Wease Family Circus

Clark Peshkin is the presenting sponsor of Wease Family Circus. Clark Peshkin hosts free estate planning workshops that explain what actually works for New York families, especially if you own a home and want to keep things private and simple for the people you love. Register at https://clarkpeshkin.com/wease In this episode of Wease Family Circus, the family gathers to share one of the wildest, most chaotic nights in recent memory—a night that started with tequila, marijuana, and the Academy Awards, and ended with a 4 a.m. emergency room visit, a cracked skull, and paramedics trying to figure out what the hell just happened. Wease admits his Parkinson's has been kicking his ass lately, and when you combine that with too much tequila and smoking weed, things can go sideways fast. He got up in the middle of the night to grab hearing aid batteries from the bathroom, and the next thing he knew, he was waking up on the tile floor with a gash on his head and Doreen calling 911. The episode breaks down the entire ordeal: How Wease passed out in the bathroom, cracked his head on the tile, and didn't even realize what happened Doreen's frantic efforts to break his fall while he went down completely unconscious The house guests who walked in on the chaos and called for help Fire rescue showing up to find Wease naked, confused, and asking what the hell he was doing in the bathroom The ambulance ride to the hospital, where Wease complained to paramedics about what Doreen was putting him through Hours in the ER getting X-rays, CAT scans, blood tests, EKGs, and IVs while Doreen stood around like a zombie at 3 in the morning Getting discharged at 4:30 a.m. after Doreen kept the staff on their toes to speed things up Wease admits he was in bad shape that night. The Parkinson's, the tequila, the weed—it all hit at once. Doreen was terrified he had a brain bleed, which is why she insisted on the ER trip. The hospital staff was phenomenal, checking everything to make sure he was okay, but Wease spent the whole time annoyed that Doreen kept telling everyone the story over and over again. But the chaos didn't end there. When they finally got home, the elevator in their building was out. Completely out. No elevator service for a 12-story building, which meant the only way up was to walk the stairs or take a bizarre detour through someone else's condo on the 23rd floor. The episode also covers: Jake's wild coincidence of meeting two people separately—one in London, one in New York—who are now dating each other Lucy's trip to McSorley's, the oldest Irish pub in New York City, where the waiter snapped at her and held 10 beers in one hand The debate over whether Timothy Chalamet or Michael B. Jordan deserved the Oscar for best actor How Michael B. Jordan physically created dimples for one of his twin characters without makeup The Cannabis Corner event at the Carlson Lounge, where guests get VIP treatment before comedy shows Wease's ongoing struggle with finding the right marijuana dosage for sleep without getting too high The Sabres' playoff push and why Wease is convinced they're winning the Stanley Cup this year The psychic who predicted the Bills would win the Super Bowl in 2027 and the Sabres would win the Cup in 2026 This episode is raw, chaotic, and filled with the kind of real-life drama that only happens to the Wease family. From emergency room visits to elevator nightmares to neighbor feuds and reality TV controversies, it's another wild ride through the circus. It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice. Chapters 00:00:00 Welcome and Sponsor Introduction: Clark Peskin 00:01:58 The Hospital Visit: Parkinson's, Tequila, and a 4 AM ER Trip 00:10:29 The Elevator Crisis: Trapped on the 12th Floor 00:14:46 Poker Life and Casino Adventures 00:17:17 The Bachelorette Controversy: Whitney Leavitt Drama 00:22:24 Reality TV Deep Dive: Bachelor vs Love Island 00:26:02 The Insane Connection: London to Love Island 00:31:08 Academy Awards Recap and JFK Series Review 00:40:57 The Neighbor Leaf Burning Dispute 01:00:09 Sabers Playoff Fever and Stanley Cup Dreams

Clark Peshkin is the presenting sponsor of Wease Family Circus. Clark Peshkin hosts free estate planning workshops that explain what actually works for New York families, especially if you own a home and want to keep things private and simple for the people you love. Register at https://clarkpeshkin.com/wease In this episode of Wease Family Circus, legendary broadcaster Rich "The Bull" Gaenzler joins the family for a long overdue reunion packed with stories, laughs, and one of the most unforgettable radio bits in Rochester history. Bull was part of the Wease show family for years, starting as an intern in 1988 and eventually becoming a producer, on-air personality, and one of the sweetest people to ever walk through the CMF doors. Wease admits Bull was one of the nicest kids he ever knew, the kind of guy who showed up to his college graduation party when nobody else from the station did. But this episode isn't just about nostalgia. It's about the story that listeners have been asking about for decades: The Motel Bit. The family dives deep into what really happened that day: How Wease convinced a sex expert guest to take Bull to a motel on Jefferson Road during the morning show The plan to turn it into a bit where Bull would come back and tell wild stories about the experience What actually happened in that hotel room and why Bull couldn't go through with it The guilt that kicked in after the fact and how Bull felt like he'd been with a hooker at 9:30 in the morning How Tommy convinced Bull to tell the truth on the air the next day, turning the bit into radio gold Why Bull's Catholic upbringing and his father's words "be a good boy" shaped his decision Wease admits he and his scumbag friends couldn't believe Bull turned it down. If they were 22 and someone handed them a hookup and a motel room, they would have thought they died and went to heaven. But Bull was different. He was raised with values, integrity, and a conscience that wouldn't let him cross that line, even for a legendary radio bit. The episode also covers Bull's incredible broadcasting career: How he went from intern to