Unpacking Peanuts

1. 1971 Part 1 - For the Love of Miss Helen Sweetstory

Doomed romance is in the air as Snoopy falls in love with his favorite author, and Peppermint Patty writes a “Dear Chuck” letter. Elsewhere, we discuss Schulz’s personal life imploding and give our standard, insightful commentary on Peanuts, cartooning, and how to avoid the draft. Plus: Linus is MIA! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional v

May 30,2023 01:34:20

2. with Mark Crilley - author of Miki Falls, Akiko, Brody’s Ghost, and the Drawing Lesson

It’s an extra-special day at the studio—Mark Crilley is here! We had a great discussion with the author of the Miki Falls, Akiko and Brody’s Ghost book series, as well as amazing how-to-draw books and YouTube videos that have been enjoyed by millions. Don’t miss this one! Plus: Vegas, baby!You can find Mark on social media here:https://www.youtube.com/@markcrilleyhttps://www.facebook.com/markcrilleyOFFICIALhttps://twitter.com/markcrilleyhttps://www.instagram.com/markcrilleyreal/Transcript avail

May 23,2023 01:12:35

3. 1970 Part 2 - Woodstock and The World Famous Grocery Clerk

At the Daisy Hill Puppy Farm, there’s a riot goin’ on! But amid the chaos, Snoopy finds romance, and Woodstock gets his name. It’s an action-packed year for Linus, Lucy, and “Chuck” too, so get ready to do a little heavy reading tonight! Plus: Love Balloon would be a great band name.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza S

May 16,2023 01:25:33

4. 1970 Part 1 - Charlie Brown is the GOAT

It's a brand new decade, and things are getting weird. Is Snoopy the Head Beagle, or just a funny looking kid with a big nose? Well this year, he’s both, which Jimmy loves but makes Michael’s head hurt! Elsewhere, Peppermint Patty is being hassled about the school dress code, and Charlie Brown fears he is the goat… but it’s ok, ‘cuz we know he’s really the GOAT! Plus: Wacky Packages and Hockey Cards.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael

May 09,2023 01:17:14

5. With Joel Hodgson, Creator of Mystery Science Theater 3000

It’s a very special day at Unpacking Peanuts, as the guys welcome comedian, actor, writer, and creator of the legendary Mystery Science Theater 3000… Joel Hodgson! We discuss Joel’s career, his early desire to be a cartoonist, his and Schulz’s shared Minnesota roots, and then dive into Joel’s favorite Peanuts strips. MST3K can be seen on gizmoplex.comTranscript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited

Apr 18,2023 01:10:26

6. Finale Season 4: You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

We say so long to the Swinging 60’s, and set the stage for the Sunny 70’s as Jimmy, Michael and Harold look back on what is probably the greatest decade of work by any cartoonist ever. Then, special guests Marcia Hepps and Gay Merwin join Liz and the guys to talk about one of the first-ever amateur productions of You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown, and tell of composer Clark Gesner’s rave review. Plus: Our mission going forward!Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyri

Apr 11,2023 01:08:44

7. 1969 Part 2 - If You’re Late For The First Day of School, Do They Kill You?

Lucy’s year continues, and apparently even God is a fan! But all is not rosy, cuz the Little Red Haired Girl is moving away! Will Charlie Brown finally say hello? Will Sally survive school? And how did Lucy get Babe Ruth’s glove? Don’t ask. Plus: A perfect day for banana fish… or just a pretty good day for goop?Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Ad

Apr 04,2023 01:23:01

8. 1969 Part 1 - Feelin’ Groovy

It may be Lucy’s Year, but Schulz is raising the stakes and going to extremes… and maybe feeling a bit nostalgic for good ol’ Minnesota… as winter sports are everywhere in the strip. Meanwhile… Sally is living in fear, Linus is getting involved, and Snoopy is going to the moon. Plus: The final Shermometer!Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Addition

Mar 28,2023 01:08:00

9. 1968 Part 2 - That’s Art!

