The Tom Gulley Show

S&H Green Stamps-The King Of All Loyalty Programs

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Before loyalty cards, reward apps, and points programs ruled the world, America had S&H Green Stamps—the wildly popular trading stamp phenomenon that turned everyday grocery shopping into a nationwide collecting craze. On this episode of The Tom Gulley Show, Tom dives into the history, psychology, and cultural impact of those tiny green squares that once filled kitchens, glove compartments, and redemption centers across the country.

From their explosive rise in the 1950s and ’60s to the massive catalog empire they built, Tom explores how S&H Green Stamps shaped consumer behavior, rewarded brand loyalty, and left a nostalgic mark on American life. You’ll hear how families strategized for premium items, how supermarkets used stamps to crush competition, and why the program eventually faded as the retail landscape evolved.

Whether you saved them, licked them, redeemed them—or just wondered what the fuss was about—this deep dive brings the full story of S&H Green Stamps to life.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• The origins of S&H Green Stamps and how they revolutionized retail

• Why the program became one of America’s earliest mass-scale loyalty systems

• How redemption centers and catalogs built a massive cottage industry

• The psychology behind trading stamps and repeat customers

• What ultimately led to the program’s decline

Mystery Science Theater 3000: Kings Of Pop Culture Riffing

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 17:24:00 +0000

On this episode of The Tom Gulley Show, we dive headfirst into the gloriously weird, wonderfully inventive world of Mystery Science Theater 3000—the show that turned cheesy movies into comedy gold and built one of the most devoted fanbases in television history.

From Joel Hodgson’s original DIY vision to Mike Nelson’s era, to Crow, Tom Servo, Gypsy, and the entire Satellite of Love crew, we explore how MST3K became a groundbreaking blend of satire, puppetry, low-budget charm, and out-of-this-world creativity. We’ll look at its cult legacy, fan-driven revivals, unforgettable episodes, and how its influence continues to shape riffing culture, online comedy, and modern media.

Whether you're a long-time MSTie or brand-new to the ‘bots, this deep-dive delivers the trivia, behind-the-scenes lore, and sharp commentary you’ve come to expect from Tom.

⭐ Topics Covered:

How MST3K revolutionized comedy and cult TV

Joel vs. Mike vs. Jonah: The eras and their stylistic differences

The art of riffing and why it works

Best episodes, moments, and running jokes

The fans, the revival, and the show’s lasting impact

How MST3K changed the way we watch “bad” movies

The Yuba County 5: Vanished, Found, And Still Unexplained

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Sat, 29 Nov 2025 17:19:00 +0000

On this gripping episode of The Tom Gulley Show, Tom examines one of the most baffling and heartbreaking true-crime mysteries in American history: The Yuba County Five. Five friends disappeared in 1978 under circumstances that defy logic, only to leave behind clues that raised more questions than answers.

With Tom’s signature clarity and investigative storytelling, this episode explores:

Who the five men were—and why their disappearance was so unusual

The strange route their car took into the mountains

The eerie discoveries in and around the abandoned trailer

Theories involving foul play, misadventure, panic, and purposeful evasion

What investigators have confirmed—and what remains speculation

How the case continues to puzzle law enforcement and true-crime experts nearly 50 years later

This is a respectful, fact-driven deep dive for anyone fascinated by cold cases, unsolved mysteries, and stories with haunting, unresolved endings.

Gravy: The Glorious History Behind A Saucy Icon

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 17:16:00 +0000

In this deliciously deep-dive episode of The Tom Gulley Show, Tom serves up the history, chemistry, and cultural lore of gravy—one of the greatest comfort-food creations ever ladled onto a plate. From silky Thanksgiving classics to diner-style brown gravy to the legendary Southern sawmill variety, this episode celebrates gravy in all its savory glory.

Join Tom as he explores:

Where gravy actually came from (the surprising origins!)