interim production director at CMF while still in college His time producing for Wease, which he calls the hardest radio gig he ever had The legendary afternoon show with BJ Shea that dominated Buffalo radio How he became the voice of the Buffalo Bills for nearly 15 years, flying on team charters, staying in team hotels, and building friendships with players like Ryan Fitzpatrick His time as the Sabres in-arena host, doing post-game interviews on the ice during playoff runs in 1999, 2006, and 2011 Why he stopped drinking a couple years ago and how it changed his perspective on tailgating and sports fandom Bull also shares his thoughts on the current state of radio, why it's struggling, and how AI-generated music is changing the entertainment industry. He talks about his love for the Bills and Sabres, why he's not a huge tailgater despite his years covering the teams, and why he thinks the Sabres have a legitimate shot at winning the Stanley Cup this year. Bull also reveals how Wease and the CMF crew welcomed him with open arms when he was a shy, overweight kid who didn't have great self-esteem. He talks about how Charlie was one of the most talented people he ever knew, how Billy and Joe T became close friends, and how Wease fought to keep him on the show when management wanted him gone. This episode is a celebration of the golden era of Rochester radio, the people who made it legendary, and the moments that became part of broadcasting history. From motel rooms to playoff runs to career-defining decisions, Bull's story is one of integrity, talent, and the kind of genuine kindness that made him unforgettable. Whether you remember Bull from his days at CMF, his years with the Bills and Sabres, or you're hearing his story for the first time, this episode delivers laughs, nostalgia, and the truth behind one of the most talked-about bits in Wease show history. It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice. Chapters 00:00:00 Welcome and Sponsor Introduction: Clark Peskin 00:01:09 Introducing Rich the Bull Gunsler: Radio Reunion 00:07:20 The Motel Bit: What Really Happened? 00:14:21 College Graduation Party: The Only One Who Showed 00:15:27 Cleatorus and the Afternoon Show with BJ 00:19:42 The Guest Parade: How Wease Got the Big Names 00:23:26 Radio Then and Now: What Happened to the Industry 00:26:30 AI Music and the Future of Entertainment 00:33:28 Buffalo Bills Broadcasting: 15 Years on the Sidelines 00:40:33 Sabres In-Arena Host and Hockey Fandom 00:45:42 Philadelphia Flyers, Fandom Rules, and Origin Stories 00:57:19 Bills and Sabres Predictions: Championship Hopes 01:01:30 Closing Thoughts and Sponsor Reminder

Clark Peshkin is the presenting sponsor of Wease Family Circus. Clark Peshkin hosts free estate planning workshops that explain what actually works for New York families, especially if you own a home and want to keep things private and simple for the people you love. Register at https://clarkpeshkin.com/wease In Episode 9 of Wease Family Circus, the family opens the vault and pulls out radio gold from the past, the kind of content that could never air today. This is raw, unfiltered, and absolutely hilarious, a time capsule of a different era in broadcasting when the rules were looser, the humor was edgier, and the guests were unforgettable. Wease admits he can't remember half of this stuff happening. After thousands of shows over 40 years, the memories blur together. But listening back now, decades later, brings it all flooding back, the chaos, the laughter, and the moments that made Rochester radio legendary. The episode features: Gussie, the beloved character who became a staple of the Wease show, calling in from home to talk lottery numbers, horror movies, and life in her unmistakable voice The legendary Jack Garner, Rochester's iconic movie critic, stopping by to review films and share his insights Lavern Baker, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame singer whose hits like Jim Dandy and I Cried a Tear defined an era, calling in to talk about her career, her time with Jackie Wilson, and the dirty song they recorded together that nobody knew existed until years later The story of Jerry Lynn Williams, the musician who worked with Little Richard, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Eric Clapton, sharing stories about cheap wine, guitar lessons, and the song he wrote that became a Clapton classic Bob Rivers, the parody king and legendary Seattle broadcaster, calling in from his new gig to talk martinis, coffee culture, and the radio business The day Gussie collapsed on the studio floor, thrashing around while paramedics tried to hold her down, and how she showed up at the station the next day after taking the bus from the hospital because she refused to miss the Thousand Islands trip The Gussie hospital story is one for the ages. She passed out in the studio, hit the floor, and started convulsing while the crew panicked. Paramedics arrived, wrestled her onto a gurney, and rushed her to the emergency room. While she was out, she claimed she saw a black man in a green suit telling her it was time to go home. Cindy Pierce thought it was Gussie's father calling her to heaven. Wease wasn't buying it, pointing out that her father wanted nothing to do with her when he was alive, so why would he be welcoming her now? The Lavern Baker interview is pure magic. She talks about recording with Jackie Wilson, the dirty song they made that got taped without her knowing, and how she didn't find out about it until two years before this interview. She laughs about losing her legs, talks about seeing Whitney Houston in Waiting to Exhale, and admits she's mellowed out in her older years. The family plays clips of her legendary voice, from Saved to I Cried a Tear, and you can hear the soul pouring through every note. This episode is a celebration of the golden era of radio, when anything could happen, when guests like Lavern Baker and Jerry LaCroix could call in and share stories that would never make it past today's corporate filters. It's raw, it's real, and it's the kind of content that made the Wease show legendary. Whether you remember these moments from the original broadcasts or you're hearing them for the first time, Episode 9 delivers laughs, nostalgia, and a reminder of why Brother Wease's radio legacy continues to resonate with fans across generations. It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice. Chapters 00:00:00 Welcome and Sponsor Introduction: Clark Peskin 00:01:34 The Gluten Debate: What the Hell Is It Anyway? 