The world is changing, and Charles Schulz is changing with it. As America struggles (once again) with racial divide, Schulz integrates Peanuts. Elsewhere, Snoopy goes on a quest to meet the mysterious “Lila”, Linus learns what art is, and Peppermint Patty continues to keep it real. Plus: How come no one sings “Chloe” anymore?Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Mi

Mar 21,2023 01:21:12

10. 1968 Part 1 - Let’s Not Overlook The Possibility of Genius

What makes a bird a Woodstock? Well, someone must know, because even stupid questions have answers! We watch as the classic character slowly comes into focus, and marvel as Schulz remains firmly in the center of a changing zeitgeist. Then Michael takes us on a quick tour of Muscle Beach, and Snoopy kicks everyone’s butt in a sequence Jimmy believes reflects perfect management style. Plus: A square who doesn’t care, is no square at all.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanut

Mar 14,2023 01:08:37

11. Special Episode: Happy Anniversary To Us!

Good Grief, we made it a year! Join us as we pat ourselves on the back, talk about our other influences as cartoonists, and… oh yeah! Talk about Peanuts! It’s been a wonderful year, so please enjoy this bonus episode as a thank you from us to you. Plus: Jimmy makes a true confession that will rock the Unpacking Peanuts Universe to its core!Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumn

Mar 07,2023 01:25:58

12. 1967 Part 2 - No One Understands My Generation Either

It's the Summer of Love, and we discuss the real world inspiration for the Little Red Haired Girl. Meanwhile, Schulz continues to fine tune the characters in both design and personality, as he fills out the year with a mix of long sequences (The Burning of the Blanket) and sharp one offs (Bird Hippie!). Plus: What is “Peak Forehead?”Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Musi

Feb 28,2023 01:16:35

13. 1967 Part 1 - The Day I Threw My Strike

Linus continues his reign as the master of sincere sarcasm. Sally gets hysterical, which Michael finds upsetting; and Charles Schulz, now the calm center of a worldwide phenomenon, works to integrate his flood of new ideas while maintaining his beloved core cast. Plus: Shermy lets it all hang out.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceo

Feb 21,2023 01:23:07

14. Happy Valentine’s Day, You Blockhead!

Love is in the air… or is that despair? Sometimes it’s the same thing, especially for Good Ol’ Charlie Brown. In this episode, we read through all of the Valentine’s Day strips Schulz produced in the first decade and a half of Peanuts. Lots of classics here, from loverboy Snoopy to frustrated Lucy, and the ongoing comic tragedy of Charlie Brown and the Little Red Haired girl. Plus: Plus nothing… it’s just the Valentine’s strips. Whaddya want? Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking

Feb 14,2023 01:17:51

15. The Football Strips - Special Episode

In honor of the “Big Game” we take a look at all of the annual Charlie Brown versus Lucy football gags from the first 16 years of Peanuts. Is Charlie Brown an innocent? An optimist? A dupe? We may never know. But one thing’s for sure, Lucy sure can play him like a fiddle. Plus: The death of Krazy Kat?Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional vo

Feb 07,2023 01:16:30

16. 1966 Part 2 - The Name’s Patty… “Peppermint” Patty

There’s a new girl on the scene and she’s set to be a star, as Schulz turns the kid comic genre on its head with the debut of a startlingly modern new heroine; the immortal ‘‘Peppermint” Patty. Meanwhile, Snoopy is living an adventurous life, and Charlie Brown has no idea what’s going on. Plus: Engelbert Humperdinck. No, the other Engelbert Humperdinck.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited

Jan 31,2023 01:04:02

17. 1966 Part 1 - I Only Dread One Day at a Time

Snoopy’s latest persona is a pop culture sensation, and he’s threatening to take over the entire strip! Unless the French Foreign Legion calls him away. Elsewhere, Sally still has her eye patch, Charlie Brown is still Charlie Brown, and Linus and Lucy are moving away! Plus: maze, M-A-Y-S, maze.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover

Jan 24,2023 01:12:44

18. With Benjamin Clark, Curator of the Charles M. Schulz Museum

Today, the guys welcome Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center Curator Benjamin Clark. Benjamin leads a team of professionals dedicated to the preservation, display, and interpretation of the life and art of Peanuts comic strip creator, Charles M. Schulz. We talk about the excitement and challenges of working for the Peanuts brand, the care that goes into each exhibit at the museum, and the process of writing the new book Charles M. Schulz: A Life in 100 Objects. Plus: the origin of the Ra

Jan 17,2023 01:28:46

19. 1965 Part 2 - The Flying Ace Takes Off!

