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"The one thing you can count on is that I will never stay the same." – Madonna It's our 50th episode, and we're pulling out all the stops! We discuss CONFESSIONS II, break down Madonna's FIFA Halftime Show performance, and luxuriate in the glorious bath that is the newest era from the Queen. Then finally, the moment this whole project has been building towards: The Celebration Celebration celebrates THE CELEBRATION TOUR! We discuss all of the numbers, the outfits, and and every iconic moment from Madonna's greatest retrospective on stage. Finally, we bring Ma'Deathmatch to its epic conclusion, deciding once and for all which performance of each of Madonna's iconic songs reigns supreme. (For now!) And we've got several past guests helping us deciding the definitive tour performance of Holiday! Let's strike up the band one last time, because this is a celebration, b*tches! Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"I'm used to getting a good rumping from the critics. So what?" – Madonna In our final chapter on Madonna's film career, we're taking one last trip to the multiplex for three of her most infamous films: SHANGHAI SURPRISE, THE NEXT BEST THING, and SWEPT AWAY. We revisit the performances, the Razzie infamy, and the disappointing box office. Were her relationships with Sean Penn, Rupert Everett, or Guy Ritchie partially to blame? Then we shift gears as we prepare for our milestone 50th episode! Thanks to a listener's suggestion (that's Kevin!) we rank every closing number from Madonna's concert tours, starting with Material Girl, then Holiday, then Keep It Together and so on and so on! One last look back before we take our final bow, because THAT'S A WRAP ON MADONNA! (her film career, at least) Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"To say that I have great marketing savvy is ultimately an insult, because it undermines my power as an artist." — Madonna In this episode, we take a look at Madonna's long and fascinating history in commercials. Whether she's selling Pepsi, promoting luxury fashion, or simply selling the idea of Madonna herself, one thing is certain: nobody knows branding quite like the Material Girl. We're joined by Madonna fan, podcaster and copywriter TODD WERKHOVEN (Portland at the Movies & Mark and Toddcast) to break down the ads, the campaigns, and the moments when Madonna turned marketing into an art form. We also discuss her new song, the Times Square appearance, and CONFESSIONS II - THE FILM. Mother is feeding us! Follow Todd on Instagram and Facebook: @toddwerkhoven Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Making movies is really hard. It's the hardest thing I've ever done.” – Madonna In this episode, we dive into Madonna’s bold stint behind the camera with her two feature films: FILTH AND WISDOM and W.E. From the chaotic bohemian dreamers of London to the doomed romance of Wallis Simpson and Edward VIII, the Queen of Pop takes herself, and the rest of us, to film school. We discuss the influence of Christopher Flynn, the shadow of her divorce from Guy Ritchie, and why these films might deserve a second look. Grab your fishnets, Criterion Collection, and a bucket of popcorn because the previews are starting! Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“A revolution of love is needed now more than ever.” – Madonna Grab your berets (French or otherwise) roll some clove cigarettes and get ready to start a revolution because in this episode we’re looking at Madonna in the context that suits her best: the art film. From whispered manifestos to high-fashion martyrdom, we dive into Madonna’s visual projects: Madonna x Steven Klein - X-STaTIC Pro=CeSS, SecretProjectRevolution, The Hire: Star. Her-Story, Madonna X Vanity Fair, and Funeral Rites.  It’s Madonna, so we know it’s high fashion. But is it art? Is it deep? Is it camp? Is it all those things? Is it more? We discuss. Joining us is visual artist and professor NEIL GOLDBERG, who helps us unpack the imagery, the intention, and the meaning (or lack thereof) behind these striking, divisive works. Check out Neil’s website https://neilgoldberg.com Links to the videos we discuss Madonna x Steven Klein - X-STaTIC Pro=CeSS  01 – Bed  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6Z5tLV4BJQ 02 – Coyote https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COcmAsuELGY 03 – Pulse https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaOTTZJa5g4 04 – The Beast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-UQ2pcTcc8 05 - Queen https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iO7WX1lKcWw 06 – Disposition 4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JgRALF8BwE 07 – Disposition 9 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lykDTMxqWAI SecretProjectRevolution https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXfXrl4K2D4 The Hire: Star (9:04) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nK87YLmagt4&list=PLsO2HF8sdQ9QMF-bOz_-qfw4dbeCBW6e7&index=4 Her-Story (12:47) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qr9_sweOdMQ Madonna X Vanity Fair: The Enlightenment (6:19) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtnRbQ4Amoo Funeral Rites (2:34) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H42m_LC3TDk Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Photo of Neil Goldberg by Greg Kramer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Some people need to be shocked.” - Madonna In this episode we look at Madonna in the context that suits her best: the coffee table. First we carefully open S.E.X., Madonna’s infamous 1992 coffee table book created with photographer Steven Meisel and a whole team of stylists, performers, and collaborators. Part art project, part provocation, the book pushed boundaries with its explicit imagery, elaborate role play, and basic construction problems. Then we flip to The Girlie Show, the lavish behind-the-scenes photography book documenting Madonna’s 1993 world tour. Joining us for the third time is someone who’s always boots: it’s MIKE JENSEN!  