WDYM What Do You Mean?

We come back after a long break with a new video setup, then pivot from gaming choices to the real-life choices managers hate making. We tell stories from Chipotle and a senior facility kitchen that reveal how empathy, anger and staffing pressure shape the way we fire people.  • switching WDYM from audio-only to video and what the reset means  • why Baldur’s Gate 3 feels limitless and why choices...

Why do we still go to Popeyes?  Michael walks in craving spicy chicken and walks out with a bigger question: why do we tolerate broken systems when the payoff is only sometimes worth it? The story starts with missing tea, long waits, and that infamous “we’re out of chicken” at peak time. From there, the timeline rewinds to a moment that shaped a generation—watching 9/11 unfold on a store TV while...

A perfect Ohio finish and a messy national picture collide as we break down Olentangy Orange’s 15–0 march to the Division I championship, Hamilton High’s gritty season with real upside, and a college football playoff field that has fans shaking their heads. We start on the home front—how the Pioneers closed with authority and why Hamilton’s narrow losses, improved QB flashes, and coaching stabilit...

A hundred episodes later, the mic feels different—steadier, sharper, and a lot more honest. We look back at the spark that started during lockdown, then walk through the five episodes that shaped WDYM. It’s a reel of the show’s heart: music, everyday chaos, and the lessons that come with saying what you really mean. We open up about what the first hundred taught us—consistency moves numbers, speci...

A vacation can change your taste, but Vegas changed our soundtrack. What started as an anniversary trip and a Backstreet Boys treat for Destini turned into a full-scale conversion at the Sphere—20,000 people in white, a Millennium theme reimagined for today, and a screen so vast it pulls you inside the music. We trace the whole arc, from Hamilton to the Strip’s heat, from a humble In‑N‑Out reentry...

The shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk has ripped open America's deepest wounds, exposing the raw nerve endings of our political divisions and raising urgent questions about violence, responsibility, and our shared future. What happens when political rhetoric crosses from passionate debate into dangerous territory? And why do we respond to tragedy by pointing fingers instead of finding co...

Ohio high school football kicked off last week with the seventh meeting between Hamilton and Badin, a crosstown rivalry that has become a showcase for our city. Despite Hamilton's talent and momentum from last year's win, Badin secured their fifth victory in the series with a 38-20 final score. • The energy seemed off from the start with Hamilton • Badin returned the opening kickoff for...

Ever wonder what happens when podcast opportunity knocks but uses the wrong doorbell? Michael Gillespie opens this episode with a cautionary tale about business opportunities that don't follow proper channels. Despite tempting collaboration offers landing in his personal inbox, Michael's military background taught him to question why these potential partners bypassed his clearly posted b...

Have you ever wondered what really happens at senior facilities? In this raw and uncensored episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the bizarre, hilarious, and sometimes disturbing realities of working in senior healthcare. From my archives comes a collection of unforgettable tales that perfectly capture the stranger side of caring for elderly patients. There's the diabetic who demanded...

Five seemingly innocent traits can transform your coworker from just another colleague into something far more formidable—a workplace "mob boss." Drawing from his experiences with the enigmatic Cole, Michael Gillespie unveils how ordinary workplace dynamics can mirror the classic power structures of mafia movies. The fascinating character study begins with Cole's perfect cover—a gen...

Michael Gillespie dives into six wild Reddit relationship stories and offers his unfiltered advice on everything from extreme weight gain to suspicious houseguests. • A husband struggling with his wife's 500-pound weight gain and how it's affecting their family • A daughter who found a mysterious young woman in her father's house while his wife was away • A woman disappointed by new...

A dynamic episode highlighting John Cena's significant heel turn in WWE, discussing its implications for the wrestling community and engaging storytelling. Michael shares personal experiences in gaming, fitness, and the intricacies of friendships tied to money. • Cena's heel turn and its historical significance  • Recap of the Elimination Chamber and WWE's current landscape  • Perso...

Picture this: navigating a workforce where common sense feels like a mythical creature and personal hygiene is an afterthought. Welcome to the WDYM podcast, where I, your host, unravel the quirks and frustrations of managing a younger generation that seems to have redefined workplace norms. We'll dive into the curious world of "taps"—short for "trifling ass people"—as I sh...