Peanuts is peaking and we are here for it! Charlie Brown goes to camp and makes a good temporary friend. Not content with becoming a mere pilot, Snoopy also launches both his writing and surfing careers. Lucy cures Charlie Brown with Psychiatry à Go Go, and Linus manifests the gift of prophecy. Plus: Sydney or the Bush?!Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael

Jan 10,2023 01:43:42

20. 1965 Part 1 - Young Beagles In Love

Snoopy’s late night rendezvous with a certain girl beagle leads to thoughts of marriage. But will Snoopy get left at the altar? Meanwhile, Patty and Violet get a late career star turn, Linus gets something called a “cinch notice,” and Annette Funicello grows up. Plus: Jimmy meets Gene Simmons, and it does not go well.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Coh

Jan 03,2023 01:22:15

21. Special Episode - A Charlie Brown Christmas

As much a part of the holidays as Rudolph and mistletoe, the legendary first Peanuts special has lived in the hearts of millions since its debut in 1965. In this special episode Jimmy, Harold, and Michael examine the strips that were adapted for the show, discuss the story behind the production, and relay their own experiences with viewing… or not viewing… the classic program. Plus: More graphics get blandished!Download super-listener Joshua Stauffer's PDF of the strips used in the animated spec

Dec 13,2022 01:43:24

22. With Stephen J. Lind, Author of A Charlie Brown Religion

In this episode, we chat with Stephen Lind, author of the fascinating book A Charlie Brown Religion. We discuss the ever-evolving nature of Schulz’s faith, hear about the challenges of writing a book of this type, and marvel at Schulz’s ability to bring people together. Plus: we ask the most important theological question of all… Has it ever occurred to you that you might be wrong?Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold

Dec 06,2022 01:04:32

23. With Will & Kevin Hines, Hosts of Screw It We’re Just Gonna Talk About Comics podcast

Today, the guys are joined by hilarious UCB comedians, and hosts of the popular “Screw It, We’re Just Gonna Talk About Comics” podcast, Will and Kevin Hines. We discuss the brothers' relationship with Peanuts through the years as well as the poignancy of Joe Shlabotnik, the progressiveness of Schulz, and the realism of Peppermint Patty. Then we delve into the lost comedy masterpiece… Garfooled! Plus: Screw it… we talk about the Beatles.On Twitter and Instagram: @screwitcomicsTranscript availabl

Nov 29,2022 01:35:01

24. The Unpacking Peanuts Charles M. Schulz 100th Birthday Spectacular!

November 26th is Mr. Schulz’s 100th birthday, and we’re throwing a party! You won’t believe who shows up to celebrate the greatest cartoonist of all time! Grab a treat from the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine, watch your step around the Zamboni, and join us for the Peanuts bash of the century.Featuring guest appearances by: Terry Moore, Bill Morrison, Carolyn Belefski, Steve Conley, John Gallagher, Jamar Nicholas, Mark Mariano, Chris Mariano, Marty Baumann and more! Plus: A Charles Schulz carol?Guests

Nov 22,2022 56:57

25. Finale Season Three - 1960-1964

We wrap up the first half of the sixties in style with a look back at Schulz’s best unseen characters, listener questions, and some Peanuts comic book stories penned by the man himself. Plus: DJ Jenna Clay on the Little Red Haired Girl!(If you want to follow our discussion of the comic book stories attributed to Schulz, and you have a library card, you can visit hoopla.com to check out the Peanuts Dell Archive).Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gown

Nov 15,2022 01:24:33

26. 1964 Part 2 - Thrillsville!

