On this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana sprint from “False Fall” weather whiplash to utility sticker shock and straight into PokéCon magic. They swap hometown updates (early Nevada snow, rainy Nashville, Alex’s Vegas work swing), then dive into Nevada Energy chatter -from door-knock Facebook drama to confusing peak-usage billing talk - and worry about looming water meter changes. Then Alex reports from his first-ever PokéCon: vendors galore, trading culture, cosplay shout-outs, wood-engraved card art with LEDs, and why TCG value skyrockets when sets rotate out. Along the way: vending-machine card sniping, childhood collectibles (Garbage Pail Kids, muscle men, POGs), Magic/D&D/Lorcana detours, and why Pokémon’s cross-generational formula still hits after 25+ years. Stick around for the invite to send topic ideas. Ramblers want your hottest randomness!
On this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana stir up a little bit of everything - and somehow make it all work. From coworkers already in their grandma era to gift lists featuring foraging kits and MacBook Airs, the duo dives into holiday wish-list debates before debating Apple’s latest design quirks and foldable-phone fads.
Alex shares his backstage adventure at the Grand Ole Opry - complete with creaky floorboards, historical circles, and stories of the 2010 flood that left Nashville underwater - while Adriana goes full sci-fi explaining her new Netflix obsession, The Way Home, a Hallmark time-travel series that’s equal parts emotional and confusingly quantum.
Somewhere between déjà vu and Diane Keaton tributes, the conversation kneads into a surprise Great British Bake-Off challenge, questions about why Alex is adding cornstarch to breakfast burritos, and a parental sports correction that keeps them both humble.
It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia, tech talk, and time-travel chaos - proof that when it comes to A-Squared, there’s always room for one more ingredient.
On this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana dive headfirst into October - where gym gains meet glittering gowns. Alex reveals his evolving fitness journey (and his resistance to spooky season scares), plus the costume ideas that might just deliver big laughs - literally, if “UPS Alex” makes an appearance.
Meanwhile, Adriana takes listeners inside her first-ever Quinceañera, complete with 600 guests, a horse-drawn carriage, and enough food to feed a small town. Between bulking phases, bar-hopping flashbacks, and ballroom floor chaos, the Ramblers unpack what it means to celebrate milestones - from personal growth to party-level spectacle.
Join the duo for laughs, nostalgia, and a little cultural crossover as they keep proving there’s no box they fit in… or costume they can’t fill out.
On this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana pull back the neon curtain on Sin City’s shifting glow - where AI meets Oz and $95 ATMs steal the spotlight.
Fresh off a work trip to Las Vegas, Alex recounts a week that felt universally “off,” from chaotic airport run-ins to emotional shuttle rides, before diving into the eerie calm of a quieter Strip. Together, the hosts unpack how technology is literally rewriting nostalgia - including The Wizard of Oz reborn inside the futuristic Sphere, where artificial intelligence expands the 1939 classic into a full-blown 4D spectacle.
From there, the conversation spirals into pop-culture gold: Wicked theories, Ariana Grande’s turn as Glinda, and the debate over whether Glinda was really the “good” witch after all. That leads to Harry Potter book-club confessions, e-reader love stories, and a surprising defense of digital pages overcrowded bookshelves.
But the heart of this episode belongs to Vegas itself - where tourists are thinning, prices are climbing, and $14 lattes, $30 cocktails, and $40 charcuterie boards have replaced the carefree glitter of old. Alex and Adriana weigh whether Sin City’s soul has been priced out, wondering if AI-driven spectacles and high-tech venues can ever recapture the wonder that once defined the Strip.
It’s a little nostalgia, a little tech, and a whole lot of reality - proving that sometimes, there really ain’t no place like the Strip.
This week on A-Squared Ramblers, Alex and Adriana cover a lot of ground - literally and digitally. From packing strategies gone wrong to full-on sprints through Atlanta’s endless concourses, travel chaos sets the stage for a conversation about how we navigate life on the move.