00:07:40 Reality TV Talk: Traders Finale and Bill Burr's Freebird 00:09:42 Doreen's Fun Fact: The Flower Bar Wedding 00:19:30 From the Vault: Introducing the Radio Gold 00:21:33 Gussie's Lottery Report and Horror Movie Reviews 00:25:50 Jack Garner's Movie Reviews with Gussie 00:26:40 Arty the Party Guy Calls In 00:28:36 Jerry Lynn Williams: Working with Little Richard and Stevie Ray Vaughan 00:37:18 Lavern Baker: The Soul Legend Interview 00:38:16 The Jackie Wilson Duet You Couldn't Air 00:42:22 Lavern Baker Performs Her Classics 00:51:34 Gussie's Medical Emergency: The Studio Incident 00:52:51 Gussie Returns from the Hospital 01:02:54 Jake's Music Video 01:04:36 Wrap Up: Cannabis Corner and Final Thoughts

Clark Peshkin is the presenting sponsor of Wease Family Circus. Clark Peshkin hosts free estate planning workshops that explain what actually works for New York families, especially if you own a home and want to keep things private and simple for the people you love. Register at https://clarkpeshkin.com/wease In this episode of Wease Family Circus, the family welcomes Cindy Pierce back to the table for the first time in 26 years. This is the conversation fans have been waiting for, the one that brings closure to a relationship that ended abruptly, publicly, and painfully. Cindy was part of the Wease show for over a decade, starting in 1988 when she was just 28 years old. She was the voice, the punching bag, the heart of some of the funniest bits in Rochester radio history. But in 2000, everything changed. A lawsuit, a picture posted by producer Joe T, and a series of events that spiraled out of control ended her time on the show and left both Wease and Cindy without closure. Until now. This episode dives deep into what really happened: The lawsuit that changed everything and how it all started with a picture Joe T posted online Why Joe T reposted the picture after it was taken down, reigniting the entire situation Cindy's side of the story and why she felt she had no choice but to take legal action Wease's defense of keeping Cindy on the show twice when management wanted her fired The lawyer who had a crush on Cindy and how that played into the entire ordeal How Cindy lost her husband Rope just five years ago and found love again three years later But this episode isn't just about the lawsuit. It's about the memories, the laughter, and the bond that existed before everything fell apart. The family listens to classic bits featuring Cindy, from loaded cigarette pranks to her legendary singing performances of The Motels and Desperado. They look at old photos from trips to the Bahamas, Watkins Glen NASCAR events, and the legendary Thousand Islands cottage where Wease and Doreen's relationship began. Cindy reveals the role she played in bringing Wease and Doreen together, pushing them to admit their feelings and encouraging Wease to take the leap. That first kiss? It happened because Cindy insisted. She was the instigator, the matchmaker, and the one who told Wease that his ex wife was never coming back. The episode also covers: Cindy's new life in Toledo with her boyfriend Don, who also works in radio Her three trips to the Olympics with Courtney and Sandy Williams, the Olympic skier The time Wease stole her wallet from her white convertible to teach her a lesson about locking her doors The Atlantis trip where Cindy disappeared all night and missed the morning show The skinny dipping story that Doreen thought involved Cindy but was actually someone else How Cindy quit smoking cigarettes and switched to vaping so she could breathe again The festival tent performance where Cindy sang The Motels on stage and killed it The Desperado prank where Charlie potted down the music so only Cindy's voice could be heard Wease and Cindy both admit they blocked out much of the trauma from that time. The lawsuit, the anger, the confusion, it all left scars that never fully healed. But sitting down together after all these years brings a sense of peace neither of them expected. Cindy talks about the dreams she's had over the years where she and Wease made up and hugged, and how this conversation finally gives her the closure she's been searching for. The family promises to have Cindy back on the show to go through more classic bits, answer fan questions, and continue the conversation that's been 26 years in the making. From the guys club mentality to the moments that went too far, from the laughter to the lawsuits, this episode is raw, honest, and filled with the kind of storytelling that only comes from people who lived through the chaos together. Whether you remember Cindy from the radio days or you're hearing her story for the first time, this episode delivers laughs, nostalgia, and the closure that both Wease and Cindy needed. It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice. Chapters 00:00:00 Welcome and Sponsor Introduction: Clark Peskin 00:01:19 Introducing Cindy Pierce: The Big One You've Been Waiting For 00:02:57 The Lawsuit Story: What Really Happened 00:05:55 Joe T and The Picture That Started It All 00:09:38 Cindy's Life After the Show: Losing Rope and Finding Love 00:14:39 Throwback Bits: The Loaded Cigarette Prank 00:22:08 Memory Lane: Old Photos and Radio War Stories 00:27:10 The Real Story: How Wease and Doreen Got Together 00:32:37 Working Through the Past: Standing Up and Defending Cindy 00:41:23 The Lawyer with a Crush and Other Revelations 00:44:16 Cindy's Singing Career: The Motels and Desperado 00:53:10 Olympic Adventures and Cannabis Corner 00:57:58 Wrap Up and Promise to Return