It’s Linus for President, and young Master Van Pelt proves to be an expert orator… but will his belief in the Great Pumpkin sink his candidacy? Elsewhere, the Little Red Haired Girl continues to make non-apparent appearances, Michael makes a triple play, and Linus figures out that Charlie Brown is depressed. Plus: That’s Tuesday Weld! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Mu

Nov 08,2022 01:22:19

27. 1964 Part 1 - Good Ol’ Wishy-Washy Charlie Brown

In a true Peanuts epic, Lucy presents Charlie Brown with a slideshow of his faults, and Linus fanboys for Doctor Horwich (who used to be Miss Frances) in a deep-cut Peanuts callback. Meanwhile, Snoopy is getting aggressive, and we see more of newcomers 3, 4, and 5… but Shermy is becoming a straggler! Plus: Michael has a sliver in his finger. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sum

Nov 01,2022 01:05:07

28. 1963 Part 2 - Why Don’t You Ever Call Me Cutie?

Lucy finds out she is an “uncutie.” Snoopy needs to take it on the lam. And we meet a boy named “5.” Also, the guys discuss perhaps the most controversial strip in the Schulz canon and how it has been understood and misunderstood in the years since. Plus: Lot’s of fun at Finnegan’s Wake!Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Azi

Oct 25,2022 01:03:25

29. 1963 Part 1 - Oh No! We’re Aware of Our Tongues!

Peanuts soars from strength to strength in another year of classics. Linus teaches us all a thing or two about empathy when his “Blanket Hating” Grandma comes to town, and later he develops a whole new philosophy. Elsewhere, Snoopy gets fat shamed, and Charles Schulz brings ever more depth to our hero Charlie Brown. Plus: Hooray for Aunt Marion!Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz

Oct 18,2022 01:01:55

30. Bonus Episode - It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!

Spooky Season is upon us, and Harold, Michael, and Jimmy are taking a special episode long look at the Great Pumpkin, both in the strip and the animated special. They highlight the themes and origins of the idea and how it’s become a lasting part of pop culture. Then they go strip by strip through all the gags that made it into the classic TV special, and even take calls from listeners! Plus: What the heck is Graphic Blandishment?Sign up to download Joshua Stauffer's guide to all the Peanuts com

Oct 15,2022 01:18:09

31. 1962 Part 2 - Charles Schulz Sees You

The guys discuss the profound way in which Schulz engages and honors his readers on their own terms. Meanwhile, in the strip, Linus is patting birds on the head, Sally can’t deal with kindergarten, and Lucy sets an all time record for crabbiness! Plus: Snoopy will do anything to prove a point.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover

Oct 11,2022 01:40:55

32. 1962 Part 1 - Schroeder’s Big Break

Schulz continues to explore longer stories and more subtle emotions, as Linus (briefly) gets glasses, Lucy and Schroeder bicker, and Snoopy experiences a winter of loss. Luckily, it doesn’t affect his appetite. Plus: It’s time for an episode of Polka Pod!Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from

Oct 04,2022 01:07:15

33. Special Episode - Duncan Watson and Melanie Kohn - Voices of Charlie Brown and Lucy

It’s a special day for Unpacking Peanuts. Charlie Brown and Lucy are here! We welcome voice actors Melanie Kohn and Duncan Watson to the show. They discuss their time spent as Peanuts’ star players, how they got the gigs, and what it’s been like reconnecting with Peanuts fans in recent years. We even get them to reprise their old roles as we discuss their favorite strips! Plus: Keene is nifty! For information about Melanie and Duncan’s appearances follow @melaniejkohn on Facebook Transcript avai

Sep 27,2022 01:06:37

34. 1961 Part 2 - Lunchtime With the Little Red Haired Girl

The most famous character never drawn (the movies don’t count, you blockhead!) makes her first non-appearance, and it’s a heartbreaker. Then Schulz writes a few anti-hallmark cards, and three goofballs openly ridicule certified genius Windsor McCay! Plus: Punchlines that punch you.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shu

