Uncommon Content

40 Episodes
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By: Michael C. Durso

Welcome to Uncommon Content; the podcast where we explore the extraordinary in the everyday. Join Michael as he delves into thought-provoking discussions from the intricacies of society, to the lighter side of life with stories about personal adventures and local legends. Each episode promises a unique blend of humor, critique, and insight on topics ranging from the power of perspective to the peculiar habits of our society. Whether it's analyzing the impact of empty government buildings, celebrating the spirit of animal lovers, or uncovering the truth behind "nice fuzzy words" used in deception, Uncommon Content offers a fresh take on b...

Show Me My Papers!
#3
05/21/2025

This week on Uncommon Content... I discuss the constant reminder of my birth, give a shout-out to prison dogs keeping it real, discuss selling temporary pieces of me, and ask for prayers to Our Lady of Guadalupe that I get my passport and start my “old man on a budget” video journey around the globe. 


Wanderlust
#2
05/15/2025

This week on Uncommon Content... I discuss the effectiveness of strategic procrastination when joining the gym, people who are working out furiously to keep up with friends because they are embarrassed to admit they can't afford Ozempic, and how an imaginary 2500 mile ride, ski, and row journey in my head turned into the very real trip around the world on which I am about to embark.


Is A Bear Catholic?
#1
04/29/2025

On this episode of Uncommon Content I discuss more writer’s block, tell a few pope jokes, and run a thought experiment on the shitshow that would occur if Trump died in office of natural causes. 


Off The Reservation - Chapter 29 - A Walk In The City
#23
04/16/2025

Chapter 29 - A Walk In The City

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his...


Off The Reservation - Chapter 28 - The Animal
#22
04/08/2025

Chapter 28 - The Animal

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without...


Thank God I'm A Straight White Male
#21
04/03/2025

This week on Uncommon Content we celebrate one year of the show! My goal for the first year was to generate 24 hours of original content, and the show has almost 30 hours and growing!

There are only two chapters of Off The Reservation left to publish on the podcast. Thanks to everyone that has listened along! Season 3 of the podcast will start with a new format after the next two chapters are published.

Uncommon Content will be back with with its new format in the coming weeks! Let me know if you want to be on...


Off The Reservation - Chapter 27 - Morally Indefensible
#20
03/31/2025

Chapter 27 - Morally Indefensible

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without...


Off The Reservation - Chapter 26 - Off The Reservation
#19
03/25/2025

Chapter 26 - Off The Reservation

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly...


Kenny Walthes
#18
03/20/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss adopted dogs from the wrong side of the tracks, how beer and dogfood built St. Louis, farming as a future, and how much it costs to put a block of butter in space.

My guest is Kenny Walthes. He is a Principal and the Director of Operations for Taylor Roofing. We discuss roofing, the trades as a whole, and antique farming. Kenny is holding the Annual Corn Collectors Festival on April 11th & 12th in Breeze, IL. Come on out!


Off The Reservation - Chapter 25 - Turn Out The Lights, The Party's Over
#17
03/18/2025

Chapter 25 - Turn Out The Lights, The Party's Over

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most...


A Cold Civil War
#16
03/13/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, I discuss an embarrassing congress, property taxes, whether or not to form your own nation, and the actual state of our union. 

No guest this week. I wanted to give my own State of the Union Address. If I had the chance to speak to congress, this is a portion of what I would say. 

It was as fun as it sounds! 


Off The Reservation - Chapter 24 - Someone Is Here
#31
03/11/2025

Chapter 24 - Someone Is Here

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly...


Shaun Spencer
#30
03/06/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss self-checkout statistics, whether or not aging gracefully is a good idea, dirt racing, cult classic movies from childhood, and hotel shenanigans. 

My guest is Shaun Spencer. He is the director of a hybrid retirement home and a kid at heart, so you couldn't ask for better perspective.


Off The Reservation - Chapter 23 - I Hate You, Don't Leave Me!
#29
03/04/2025

Chapter 23 - I Hate You, Don't Leave Me

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of...


Julia Yank
#28
02/27/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss whether or not reality television is child abuse, the definition of virtue signaling, and if friendships can outlast relationships. 

 My guest is Julia Yank. She is the artist formerly known as Mrs. Dank, the first mate on my lifeboat, and dog-mom to our pet velociraptor.  


Off The Reservation - Chapter 22 - Kicking The Covers
#27
02/25/2025

Chapter 22 - Kicking The Covers

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly...


Check Your Prostate!
#26
02/20/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, I discuss the fundraising gap between breast and prostate cancer, covering dog tracks in the snow, why SNL and I are both fifty years old and neither of us is funny, and how to watch old movies with Tom Hanks now that I know he is racist and anti-Christian. 

I did not have a guest this week, but I will be back next week with a great one!


Off The Reservation - Chapter 21 - The Devil Gives Me A Better Job
#25
02/18/2025

Chapter 21 - The Devil Gives Me A Better Job

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most...


Derik Reiser
#24
02/13/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, I discuss weight loss drugs for pets, veterinarian guilt trips, the loss of trust in America's institutions, and the necessity of alcohol for the development of civilization. 

My guest is Derik Reiser. He is the owner of Old Herald Restaurant & Brewery and Ardent Spirits Distillery. Our conversation revolves around how an Enterprise executive starts a second life making tasty beverages, the challenges involved managing all three operations, and Covid's effect on this burgeoning enterprise. 


Off The Reservation - Chapter 20 - Pretty Little Retard
#23
02/11/2025

Chapter 20 - Pretty Little Retard

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly...


Just The Rant
#22
02/06/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, I discuss the Pelosi's amazing investment strategy, Murphy's Law, and how people stealing from you use nice fuzzy names for the theft so you don't question them. 