The essential difference between pan gravy, roux-based gravy, and jus

Why some gravies break—and how the pros fix them

The regional gravy styles that define American cooking

The science behind thickening, browning, and building deep flavor

Gravy myths, mistakes, and secret tricks from kitchens everywhere

Whether you’re a home cook, a foodie, or just someone who respects a great plate of biscuits and gravy, this episode is the ultimate guide to understanding what makes gravy magical.

The Zillionth Look At November 22, 1963

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Sat, 22 Nov 2025 15:10:00 +0000

On this episode of The Tom Gulley Show, Tom dives deep into one of the most analyzed, debated, and emotionally charged events in American history—the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. From the verified, documented facts to the tangled web of theories, speculation, and unanswered questions, this episode separates what we know from what we think we know.

Tom also brings focused attention to the often overshadowed but critically important killing of Dallas Police Officer J.D. Tippit—an event that shaped the timeline, the investigation, and the public perception of Lee Harvey Oswald in the hours following the assassination.

Join Tom Gulley—broadcast veteran, writer, and former CBS NewsRadio anchor—as he dissects the evidence, explores the controversies, and provides clear, compelling insight into a case that still captivates the world more than 60 years later.

In This Episode:

• The established facts of the JFK assassination

• The key uncertainties and areas of pure conjecture

• The timeline and significance of Officer J.D. Tippit’s murder

• The continuing debate: lone gunman or something more?

Why Listen:

Whether you're a JFK researcher, a history buff, or someone who simply wants a clear-eyed look at the most pivotal moments of November 22, 1963, this episode delivers levelheaded analysis without sensationalism.

Michael Nesmith: Genius Beyond The Monkees

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 17:07:00 +0000

Michael Nesmith wasn’t just the guy in the green wool hat — he was the creative force who helped transform The Monkees from a TV pop act into a legitimate musical powerhouse. In this episode of The Tom Gulley Show, we dive deep into the incredible life, legacy, and innovation of Michael Nesmith — from his pioneering work in country rock and music video to his post-Monkees success as a songwriter, producer, and visionary.

Host Tom Gulley explores how Nesmith’s sharp wit, musical depth, and technological foresight shaped not only the sound of the 1960s but also the way we experience music today. Hear rare stories, surprising insights, and a heartfelt look at one of rock’s most underappreciated trailblazers.

📺 In This Episode:

The real story behind The Monkees and Nesmith’s creative control battles

How Nesmith helped invent MTV before MTV existed

His country-rock innovations and solo hits with The First National Band

Why Nesmith’s legacy still resonates in modern music and media

🎧 Tune in for a fascinating, funny, and deeply insightful tribute to a true original — Michael Nesmith — only on The Tom Gulley Show.

Elvira: Mistress Of The Dark & Queen Of Camp

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 16:03:00 +0000

She’s spooky, sexy, and hilariously self-aware—the one and only Elvira, Mistress of the Dark! In this episode of The Tom Gulley Show, we celebrate the enduring legacy of Cassandra Peterson’s iconic horror hostess who turned late-night TV into a gothic comedy masterpiece.

Host Tom Gulley dives into Elvira’s rise from humble beginnings on local Los Angeles television to becoming a global pop culture legend. Discover how she blended B-movie horror, razor-sharp wit, and over-the-top glam into one unforgettable persona that defined camp for a generation.

🕸️ In This Episode:

How Cassandra Peterson created the Elvira phenomenon

Behind-the-scenes stories from Movie Macabre

The impact of Elvira: Mistress of the Dark and Haunted Hills

How Elvira became a Halloween icon and feminist trailblazer

🎙️ Join Tom Gulley for a fang-tastic deep dive into the horror hostess who made bad movies—and good jokes—immortal.

How The Jarvik Heart Revolutionized Medicine

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 14:05:00 +0000

When the Jarvik-7 artificial heart first beat inside a human chest, the world watched in awe. In this episode of The Tom Gulley Show, Tom dives into the groundbreaking story of the Jarvik artificial heart, its visionary creator Dr. Robert Jarvik, and the historic surgery that redefined modern medicine.

