Archives For Two Gomers

I was raised listening to NPR, and since the advent of podcasting and audible.com, have consumed about 15-20 hours of audio content a week.  Despite a deep love for the work of Ira Glass and the guys at Radiolab, I’ve enjoyed listening to Two Gomers Run a Marathon more than anything else.

The podcast started when two friends decided to give up their monumentally lazy lives and run a half marathon together.  Living on opposite sides of the country, they decided to podcast the whole thing.

The journey has been a difficult one, causing everything from blisters to shingles, and even one gomer getting hit by a car while running.  It has also been a ton of fun.  The gomers are true nerds, and children of nineties.  In many episodes, the running related content seems to be tacked on top of references to Full House, descriptions of their love for fast food and stories from growing up.

The Gomer phenomenon is a case study in modern media.  Both seasons have consistently highly rated on iTunes.  They have nearly 1,000 Facebook fans, and raised over $3,000 from charity.  They are a perfect example of Seth Godin’s Tribes or the 1,000 true fans theory.    Three things make the Gomers stand out, and teach us about how to connect and inspire:

1.  Looking Stupid Can Be Inspiring.  Even by choosing the name “Gomer,” they started the project with a sense of self deprecation.  They have never stopped flaunting their ignorance, or their desire to overcome it.

2.  Interact Relentlessly.  Originally, it started with the Gomers asking for running tips.  However, conversation has included everything from how to revive leftovers to thoughts on the iPad.  These conversations have engaged fans on Facebook and Twitter, and find their way back into the podcast.

3.  Authentically Display Your Faith.  TGRAM is not a Christian podcast, however, it is a podcast made by Christians.  Mentions of prayer and spirituality pepper the conversation.  This gives the discussions an added level of depth and inspiration.

Last Sunday, the two Gomers ran a marathon.  The podcast is coming to an end, and I feel like I’m saying goodbye to friends.

You can catch up on the whole saga at TwoGomers.com or search for Two Gomers on iTunes.  Here’s another inspiration of the Gomers.

8 Hours That Will Change Your Life

Chris —  December 29, 2009

I listen to a LOT of audio content.  It has helped me get in shape, learn more about my favorite topics, and grow closer to God.  I don’t expect you to listen with the veracity I do, but I can promise you that by just listening 8 hours a week will change your life.  Hereare my favorites.

This American Life — Consistently number one on iTunes, PRI’s Ira Glass uses an overarching theme, entrancing music, and humor to present stories of everyday people that are funny, sad and moving.

Radiolab — Seth Godin and I agree that this is simply the best audio program ever made.  Robert and Jad use sound as a paintbrush to break down the mysteries of science in everyday ways.  As if the radio show wasn’t enough, they “deleted scenes” to make additional content just for the podcast.  Listen to every single episode.

Catalyst — More than just a commercial for their conferences, it’s a great resource for leaders of all types.  Church leaders like Andy Stanley and Erwin McManus show up regularly, as well as business leaders like Guy Kawasaki and Chris Anderson. A great resource for early adopters.

Mars Hill Bible Church / Mars Hill Church – I enjoy listening to the two young, charismatic Christian doppelgangers back to back.  Rob Bell and Mark Driscoll gave their churches similar names, preach for an hour and appeal to young adults, yet have drastically different approaches to communication and theology.

North Point Ministries – I know no better communicator than Andy Stanley.  He has a deep theology, yet a simple style.  Great, no matter where you are in your faith walk.

Stuff You Should Know — Ever wondered How Muppets Work?  How to Steal a Nuclear Bomb? How to Fake the Moon Landing?  Give Chuck and Josh 15 minutes and you’ll have great ammo for the next boring cocktail party.

The Moth — Real people sharing personal stories on stage and unscripted.  Hilarious, heart breaking and enriching.

Two Gomers Run a Marathon — Steven and Anthony are two dudes who have been best friends since growing up in youth group together.  Fed up with the legendary lethargy, they try to do something they’ve never done: run a marathon.  It is so funny I am afraid of laughing my way into oncoming cars on a run.  Moreover, listening to how the deep faith and sincere friendship leads two normal dudes to do phenomenal things makes me want to accomplish more with my life, and dive deeper into my friendships.

Take a listen.