And who's that girl? Why it’s Mike's long time co-host: VONIA ARSLANIAN! She has graciously volunteered to speak for all women. Follow Mike on Twitter & IG: @mikejensen77 Listen to their podcast! Mike and Vonia Can't Not: linktr.ee/mikeandvonia We Couldn't Help But Wonder (A Sex & the City podcast with a twist!): wecouldnthelpbutwonder.com Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“I like to be a team player. All the projects I do are collaborations. And I want to solicit the opinions and help of other people.” — Madonna In this episode we explore Madonna’s work as part of an ensemble, where her screen presence shifts from center stage to something looser, sharper, and often more playful. First we visit Bloodhounds of Broadway, a strange, stylish Prohibition-era anthology packed with eccentrics, jazz, and theatrical energy. Madonna appears as Hortense Hathaway, drifting through smoky nightclubs and overlapping storylines in a film that feels less like a traditional movie and more like a late-night fever dream. Then we head to A League of Their Own, where Madonna’s Mae Mordabito steals scenes with confidence, comedy, and unforgettable locker-room energy. We talk about why this role works so well for her, how the film balances multiple storylines, and what it reveals about Madonna as a character actor inside a beloved ensemble classic. To help us unpack the film’s tone, performances, and where Madonna fits inside its chaos, we’re joined once again by friend of the pod (check her out in our episode on Dick Tracey), MERRY GRISSOM! Merry helps us look at each film’s legacy, their cultural impact, and the raw star power of Madonna. Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“I wanted to write stories that would help children talk about feelings they don’t always know how to express.” — Madonna In this episode we explore Madonna’s surprising foray into children’s storytelling and family-friendly media during the early 2000s. First we visit Arthur and the Invisibles, where Madonna lends her voice to Princess Selenia in a tiny CGI world full of bugs, treasure, and big lessons in what turned out to be her last on-screen acting role (for now). To help us assess this film (and some of Madonna's music videos) we've got John's seven year old niece: Emily! Then we dig deep into Madonna’s children’s books, starting with The English Roses, unpacking the jealousy, kindness, gossip, and very serious feelings hiding beneath the pastel illustrations and storybook dresses. To give these books their proper context, we're joined by two more of John's nieces: Kathryn and Emma!! Together, these projects show a Madonna who wasn’t interested in shocking kids. She wanted them to talk about their feelings, learn a lesson, and maybe pick up a beautifully illustrated hardcover while they were at it. Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“I’m not interested in being Wonder Woman in the gym. I want to be stronger than Wonder Woman.” – Madonna In this episode, we look at the business venture that was Madonna's Hard Candy Fitness, including the workout DVDs, ADDICTED TO SWEAT. We also take a look at what turned out to be her last appearance acting on screen (for now), playing Liz on the iconic sitcom WILL & GRACE! We're joined by actor, personal trainer, and (most importantly) huge Madonna fan, CHASE McCOWN! You're going to want to get into his groove because he's got the connections and he's got the tea! Follow Chase on Instagram: @mchasemccown Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“I live a highly scheduled life. There’s absolutely no time wasted. I’m very focused. And I have a great assistant.” – Madonna In this episode, we sit down with one of Madonna’s former assistants, Amanda Tate Beir, for a rare, behind-the-scenes look at what it's like to be the assistant to the most influential pop artist of our time. From her beginnings as an intern at Maverick Records, to becoming Madonna's personal assistant, Amanda shares with us what Madonna is like when the cameras aren't on, what people get wrong about her, and shares stuff that only the inner circle knows! It's the tuberose fantasy you always dreamed of! Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Art should be dangerous. That’s when it’s real.” – Madonna In this episode, we explore the chaos, controversy, and creative bravery of Madonna’s darkest, boldest, and most combustible film work. From the gritty downtown art-scene roots of A Certain Sacrifice to Abel Ferrara’s raw, meta-cinematic Dangerous Game, these are the moments when Madonna started playing with fire. (metaphorically speaking, that is) We also discuss the upcoming Bedtime Stories - The Untold Chapter, her podcast interview with Jay Shetty, and her screen test for the TV show Fame! She's gonna live forever, and we’re all just lucky to watch her burn! FAME AUDITION: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ie6ebTBlvrw A CERTAIN SACRIFICE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30CVe3OjgFM&t=702s Thank you, Dan K! Check out their YouTube Cannel: https://www.youtube.com/@DanKVideoEdits/videos Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"No matter what you did, no matter who you are, no matter where you've come from, you can always change, become a better version of yourself." - Madonna In this episode, we dive into Madonna’s second tour documentary, I’m Going to Tell You a Secret, which followed the 2004 Re-Invention Tour and gave fans a more spiritual, intimate look at the Queen of Pop. We’re joined once again by Brendan Cooper (Eric’s Drag Mother and our returning guest from the Truth or Dare episode) who helps us unpack the contrasts between Madonna’s two tour films, the evolution of her onstage persona, and the ways this documentary reflects her mid-2000s reinvention. We share some secrets of our own, create our own "Madonna poetry," and fight for #JusticForJoan And we discuss the latest news on CONFESSIONS ON A DANCE FLOOR PT. 2! WATCH THE MOVIE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpo1q4LXMF0&t=6098s Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy: https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grab your remote because this week we’re diving into some of Madonna’s unforgettable talk show moments, from sparring with David Letterman to flirting with Johnny Carson, to teaching Rosie O'Donnell yoga and playing Carpool Karaoke with James Cordon! Joining us is writer, dog parent, and former writer on the Ellen Show, we've got AMY RHODES! Follow Amy on Instagram: @iamamyrhodes  Plus we talk about her recent birthday celebration and Veronica Electronica! Here are links to these appearances in case you want to follow along! Madonna Like a Virgin Promotion https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Luuq8I2xlYw&list=PL0KAME_fIMGc5NHG7ZKDitt8xvNcWAUSK&index=16&t=1s Madonna on Tonight Show with Johnny Carson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CBCyHZsSco&list=PL0KAME_fIMGc5NHG7ZKDitt8xvNcWAUSK&index=1&t=2s Madonna on Letterman https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMQWR2v9opQ&list=PL0KAME_fIMGc5NHG7ZKDitt8xvNcWAUSK&index=6 Madonna on Rosie O'Donnell https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bF4kYO3uNKw&list=PL0KAME_fIMGc5NHG7ZKDitt8xvNcWAUSK&index=15 Madonna Carpool karaoke https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sx2PfL2ekTY&list=PL0KAME_fIMGc5NHG7ZKDitt8xvNcWAUSK&index=5&t=2s Madonna on Ellen Pt. 1: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xupi4v Pt. 2: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xupje5 Pt. 3: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xupko1 Pt. 4: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xuplyd Pt. 5: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xupmpp Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grab your popcorn (young Madonna's favorite food) because this week we're talking about Madonna's blink-and-you’ll-miss-it film appearances. From a bar crooner in Vision Quest to a fencing instructor with attitude in Die Another Day, we’re breaking down six roles where the Queen of Pop pops in, makes an impression, and vanishes just as quickly. We’ll talk her tightrope walker in Shadows and Fog, the telegram-singing in Blue in the Face, camp witchery in Four Rooms, and sex-positivity in Girl 6. Are these forgettable cameos, or tiny gems that show off Madge’s knack for stealing a scene? Either way, we’re watching them all so you don’t have to (but maybe you should). Plus: which cameo deserves a full spin-off? Which one made us cringe? And what does it say about Madonna’s relationship to Hollywood that so many of her roles are... cameos? Here are links to those performances in case you want to follow along! Vision Quest  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akUVYzA8G20 Shadows and Fog https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjXyTPyy60I Blue in the Face  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJ99leUQjgA&list=RDvJ99leUQjgA&start_radio=1 Four Rooms  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYXZay3hQhM Girl 6 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmYQimfiCpk Die Another Day  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjJE9f3fadw Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the ballrooms of the '80s to the front lines of Pride, Madonna has stood with the queer community, but why exactly is she such a gay icon? In this special Pride Month episode, we explore Madonna’s decades-long relationship with LGBTQ+ people: the music, the activism, the controversies, and the undeniable influence. We dive into voguing and “Truth or Dare,” AIDS activism and Dance-a-thons, the Stonewall speech, GLAAD awards, lawsuits, and more. We don’t shy away from the messy parts, but we also give the Queen her flowers. Is she a savior? A thief? A symbol? A sister? Or maybe all of the above. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just gay enough to be curious—this one’s for you. Email us: [email protected] Follow us on Instagram: @TheCelebrationCelebration Pick up a copy of Eric’s book: The Dancer https://a.co/d/0gAi3be Pick up a copy of John's book: Baked! Sex, Drugs, and Alternative Comedy https://amzn.to/3tUbvOM For autographed copies: https://www.johnflynncomedian.com/baked Edited by: John Flynn Artwork by Dyna Moe: https://www.nobodyssweetheart.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.