From the challenges of early heart replacement technology to the media frenzy surrounding Barney Clark, the first recipient, Tom explores the triumphs, controversies, and lasting impact of this medical marvel. Discover how the Jarvik heart paved the way for today’s life-saving cardiac innovations and what it revealed about science, ethics, and human endurance.

🎧 A fascinating look at one of medicine’s most revolutionary inventions — only on The Tom Gulley Show.

Tom's Top 10 Letterman Moments

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:58:00 +0000

From the iconic Late Night antics to the unforgettable Late Show bits, Tom Gulley counts down his Top 10 David Letterman Moments — the sharpest wit, the wildest guests, and the TV magic that made Dave a comedy legend. As the first-ever recipient of the David Letterman Scholarship, Tom brings a unique, insider perspective to Letterman’s groundbreaking humor, innovative interviews, and unforgettable segments that shaped modern late-night television.

Join The Tom Gulley Show as we relive Letterman’s greatest hits — from monkey cams to Stupid Pet Tricks — and explore why no one has ever done late night quite like Dave.

(And there are a few tiny errors here. But don't worry. Professional blowhard Don Giller corrected us.)

🎙️ Watch, laugh, and reminisce with a true Letterman fan who was there from the start.

Self-Checkout: Convenience Or Chaos?

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 15:53:00 +0000

Self-checkout lanes promised to make shopping faster and easier—but have they actually done that? In this episode of The Tom Gulley Show, Tom dives deep into the world of self-checkout technology, exploring how it’s changed retail, frustrated shoppers, and sparked debates about jobs, theft, and the future of automation.

From the first experimental kiosks to today’s AI-powered scanners, we’ll look at how we got here, who really benefits, and why so many customers either love or loathe self-checkout. Plus, Tom shares funny (and frustrating) real-life experiences that every shopper can relate to.

👉 Tune in for smart talk, sharp wit, and the kind of perspective only The Tom Gulley Show delivers.

📺 Watch now to find out:

Why retailers pushed self-checkout so hard

How it affects store jobs and customer service

The psychology behind why people hate those machines

What the next generation of checkout tech could look like

Demystifying The Black Widow Spider

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0000

They’re feared, misunderstood, and surrounded by myths—the infamous black widow spider. In this episode of The Tom Gulley Show, we explore the reality behind the legends. Are black widow spiders as deadly as people believe? How can you identify them, where do they live, and what should you really do if you encounter one?

Join Tom as he breaks down the history, biology, and cultural impact of one of the world’s most recognizable arachnids. From their iconic red hourglass markings to their surprising role in ecosystems, this episode reveals the fascinating (and sometimes shocking) truth about black widows.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an arachnophobe, or just curious about the creatures that lurk in the shadows, you won’t want to miss this deep dive into the black widow’s mysterious world.

The Life & Death Of Jesse James

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 13:59:00 +0000

Step into the wild world of America’s most legendary outlaw with Tom on The Tom Gulley Show! In this episode, Tom digs deep into the life, crimes, and enduring myth of Jesse James — from his Civil War roots to daring train robberies and the betrayal that sealed his fate.

Discover the man behind the legend as Tom explores why Jesse James remains one of the most fascinating figures in Old West history. Perfect for fans of true crime, Western lore, and American history, this conversation blends storytelling, sharp insight, and surprising details you won’t find anywhere else.

The Legacy Of Robert McNamara

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Wed, 21 May 2025 13:51:00 +0000

In this powerful episode of The Tom Gulley Show, we examine the complex, controversial, and compelling life of Robert McNamara — former U.S. Secretary of Defense, key figure in the Vietnam War, and one of the most debated political figures of the 20th century.

🔍 Tom Gulley explores:

McNamara’s rise from Ford Motor Company executive to one of JFK’s closest advisors

His pivotal role in the Cuban Missile Crisis and Vietnam War strategy

The logic behind decisions that led to devastating consequences

His later years of reflection and regret, including his appearance in The Fog of War documentary

Why McNamara remains a lightning rod for discussions on military ethics, leadership, and accountability

Was he a brilliant technocrat? A tragic figure? Or both? This episode offers thoughtful analysis and historical context to help you decide.

