Episodes

  • Frankenstein (2025)

    Frankenstein (2025)
    Jan 13 2026
    Frankenstein (2025), Coffee Blends, and the Art of Construction

    “I could not understand why men who knew all about good and evil could hate and kill each other.”

    In this milestone Episode 20 of Reel Beans, host Ben Schneider is joined by Casey Haltom and Allen Stafford to discuss Frankenstein, directed by Guillermo del Toro and based on Mary Shelley’s timeless novel.

    Together, they explore why Frankenstein is far more than a gothic horror story, examining its themes of obsession, love, ignorance, rage, and the human need for connection. The conversation looks at Victor Frankenstein’s dangerous ambition, the Monster’s emotional intelligence, and why Shelley’s story continues to resonate in modern adaptations.

    During the coffee break, Ben dives into coffee blends: what they are, why they matter, and how thoughtful construction can create balance, consistency, and comfort. Much like Frankenstein itself, blends are assembled with intention, and when done well, the result is greater than the sum of its parts.

    Sip, watch, and repeat.

    🎬 Film Discussed

    Frankenstein (2025) Directed by Guillermo del Toro Starring Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi

    Where to Watch (availability may vary): JustWatch (search & availability): https://coffeebros.com/blogs/coffee/the-definitive-guide-to-coffee-blends-everything-youve-ever-wanted-to-know?srsltid=AfmBOoqjcu1pQx5bKm-ArZsK1u5Vkj2z2jEo0kxsGZselgFaeajONcIk

    🎧 Listen to Reel Beans

    • Podbean: https://reelbeans.podbean.com

    • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reel-beans/id1809151473

    • Spotify: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-reel-beans-276782796/

    ☕ Follow & Support the Show

    • Instagram: https://reelbeans.com

    • Support the Show: https://reelbeans.com/support

    • Merch: https://reelbeans.com/merch

    🎙️ Up Next

    A tribute to Rob Reiner with one of his most beloved films: When Harry Met Sally
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Terror Train (1980)

    Terror Train (1980)
    Dec 30 2025
    Summary

    In this episode, Reel Beans and guest Kathryn Horan discuss the 1980 horror film 'Terror Train,' starring Jamie Lee Curtis. They explore the film's plot, character dynamics, and unique setting on a train during a New Year's Eve party. The conversation delves into the film's suspenseful atmosphere, the role of David Copperfield, and the character development of the protagonists. They also analyze the film's themes, including revenge and the nature of fear, while highlighting its status as an underrated gem in the slasher genre.

    Takeaways
    • Terror Train is a cozy movie with a unique premise.
    • The film features a strong performance by Jamie Lee Curtis.
    • David Copperfield's role adds a fun element to the film.
    • The setting on a train creates a claustrophobic atmosphere.
    • Character development is more nuanced than in typical slasher films.
    • The film balances suspense with moments of levity.
    • The killer's reveal is cleverly executed and unexpected.
    • The film avoids gratuitous violence and nudity.
    • Terror Train is an underrated gem of the slasher genre.
    • It's a fun movie to watch during Halloween or New Year's
    Film & Research

    Terror Train (1980) – Where to Watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/terror-train

    IMDb – Terror Train (1980): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0081617/

    Featured Talent

    Jamie Lee Curtis – IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000130/

    Ben Johnson – IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0424534/

    David Copperfield – Official Website: https://www.davidcopperfield.com/

    Coffee Pairing

    Stumptown Coffee Roasters – Holiday Roast: Elf Parade: https://www.stumptowncoffee.com/products/elf-parade

    Listen to Reel Beans

    Podbean: https://reelbeans.podbean.com

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reel-beans/id1809151473

    Spotify: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-reel-beans-276782796/

    Support & Merch

    Support the Show: https://reelbeans.com/support

    Reel Beans Merch: https://reelbeans.com/merch

    Follow Reel Beans

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel_beans

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reelbeans

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Terror Train and Its Context 05:50 Plot Overview and Character Dynamics 11:55 Thematic Elements and Unique Aspects of Terror Train 17:54 Character Development and Audience Engagement 23:18 Final Thoughts and Favorite Scenes 23:24 Unveiling the Killer: A Twist in Terror Train 27:26 The Disguise and Its Impact 30:50 Character Depth in Slasher Films 34:56 The Unique Atmosphere of Terror Train 38:16 Reflections on the Film's Reception and Legacy