Sep 20,2022 01:57:11

35. 1961 Part 1 - It’s Run By a Big Eastern Syndicate, You Know

The character of Charlie Brown is deepening as Schulz explores more subtle shades of emotion. Meanwhile, in the Van Pelt household tempers are wearing thin, and in Chicago It’s full on gang warfare as Harold gives us a detailed explanation of just how the syndicated comics game worked back in the wild early days. Plus: Harold and Jimmy try (and fail) to think of the word “avatar.” Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold

Sep 13,2022 01:32:27

36. 1960 Part 2 - Do You Believe in Charles Schulz?

Jimmy expands on his theory of how Charles Schulz is a character in Peanuts. Michael talks to leaves, and Harold gets his first comic book! Plus: Liz Phair, and Alan Moore, and Mort Sahl, and Gertrude SteinTranscript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and

Sep 06,2022 01:30:05

37. 1960 Part 1 - Happiness is a Warm Puppy

It’s the Swinging Sixties, and Linus wants to be all love! But Lucy might have a nefarious plan to thwart him. Meanwhile, Snoopy endures the Icicle of Damocles, while in the real world Schulz meets Hallmark to deliver some warm feelings. Plus: Hate at a Different Angle and a shout out to Librarians. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voi

Aug 30,2022 01:12:51

38. Special Episode - Todd Webb

Harold, Jimmy and Michael welcome cartoonist and musician Todd Webb to the show! Todd is the creator of the critically acclaimed daily strip The Poet, and the creative force behind the music of Seamonster. The gang take a look at Todd’s favorite strips, and discuss influences, working methods, and why Peanuts is just the bee’s knees. Plus: Good Grief! Ernie Bushmiller??!!toddbot.comRead The Poet on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toddbotdotcom/ Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUn

Aug 23,2022 01:12:27

39. Finale Season Two - 1956-1959

We wrap up the fabulous 50’s with a look at how far we have come! Michael, Harold, and Jimmy pick their favorite year of strips so far, answer the mail, and take a peek at a great “lost” influence on Charles Schulz. Plus: Buy Jif!Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackp

Aug 16,2022 01:20:09

40. 1959 Part 2 - If You Can’t Trust Dogs and Little Babies

While Charlie Brown is succeeding as a brother, Linus is ranting about someone called “The Great Pumpkin.” When he’s not fawning over his beloved teacher Miss Othmar that is. Plus: Sally smooches Linus.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twit

Aug 09,2022 01:09:42

41. 1959 Part 1 - Psychiatric Help 5¢

Sally Brown is born! Will becoming a big brother change Charlie Brown for the better, or is it just going to derail his baseball career? Also, Lucy starts a new business…as the gang’s gruff therapist of course! But is five cents too much for her “advice?” Plus: Schulz provides others a shelter from the storm.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Addit

Aug 02,2022 01:23:51

42. 1958 Part 2 - Germs! Disease! Infection!

Have you ever had to try to glue crayons together? Linus has. Jimmy tells more vaguely troubling childhood anecdotes, and Lucy thinks Charlie Brown is a spy. Meanwhile, back in 1958 it’s Liberals versus Conservatives as everything new is old again. Plus: Is Happiness Overrated?Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukral

Jul 26,2022 01:14:21

43. 1958 Part 1 - I Thought It Was The Fallout

Jimmy asks: What is art for? Linus becomes a fanatic. Lucy loves Schroeder. Violet admires her dad, and Snoopy starts a very weird trend. Be sure to tell your pencil pal that it’s another great year of comics from Charles M. Schulz. Plus: Hi-Fi’s and Hula Hoops. Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For m

Jul 19,2022 01:08:32

44. Special Episode - William Pepper

We welcome the host of the OG Peanuts podcast, It’s a Podcast, Charlie Brown, William Pepper. William gives us the lowdown on his long running show and then picks his Fab Five Peanuts strips of all time! Plus: Does Lucy mean well?William Pepper's work available at Carnival of Glee Creationshttps://www.carnivalofgleecreations.com/Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by

Jul 12,2022 01:06:18

45. 1957 Part 2 - Who Do You Like Better, Your Mother or Your Father?