The Gulf Of Tonkin Incident

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Fri, 16 May 2025 13:46:00 +0000

What really happened in the Gulf of Tonkin? In this episode of The Tom Gulley Show, we dive deep into the controversial events of August 1964 that led to America’s full-scale involvement in the Vietnam War. Was it a misunderstanding, a political maneuver, or something even more deliberate?

🎙️ Host Tom Gulley breaks down the key players, declassified documents, and enduring debates surrounding the Gulf of Tonkin incident and the resulting Gulf of Tonkin Resolution—a pivotal moment in American history.

🔍 Topics covered:

The timeline of the Gulf of Tonkin events

President Lyndon B. Johnson’s response

CIA and NSA involvement

The role of USS Maddox and USS Turner Joy

Conspiracy theories and confirmed cover-ups

How the incident changed U.S. foreign policy

📚 Featuring historical audio, expert analysis, and Tom’s signature storytelling style, this episode is a must-watch for history buffs, political junkies, and anyone questioning official narratives.

The South Surrenders

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Tue, 13 May 2025 13:37:00 +0000

Why the South LOST the Civil War

📺 Watch this explosive episode as Tom Gulley dives deep into the truth behind the Confederate surrender and the South’s defeat in the American Civil War.

Why did the South lose the Civil War? Was it inferior military strategy, economic collapse, or moral failure? In this no-holds-barred episode of The Tom Gulley Show, we break down the real reasons behind the Confederate defeat—from the Battle of Gettysburg to General Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox.

🔥 Featuring historical facts, overlooked perspectives, and sharp commentary, Tom strips away the myths and tells the unfiltered story of why the Civil War ended with a Union victory—and how the South’s ideology doomed them from the start.

📌 In this episode:

Key moments that led to the Confederate collapse

How the Union’s industrial power and leadership prevailed

The role of slavery and ideology in the South’s defeat

The lasting impact of the Civil War on America today

🕰️ Whether you’re a Civil War buff or just curious about American history, this episode is a must-watch.

The Gary Hart Throwback Interview

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Sun, 24 Jan 2021 16:20:00 +0000

Former US senator Gary Hart is one of the world's most learned experts on the subject of foreign policy, a legendary political strategist, and a passionate defender of our natural resources.

Not to mention being an accomplished novelist.

Why the senator took leave of his traditionally good judgement and agreed to be on our program is a bit of a mystery, but we are very honored that fortune smiled upon us.

Mr. Hart talks with us about the climate of political discourse, his relationship with Hunter S. Thompson--and his novel, Durango. Available on Amazon.

Just listen via the complimentary player below, or click this link right here to do the "Save As" thing and download the podcast for enjoyment on your iPod or media player of choice.

OR SUBSCRIBE VIA ITUNES!!! IT'S FREE!!!

Me & Kip Addotta Vol 1

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 01:39:00 +0000

Kip Addotta was an incredible standup comedian.

He was also a guy who used to call me late at night and insisted that I record all our conversations.

Kip passed away in August of 2019, and rather than just let the countless hours of talks wither away on my hard drive, this is the first of MANY volumes of interactions with him.

For more, go to Amazon and pick up his autobiography, Confessions Of A Comedian.

Just listen to the episode via the convenient player below--or right click this link and do the "Save As" thing to download the podcast for enjoyment on your iPod or media player of choice.

OR LISTEN ON APPLE PODCASTS!!! IT'S FREE!!!

The Debra Palardy Interview

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Sun, 09 Aug 2020 22:57:00 +0000

Debra Palardy has written a new book that destroys domestic violence.

Which is kind of a violent metaphor, but let's face it, domestic violence had it coming.

Sweetie: How Much Should You Give Up To Keep That Relationship, I Can Answer That! is a short, personal book that will engage the reader into examining their situation and making better decisions. Get it today!

Just listen to the episode via the convenient player below--or right click this link and do the "Save As" thing to download the podcast for enjoyment on your iPod or media player of choice.

OR LISTEN ON APPLE PODCASTS!!! IT'S FREE!!!