But it’s not all boarding passes and carry-ons. Alex dives into Apple’s latest iOS 26 update, complete with “liquid glass” visuals, lock screen depth tricks, and the buzzworthy new AirPods translation feature. Adriana weighs in with her own tech quirks and frustrations, sparking a back-and-forth on whether Apple’s tweaks are true game-changers or just another glossy layer.
The episode takes a thoughtful turn into classrooms and campus life, where AI is shaking up the way students and professors interact. From recycled online courses to Grammarly flagging papers as “AI-assisted,” the Ramblers debate where the line falls between resourceful shortcuts and academic dishonesty - and what that means for the future of learning.
As always, expect humor, honesty, and a few pop-culture detours (yes, SpongeBob makes an appearance). Whether you’re boarding a red-eye, downloading the latest update, or questioning the ethics of AI, this episode reminds you to, well, calm your britches.
On this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana bite into everything from corporate apple samplings to childhood “food traumas” that shaped the way they snack today. Alex recounts his Honeycrisp vs. Granny Smith taste test (plus a few adventurous apple picks), while Adriana shares the first-grade caramel apple mishap that left her slicing fruit for life. From licorice aversions and Oreo kick phases to dill pickle cravings and Ben & Jerry’s “Phish Food” obsession, nothing in the snack aisle is off-limits.
The conversation stretches beyond the pantry, too. A listener chimes in with their battery-powered lawnmower experience, adding a full-circle nod to earlier episodes. Alex also recaps his most recent Franklin, KY 5K: hills, race-day playlist strategy, and a top three finish in his age group included. The episode closes on workplace rhythms, from venturing back into corporate office days to tying in Nashville run club routines.
It’s a flavorful mix of stories, laughs, and a reminder that whether it’s food quirks or fitness milestones, the Ramblers never quite fit into a box.
On this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana cover everything from Alex’s Franklin 5K personal record and chip-timed finish line drama to the eternal debate of rolling hills versus one steep climb. The conversation shifts into how we keep relationships alive in a busy world - whether that’s meme-sending as a love language, birthday wishes that feel a little too copy-paste, or parents forever stepping in as tech support and life advisors. Along the way, a comical revelation about the “Brr Months” (September–December) steals the show, before the hosts close with thoughts on season two of Wednesday, a splash of Lady Gaga, and a cliffhanger that sets up next week’s episode.
On this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana swap stories of seasonal shifts, spooky Nevada folklore, and the importance of staying connected. From wildfires and hurricanes to Elko’s haunted Commercial Casino (and its towering White King polar bear), the duo dives into “ghost-slinging” tales before turning to heartfelt conversations about family and reconnection. Whether it’s revisiting childhood bonds or reuniting with friends after years apart, this episode blends the eerie and the emotional in true Rambler fashion.
In our 25th episode milestone, Alex and Adriana kick things off with silver anniversary banter, joking about jewelry, rising costs, and whether a silver chain is in Alex’s future. From there, the conversation wanders into recent watches, with a spoiler-light rave review of Wednesday Season 2 (Part 1), the agelessness of Jenna Ortega and Christina Ricci, and the nostalgia of seeing familiar actors return in new projects like Freaky Friday 2.
That flows naturally into a spirited dive on superhero franchises and the confusing world of multiverses. From Batman casting swaps to Spider-Man crossovers and the Flash’s time travel, Adriana admits to being skeptical of the endless spin-offs, while Alex explains how the multiverse device has become Hollywood’s excuse (and marketing trick) for mixing generations of actors and storylines. Nostalgia proves to be the throughline, with nods to Tobey Maguire, Jack Nicholson’s Joker, and Robert Pattinson’s moody take on the Dark Knight.
The ramble then takes a retro turn, sparked by a Queen rabbit hole on YouTube. Adriana recounts Gen Z reacting in awe to Freddie Mercury’s Live Aid performance - marveling at the lack of phones in the audience - while Alex chimes in on how 1980s culture still resonates today. That nostalgia snowballs into a look back at Game Boys, Pokémon games driving new handheld systems, and what it was like growing up with Nintendo’s golden years.
The conversation pivots into the practical with updates on family tech adventures - Adriana helping her parents adjust to a MacBook Air, larger monitor, and digital finances, while Alex checks accounts multiple times a week to ward off fraud. From biweekly vs. monthly paychecks to budgeting quirks, the pair compare money habits and share laughs over balancing checkbooks and payday illusions.
