One storyteller author inventor cult expert, Mark Laxer. One long-distance runner music educator world-traveler singer songwriter, Eric Maring. Take Me For A Ride is a philosophical podcast exploring ideas of the day, books and music of note plus freeform absurdity, warmth, sensitivity, and intelligence.
“These guys are delightful - the perfect mix of wisdom and absurdity to capture this era. ”
–Pastor Pat Kahnke, Author of MAGA Seduction
TM4R ponders the meaning and fallout of the Capitol breach. Tara Westover’s extraordinary memoir Educated is the book of note. Inspired by the discussion, Eric weaves in his latest song “You Don’t Die From a Broken Wing or a Broken Heart” before Mr. Peach asks whether we should count all the goats or just those that drive Teslas.
Mark and Eric ponder the case of Jewish doctor Taylor Nichols who treated a COVID patient covered in Nazi tattoos. Interview with Richard Bell, author of the powerful and heart-wrenching book Stolen: Five Free Boys Kidnapped into Slavery and Their Astonishing Odyssey Home. TM4R sings the praises of "Oh, Freedom!" before Mitch McConnell helps Mr. Peach seek the moral high ground.
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Stolen: Five Free Boys Kidnapped into Slavery and Their Astonishing Odyssey Home
Eric shares the wonder of training for and running the Stone Mill 50-mile race before he and Mark dive into the classic “The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner” and ponder its echoes in the country today. Following up on their review of the piercing and poignant “MAGA Seduction”, TM4R interviews author Pat Kahnke and he shares his thoughts on Evangelicalism and the road ahead. Mr. Peach shows up to decipher the good, the bad, and the oily.
TM4R discussion of secrets behind cheese pizza and Qanon. Book talk about Evangelical Pastor Patrick Kahnke's courageous "MAGA Seduction" and Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery". Featured music is "Sad, Tired, Beautiful World" from the Monkey Bible Project. Mr. Peach interjects by revealing the hidden connection between Giuliani, landscaping, and Philadelphia cream cheese.
Mark goes deep reflecting on his experience in a cult and what he sees playing out in the U.S. today. Discussion of Rachel Maddow's masterpiece about the oil industry "Blowout". Mr. Peach ponders fake news, Hillary's server and 10,000 ideas beyond. Featuring music by Eric Maring including A Fine Balance and music from The Line.
