: Madge breaks into dramatic musical moments, featuring lyrics from Evita, Cabaret, Yentl, and The Sound of Silence.
    • Listener Callbacks & Archives: She attempts (and mostly fails) to dig up archival clips of old podcast friends, showcasing the ephemerality of early internet media.
    • Fiber & Diet Culture Satire: Chia pudding, Fiber One trauma, and Madge’s spouse’s insistence on “breaking turds with your pussy” — all part of a deep dive into food, shame, and queer domestic life.

    Contact Information

  • Yeast Radio #1651: The Impact of the TikTok Ban on Free Speech and Healthcare

    Yeast Radio #1651: The Impact of the TikTok Ban on Free Speech and Healthcare

    Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:38:58 — 91.2MB)

    Show Notes (by AI)

    General Description:

    In this thought-provoking episode, Madge Weinstein tackles the state of free speech in the United States. She examines the TikTok ban’s broader implications on creative expression. She also looks into its effect on digital platforms. Madge is joined by Misty. She is a nurse practitioner and outspoken healthcare advocate. Misty sheds light on the many challenges facing the U.S. healthcare system. Together, they discuss systemic barriers, the emotional toll on patients and providers, and the critical need for change. Alongside these discussions, Madge offers her trademark wit, humor, and musical interludes that underscore the episode’s emotional highs and lows.

    Listeners are introduced to the inspiring work of Viola Voltairine (@strepsata on TikTok). She is a dynamic voice in gynarchy and political discourse.

    Chapters:

    0:00:00 – Intro and Asthma Tragedy

    Madge opens with a powerful story about a young man’s tragic death due to healthcare system failures, setting the tone for the episode’s central themes. (from Status Coup News)

    0:04:06 – Madge’s Inauguration Reflections and Social Media Censorship

    Madge shares her take on political shifts, TikTok’s censorship, and the increasing challenges to free speech in an era dominated by digital platforms.

    0:08:53 – Social Media and the Struggle for Amplification

    Madge explores her frustrations with de-amplification across platforms like Instagram and Twitter while praising TikTok as a unique space for meaningful conversations.

    0:27:00 – Guest Interview: Misty (TikTok: @chronicallyanxiousnp)

    Misty, a Texas-based nurse practitioner and TikTok creator, shares her journey as a healthcare provider navigating a complex and often inequitable system. Topics include:

    • Challenges in Prescription Approvals: Misty highlights the absurdity of insurance hurdles, recounting the struggle to get $4 medications approved for insured patients.

    • The Fallout of Roe v. Wade’s Overturn: While Misty has not faced specific challenges with reproductive health services, she speaks to the confusion and limitations now imposed on providers, especially concerning preventive care like Plan B.

    • Balancing Advocacy and Practice: Misty discusses her dual perspective as a healthcare worker and patient advocate, sharing the emotional toll of fighting a broken system from both sides.

    • Healthcare Reform Goals: Misty underscores the urgent need for systemic change and calls for collective action, encouraging listeners to join the conversation and amplify the message for better healthcare policies.

    01:28:27 – A Very Sad Healthcare Horror Story

    Contact Information:

    • Comments: Visit yeastradio.com.

    • Follow Madge on Instagram, Bluesky, and Threads: @madgeweinstein.

    • Phone: FIRM UTERUS.

    • Email: [email protected].

    • Support Yeast Radio by subscribing to Madge’s Substack: madge.substack.com.

    • Follow Misty on TikTok: @chronicallyanxiousnp.

    • Follow Viola Voltairine on TikTok: @strepsata.

    • Album Art by Taylor Haggerty

    • Copyright (c) 2025 Madge Weinstein Yeast Radio.

  • Yeast Radio Episode 1650: Exposing United Healthcare Horror Stories with Guest Phyllis

    Yeast Radio Episode 1650: Exposing United Healthcare Horror Stories with Guest Phyllis

    Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:15:52 — 70.0MB)

    Show Notes (by AI)

    In this deeply personal and socially conscious episode, Madge Weinstein discusses the critical flaws in the U.S. healthcare system. Special guest Phyllis shares her harrowing experience with denied insurance claims, bureaucratic obstacles, and the emotional toll of navigating a broken system. Madge reflects on the role of social media in activism and challenges listeners to help amplify the call for healthcare reform. This episode provides a compelling look at the urgent need for change and the power of storytelling in driving action.