I did not have a guest this week, unless you count the geese from the lake outside of my studio fighting for dominance. It sounds a lot like our leaders talking to each other. 


Off The Reservation - Chapter 19 - God Gets Me A Job
#21
02/04/2025

Chapter 19 - God Gets Me A Job

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his...


Kim Hocher
#20
01/30/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss the social media "we Zuck" apology tour, the nature of animal lovers, the challenges and successes of JD Vance, and the power of perspective in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. 

My guest is Kim Hocher. She is a great friend, wife, mother, grandmother, animal lover, entrepreneur, and Big Sister. Even with that schedule she found time to be on the show!


Off The Reservation - Chapter 18 - You Can't Fire Me, I Quit!
#19
01/28/2025

Chapter 18 - You Can't Fire Me, I Quit!

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of...


Matt Eversgerd
#18
01/23/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss empty government buildings, drinking like a gentleman, the progression of St. Louis into lawlessness, NFL friends, inaugural fashion, the pervasiveness of gambling, and the late-great Athina Miller.

My guest today is Matt Eversgerd. He is a great friend with a rare zest for life and music. Matt spent fifteen years living in downtown St. Louis, and he has a better understanding than most of its decline.


Off The Reservation - Chapter 17 - I'd Like A Mulligan, Please.
#17
01/21/2025

Chapter 17 - I'd Like a Mulligan, Please.

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his...


Mary Jo Guinn
#16
01/16/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss the death of the local store, education supply's demand, why I hate most lawyers, but love little horses, and the efficacy of saltwater thrown on fires and politicians.
  
My guest today is Mary Jo Guinn. I have know her since childhood; she is a wife, mother, registered nurse, lawyer, and entrepreneur. She has a knack for facing challenges and I am grateful for her time.


Off The Reservation - Chapter 16 - The Restaurant
#15
01/14/2025

Chapter 16 - The Restaurant

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without...


Snow Day
#14
01/09/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, I discuss Jersey Shore aliens, snow days, surge pricing at grocery stores, and revisit the value of hair in the universe. 

I had no guest for this week. I didn't want to drag anybody out in the snow for my hobby. The last bit of this episode is from a show I did in August. If you didn't catch it the first time, give it a listen. Most people tell me it is their favorite.


Off The Reservation - Chapter 15 - Zero Sum Gain
#13
01/07/2025

Chapter 15 - Zero Sum Gain

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly...


General John Michel (USAF Ret.)
#12
01/02/2025

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss hopeful 2025 resolutions, finding a gym, food truck entrepreneurs, and meal insecurity around the world.
  
 My guest today is General John E. Michel (U.S.A.F. Retired).  After 26 years in service to the Air Force, John has continued to help where it is needed by starting the Currency of Caring program and heading up the philanthropic arm of the television series, “Food Is Love”. 


Off The Reservation - Chapter 14 - Like A Penis, Only Smaller
#11
12/31/2024

Chapter 14 - Like A Penis, Only Smaller

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his...


Off The Reservation - Chapter 13 - The Perfect Stall
#10
12/24/2024

Chapter 13 - The Perfect Stall

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly...


Jovanna Becker
#9
12/19/2024

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss the absolute evil that is McKinsey & Company, being a mom, restaurant shenanigans, and how sobriety and faith can make your life better when you are ready.
 
My guest this week is Jovanna Becker.  She is a great friend and the first employee I hired at my last restaurant. She is currently the Bar Manager for Copperfire Restaurant & Bar, and one of the most loyal and honest people I know.

Note: There will be no episode next week to celebrate Christmas. We will be back on January, 2nd!


Off The Reservation - Chapter 12 - Along For The Ride
#8
12/17/2024

Chapter 12 - Along For The Ride

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually...


Brendan McFarland
#7
12/12/2024

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss the status of college in society, why Black Rock wants your house, the disappearing labor force, and if having AI is better than having a degree.
 
My guest this week Brendan McFarland. He is a 19 year-old Ironworker by trade, and I asked him to come on the show to give me some insight. Not just as a young tradesman, but young anything. I am becoming more fuddy duddy every day. I farted twice in public this week.   


Off The Reservation - Chapter 11 - Wanderlust
#6
12/10/2024

Chapter 11 - Wanderlust

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by Mother Nature. Rossi learns most of his lessons--gradually, reluctantly, painstakingly--without imposing...


Chad Booth
#5
12/05/2024

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss mouse movers, working from home, the national debt, and how longtime friendships can feel more like brotherhood.
 
 My guest this week is Chad Booth. Chad has allowed me to rent a room in his house, on and off, for over 20 years. We didn’t even scratch the surface on stories, but he will be back.   


Off The Reservation - Chapter 10 - I Am An Adult And I Have The Papers To Prove It
12/03/2024

Chapter 10 - I Am An Adult And I Have The Papers To Prove It

Equal parts shocking and moving, Off the Reservation: Stories I Almost Took to the Grave and Probably Should Have is an absurdist confessional memoir, accurately detailing the reckless hijinks of a bipolar alcoholic with borderline personality disorder. This stranger-than-fiction true story spans over three decades, as Michael recounts his tales with wincing honesty. Eventually, the maniacal nights of booze, drugs, and sex give way to rude awakenings in empty rooms, jail cells, and beds of snow from a failed suicide by...


Eddie Mac
#3
11/28/2024

This week on Uncommon Content, we discuss colorful breakfast cereals, chicken emotions, cultivation and homesteading basics, and the legal differences between hemp and cannabis.

My guest this week is Eddie Mac. Eddie is a good friend and well-know cultivation expert with two green thumbs. He has adopted a basic homesteading lifestyle and intends to start a cultivation channel on YouTube to share his knowledge.