TV, Tunes, and Tiny Escapes
This week, I’m taking a break from the usual posts I’ve been doing. I’m on vacation this week, and instead of taking a deep dive into what’s on my mind, I want to share what’s been filling my screen and my ears lately. With all that is happening in the world and how hard life seems right now, these are my escapes. And sometimes, the best way to process the heavy stuff is by letting in the things that move, challenge, or straight-up distract us.
🎬 What I’m Watching
Adolescence
I was drawn to this because of how it’s filmed. Each episode is one single shot, not cuts, and I was intrigued by how they did that. Once I started watching, I was pulled in by the gritty, raw portrayal of growing up and masculinity. It’s messy and uncomfortable at times, but it gave me a lot to think about—as a father and as someone who works in mental health and with men.
The Handmaid’s Tale
I’m late to the party on this one, but I started watching this just last month. Maybe not the best choice given the dystopian world portrayed and what’s happening in our country right now, but I dove in, and here I am. It’s haunting and powerful. Watching it feels like emotional weightlifting—but sometimes, that’s exactly what I need. Added plus, I get to see two cast members from The West Wing in action.
Daredevil: Born Again
I loved the Netflix series and am happy they are continuing this character story. It’s dark, moody, and full of moral tension. I love stories with a flawed hero struggling to navigate right vs. wrong. Vincent D’Onofrio as Kingpin is a chef’s kiss—a masterclass in giving a villain real depth.
Sports (ALWAYS)
No matter the day, the first thing I do when I get home is turn on the TV and watch the game. What game? I don’t care. I’ll watch anything, to be honest. Baseball, basketball, golf, F1, and soccer are just some of my favorites. Sports is a great have on in the background. I’m drawn to the drama of each game/event: the joy, the heartbreak, and the tension.
🎧 What I’m Listening To
Renegades of Funk – Rage Against the Machine
Rage Against the Machine is a favorite, and this song is part of an album of cover tunes. As discussed last week, I’ve been diving into Rick Rubin’s world, and this is an excellent example of his work as a producer. Take a band known for one thing and then push the limits and cover songs different from what they’re known for. The song has an energy I love. The message is like a rallying cry when the world feels like it’s too much.
The Outlaw Torn – Metallica
Of course, there’s always a Metallica song close by for me. This one’s got weight with a guitar riff that I can feel in my soul. It feels like longing and power in one slow, heavy wave. Hot take for my fellow Metallica fans, “Load” and “ReLoad” are the two most underrated albums.
Hurt (Johnny Cash version)
Another song that exemplifies Rick Rubin. Originally by Nine Inch Nails and redone by Jonny Cash, this is the kind of song you put on when all the feels are rising to the surface. It's devastating and honest. Some days, this song just speaks louder than anything else.
Berzerk – Eminem
Eminem is a genius, and I love the way he uses lyrics and samples. High energy because sometimes you need chaos in your headphones to quiet the chaos in your head.
Into the Void – Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath is a band that optimizes why I love metal. I love a good guitar riff more than anything. Listen to the beginning of this song—heavy, trippy, grounding. Then Ozzy’s voice comes in, and boom—it’s like a sonic escape hatch when I need to check out for a bit.
No grand takeaway today—just a reminder that what we watch and listen to is often a mirror of what we’re processing. And sometimes, it’s simply what helps us make it through the day. What are you listening to or watching these days? What’s helping you get by?