    Chapters

    1. 0:00:01 – Introduction and Opening Remarks
      Madge reflects on Yeast Radio’s origins and introduces the theme of healthcare advocacy.
    2. 0:02:00 – The Healthcare Crisis and Luigi Mangione
      A discussion on the recent controversial actions of Luigi Mangione and the public’s reaction to healthcare injustices.
    3. 0:03:00 – Introducing Healthcare Horror Stories
      Madge introduces the “Healthcare Horror Stories” project and discusses the challenges of rallying public action beyond social media complaints.
    4. 0:08:00 – Phyllis’ Story: Battling UnitedHealthcare
      Guest Phyllis recounts her fight for a medically necessary hysterectomy, the emotional toll, and the financial devastation caused by insurance denials and collections.
    5. 0:27:00 – Reflecting on Systemic Issues
      Phyllis and Madge delve into the systemic corruption of healthcare providers, insurance monopolies, and the failure of American healthcare reform over decades.
    6. 0:35:00 – Call to Action
      Madge closes with a plea for listeners to share their stories and support the movement for Medicare for All, emphasizing collective activism and hope.

    Special Recording

    The episode concludes with a fascinating archival recording of news headlines from the year 1966, offering listeners a nostalgic glimpse into the political and cultural landscape of that time.

    Contact Information

    (c) 2024 Madge Weinstein Yeast Radio. All rights reserved.

  • Yeast Radio 1649: The Evolution of Podcasting and Politics

    Yeast Radio 1649: The Evolution of Podcasting and Politics

    Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:32:18 — 84.7MB)

    Episode Summary (ai generated):

    As part of Yeast Radio’s 20th-year celebration, Madge Weinstein presents episode #1649, One Grum at a Time. This milestone episode showcases a candid and thought-provoking conversation with longtime guest BicycleMark. Together, they explore a wide range of topics, including the evolution of podcasting, political discourse in the U.S. and abroad, global power dynamics, and the role of education in shaping democracy. With humor, insight, and candor, this episode reflects the essence of Yeast Radio’s two decades of pioneering podcasting.

    Show Notes:

    • 00:00 – Introduction and discussion on Descript video editing software, podcast editing formats, and their impact on content production.

    • 02:14 – Introduction of BicycleMark, reflections on TikTok use during election seasons, and societal perspectives on work-life balance and privilege.

    • 04:54 – Parenting challenges and school systems in the Netherlands, comparisons with Chicago’s educational system, and commentary on systemic inequality.

    • 06:44 – Analysis of U.S. political figures, including Reagan and Trump, with a focus on political propaganda, religious influence, and cryptocurrency trends.

    • 10:18 – Examination of media coverage surrounding Trump’s election victories, communication challenges in political campaigns, and a critique of Kamala Harris’s campaign.

    • 14:02 – Broader discussion on U.S. elections, voter behavior, the importance of civics education, and democratic engagement.

    • 17:17 – Commentary on U.S. foreign policy, global influence, and comparisons to international infrastructure and power structures.

    • 21:32 – Exploration of child care costs, government subsidies in the Netherlands, and societal impacts on family dynamics.

    • 23:20 – Reflections on Dutch politics, the influence of far-right movements, and parallels with U.S. political trends.

    • 27:27 – Discussion on global power dynamics, corporate colonialism, and China’s influence in developing regions.

    • 31:32 – Analysis of populist movements, societal shifts, and the challenges of political and media narratives in both Europe and the U.S.

    • 35:07 – Final reflections on civics education, informed democracy, and the responsibility of media and political leaders.

    Connect with Madge:

    • Socials: @madgeweinstein on Threads, Instagram, and BlueSky.

    • Email: [email protected]

    • Phone: FIRM UTERUS

    Let me know if you need further tweaks!