The Steve Bluestein's Prostate Interview

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Tue, 05 Nov 2019 02:00:00 +0000

Could Steve Bluestein's prostate be the funniest prostate in the world?

It's possible. If anyone can take prostate cancer and find all the funny in it, it's Steve.

Tom was lucky enough to talk to the acclaimed comedian and author about his new book, "Take My Prostate...Please!" (now available on Amazon.)

During the conversation, they covered nurses in drag, chic Los Angeles hospital cuisine, and the always side-splitting process of finding out you have prostate cancer, and all the steps necessary to get rid of it.

Get ready to laugh at someone else's prostate, and get educated about prostate cancer, as Tom talks with comedian and author Steve Bluestein.

Just listen to the episode via the convenient player below--or right click this link and do the "Save As" thing to download the podcast for enjoyment on your iPod or media player of choice.

OR LISTEN ON APPLE PODCASTS!!! IT'S FREE!!!

You can now watch The Tom Gulley Show--Monday thru Friday at 7pm EST on Facebook Live by going to The Tom Gulley Show Facebook Page. Where we'll take your calls on ANY subject!

Fourth Annual Super Bowl Commercial Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 13:49:00 +0000

Yes, it's BACK! Our FOURTH Annual Super Bowl Commercial Review!

If you saw the commercials and were unsure which ones were great, and which ones were terrible, fear not. We'll remove all the mystery.

And, FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, we're podcasting our daily live show--so the two worlds will collide for the first time ever. Yes, we're crossing the streams.

So sit back, relax, and bask in the vitriol of Tom's harsh evaluations of TV commercials.

Just listen to the episode via the convenient player below--or right click this link and do the "Save As" thing to download the podcast for enjoyment on your iPod or media player of choice.

OR LISTEN VIA ITUNES--IT'S FREE!!!

NOTE: You can now watch The Tom Gulley Show AFTER DARK--Monday thru Friday at 7 EST on Facebook Live by going to The Tom Gulley Show Facebook page. Where we'll take your calls on ANY subject!

The Steve Bluestein Interview

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Fri, 18 May 2018 02:00:00 +0000

You might not know it, but you're in luck. Because comedian Steve Bluestein has written a book that's going to make you laugh out loud. Constantly.

Memoir Of A Nobody hilariously chronicles Steve's travels through the world of entertainment. As an opening act for Barry Manilow, Donna Summer, Frankie Avalon, Rita Moreno, Frankie Valli, Melissa Manchester, and Mac Davis (among others.)

And, as a successful TV writer for The Brady Bunch Variety Hour, The New Candid Camera, and other shows. Plus his unforgettable takes on just the random occurrences in his everyday life.

Spend some time hearing a master storyteller as we talk about Memoir Of A Nobody with its hysterically funny author, Steve Bluestein.

Just listen to the episode via the convenient player below--or right click this link and do the "Save As" thing to download the podcast for enjoyment on your iPod or media player of choice.

OR LISTEN VIA ITUNES--IT'S FREE!!!

NOTE: You can now watch The Tom Gulley Show AFTER DARK--Monday thru Thursday at 7 EST on Facebook Live by going to The Tom Gulley Show Facebook page. Where we'll take your calls on ANY subject!

The Last Days Of Letterman Episode

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Thu, 17 May 2018 02:00:00 +0000

The end of The Late Show with David Letterman marked the end of a truly singular achievement in television.

Certainly, the 33 years of brilliance Dave brought to the screen are a story in itself, but a new book by Scott Ryan--The Last Days of Letterman--insightfully and meticulously chronicles the perfect and seamless flourish the greatest talk show host of our generation ended his late night career with.

Listen in as your beloved host, the VERY FIRST Letterman Scholarship winner (yes, that's a thing) and Mr. Ryan go over the book in detail. You'll hear how the author managed to get the firsthand accounts of over 20 Letterman staffers regarding how the big show came to a close.

It's an episode you're sure to put on your Top 10 List of podcast offerings--The Last Days of Letterman with Scott Ryan!

