Wednesday, October 7, 2015

I Listen So You Don't Have To: Steve Austin Show Ep. 261

Austin is talking barbecue on the latest episode of his podcast
Photo Credit: WWE.com
If you're new, here's the rundown: I listen to a handful of wrestling podcasts each week. Too many, probably, though certainly not all of them. In the interest of saving you time — in case you have the restraint to skip certain episodes — the plan is to give the bare bones of a given show and let you decide if it’s worth investing the time to hear the whole thing. There are better wrestling podcasts out there, of course, but these are the ones in my regular rotation that I feel best fit the category of hit or miss. If I can save other folks some time, I'm happy to do so.

Show: Steve Austin Show
Episode: 261 (Oct. 6, 2015)
Run Time: 1:14:00
Guest: Cedric Martin (12:54)

Summary: This week, Austin brings us an in-person conversation with the man behind Satchamo’s BBQ, a Hartwell, GA, institution. Cedric Martin starts by giving Austin his personal background, which includes several vague details about his “street” life, including his time in prison and decision to get straight. They talk about moonshine and the barbecue background of Martin’s brother, Melvin, as well as Martin’s approach to business, his community outreach efforts and seeking help when it’s needed. Martin also opens up about his life philosophy, career goals and offers some tips for the home cook.

Quote of the week: “There’s a lotta kids out there in the world that feel like they don’t have another choice, except doing that street thing. Well, I wanna show the kids that I’m living proof that you can put down the guns, you can put down the drugs, and you can get out there and do something different. … I hope I never get so big so where, you know you turn your back on where you come from.”

Why you should listen: Anyone who enjoyed last Thursday’s interview with the two guys from DDP Yoga Studios on account of Austin being given to interesting conversation is likely to get something out of this chat with a barbecue entrepreneur. I’m no BBQ savant, but the guy seemed legit and, while Austin didn’t probe for too much detail, it would seem people who speak this language will at least relish the chance to see if the guy walks the walk.

Why you should skip it: Martin’s story seems fairly similar to anyone with a “streets to eats” tale, and since he’s reformed and less than forthcoming with actual details about street and prison life, Martin comes off as a stereotype. It rises above caricature and seems nothing but honest, but it’s just not compelling, no more so than dozens of similar stories you’ve consumed in various forms. Also, there’s no wrestling talk whatsoever.

Final thoughts: Not much reason to go long here. Austin’s a great host, the guest is a good guy and the topic is barbecue and overcoming challenges. If you like that stuff, you’re golden. If not, well, maybe Colt Cabana will have a great guest this week.