  • Yeast Radio Episode #1648: Political Rants and Podcasting Memories with Auntie Vera Charles

    Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 2:15:12 — 124.0MB)

    In this the first episode of Yeast Radio’s TWENTIETH anniversary month, Madge reunites with her old friend and co-host, Auntie Vera Charles. After this lengthy conversation, listen to an obscure recording from the Stage Delicatessen in NY in an album called, “Max Asnas: Corned Beef Confucius” which includes cameos from 1960’s comedy stars such as Morey Amsterdam.

    Yeast Radio Episode #1648 Show Notes (by Chat GPT )

    Guest: Auntie Vera Charles

    Host: Madge Weinstein

    Episode Highlights:

    1. Political Rant & Reflections – The duo dives into a passionate political discussion, touching on current U.S. politics, polling biases, and their disbelief over certain political figures’ prominence. Auntie Vera expresses frustration with the political climate, while Madge shares her own perspectives on the state of the nation.

    2. Podcasting Journey and Reflections – Auntie Vera reflects on her years in podcasting, explaining why she eventually stepped away after losing the joy and creative energy it once brought her. Madge relates, expressing some bitterness over podcasting’s commercialization and her refusal to adapt to video formats or platforms like YouTube. They both reminisce about the early days of podcasting and how it has evolved, or “devolved,” in recent years.

    3. Memories & Old Friends – Vera and Madge recall fond memories of shared friends, past shows, and humorous moments from their early podcasting days. Auntie Vera reminisces about Madge’s voiceover skills and unique quirks that have left an impression, including a memorable bit involving the word “Wednesday.”

    4. Relationships & Aging – The conversation turns personal as Auntie Vera and Madge discuss their long-term relationships and aging. They share insights on maintaining partnerships, the importance of putting one’s partner first, and the sacrifices they’ve made for their loved ones. Auntie Vera speaks candidly about her commitment to her pets, and they both discuss the challenges of caring for aging animals and the emotional toll it takes.

    5. Rants on Grocery Store Frustrations – Both Madge and Auntie Vera share anecdotes of recent frustrating experiences at grocery stores, complete with commentary on their own reactions. Madge hilariously recounts a “Karen” moment at Mariano’s grocery store, where her tight schedule and impatience led to a meltdown. Auntie Vera listens and offers sage advice on managing expectations and reflecting on personal growth, even in minor everyday annoyances.

    6. Future of Podcasting & Content Creation – Wrapping up, they contemplate the future of podcasting and content creation. Madge discusses her recent explorations on TikTok, finding a new audience for her political rants, while Vera expresses disinterest in platforms beyond traditional audio formats. They both lament the decline of audio-only content and the rise of video-dominated “podcasts.”

    Key Takeaways:

    • Insightful and often comedic reflections on the evolution of podcasting and staying relevant as platforms change.

    • Raw political commentary with a mix of frustration and hope.

    • Humor-infused wisdom on relationships, aging, and the importance of self-awareness.

    • Lighthearted yet relatable rants about modern life annoyances, from grocery store lines to credit card machines.

    This episode is a mix of humor, nostalgia, and introspective moments, capturing the unique dynamic between Madge and Auntie Vera.

    Madge can be reached at [email protected] or by calling FIRM UTERUS (347.688.3787)

    Socials include Instagram, TWITTER, and Threads

    best place to leave feedback is right here on this WordPress post!

  • YR1647 No More Hugs

    Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:30:22 — 41.7MB)

    Berbacia joins Madge for a tell all.

    album art by Taylor Haggerty Faggerty

    Show Notes by Chat GPT

    Yeast Radio Show Notes – Episode #1657

    Host: Madge Weinstein

    Special Guest: Berbacia Clemons

    Episode Title: YR1647 No More Hugs

    Episode Overview:

    In this special episode, Madge Weinstein reflects on nearly two decades of podcasting with her longtime friend and recurring guest, Berbacia Clemons. Together, they dive into a variety of topics ranging from current events to personal struggles and the nature of creativity.

    Highlights & Key Topics:

    1. BBC Interview on Hamas (5:30-20:00)

    • Madge shares and discusses segments from an October 3rd BBC interview with Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya. She addresses the complexities and controversies of giving platforms to political figures and delves into the issues of occupation, violence, and media representation.