Just listen to the episode via the convenient player below--or right click this link and do the "Save As" thing to download the podcast for enjoyment on your iPod or media player of choice.

OR LISTEN VIA ITUNES--IT'S FREE!

NOTE: You can now watch The Tom Gulley Show AFTER DARK--Monday thru Thursday at 7 EST on Facebook Live by going to The Tom Gulley Show Facebook page. Where we'll take your calls on ANY subject!

The Mr. Novak Episode

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 02:00:00 +0000

Author Chuck Harter has done something remarkable. That any teacher would be proud of.

He's managed to unearth and breathe new life into a show that deserves a place in the spotlight. It's called Mr. Novak--and it aired over 50 years ago. Chronicling the experiences of teachers, students, and parents in an early 60's Los Angeles high school.

Now, you might be thinking, "Fifty years? What's the big deal about an old TV show?" Well, that kind of thinking would have you missing out on a show that will simply blow you away with its storylines, acting, and motion picture quality cinematography.

And his book, which you can get at MrNovakBook.com, covers this Peabody award-winning TV series with a microscope. Beautifully written, and meticulously researched.

So, get out your spiral bound notebooks. We're going to class with author Chuck Harter regarding his book, Mr. Novak: An Acclaimed Television Series.

Just listen to tonight's episode via the convenient player below--or right click this link and do the "Save As" thing to download the podcast for enjoyment on your iPod or media player of choice.

OR LISTEN VIA ITUNES--IT'S FREE!!!

NOTE: You can now watch The Tom Gulley Show AFTER DARK--Monday thru Thursday at 7 EST--on Facebook Live by going to The Tom Gulley Show Facebook page. Where we'll take your calls on ANY subject!

MLS Monday Week 2: More Shocks & Crew Fans No Show

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Mon, 12 Mar 2018 12:00:00 +0000

Week 2 featured blowouts, surprises, another shock win for upstart LAFC, and the usual sparse attendance for one team whose "fans" were REALLY stuck on their hashtag all offseason...

Columbus vs. Montreal
Well, well, well. Remember that "#SaveTheCrew" thing that infected every comments section on every soccer-related article on the internet?

Yeah. Well, that generated a frenzy that brought a whole 11,098 people to the Crew's home opener. And all 11,098 got to see a pretty good 3-2 match.

Piatti and Edwards had the best goals--both for Montreal--and the Crew got the penalty kicks (two of them) plus a Zardes tap in to remain undefeated. And largely unattended.

New England vs. Colorado
Brad Friedel got his first win as the man in charge as the Revs got a 2-1 home win.

Ironically, the legendary keeper had his own goalkeeper make a great play, and a great big mistake along the way. Matt Turner saved a penalty, only to make a hash out of a ball in the air that Niki Jackson headed home--all after a Diego Fagundez goal started off the proceedings.

But, in the end, a 93rd minute free kick goal with a deflection added in made sure Friedel's dressy overcoat didn't go to waste with his first win as an MLS manager.

Real Salt Lake vs. LAFC
OH MY, LAFC!
THIS is an expansion team? Last week, we asked if Bob Bradley could have something starting in his spanking new side. Well, IN Salt Lake, the spanking was all done by LAFC--even though they were behind in a match for the first time in their short history.

After going down 1-0 on an 18th minute penalty, LAFC came back with five unanswered goals.

And answered a lot of critics. Can they keep it up? We'll find out. But for the time being, they're off to a Chicago '98 start for Mr. Bradley.

Chicago vs. Sporting Kansas City
This one was a barnburner all the way, no pun intended.

The scoring never stopped and went back and forth as SKC came into Chicago and ruined the Fire's home opener with some uncharacteristic high scoring & lax defense.

But a win's a win. Even if it is 4-3 on the part of last year's stingiest defense.

Houston vs. Vancouver
Squandered chances? The Dynamo were the poster children for them in a rare loss at home.

Outshooting Vancouver early & often, Houston fell prey to nemesis Brek Shea in the 50th minute, as the Whitecaps man sprinted half the length of the field to tuck away a goal that broke a 1-1 tie and put the Dynamo down for good.

