After The Final Bell - EP 11 - Drones, Drive-Thrus, & Departure Delays

In this episode of "After the Final Bell," Trevor O'Connor and Mike Gonzales embark on a conversational journey, seamlessly transitioning between lighthearted banter, personal anecdotes, and thought-provoking discussions. They begin by acknowledging their podcast's steady growth, humorously reflecting on the perceived imperfections of their earlier episodes. This self-deprecating humor sets a relaxed tone, as they express a shared aspiration to refine their production quality and potentially incorporate a production director in the future.

Trevor then reiterates their phone number, 303-578-8680, extending an open invitation to listeners for calls and texts. They emphasize their receptiveness to feedback, questions, and comments, particularly regarding any factual inaccuracies or embellishments in their discussions. This segment underscores their commitment to fostering audience engagement and creating a platform for open dialogue.

A series of personal updates follows, with Trevor sharing details about his recent haircut, marking the end of a week-long indoor streak. He also humorously recounts his wife, Kristen's, attempts to coax him out of the house, and his reluctance to venture beyond their doorstep. The conversation then shifts to Trevor's plan to set up a pool table in their basement, a project temporarily stalled due to a self-imposed purchasing moratorium until after Christmas. He also mentions ordering energy drinks from Tik Tok, and an add deal he is doing with Insta 360 cameras. They then discuss a class ring that was stolen from their porch.

The conversation takes a turn towards the realm of conspiracy theories, as Trevor and Mike delve into the enigmatic topic of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). They engage in a lively debate, speculating on the nature of reported sightings, pondering whether they are drones, government aircraft, or extraterrestrial phenomena. Their curiosity extends to the government's potential possession of advanced technologies, sparking a discussion about the boundaries between science fiction and reality.

The topic of self-driving vehicles emerges, eliciting contrasting reactions from the hosts. Trevor expresses enthusiasm for the concept, envisioning a future of autonomous road trips and effortless travel. Mike, however, voices skepticism, articulating concerns about relinquishing control and trusting in the reliability of automated systems. They discuss the possibility of self-driving taxis in Denver, and plan a trip to Phoenix to try one out.

The conversation then delves into the intricacies of air travel, as Trevor and Mike share their personal experiences and anxieties. They discuss their shared preference for arriving at the airport well in advance, navigating security lines, and enduring the often-stressful pre-flight atmosphere. They explore the anxieties associated with flying, including turbulence, medical emergencies, and the inherent risks of takeoff and landing. They also discuss the benefits of having TSA pre check, and the energy of other people in airports.

They then express a shared desire to embark on a train journey, lamenting the high costs and limited options available. Trevor envisions a leisurely trip in a sleeper car, complete with dining car experiences and observation car views. They compare train travel to cruising, highlighting their preference for the former.

Throughout the episode, Trevor and Mike's dynamic interplay creates an engaging and entertaining listening experience. Their candid banter, personal anecdotes, and willingness to explore diverse topics provide listeners with a unique glimpse into their perspectives and personalities.