Then comes the centerpiece discussion: the current job climate for recent college graduates. Inspired by headlines and social media stories, Alex and Adriana ask hard questions about whether the problem lies in the job market itself or in how graduates are applying. They cover the myths of guaranteed jobs after college, the reality of “entry-level” roles asking for years of experience, and the importance of networking, internships, and resumes tailored with relevant keywords. They reflect on how institutions sometimes set false expectations, and how the value of a degree feels diminished when real-world opportunities don’t match the promise.
The episode wraps with meta-podcaster talk on filler words, eye contact in conversation, and Zoom culture - from cameras-off multitasking to how speaking habits shift between in-person and remote settings. Finally, Alex and Adriana circle back, inviting listeners to weigh in: Are recent grads really stranded, or are both sides - institutions and individuals - missing the mark?
In this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana bounce from cozy cold-weather debates to high-speed finish lines. Adriana recounts a family visit from Japan that somehow spiraled into an argument over whether she’s truly a “winter girl,” complete with her unapologetic love for snow shoveling, dreary days, and all things Snowmizer. The conversation drifts into shared nostalgia for stop-motion animation, Tim Burton’s signature style, and quirky creations like Pokémon Concierge, Wallace & Gromit, and Lego cooking videos.
From there, they dive into the evolving realism of AI - from glass fruit cutting videos to voice cloning - and discuss the blurry lines between what’s real and what’s convincingly fabricated. Adriana shares a fascinating story about a specially trained dog that helps its owner distinguish hallucinations from reality, leading to a wider reflection on perception and truth.
Then, Alex takes the mic for big personal news: setting a new personal record at a Franklin, Kentucky 5K. He breaks down the race route, competitive mindset, training approach, and even a friendly rivalry that fueled his final sprint. The pair compare race stats, marvel at standout performances across age groups - including a 70-year-old who clocked a jaw-dropping 24:45 - and talk about balancing conditioning with maintaining muscle mass. They wrap with a look ahead to potential future races, training tweaks, and why Alex is likely sticking with the 5K distance for now. From stop-motion nostalgia and AI deepfakes to competitive finish-line sprints, this episode blends lighthearted banter, personal wins, and thought-provoking tangents in true A-Squared Ramblers fashion.
In this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana swap stories of family cookouts gone sideways, the elusive hunt for a quality Made-in-USA lawnmower, and their very different approaches to “living green” - including Adriana’s legendary push mower era. They cross continents to talk Japan’s ultra-strict recycling rules, share a sweet shout-out to their youngest podcast fan, and reminisce about friends, past work trips, and travel hesitations. Then things take a turn into the strange with the alien-like vanishings at Nevada’s most mysterious rest stops - complete with Reddit deep-dives, wild theories, and a new Rambler travel tip: never stop in Pumpernickel.
In this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana go from unboxing a $2K MacBook Air to questioning how billionaires spend their fortunes - and why it might be time to grade their generosity. Adriana shares the saga of guiding her parents through the Great Computer Decision of 2025: MacBook Air or PC setup? Cue “education” discounts that aren’t really discounts, a missing monitor, and Mom’s complete lack of awe at Apple’s sleek design. From there, the conversation zooms out into a spirited debate on global philanthropy vs. helping at home, whether schools are actually seeing the benefit of tech donations, and what happens when the teacher shortage leads to hiring without licenses. It’s tech talk, hot takes, and side tangents you didn’t see coming — exactly the A-Squared Ramblers way.
In this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana reunite with Caleb for a grounded but spirited conversation about regional contrasts, food culture, and unexpected moments of connection. They kick off by comparing the disorienting chaos of navigating Las Vegas to the gridded ease of Salt Lake City, before shifting to Caleb's experience encountering wild horses in rural Nevada. The episode then takes a flavorful turn into food traditions - debating the real meanings of "barbecue" and "cookout," celebrating the art of grill packets, and unpacking everything from wet vs. dry rubs to regional access to chorizo. Along the way, the trio explores Nashville's hidden foodie pockets, reflects on cultural terminology, and trades stories that blend humor, heritage, and hospitality.