Harold, Michael and Jimmy discuss what makes Schulz’s art different from contemporaries like Mort Walker or Dik Brown. Michael unlocks one of the secret Peanuts joke formulas, and we check in on the Good ol’ Angerometer. Plus: What a Team! Good Grief!Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the

Jul 05,2022 01:03:10

46. 1957 Part 1 - Frustrated and Inhibited

Charles Schulz is loosening up and branching out. He even hires his friend, good ol’ Jim Sasseville and launches a second strip. Meanwhile, Lucy is torn between the desire to create and the desire to destroy. Plus: Do polar bears get cold?Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow

Jun 28,2022 53:53

47. 1956 Part 2 - If My Kite Was Caught In A Tree I’d Yell At It

Charlie Brown’s kite is stuck in a tree… for a week! We take a long look at this rarely seen series of strips that Schulz himself considered a high water mark. Plus: Bug watching with Lucy.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more

Jun 21,2022 01:32:50

48. 1956 Part 1 - Will You Be My Friend, Charlie Brown?

Lucy presents some little known facts and Linus figures some things out. There are a lot of kids in the Schulz household, and it’s fueling a whole bunch of hilarious comics. Plus: Charlie Brown gets what he wants… or does he?Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanut

Jun 14,2022 01:06:00

49. Finale Season 1 - 1950-1955

We are halfway through the first decade of Peanuts, and It’s been a thrill to watch Charles Schulz develop his strip from humble beginnings to the cusp of greatness. In this finale episode, we recap where we have been so far and hint at where we go next in the world of Peanuts. Plus: We answer the mail! Unpacking Peanuts Season Two begins June 14thTranscript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced by Liz Sumner.

May 31,2022 01:24:15

50. 1955- Part 2 - Be of Good Cheer, Snoopy!

It’s a year filled with classic jokes and classical music, but Charlie Brown’s stomach hurts and it’s all Lucy’s fault. Yet while Charlie Brown steps back, the rest of the gang rise to the moment. Plus: Jimmy reveals his pick for the GOAT Peanuts strip.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show fol

May 24,2022 01:09:56

51. 1955 Part 1 - The World Develops Before Our Eyes

Schulz is living the posh life in Minnesota while willing Peanuts to ever greater heights. It’s the era of big laughs and big jaws, and Snoopy is busting out…and kinda ticked off! Plus: Snow comes UP, you blockhead.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Tw

May 17,2022 01:15:38

52. 1954 Part 2 - A Cold Wet Nose on a Warm Summer Day

Jimmy unleashes an outlandish Peanuts conspiracy theory as we investigate the strangest sequence in all of Peanuts when Lucy hits the links with … adults?? Plus: Braun… Charlotte Braun.

May 10,2022 01:22:28

53. 1954 Part 1 - Look at Me! I’m Dancing!

Slick and ever-tightening cartooning mixed with some beautiful detail and a touch of the surreal is the look of the year for Schulz, and his cast of characters are growing richer and more complex as they feel unrequited love, sibling rivalry and more. Plus: Violet is ahead of her time!Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla

May 03,2022 01:15:49

54. 1953 Part 2 - Ode To Joy

Linus is growing up fast. Also, how to become a virtuoso the Charles Schulz way, and more discussion about the letter “W” than is allowed in most municipalities. Plus: Filthy! Grimy! Children!

Apr 26,2022 50:47

55. 1953 Part 1 - A Bundle of Fuss

As Schulz world continues to grow both in life and within the panels of Peanuts, Jimmy, Michael, and Harold reflect on the influence of Schulz on their own process. Also Peanuts versus the Photorealists, the definition of fussbudget and variations on the theme of cruelty. Plus: Harold Googlestomps on Jimmy’s “research!”

