Welcome to another lively and thought-provoking episode of The Wrong End of the Table! Join your hosts Leah Panapa, Dean Morris, and Andy Clay as they dive into a rollercoaster of discussions that balance humor, debate, and candid anecdotes. In this episode, the trio explores diverse topics, from public health policies to personal quirks and memories, bringing their signature mix of wit and reflection.

What’s on the Table Today?

1. Should Junk Food Be Taxed?
   The hosts kick off with a heated debate on the potential implementation of junk food taxes. What defines “junk food,” and how would such a tax work? The team navigates the complexities, addressing sugar content, processed foods, and health education. Andy advocates for stricter supermarket regulations and clear labeling, even suggesting graphic warnings for unhealthy items, while Leah questions whether self-responsibility should take precedence. The discussion spirals into humorous territory, including a tongue-in-cheek suggestion of hiring amputee advocates to patrol junk food aisles.
2. Space Exploration: Necessary or Excessive?
   The conversation shifts to space exploration and its billion-dollar budgets. Andy critiques the astronomical spending, arguing for prioritizing Earth’s issues, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Leah highlights New Zealand’s modest contributions through Rocket Lab and the potential economic benefits of satellite technology. The debate raises thought-provoking questions about humanity’s priorities and the moral implications of space funding.
3. Quickfire Round: Comedy Gold!
   The second half of the episode brings hilarious and revealing quickfire questions:
   • Worst Pickup Lines: From “Nice shoes, they’d look great under my bed” to shockingly bad one-liners, the hosts share laugh-out-loud moments. Andy reflects on the surprising success of simply saying, “Hi, I’m Andy Clay.”
   • Strange Smells They Love: Leah confesses her love for the scent of sweaty horses, sparking laughter and disbelief. Andy humorously admits to being captivated by the smell of women’s shampoo, and the team dives into quirky olfactory preferences.
   • Social Media Annoyances: Andy critiques posts exploiting personal tragedies or seeking validation, dubbing them disingenuous. Leah highlights her discomfort with graphic images of animal cruelty, while Dean observes how social media often caters to reactions and attention-seeking behaviors.
   • Dating Siblings or Relatives: In a segment full of jaw-dropping tales, the hosts share outrageous dating stories. Andy recalls being set up with a mother by her own daughter, while Leah recounts clicking better with the brothers of her dates.
4. Recurring Themes:
   • Humor Meets Insight: Whether critiquing societal norms or sharing personal quirks, the hosts’ chemistry and quick wit shine through.
   • Authenticity: The podcast’s strength lies in its balance of fun and depth, encouraging laughter while sparking meaningful conversations.

Why Listen?
This episode is packed with everything that makes The Wrong End of the Table an irresistible listen—playful banter, bold opinions, and a genuine connection among the hosts. Whether you’re here for laughs, insights, or the sheer unpredictability of their stories, this episode has something for everyone.

Closing Remarks:
Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join the Wrong End of the Table crew for more unfiltered fun and thought-provoking discussions. Whether it’s ove

Host: Leah Panapa
Costhost: Dean Morris
Addition host: Glen Levy
Producer: Mike Nesbitt

The youtube video version is available from the channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrongEndoftheTable-lv8or

Episode one, available from 1st of June 2024

In Episode 2 of The Wrong End of the Table podcast, hosts Leah Panapa, Dean Morris, and Andrew Clay continue their engaging mix of humor and discussion on topical issues. The episode opens with a lighthearted reflection on podcast dynamics and thanks to their beer sponsor. Magic Mike, the producer, introduces the first question on declining trust in the media. Leah attributes this erosion to the rise of social media and the COVID-19 pandemic, which shifted public perspectives. The hosts discuss "clickbait" headlines, editorial bias, and how social media amplifies misinformation, leading people to question the truth.

The conversation shifts to homelessness, with the hosts debating if it’s solvable. Leah mentions Finland’s success in reducing homelessness by providing housing first, regardless of the individuals' struggles. Dean suggests container shelters as a quick solution, while Andrew discusses the complex societal changes that contribute to homelessness. They conclude that while the issue is multi-layered, a solution is possible with sufficient political will.

Following these topics, they dive into their signature "quick-fire round," where the hosts share quirky personal insights and humorous stories. They debate the most annoying sounds, share unusual fears (with Leah admitting her fear of the dark), and poke fun at fashion trends they'd like to see banned—like Crocs and “slouchy pants.” The hosts end with a laugh, inviting listeners to subscribe and tune in for more lively discussions on The Wrong End of the Table.

Host: Leah Panapa
Costhost: Dean Morris
Addition host: Glen Levy
Producer: Mike Nesbitt

The youtube video version is available from the channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrongEndoftheTable-lv8or

Episode one, available from 1st of June 2024

Season 3, Episode 1 of The Wrong End of the Table podcast marks a fresh start with new co-host Andrew Clay joining Leah Panapa and Dean Morris. The episode kicks off with light-hearted banter and an introduction to the show’s quirky title, which originates from their producer, "Magic Mike," who always ends up sitting at the "wrong end of the table" during their food and drink gatherings.

In this season opener, the hosts dive into lively discussions, touching on both light and serious topics. The conversation kicks off with their thoughts on Donald Trump's unexpected return to the White House. Andrew provides insight into why Trump resonates with certain voters, especially those feeling disenfranchised or opposed to "wokeness" and liberal policies. He acknowledges Trump’s appeal among particular demographics, yet critiques the broader societal and political issues that allow such polarizing figures to hold power. The hosts express concern over the impact of Trump's leadership on America and its potential ripple effects internationally.

Shifting gears, they examine whether today’s school systems are failing students. Leah points to declining educational statistics in New Zealand as evidence that children are not receiving adequate support. Dean reminisces about the structure and discipline that existed in their school days and how such standards seem to have deteriorated. Andrew, who works within the education system, notes that private schools generally offer better outcomes due to smaller class sizes and supportive environments but acknowledges that this is not reflective of the broader public school experience. They conclude that both a lack of resources and teacher shortages are contributing to a downward trend in educational quality.

The episode’s second half features a playful "quick-fire round," where the hosts answer rapid, humorous questions. They laugh about personal quirks, societal observations, and childhood memories, with Magic Mike throwing in unexpected sound effects, adding to the banter. They touch on cosmetic surgery, expressing a shared view that some aesthetic trends—like exaggerated lip fillers—appear overdone. Leah humorously recalls almost opting for liposuction in her twenties, while Andrew jokes about disliking overemphasis on coffee culture, stating he’s never even tasted coffee.

As the episode wraps, they rate themselves on happiness and fulfillment, with Andrew giving himself a solid 8.5, emphasizing the importance of living joyfully and authentically. The episode closes with a reminder to listeners to subscribe and share, with a nod to TikTok's role in spreading the word. With their unique blend of humor, sincerity, and camaraderie, the team sets a warm and engaging tone for the new season.

Host: Leah Panapa
Costhost: Dean Morris
Addition host: Glen Levy
Producer: Mike Nesbitt

The youtube video version is available from the channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrongEndoftheTable-lv8or

Episode one, available from 1st of June 2024