Everton's season takes a dramatic turn as they rise from the brink of relegation, embodying resilience and determination driven by the return of David Moyes. The club secures key wins against top rivals while navigating injuries and a revival in team spirit. • Everton flirts with relegation in past seasons  • Sean Dyche's management and his subsequent sacking  • David Moyes returns amid...

Ohio State's path to the national championship was nothing short of a rollercoaster ride, and we're here to dissect every twist and turn. Have you ever wondered what it takes to rebound from a heartbreaking loss to a fierce rival like Michigan and still emerge as national champions? Join me, as we explore the extraordinary narrative of Ohio State's football season. We'll uncove...

What if life's unpredictability could teach us invaluable lessons about gratitude, resilience, and passion? Hi! its me Michael Gillespie, we embark on a journey through the whirlwind of 2024. I recount the emotional rollercoaster of witnessing my wife's car accident, an event that left me reeling yet profoundly thankful. In the midst of navigating a challenging culinary career, I found m...

What happens when the political tides take an unexpected turn? Kamala Harris stepping into the spotlight as the Democratic nominee has certainly stirred the political pot, and we're here to unpack this surprise with you. I'm Michael Gillespie, your host for the WDYM podcast, and alongside a journey through the tangled world of American politics, we’ll scrutinize the nuances of this decis...

What does it mean to truly support a football club through thick and thin? We promise to give you a heartfelt exploration on this episode of the WDYM podcast, where the Red Toffee Show takes you into the heart of Premier League football. I'm Michael Gillespie, I trace the journey of the Premier League since 1992 and  reflect on Manchester United's golden era under Alex Ferguson, discuss...

Rewind to the epic battles of Ohio's high school football scene as we journey through the intense rivalry between Hamilton and Badin. Ever wondered how a mere merger of Hamilton's Garfield and Taft high schools in the 1980s could set the stage for a historic showdown? Join me, as we uncover the thrilling 1980 game led by Badin's legendary Tony Farquis and the defensive 1981 rematch....

Have you ever wondered how a friendship can shape your entire life? Join me, Michael Gillespie, on "What Do You Mean?" as I recount the incredible journey of friendship with my longtime friend, Maurice, or Mo. From our days at the Central YMCA in Hamilton, Ohio, to our unforgettable high school years, Maurice has been a cornerstone of my youth. Listen in as I share stories of intense pin...

What if the choice between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump is more unsettling than ever? In this gripping episode of the WDYM podcast, we critically dissect recent debates and the tumultuous state of our political landscape. We question Biden's cognitive abilities through a series of concerning soundbites and insights from my senior care experience. Simultaneously, we sc...

Tune in to the vibrant premiere of Season 3 of the WDYM podcast as we kick things off with a celebratory shoutout to Pride Month. We dive into the historical significance of the Stonewall Riots of 1969, discussing why it's crucial to know our history and proudly stand up for our rights. I also take a moment to honor Yahshua  and Margarita from the So Mixed Up Podcast (Or So Remixed Up) , whos...

Ever wondered what it's like to face the big leap from elementary to middle school? Join Avery , Ava  and me (Amilia)  as we share our personal stories of excitement, fear, and everything in between about leaving fifth grade behind. From the thrill of meeting new friends and picking out exciting electives to the anxiety of tougher academic challenges, we've got it all covered. We'll...

Ever wondered how a single podcast episode could trigger a career upheaval? Tune in as I recount the rollercoaster that was Season Two of the WDYM podcast. An unforeseen hiatus began with my unexpected termination from work over a podcast episode, leading to a two-month journey through corporate red tape. From the highs of our Hamilton-Badin football rivalry series to special guest appearances , t...

Ever find yourself waxing nostalgic about the mixtapes of your youth while swiping left in search of love? Join me, Crystal Kolb , and my Co-Host Michael Gillespie (LOL) as we chuckle over our former dating escapades and get real about searching for that special someone in our 40s. With heart and humor, we dissect the evolution of romantic expectations, the digital dating revolution, and the fine...