Dynamo fans will be irked by the 21-7 advantage in shots they had--and simply hope they return to their one loss at home in 2017 form the next time they play in H-town.

NY Red Bulls vs. Portland
Giovanni Savarese didn't have such a great return to New York. Nor is he having such a great start to his MLS coaching career.

After losing to the Galaxy in LA by a goal, the Timbers went bi-coastal and took on New York Red Bulls. And lost 4-0 in a game that wasn't even that close.

A 20-12 advantage in shots on the part the Red Bulls didn't help. And neither did anything else, with perhaps the exception of Jake Gleeson's five saves to keep it from becoming extra-ridiculous.

Orlando vs. Minnesota
A controversial first goal (offsides?), a controversial second goal via PK (in the box?), and a no-doubt-about-it third goal added up to a 2-1 win for the Loons on the road in Orlando.

Ethan Finlay bagged a brace for Minnesota, and Orlando had a huge 20-9 shot advantage (but only a 4-3 on target advantage.)

Three yellows handed out. For time wasting, unsporting behavior, and simulation for the trifecta of "come on, man" cautions. (Minnesota led that, 2-1.)

Atlanta vs. DC United
Two of the usual suspects, Martinez and Almiron, contributed as Atlanta United shook off last week's lambasting to look like the team we saw in 2017--with a 3-1 home win over DC.

Darren Mattocks pulled one back late to help DC avoid the shutout, but with a 6-1 shots on target advantage, Atlanta started with pressure and never let up.

Julian Gressel played a smart "unsung hero" match to keep things flowing in the return to Atlanta's scoring ways.

NYCFC vs. LA Galaxy
Anton Tinnerholm opened things up with a goal--which we mention because a) it's so much fun to say Anton Tinnerholm, and b) it was a positively crushing volley off the underside of the bar.

David Villa then made it four goals in four home openers while playing for NYCFC. Jonathan Dos Santos put one in for the away side, but no matter. 2-1 to NYCFC is how it ended up.

The topsy-turvy, parity-filled schedule that is the MLS season continues next week. What perils and glories will Week 3 bring? We'll tell you next time.

MLS Monday Week 1: This Year Isn't Last Year

noreply@blogger.com (The Tom Gulley Show Podcast!) — Tue, 06 Mar 2018 01:20:00 +0000

When last we left you, Toronto had won the 2017 MLS Cup while being heralded as the best MLS side EVER. Seattle were kings of the West. Atlanta was rampaging, although exiting early.

Well, Week 1 in MLS kinda changed all that.

Of the ten matches played this past weekend, FIVE could be termed upsets of a sort. So let's get started.

Toronto vs. Columbus--UPSET
Over 26,000 packed BMO Field to see their heroes defend their title as the best team ever.

Things didn't go according to plan.

Even though TFC had most of the ball, the shots were even, and two late first half goals by the Crew were enough to get a 2-0 victory. Higuain opened his account in the 44th minute, and Gyasi Zardes knocked in another (to try and erase his 100% forgettable 2017 form.)

The result was perhaps a bit unkind to Toronto. They got 21 crosses in, but the Crew defended well, even though TFC rang the woodwork a few times.

Houston vs. Atlanta--UPSET
The big signings in the offseason were supposed to just make Atlanta United unstoppable this year, after being nearly so during last year's regular season.

But Houston didn't go 12-1-4 at home by accident in 2017. A win? Sure, a possibility. But the 4-0 thrashing? Eye opening. That's the reason this was an "upset." Atlanta not even getting on the board? Shocking.

Brad Guzan did his Brad Guzan impersonation by making some good stops and letting in some weak ones. Only time will tell if 2017 was an anomaly for Atlanta, and if Houston can manage to improve on their hapless road record from last year.

Philadelphia vs. New England
Only three points separated the Union and the Revs at the end of 2017.

But each team was pulling a Houston Dynamo last year--with only one road win. (And both playing some really rotten soccer along 2017.)