In this bonus episode of Wease Family Circus, the family does something they've never done before: they get Woody Mower on the phone directly from prison. This is the raw, unfiltered conversation that happened right after recording Episode 6 with true crime author Susan Ashline. While that episode explored the story of Ungrateful Bastard, this bonus episode lets you hear the story straight from the man who lived it. Woody is currently serving life without parole at Shawangunk Correctional Facility, 90 miles from New York City. He murdered both of his parents at 18, sparked an international manhunt, and later became infamous for orchestrating an elaborate escape plan involving what he called a "coffin." His case runs parallel to the Menendez brothers, complete with allegations of horrific childhood abuse, ineffective legal counsel, and a constitutional appeal that recently brought him into a public courtroom for the first time in 30 years. But this isn't a typical interview. This is Woody speaking candidly about his life behind bars, the abuse he endured growing up, the corruption that shaped his case, and the survival tactics that kept him alive in some of New York's most brutal maximum security prisons. The conversation covers: What really happened with his court-appointed attorney, who confessed under oath to taking a $10,000 payoff and lying about Woody's case The horrific abuse Woody and his grandmother endured at the hands of his father and mother on an isolated farm in Richfield, outside Utica Life in the box at Attica, Auburn, Southport, and Upstate—where he survived 700 days in solitary confinement Drinking from toilets when the water was shut off, living through two weeks with no running water at Attica, and the garbage bag protocol that became daily life The infamous Southport shit fights, where inmates would throw feces at each other during recreation, spit it from their mouths, and squirt it from toothpaste tubes How Woody had relationships with multiple female guards over the years, including the correspondence officer who made him watch her use the bathroom on his second day at Elmira The escape plan that took over a year to build, his intention to disappear into the woods without hurting anyone, and why he never stole from civilians Why he wanted to kill his former attorney Randy Sharp, how other inmates ruined the plan, and why seeing him in court recently made all the anger disappear How his girlfriend changed his life, kept him out of trouble for seven years, and gave him a reason to mature behind bars Running 50 miles in an afternoon, staying ripped, and maintaining his physical and mental strength after three decades in prison Woody also addresses the recent court hearing where new evidence corroborated his claims of abuse, bribery, and legal malpractice. His attorney had a fake resume, couldn't write motions, and was never qualified to handle a death penalty case. The supervisor testified that interns were doing all of Sharp's work because he was incapable of doing his job. Yet this is the attorney New York State assigned to an 18-year-old kid facing the death penalty. Wease admits he couldn't put Susan's book down. He took notes. He told Doreen everything at dinner each night. And despite all the brutality, all the crimes, all the rage—Wease found himself feeling sympathy for Woody. The family listens as Woody recounts stories that sound impossible but have been verified by Susan, by court testimony, and by other inmates who lived through the same hell. This episode is intense, disturbing, and unlike anything Wease Family Circus has done before. From childhood trauma to prison survival to the possibility of a retrial, Woody's story is raw, unfiltered, and impossible to forget. Whether you've read Ungrateful Bastard or you're hearing this story for the first time, this bonus episode delivers a perspective you won't get anywhere else. It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice. Chapters 00:00:00 Bonus Episode Introduction: Woody Calls from Prison 00:02:05 Prison Life and Department of Corrections Dysfunction 00:05:18 Drinking from Toilets and Attica's Brutal Conditions 00:07:06 The Two-Week Water Crisis and Garbage Bag Toilets 00:08:58 Sex with Female Guards: The Correspondence Lady 00:17:36 Relationships Behind Bars and Emotional Attachment 00:18:34 The Finger Incident: An Unexpected Turn 00:21:56 The Dark Truth About Grandma: Abuse and Alzheimer's 00:28:04 The Coffin Escape Plan and Life on the Run 00:31:31 The Box: 700 Days in Solitary Confinement 00:34:20 Southport's Shit Fights and Extreme Conditions 00:38:51 The Lawyer's Betrayal and Missing Money 00:40:10 Ted Fox, the Payoff, and Feelings of Revenge 00:44:53 Hope for Retrial and Life Today

Clark Peshkin is the presenting sponsor of Wease Family Circus. Clark Peshkin hosts free estate planning workshops that explain what actually works for New York families, especially if you own a home and want to keep things private and simple for the people you love. Register at https://clarkpeshkin.com/wease In Episode 7 of Wease Family Circus, legendary radio producers Pauly Gugliamo and Billy Dittore join the family for a reunion packed with stories that could only come from decades of working alongside Brother Wease. These two were Wease's right-hand men for years, running the board, pulling audio, creating bits, and keeping the chaos organized. Now they're back in the studio to share the stories that never made it on the air, the behind-the-scenes moments that shaped Rochester radio history, and the memories that still make them laugh years later. The episode dives into: How Billy met Wease as a fan at a comedy club and wound up becoming his brain for over a decade The woman who tried to take over the studio board and had to be wrestled down by Billy and security Pauly rise from radio intern to Rochester sauce king with 23 employees, a craft cannery, and distribution across the northeast How Pauly sauce empire started with 15 cases in his trunk and exploded thanks to Wease's support on the air Billy's journey from intern to producer to getting fired the same day as six other key staff members in a brutal radio purge The Christmas morning shows where Wease and Billy broadcast while the rest of the city opened presents The music show that ran for 20+ years, playing the coolest Christmas tracks in America before anyone else was doing it But the real heart of this episode is the bond these three share. Billy talks about how Wease fought for him to stay on the show when management wanted him gone. Polly