    2. Personal Reflections on Podcasting (20:01-32:00)

    • Madge reflects on her 20-year podcasting journey, sharing her feelings of disconnection from the audience and questioning her future in the medium. She discusses the changes in audience engagement, the impact of social media, and her sense of disillusionment with the state of podcasting.

    3. Chat with Berbacia Clemons (32:01-1:55:00)

    • Berbacia joins the conversation, bringing humor and camaraderie to the discussion. Together, they talk about:

    • TV and Film: From discussing the Empire TV show to breaking down what makes a good actor, Madge and Berbacia analyze various characters, actors, and the art of acting.

    • Living with Cancer: Berbacia opens up about her diagnosis, her journey through the healthcare system, and the alternative therapies she has pursued. She discusses meditation, diet changes, and the power of mind-body healing practices.

    • Physical Therapy & Recovery: Berbacia provides updates on her physical therapy journey and how she’s coping with paraplegia. She shares insights on her mental and physical resilience, revealing the challenges and successes she’s encountered.

    • Future Projects: Berbacia mentions her interest in possibly sharing her story further, hinting at a TikTok journey to document her experiences with health, healing, and living authentically.

    4. Social Commentary & Personal Struggles (1:55:01-End)

    • The conversation takes a turn toward societal topics, including the current state of American politics, the power of social media, and Madge’s opinions on the importance of civic education. She calls out the challenges of finding authentic voices in an era of oversaturation and the frustrations of algorithms controlling reach and influence.

    Noteworthy Quotes:

    • “I feel like I’m just talking to myself sometimes.” – Madge on the evolution of podcasting and audience engagement.

    • “There are spirits that are allowed to come in when we have negativity. That’s an opening for illness.” – Berbacia discussing the role of mind-body connection in healing.

    • “I used to be able to spread my ideas. Now, I’m just a nobody.” – Madge on the impact of social media on individual voices.

    Closing Remarks:

    Madge ends the episode by contemplating the future of Yeast Radio. She expresses gratitude for her loyal listeners and leaves the door open for audience interaction, inviting feedback and engagement as she considers her next steps. The show concludes with a humorous yet heartfelt sign-off, reminding listeners of the deep bond shared between Madge and Berbacia.

    Tune in to this episode for a mix of humor, reflection, and candid discussions on health, media, and the world at large.

  • YR1646 Everyone Should Have a Sex Change

    Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 3:03:37 — 168.6MB)

    Ninja and Madge have a nice chat.
    Also experimental mashup and and old Mystery Theaturd

    This episode will be censored by Spotify.

    DO NOT USE SPOTIFY.

    UPDATE: I’m a dumb bitch so I first mislabeled this show as 1642 which was wrong. 1646 is the correct grum number. Thanks. Girdle. Squish sound.

    album art by Taylor Haggerty Faggerty

    Show Notes by ChatGPT

    Show Notes for Yeast Radio Episode 1646

    In this episode, Madge Weinstein engages in a candid conversation with Ninja. The episode begins with some technical difficulties as they set up their recording equipment, leading to a humorous exchange.

    They discuss a range of topics, starting with Ninja’s recent trip to the UK, during which they visited Windsor Castle and Oxford. The conversation shifts to more serious subjects, including their thoughts on anti-Zionism, with Madge expressing strong opinions on the matter. They also discuss the connection between queer liberation and Palestine, exploring the complexities of modern activism and its messaging.

    The dialogue then turns to the climate crisis, where both express deep concern about the future, particularly for younger generations. Madge and Ninja also reflect on their own experiences with retirement, work-life balance, and the challenges of aging.

    The episode concludes with a reflection on the nature of podcasting and the changes in media consumption, with Madge considering the future of Yeast Radio as she approaches the 20-year mark. The show is a mix of humor, introspection, and social commentary, typical of Madge’s unique style.

  • YR1645 Walz Fall Out

    Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:05:12 — 59.8MB)

    Madge walks about over several days.

    Album art by Taylor Haggerty Faggerty