    #TerrorTrain #HorrorMovie #JamieLeeCurtis #SlasherGenre #DavidCopperfield #1980sFilms #Suspense #CharacterDevelopment #NewYearsEve #FilmAnalysis
    Show More Show Less
    41 mins
  • A Christmas Carol Revisited

    A Christmas Carol Revisited
    Dec 23 2025

    In this episode of Real Beans, we explore three favorite adaptations of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol — the animated Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol, the musical Scrooge starring Albert Finney, and the acclaimed 1951 Alastair Sim film — and examine how each retells Scrooge's journey from greed and isolation to compassion and redemption.

    Along the way, we savor seasonal coffee, discuss memorable performances and songs, and reflect on why Dickens' message about kindness and human connection remains relevant today.

    ☕ Coffee Pairing

    Trader Joe’s Wintry Blend Coffee https://www.traderjoes.com/

    🎬 Films Discussed

    Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol (1962) https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/mr-magoos-christmas-carol

    Scrooge (1970) https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/scrooge-1970

    A Christmas Carol (1951) https://reelbeans.podbean.com

    Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reel-beans/id1809151473

    Spotify https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-reel-beans-276782796/

    ☕ Follow & Support Reel Beans

    Website https://reelbeans.com

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/reel_beans

    YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@reelbeans

    Support the Show https://reelbeans.com/support

    Merch https://reelbeans.com/merch
    Show More Show Less
    15 mins
  • It Happened on 5th Avenue

    It Happened on 5th Avenue
    Dec 2 2025

    For this holiday special, Danielle Aubuchon joins me for a warm and nostalgic conversation about two heartfelt Christmas classics. We chat about the gentle charm of “Santa and the Three Bears” and the found-family spirit of “It Happened on Fifth Avenue” while sipping Irish Coffee and exploring themes of kindness, compassion, and the joy of holiday storytelling.

    Settle in, pour a cup, and enjoy this cozy holiday episode.

    Guest

    Danielle Aubuchon Website: https://www.danielleaubuchon.com/

    Where to Watch

    Santa and the Three Bears (1970) Tubi: https://tubitv.com/movies/449537/santa-and-the-three-bears

    It Happened on Fifth Avenue (1947) JustWatch page: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/it-happened-on-fifth-avenue

    Where to Buy the Pairings

    Redbreast Irish Whiskey Official site: https://www.redbreastwhiskey.com/

    Baileys Irish Cream Official site: https://www.baileys.com/

    Peet’s Coffee Official shop: https://www.peets.com/

    Nespresso Arpeggio Pod Product page: https://www.nespresso.com/us/en/order/capsules/original/arpeggio

    Listen to Reel Beans

    Podbean: https://reelbeans.podbean.com

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reel-beans/id1809151473

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4uSX1SA7pQSJiafI4gOHDF

    iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-reel-beans-276782796/

    Follow Reel Beans

    https://reelbeans.com

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel_beans

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reelbeans

    Support

    https://reelbeans.com/support

    https://reelbeans.com/merch
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 25 mins
  • Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

    Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
    Nov 18 2025
    Featuring supporters Casey Haltom & Allen Stafford Episode Description In this holiday-themed episode of Reel Beans, we dive into John Hughes’ 1987 comedy classic Planes, Trains & Automobiles — a chaotic, heartfelt journey through travel nightmares, unexpected alliances, and the meaning of connection during the holidays. Ben revisits the film for the first time, unpacking its blend of humor and tenderness, while supporters Casey and Allen return to offer their own insights on everything from Del’s lovable chaos to Neal’s stressed-out unraveling. Along the way, we take a Coffee Break to explore the history and culture of coffee-to-go, and how our on-the-run relationship with coffee mirrors modern travel—and the movie’s frantic energy. We also explore one of the film’s most meaningful themes: chosen family. For those who may not have close biological family, or who have lost or been separated from loved ones, the connections we choose can be just as powerful. This theme ties beautifully into the emotional core of the film and into the legacy of John Candy, whose performance as Del Griffith remains one of his most tender and unforgettable roles. Grab your travel mug, buckle up, and enjoy the ride. 🎥 Where to Watch the Film JustWatch Listing (U.S.): https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/planes-trains-and-automobiles 🌟 John Candy – Additional Resources Wikipedia – John Candy: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Candy IMDb – John Candy Filmography: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001006/ ☕ Sources Cited: Coffee-To-Go & Travel Culture The disposable cup crisis: what’s the environmental impact of a to-go coffee? https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/jan/22/disposable-coffee-cups-environmental-impact?utm_source=chatgpt.com Brewing Change: Transforming the Disposable Coffee Culture (LSE Study) https://www.lse.ac.uk/asset-library/information/group-4-brewing-change-transforming-the-disposable-coffee-culture.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com Coffee Culture and Enjoying Your Routine (University of Texas Abroad Blog) https://abroad-blog.global.utexas.edu/2024/02/coffee-culture-and-enjoying-your-routine/?utm_source=chatgpt.com The Evolution and Influence of Coffee-To-Go https://tchibo.us/blogs/academy/the-evolution-and-influence-of-coffee-to-go?srsltid=AfmBOorwXeuCPsZJ9b_esqBpc3i13QBtXf_CaC2NCF_zGPxTfebN-Dt9&utm_source=chatgpt.com ❤️ Sources Cited: Chosen Family Finding Connection Through Chosen Family — Psychology Today https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/being-unlonely/201906/finding-connection-through-chosen-family Where Can I Be Loved and Accepted? The Importance of Chosen Family for LGBTQIA+ Individuals https://www.losangelesmftherapist.com/post/where-can-i-be-loved-and-accepted-the-importance-of-chosen-family-for-lgbtqia-individuals/ What “Chosen Family” Means — And How to Build Your Own — Healthline https://www.healthline.com/health/relationships/chosen-family 🎧 Listen to Reel Beans Podbean: https://reelbeans.podbean.com Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reel-beans/id1809151473 Spotify: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-reel-beans-276782796/ ☕ Follow Reel Beans Instagram: https://reelbeans.com 💛 Support the Show Support page: https://reelbeans.com/support Merch: https://reelbeans.com/merch
    Show More Show Less
    19 mins
  • A Cup of Jo: Little Women (1994)

    A Cup of Jo: Little Women (1994)
    Nov 4 2025

    This episode of Real Beans explores the 1994 film adaptation of Little Women, explaining why the host found it deeply moving. It highlights standout performances (Winona Ryder, Claire Danes), Gillian Armstrong’s direction, Thomas Newman’s score, and the film’s quiet realism.

    The conversation also examines the story’s themes—sisterhood, independence, identity, sacrifice—and includes personal anecdotes about loss and why certain scenes earned genuine tears. The episode pairs the discussion with a tasting of La Colombe’s Corsica blend and points listeners to where they can watch the film.

    ☕ Coffee Pairing

    We’re sipping La Colombe’s “Corsica” — a bold, chocolatey roast with timeless warmth. → https://www.lacolombe.com/products/corsica

    📺 Where to Watch Little Women (1994)

    Stream or rent on:

    • Amazon Prime Video: https://www.amazon.com/Little-Women-Winona-Ryder/dp/B000I9VFBG

    • Apple TV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7zE6ZjPWz8

    • Vudu: https://reelbeans.podbean.com

    • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4uSX1SA7pQSJiafI4gOHDF

    • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reel-beans/id1809155140

    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reelbeans

    📚 References & Further Reading

    • Library of America, The Moviegoer – Classic Hollywood’s Little Women: https://www.instagram.com/reel_beans

    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576813017049

    • Website: https://reelbeans.com

    • Merch: https://reelbeans.com/merch

    • Support: https://reelbeans.com/support
    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
  • Death Before Decaf: Revisiting Psycho (1960)

    Death Before Decaf: Revisiting Psycho (1960)
    Oct 21 2025

    Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (1960) gets the Reel Beans treatment: a tight synopsis, why the shower scene hits differently for modern (desensitized) audiences, and a look at Hitchcock’s storytelling craft and the Marion→Norman shift. Plus, a cozy Coffee Break on Nespresso—how in-room espresso became a symbol of modern hotel comfort—and closing thoughts with first-time reactions from Casey, alongside Allen’s insights. Sip. Watch. Repeat.