reveals that management refused to let him return to the Wease show after his own show was cancelled, and that rejection became the push he needed to start his business empire. The episode also features: Pauly’s trip to Singapore and Japan for Rotary International, where he experienced insane heat, $8 wagyu steak, and stores so fancy they have bouncers Billy's story of how he met his wife Susan, a former CNN producer who worked with Larry King and survived a creepy on-air moment with Bill Cosby The time Wease got a shot to cure a four-hour boner and drove to Newark with Doreen while the kids sat in the back seat The Morning Show Boot Camp contest where Wease won a laptop by telling the story of hanging towels on his erection, complete with photos on the big screen Billy's near-death experience when he almost drowned in three feet of water at Greek Peak because his belly wouldn't let him swim down The boat incident in Sodus where Wease, Brooks, and Steve all got knocked into the water and started swimming in different directions while the current pulled them apart How Dr. Yo at Johns Hopkins saved Wease's life by refusing to operate on what other doctors thought was pancreatic cancer This episode is a celebration of the people who made the Wease show what it was. From the music marathons to the Christmas broadcasts to the moments that became legendary bits, Billy and Polly were there for all of it. They lived it, they survived it, and they're here to tell the stories that shaped Rochester radio forever. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering the show for the first time, Episode 7 delivers laughs, nostalgia, and the kind of raw, honest storytelling that only comes from people who've been through the trenches together. It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice. Chapters 00:00:00 Welcome to Episode 7 and Sponsor Introduction 00:00:36 Introducing Billy Deatory and Pauly Gugliamo 00:06:02 How Wease Met Billy: The Comedy Club Connection 00:08:45 The Crazy Lady Who Attacked the Studio 00:12:53 Pauly's Kids and Family Life 00:15:12 From Sauce to Empire: Pauly's Business Journey 00:24:42 Billy Wins a Laptop and the Priapism Story 00:52:02 How Billy Met His Wife Through the Show 00:57:28 The Boat Incident and Near-Drowning in Sodus 01:24:37 Greek Peak Waterslide Panic and Vertigo Issues 01:27:36 The Legendary Elevator Incident 01:10:02 Management Nightmares and Radio's Decline 01:40:14 Favorite Guests and Music Hall of Fame 01:49:01 Wrap Up: It's Nice to Be Important

Clark Peshkin is the presenting sponsor of Wease Family Circus. Clark Peshkin hosts free estate planning workshops that explain what actually works for New York families, especially if you own a home and want to keep things private and simple for the people you love. Register at https://clarkpeshkin.com/wease In this episode of Wease Family Circus, the family gathers to witness history as Team USA captures Olympic gold in men's hockey for the first time in 46 years—and for the first time ever on foreign soil. The game was nothing short of miraculous. Facing a stacked Canadian roster loaded with 15 Stanley Cup champions compared to America's three, the underdog U.S. squad pulled off a stunning 2-1 overtime victory that had people comparing it to the legendary 1980 Miracle on Ice. Wease doesn't just compare it—he argues this win might actually be more impressive. Different era, different circumstances, but the same kind of magic that makes you believe in the impossible. The family breaks down every moment: That unbelievable first goal where the puck was hit out of mid-air and threaded between two defensemen Connor Hellebuyck's heroic performance in net—the save of the game that kept it tied and the countless stops that kept Canada off the board The gut-wrenching 5-on-3 penalty kill that Wease called as the turning point: "If they don't score here, we're winning this game" Jack Hughes losing teeth for his country and the announcer's perfect line: "He traded a couple teeth for a gold medal" The Hughes brothers (Quinn and Jack) leading the charge alongside teammates from across the NHL Buffalo's own Tage Thompson bringing home gold—his third goal of the tournament and a huge moment for Sabres fans But the most emotional moment came after the final buzzer, when the team brought Johnny Gaudreau's two young children onto the ice to celebrate. Gaudreau, who would have been on this team, was killed by a drunk driver along with his brother while riding bikes the day before their sister's wedding. His jersey hung in the locker room throughout the tournament. His son turned two years old on the day of the gold medal game. The photo of those kids on the ice will live forever. Wease and the family couldn't hold it together. Nobody could. The episode also dives into: The fact that half the women's gold medal team played at Bishop Kearney in Rochester—a local hockey powerhouse turning out elite talent How the Hughes brothers and another U.S. player all lived together with the Hughes family during juniors, with the dad teaching one of them how to drive The dedication of hockey parents—the time, the money, the travel, the freezing rinks at 6 a.m. Rasmus Dahlin and Tage Thompson flying back to Miami together after playing against each other for gold Sam Reinhart and Brady Tkachuk also facing off as opponents in the gold medal game The fact that this was the first U.S. gold medal win not on American soil—the previous two (1960 and 1980) were both at home Wease also gets into the other Olympic events that caught his attention—curling strategy, the Italian women's team controversy, the insane talent in halfpipe skiing, and the discovery that bobsled drivers are actually steering the sled the whole way down. Who knew? The family reflects on how this game filled the void left by another Bills-less Sunday, how it brought the country together, and why moments like this remind you why sports matter. From the miracle on ice to the heartbreak of Johnny Gaudreau's story, from Jack Hughes' missing teeth to Connor Hellebuyck's brick wall performance, this episode captures everything that made this Olympic gold medal game unforgettable. It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice.