Form held as home team Philadelphia rode C.J. Sapong's goal and an assist to a 2-0 win--spoiling Brad Friedel's coaching debut. The most exciting thing going on in New England right now is the Lee Nguyen telenovela.

Orlando vs. DC United
These two teams were buddies last year--hanging out in the basement of the Eastern Division together.

Yamil Asad scored unassisted in the 34th minute, and DC hung on to...get scored on in the 94th minute to say "bye bye" to three points in a 1-1 tie.

Good news for Orlando fans is that new signing Jason Meram assisted (along with Jonathan Spector) on Stefano Pinho's goal at the death.

FC Dallas vs. Real Salt Lake
The Hoops' epic collapse last year was the stuff of legend--but under the radar was RSL's coming back from an abysmal start to 2017, finishing just a point behind FCD, and one out of the playoffs.

Joao Plata scored for RSL in the 25th, and Real Salt Lake spent most of the rest of the game not marking Michael Barrios, who ran rampant for a big chunk of the match.

In the end, though, it was an own goal that did in Real Salt Lake in the 86th. Just over 16,000 showed up to see FC Dallas, so maybe that's a start to ending that attendance problem.

And FCD took 18 shots to RSL's 9--without scoring. The only thing more annoying than that for Dallas fans is having to listen to another match by the long-winded, casually-interested, never-one-second-of-silence, "this is our part time job" FCD broadcast team, the very worst in the league.

San Jose vs. Minnesota
The Earthquakes finished 10 clear points above the Loons last year. So, no surprise that San Jose took all the points in this one, powered by a brace from Danny Hoesen.

The 3-0 lead an hour into the match didn't come without some scares, though. Kevin Molino struck goal(d) in the 81st and 85th to make things interesting in what ended up a 3-2 San Jose victory.

Props to Valeri Qazaishvili, who assisted on both Hoesen's goals. Can't pronounce his name? No problem. He'll let you call him Vako.

Seattle vs. LAFC--UPSET
The newest franchise in MLS, Los Angeles FC, went into the heart of the beast. Their first-ever match that mattered came against perennial power Seattle. IN Seattle.

What did Bob Bradley's boys do? They came out with a 1-0 win.

Seattle pounded away at LAFC--with 22 shots. LAFC had 5. With only one on target. The one that counted.

Diego Rossi got it in the 11th minute--assisted by former Arsenal man Carlos Vela--and LAFC made it stand.

Remember Bradley's Chicago Fire in '98? Could this be the start of something?

Vancouver vs. Montreal

One team was demonstrably better in 2017. Vancouver.

And they won over the Canadian side from Montreal in a not-that-unexpected, and not-that-entertaining 2-1 win.

The biggest news was probably that Kei Kamara opened up his Vancouver account in his debut.

Sporting KC vs. NYCFC--UPSET

How can NYCFC beating ANYBODY be called an upset at this point?

It's not so much that they won. It's that they won AT KC, by far the league's stingiest side in 2017. And one that had only lost once at home last season. And NYCFC got it done by two clear goals.

Tim Melia got beaten twice--by Moralez and Medina--and David Villa took six shots.

A reasonable amount of plastic got shown in this one--three yellows and a red. All for the guys from New York.

LA Galaxy vs. Portland Timbers--UPSET

2017, for the Galaxy, was the very definition of "falling on hard times" for one of MLS's most storied franchises.

The club of Beckham, Gerrard, Keane, Donovan, and more? They finished TWENTY-ONE POINTS behind Portland.

Hence, upset.

The Galaxy got two goals within two minutes, as Ola Kamara and Romain Alessandrini tallied in the 32nd and 34th, respectively.

Most of the stats were even--although Portland had a bit more of the ball. Does this mean that 2018 will be a return to glory for the Galaxy? Will Sigi Schmid be able to work his special voodoo?

Let's not get crazy. This was Giovanni Savarese's first game at the helm, which might account for a less than Portland performance by Portland.

That's Week 1. Tune in next week to see what happens as the MLS moves slowly, but inexorably toward December. (With a World Cup in the middle.)