In this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana discuss various themes including the impact of technology on daily life, the fear of missing out due to social media, and the cultural differences in conversation styles. They also explore the challenges of interrupting in conversations, the struggles with subscription services, and the pros and cons of meal delivery services. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to evaluate their own subscriptions and engage with the hosts on social media.
In this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana celebrate a podcasting milestone: 20 recorded episodes. They reflect on the persistence it takes to outlast the average show, sharing behind-the-scenes realities like branding costs, gear purchases, and the challenges of remove collaboration.
Things take a dramatic turn as the duo dives into a real-life scandal involving the CEO of Astronomer and his head of HR - caught on the Coldplay Jumbotron getting cozy in all the wrong ways. They explore power imbalances, workplace ethics, and how professional lines get dangerously blurred when HR and the C-suite mix business with pleasure.
From there, the episode zooms out to broader issues like wealth inequality and absurd CEO salaries. They critique the $15 mission Colbert paycheck, vent about how fast grocery bills reach $300, and joke about how even bagels have become luxury items.
The conversation then shifts to post-secondary planning as Adriana shares that her parents' ancient Dell all-in-one computer finally gave out - sparking a chat about helping family navigate tech decisions, from Dell vs. HP to the Apple ecosystem. This launches a deeper discussion about graduate school: the cost, the commitment, and the lingering question of whether further education is a valuable investment or just academic busywork in a degree-saturated job market.
It's a fast-paced, opinionated episode full of scandal, sticker shock, and sincere questions about what's really worth our time - and our money.
In this Bonus episode of A-Squared Ramblers, Ales and Adriana recount a Fourth of July road trip across Nevada with Alex's roommate, Caleb - A Kentucky native experiencing the Silver State for the first time. From the overstimulation of Las Vegas to the dead-quiet awe of Lamoille Canyon, the two crossed Ely, Eureka, and Elko before landing in Salt Lake City. Along the way, they talk fireworks in tiny towns, small-town charm, and the kind of silence you only find 100 miles from the nearest Starbucks. It's a story of unexpected wonder, desert roads, and a holiday they'll never forget!
In this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana explore a variety of topics ranging from the challenges of memorization and learning styles to the joys of gaming and community building. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with travel, food, and online shopping, while also discussing the resurgence of cursive writing in education and the art of calligraphy. The conversation flows naturally, highlighting the connections between their interests and the impact of social media on modern life.
In this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana reflect on their weekends, discussing the swift passage of time in June, their experiences with Pokémon Go Community Day, and the latest gaming news including the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. They also share culinary delights from graduation parties and delve into the nostalgia of high school reunions, exploring how friendships evolve over time. The conversation emphasizes the importance of maintaining connections and reaching out to old friends.
In this conversation on A-Squared Ramblers, Alex and Adriana discuss the challenges of navigating a difficult Monday at work, reflecting on their experiences with remote work, corporate culture, and the dynamics of returning to the office post-pandemic. They explore the importance of community in the workplace, the effectiveness of hybrid work models, and the need for companies to create engaging environments for their employees. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the significance of in-person interactions in the workplace, the evolving dynamics of company culture, and the implications of hybrid work models. They delve into the future of remote work, particularly in light of recent trends and employee preferences. The discussion shifts to Apple's latest software updates and the frustrations users face with their products, highlighting the need for innovation and adaptation in technology. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of Apple and its position in the tech landscape.
In this episode of A-Squared Ramblers, hosts Alex and Adriana engage in a lively conversation covering a range of topics from personal reflections on the past week, weather discussions, and listener engagement through gifts. They delve into food recommendations, cultural misconceptions, and the impact of aging as they discuss a book club read. The conversation takes a somber turn as they reflect on personal loss and the fragility of life. They also share their thoughts on popular culture, including the Netflix series 'Wednesday' and 'Stranger Things', before transitioning into a discussion about the role of AI in their daily lives and its applications. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted talk about fashion and travel essentials, emphasizing the importance of comfort and practicality.