Clark Peshkin is the presenting sponsor of Wease Family Circus. Clark Peshkin hosts free estate planning workshops that explain what actually works for New York families, especially if you own a home and want to keep things private and simple for the people you love. Register at https://clarkpeshkin.com/wease In Episode 6 of Wease Family Circus, the family sits down with true crime author Susan Ashline for an unforgettable conversation about her latest book, Ungrateful Bastard: The Shocking Journey of a Killer and Escape Artist. This isn't your typical true crime story. It's the criminal biography of Gordon "Woody" Maurer, a man who murdered both of his parents at 18, fled to Texas with his 14-year-old girlfriend, sparked an international manhunt, and became the subject of America's Most Wanted. But that was just the beginning. Once behind bars, Woody didn't fade into obscurity. He manipulated guards, survived brutal conditions, and orchestrated a bizarre escape plan involving what he called a "coffin"—a plan so elaborate it made international headlines in 2017. His story runs parallel to the Menendez brothers case, complete with allegations of childhood abuse, ineffective legal counsel, and a constitutional appeal that recently brought him into a public courtroom for the first time in 30 years. Susan takes the family deep into the story: The horrific abuse Woody endured growing up on an isolated rural farm in Richfield, outside of Utica The night he shot both parents—and why nobody was supposed to get killed His years in maximum security, where he learned to work the system and survive in one of the nation's most notorious prisons The allegations of a $10,000 bribe tied to his guilty plea—and the attorney he wanted to kill over it How Susan verified his wild claims, from beatings to escapes to relationships behind bars The moment she sat across from Woody in prison, terrified he might jump the table Wease admits he couldn't put the book down. He took notes. He told Doreen everything at dinner each night. And despite all the brutality, all the crimes, all the rage—Wease found himself feeling sympathy for the guy. Susan was shocked. She thought readers would hate Woody. Instead, they're reaching out saying they feel bad for him. The family listens to chilling audio from Woody himself, recorded during Susan's interviews. You hear him describe shooting his parents. You hear him talk about wanting to snap his former attorney's neck. You hear the cold, harsh voice of a man who's spent decades in solitary confinement and doesn't give a damn what anyone thinks. But there's more to the story than violence. There's manipulation, survival, and a man who—despite everything—was still listening to Brother Wease on the radio while building his escape coffin in Auburn. Susan also reveals: How Woody's recent court hearing brought new corroboration to his claims Why his case mirrors the Menendez brothers—abuse, appeals, and media attention The bizarre reality of prison life, including sexual abuse statistics and relationships behind bars How she tracked down other inmates to verify Woody's stories—and what they confirmed Why the book's title, Ungrateful Bastard, comes from a nickname his mother gave him The episode also dives into Susan's previous books—Without a Prayer, now the basis of two Hulu docuseries about cults, and A Jacket Off the Gorge, her account of unknowingly dating an ex-con. Wease is a superfan of her work, and this conversation proves why. Plus, the family gets into: The Super Bowl—Drake Maye vs. Donald, MVP debates, and why the Bills would've smoked both teams Stefon Diggs and Matt Collins fighting Seahawks defenders together, even though they barely played together in Buffalo The Sabres' playoff push and whether they can hold onto their wild card spot Wease's brutal poker bad beats and why he's ready to quit (again) The frozen iguanas falling from trees in South Florida—and Wease's unpopular defense of them A wild encounter with a 50-year-old guy in traffic who looked 80 and had some interesting life advice Susan will be doing a book signing at Elvio's Coffee Shop in Webster on February 21st from 9-11 a.m. Lucy and Jake will be there. Wease and Doreen are stuck in Florida, but they're cheering from afar. And here's the kicker: Right after recording this episode, the family got Woody on the phone from prison. That conversation will be released as a bonus episode—and you'll hear the whole story directly from the killer himself. This is raw, intense, and unlike anything Wease Family Circus has done before. From true crime deep dives to family chaos to sports rants, Episode 6 delivers on every level. It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice.