Apr 19,2022 01:09:24

56. Special Episode - Alexis Fajardo

Join us as we chat with accomplished cartoonist, and Editorial Director of the Charles M. Schulz Studio, Alexis Fajardo! We discuss Lex’s two decades of work as the creator of the popular Kid Beowulf series as well as his work helping to produce Peanuts books for the world, and his top five Peanuts strips. Plus: A Peppermint Preview! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced by Liz Sumner. Music by Micha

Apr 12,2022 01:12:55

57. 1952 Part 2 - Mangle Terror War Hate

It’s the first appearance of Snoopy the mimic! And he may be the most complex character in the history of western literature, but he’ll always be Lucy’s baby brother to us… Linus is here! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUnpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow @unpackpeanuts on Instagram and Twitter. For more about Jimm

Apr 05,2022 55:15

58. 1952 Part 1 - I’ll Be A Hypocrite

PEANUTS EVERY SUNDAY! Peanuts gets a Sunday page, and Charles Schulz comes out swinging. Interesting developments on the Snoopy watch, and Jimmy and Michael get a joke decades later than they should have, and the introduction of one of the icons of Peanuts… Lucy Van Pelt. Plus: Snoopy goes to the Electric Chair! Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional

Mar 29,2022 58:14

59. 1951 Part 2 - A Pretty Good Guy

It’s all the best, the funniest, and the firsts as we go through the strips of Peanuts’ first full year. We touch on the deepening of Schulz’s craft and themes, the influence of UPA animation, plus: the Zen of Charlie Brown.

Mar 22,2022 01:05:42

60. 1951 Part 1 - Music for Mudpies

Charles Schulz spends his first year as a full-time cartoonist exploring the form, and honing his themes. Little gags, little folks, and toy pianos are where it’s at in '51, but is this new girl Violet good… or evil? Plus: What is up with this dog?

Mar 22,2022 30:06

61. 1950 Part 2 - How I Hate Him

We do a deep dive into the first few months of the Peanuts comic strip, as Charles Schulz and Charlie Brown begin their epic journey together. We meet our hero Good Ol’ Charlie Brown, his pals Patty and Shermy. Plus: A cute little pup named Snoopy.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.com Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceover by Aziza Shukralla Clark. For more from the show follow

Mar 15,2022 45:29

62. 1950 Part 1 - Good Ol’ Charlie Brown

Peanuts is the greatest comic strip of all time, and three cartoonists, Jimmy Gownley (Amelia Rules! & 7 Good Reasons Not to Grow Up) Harold Buchholz (Mystery Science Theater, Sweetest Beasts) and Michael Cohen (Strange Attractors, Tangled River) are reading the whole thing! Join them as they discuss Charles Schulz’ comic strip masterpiece year by year starting with the very first strip on Oct 2. 1950 and continuing through all 50 years of the strip.Transcript available at UnpackingPeanuts.comUn

Mar 15,2022 29:19

63. Unpacking Peanuts - Fun Size

Here's a short teaser for Unpacking Peanuts, the show where 3 lifelong cartoonists take an in-depth look at the comic strip masterpiece, Peanuts. Each week, Jimmy Gownley, Harold Buchholz and Michael Cohen examine the complete run of the comic by Charles M. Schulz from 1950 all the way up to the year 2000. Plus special guests and bonuses.Unpacking Peanuts is copyright Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold Buchholz. Produced and edited by Liz Sumner. Music by Michael Cohen. Additional voiceove

May 05,2023 01:38

64. Unpacking Peanuts Sneak Preview

Unpacking Peanuts begins next week! Join Michael Cohen, Harold Buchholz, and Jimmy Gownley on their great Peanuts Re-Read, and enjoy this special sneak peak at an upcoming episode.

Mar 08,2022 07:08

65. Allentown PA

Welcome to Unpacking Peanuts, the show where three cartoonists take an in-depth look at the greatest comic strip of all time-- Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz.Hosted by Jimmy Gownley, Michael Cohen, and Harold BuchholzComing March 15, 2022

Jan 19,2022 05:34

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All Episodes (65)

From new to old

From new to old From old to new