    Listen to Reel Beans

    • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reel-beans/id1809155140

    • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4uSX1SA7pQSJiafI4gOHDF

    • Podbean: https://www.youtube.com/@reelbeans

    Reel Beans Links

    • Website: https://www.instagram.com/@reel_beans

    Where to Stream Psycho (1960)

    • Peacock: https://www.amazon.com/primevideo (search “Psycho 1960”)

    • JustWatch (check your region): https://www.nespresso.com/

    • Nespresso Machines (US): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psycho_(1960_film)

    Sources & Reading — Nespresso + Hotels

    • Nespresso Pro (Hotels overview): https://www.nespresso.com/pro/us/en/hotel-coffee-machines

    • Tasting Table — Hotels with Nespresso in room: https://www.tastingtable.com/1954405/hotels-with-nespresso-machine-in-room/

    • Quartz — “Nespresso is ruining hotel coffee” (critical take): https://qz.com/quartzy/1170284/nespresso-is-ruining-hotel-coffee

    • Nespresso Pro — Sofitel partnership (case-style page): https://www.nespresso.com/pro/ca/en/sofitel-nespresso-partnership

    • Nespresso Story (brand timeline): https://nestle-nespresso.com/about_us/story

    • Sustainability Magazine — Hospitality priorities (Nespresso survey): https://sustainabilitymag.com/articles/nespresso-survey-sustainability-high-on-hospitality-agenda

    • Stelliers — On hotel sustainability with Nespresso: https://stelliers.com/news/boost-your-hotels-sustainability-with-nespresso

    Episode Credits

    • Host: Ben Schneider

    • Guests: Casey Haltom, Allen Stafford

    • Film: Psycho (1960), dir. Alfred Hitchcock

    • Coffee Pairing: Nespresso
    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
  • Latte Night Party: Witch's Night Out & Mad Monster Party?

    Latte Night Party: Witch's Night Out & Mad Monster Party?
    Oct 7 2025

    Host Ben Schneider and guest Danielle Aubuchon dive into Halloween nostalgia in this episode, chewing over favorite candies, the cultural pull of the pumpkin spice latte, and two cult animated features: the psychedelic short Witch’s Night Out and Rankin/Bass’s Mad Monster Party.

    They break down voice cast highlights, stop‑motion craftsmanship, seasonal traditions, and why these quirky specials still resonate—an invitation to grab a costume, a bowl of candy, and a warm cup for a cozy, spooky watch‑along.

    Sip. Watch. Repeat.

    Special Guest

    Danielle Aubuchon: https://www.danielleaubuchon.com/

    Watch the Films

    • Witch’s Night Out (1978) — cult cartoon about a witch helping kids become their Halloween costumes Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witch%27s_Night_Out JustWatch (streaming options): https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/witchs-night-out Free streaming on Tubi: https://tubitv.com/movies/327416/witch-s-night-out Internet Archive: https://archive.org/details/1978-witchs-night-out-a-halloween-cartoon-movie Amazon DVD: https://www.amazon.com/Witchs-Night-Out-Gilda-Radner/dp/B00LU4URQM

    • Mad Monster Party? (1967) — Rankin/Bass stop-motion classic starring Boris Karloff Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mad_Monster_Party%3F JustWatch (streaming options): https://www.bonescoffee.com/products/bones-coffee-company-jacked-o-lantern-pumpkin-spice-coffee-12oz?variant=25271186433

    • Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Ground Coffee (Walmart): https://www.blackriflecoffee.com/products/pumpkin-spice-roast?variant=3R-117-11G

    • Peet’s Pumpkin Spice Ground (Instacart): https://about.starbucks.com/stories/2023/psl-turns-20-the-story-behind-starbucks-pumpkin-spice-latte

    • 20 Fun PSL Facts (Starbucks): https://about.starbucks.com/stories/2023/hbd-psl-20-fun-facts-about-starbucks-pumpkin-spice-latte

    • Pumpkin Spice Latte (Wikipedia): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pumpkin_Spice_Latte

    Listen & Subscribe

    Podbean: https://reelbeans.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reelbeans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel_beans Support: https://reelbeans.com/support Merch: https://reelbeans.com/merch

    2b68a87d11b39bbb562fb424aa2f3d7c0206e9c5
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 58 mins