Clark Peshkin is the presenting sponsor of Wease Family Circus. Clark Peshkin hosts free estate planning workshops that explain what actually works for New York families, especially if you own a home and want to keep things private and simple for the people you love. Register at https://clarkpeshkin.com/wease In Episode 5 of Wease Family Circus, chaos reigns as the family gathers to share stories that could only happen to them—fainting spells, dog bites, and a legendary Rochester broadcaster stopping by before heading out on a cruise. Steve Houseman, the voice of Rochester radio for over 50 years, joins the show from Florida for a conversation packed with nostalgia, laughter, and memories from the golden days of broadcasting. Steve and Wease dig into their three years working together, from backstage moments with Meatloaf to the chaos of Bills games in Florida, to the day Steve quit live on the air and had to be called back out of retirement. The two legends reminisce about: The phone call that changed everything during a playoff series Young Stevie Houseman dropping an F-bomb on the air at age nine Steve's invention of the phrase "Squish the Fish" during Patriots-Dolphins rivalry days The brutal realities of radio careers, firings, and the business that never slows down Why country music artists are just like hockey players—down to earth and generous with their time But the real drama unfolds within the Wease household itself. Jake faints—again. After bringing his two-year-old son Ronan in for eye surgery, Jake makes it through the anesthesia and the procedure just fine. But the moment he looks into Ronan's eyes in the recovery room and sees the stitches, it's lights out. Medical staff scramble to help Jake while Bianca tries to comfort Ronan, who's waking up in a fog. Jake recounts his long history of fainting—eight times and counting—from the dermatologist to Warby Parker to the emergency room. The one exception? He made it through Ronan's home birth without passing out. Go figure. Stevie bites—twice. Doreen's French bulldog Stevie goes full shark mode, biting her not once but twice in the same day over a coconut. Blood everywhere. Panic ensues. Doreen declares she never wanted a dog in the first place and threatens to give Stevie away. Wease has to intervene, hold the dog back, and fish the coconut out of the pool while Doreen bleeds all over the kitchen. It's peak Wease Family Circus dysfunction, and somehow the dog still runs the house. The episode also dives into: The new Miracle on Ice documentary and why it's a must-watch for hockey fans Wease's refusal to watch the gay hockey drama everyone's talking about (and Doreen's confession that she's hooked) Bobby Slayton's name appearing in the Epstein files—and why the headline isn't the real story The upcoming Olympics, curling obsession, and whether anyone actually watches women's hockey Why estate planning matters, especially if you own a home, and how a pour-over will can protect your family This episode is raw, funny, and filled with the kind of honest family moments that make Wease Family Circus unlike anything else out there. From radio legends to fainting spells to French bulldogs with anger management issues, Episode 5 delivers laughs, chaos, and plenty of heart. It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice.

Clark Peshkin is the presenting sponsor of Wease Family Circus. Clark Peshkin hosts free estate planning workshops that explain what actually works for New York families, especially if you own a home and want to keep things private and simple for the people you love. Register at clarkpeshkin.com/wease In Episode 4 of Wease Family Circus, legendary Seattle broadcaster BJ Shea joins the family for one of the most honest conversations the show has had so far. BJ tells the true story behind a moment that stopped everyone in the room cold. He eventually learned that he had been hired for a major radio role as a contingency plan, based on the belief that Wease might not survive cancer. When Wease did survive, the plan quietly changed, and BJ was left dealing with the fallout long after the decisions had already been made. The episode pulls back the curtain on how radio really works when careers, contracts, and corporate strategy collide with real life. It is funny in a way only uncomfortable truth can be, and heavy in the way stories like this usually are. BJ and the family dig into: What it feels like to discover you were someone else’s backup plan The human cost of behind-the-scenes radio decisions Loyalty, integrity, and survival in a business that rarely slows down How moments like this shape careers and people forever It is raw, surprising, and deeply personal, with laughs coming from places you would not expect. Be on the lookout for bonus content at the end of the episode, where the conversation keeps going after you think it is over.

This episode of The Wease Family Circus is presented by Clark Peshkin. After more than 40 years on the radio, Radio Hall of Famer Brother Wease walked into what was supposed to be another morning show — and walked out knowing it would be his last. But the public story wasn’t the real story. In this episode, Wease and his family sit down to tell, in full detail, what actually happened behind the scenes on the day his radio career ended. From late-night phone calls and sleepless hours, to management pressure, silenced microphones, and a goodbye that almost never happened, this is the unfiltered account of a moment Rochester listeners felt — but never fully saw. This is not a rant. This is not speculation. This is the story as it unfolded, from the people who were there. You’ll hear: • What management wanted announced — and when • Why the final show nearly never happened • How a 40-year legacy was reduced to a “format change” • The moment Wease decided he wouldn’t betray his audience • Why this podcast exists at all — and how it began that day For longtime listeners, this episode provides clarity. For new listeners, it’s the origin story of The Wease Family Circus. People wanted the details. Here they are. Clark Peshkin is the presenting sponsor of Wease Family Circus. Clark Peshkin hosts free estate planning workshops that explain what actually works for New York families, especially if you own a home and want to keep things private and simple for the people you love. Register at clarkpeshkin.com/wease

The Dog Peed The Bed—and that's just the beginning of the chaos in Episode 2. Fresh off the heartbreak of the Bills' playoff loss, the Wease family gathers to process the pain, debate what went wrong, and share their raw reactions to Sean McDermott getting fired. From Lucy attending a watch party at Barbell Bob to the collective depression that followed, this episode captures what it means to be a Bills fan in 2025—hope, heartbreak, and the inevitable "wait 'til next year." But sports aren't the only topic on the table. Wease dives into the Miami Hurricanes' national championship game against the Indiana Hoosiers, breaking down the gutsy coaching decisions and standout performances that made it a thriller. Plus, there's plenty of family banter about keeping up with the neighbors (who all drive BMWs), Wease's insistence on shopping for a new luxury car, and Doreen's firm stance on why he absolutely should not. Then comes the story that defines this episode: Stevie the dog pees the bed at 2 a.m. after Wease ignored explicit warnings not to feed her greasy chicken wings and BBQ ribs. Doreen recounts the entire ordeal—rinsing the comforter, doing laundry in the middle of the night, bundling up to take the dog out again—all while Wease slept soundly. When he woke up freezing and complained about his missing blanket, he had no idea what chaos had unfolded. It's peak Wease Family Circus. Other highlights include: Merch madness: Jake and Wease go head-to-head over pricing and quality. Jake wants premium garments that feel great and look sharp; Wease thinks $35 for a T-shirt is highway robbery. The compromise? Options for everyone—whether you want top-tier or basic gear with the logo. Website sneak peek: Wease accidentally leaks details about the upcoming Wease Family Circus website (oops), which Jake has been building with help from Paul Azac and Glenn Galbraith. It's loaded with vintage photos, merch, bios, and more—coming soon. YouTube comments: Wease discovers the YouTube Studio app and is blown away by the flood of positive feedback, guest requests, and nostalgic asks. The family discusses ramping up content—live shows on Sunday nights, Throwback Thursdays, recorded episodes, and more. Expect at least four unique pieces of content per week. Parking lot battles: A heated debate over backup cameras, tight parking spots, and Wease's refusal to use technology. Doreen can park the car in three seconds. Wease? Not so much. Cue the embarrassment when a neighbor watches the whole ordeal. Coming soon: Fan-favorite guests like Tools, Diane, Tommy, Mary Ann, Cirque, Brooks, and more Rochester legends. Plus, the first sponsor—Cannabis Quarter in Clifford—gets a shoutout for their pre-rolls, gummies, and vapes (shoutout to those dog walker joints). And the big tease: Next episode, Wease promises to reveal everything that happened on his final day on the air—the day that ended his 40+ year radio career with no goodbye, no farewell tour, just done. You'll see never-before-seen video and hear the full story behind the shocking exit that left everyone wondering what really went down. Whether you're here for the Bills misery, the family dysfunction, or the promise of legendary stories to come, Episode 2 delivers laughs, chaos, and plenty of heart. It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice.

Welcome to the very first episode of Wease Family Circus! After more than 40 years on the radio, Brother Wease is back—this time in podcast form, and you're invited into the family. Recorded in Florida just before a Bills game, this debut episode captures the raw, unfiltered energy that made Wease a radio legend, now with a whole new twist: video, behind-the-scenes access, and complete creative freedom. Join Wease, his son and producer Satchel (Jake Levin), Doreen Levin (His wife) and the rest of the family as they navigate this brand new medium. Jake has built an incredible studio setup, and the emotion behind bringing this project to life is palpable. As Jake admits, even he cried watching the final cut come together. What to expect from Wease Family Circus: Throwback Thursdays: Dive deep into the archives with hours of classic audio from the radio days—Sam Kinison, Chris Rock, and countless unforgettable moments from 1992-1996 and beyond. For the first time ever, Wease can share this audio that was locked away during his radio career. Listen along live as the family reacts and shares stories you've never heard. Legendary Guests: Get ready for appearances from the whole crew—BJ, Cindy Pierce, Slayton, Shubi, Billy Dittore, and more. Plus sports icons like Jim Kelly, Thurman Thomas, and Doug Flutie. Wease promises to track down everyone from the glory days and bring you the real stories behind the scenes. Four Generations, One Panel: With perspectives spanning multiple generations, every topic—from sports to social media to pop culture—gets dissected from all angles. Lucy will be joining to challenge everyone and keep things interesting. The Untold Story: Why did Wease's radio career end so abruptly? No farewell tour, no two-week goodbye, just... done. Every news outlet wanted the story, but he didn't tell it. Until now. The podcast will reveal everything that happened on that final day, complete with exclusive video footage that captures the emotion and drama behind the scenes. This episode also features plenty of classic Wease tangents: debates about Tony Romo, the Manning Cast, and football announcers; rants about people commenting on fictional TV characters from Landman; Miami Hurricanes fandom; the obsession with Costco; car spotting in South Florida; and why sunsets and sunrises are overrated (or are they?). Wease also addresses the haters head-on, proudly owning his age and experience: "I've been on this planet longer than you, and every day you learn something." He welcomes all feedback, good or bad, and encourages listeners to drop comments, call the new phone line (585-720-0000), and suggest guests and ideas. This is just the beginning. The Wease Family Circus is about to take you on a ride filled with nostalgia, laughter, raw honesty, and a whole lot of heart. Whether you've been a fan since the radio days or you're just discovering the legend, there's a seat at this table for you. It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice.