Episodes

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapter 31 of part four of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. As Ari navigates the awkward and introspective moments of teenage life, he finds himself in the desert with friends Gina and Susie, pondering the mysteries of the universe—while also trying not to get too drunk. The conversation turns to love, friendship, and the differences between boys and girls, leading to a mix of deep thought...

Send us a Text Message. In this emotionally charged episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan read Chapters 29 and 30 of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. Ari's struggles with teenage love and unreciprocated feelings culminate in an intense conversation with Ileana, revealing the harsh realities of his unspoken desires. Meanwhile, Dante's heartfelt letter to Ari not only sheds light on his own journey of self-discovery but also hints at the difficult conversations awaiting...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapters 26 through 28 of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari tries to escape the awkwardness of a New Year's Eve family gathering only to find himself confronting deeper, unresolved issues, including the mysterious envelope marked "Bernardo." Things get even more complicated when Ari receives a letter from Dante that touches on a topic no one ever wants to discuss...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapters 22-25 of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari reflects on his reluctance to join his parents at a wedding dance, leading to a tense encounter with Charlie Escobedo. From awkward adolescent moments to a discussion about whether Ari’s dog Legs might secretly be a psychiatrist, this episode offers deeper reflections on family and identity. Things To Listen Fo...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan read chapters 17-21 of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari's new dog, Legs, becomes the star of his life, bringing joy and companionship. As Ari navigates the trials of growing up, from practicing driving to contemplating life's big questions, he finds humor and unexpected wisdom. Dan and Jennifer discuss the quirks of 1957 Chevy trucks, lowrider culture, and the awkward art...

Send us a Text Message. In this special episode of Banned Camp, Dan goes solo to tackle a serious and timely issue: how to combat book-banning groups like Moms for Liberty in your local community. With Jennifer and Robot temporarily unavailable, Dan takes the mic to share practical strategies and resources to help you prepare for school board meetings and other public forums where book bans might be discussed. This episode is packed with actionable advice and insights into the political agendas ...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan explore Chapter 11 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari's recurring dreams make him question his feelings toward Dante and his brother, leading to some confusing moments. Jennifer shares her thoughts on how reading juvenile literature as an adult offers a different perspective, especially when it comes to relating to the characters. Meanwhile, Dante’s letters are filled...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan explore Chapter 7 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. From discussing Ari's crutch-filled return to school to the hilarity of 80s nostalgia and hospital morphine, the episode is packed with humor and poignant insights. Jennifer and Dan share personal anecdotes, including Dan's embarrassing attempts to emulate the Dukes of Hazzard and Jennifer's germaphobia. Things To Liste...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapter 4 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari navigates the first day of school with the usual teenage angst, complicated friendships, and unexpected encounters. The hosts share their humorous insights into Ari's interactions with his classmates, the awkwardness of school icebreakers, and the emotional complexity of his relationship with Dante. Things To List...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapters 6 through 11 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari navigates through a tumultuous emotional landscape as he grapples with his injuries, deepens his bond with Dante, and confronts his feelings and identity. From sponge baths and sketchbooks to the poignant longing for connection, this episode captures the highs and lows of teenage life and the complexity...

Send us a Text Message. Jennifer and Dan read chapters 3 to 5 of part three of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, where Ari's hospital recovery is fraught with emotional and physical challenges. For someone who is a total lightweight and who has never taken an illicit drug in his life, Dan really does seem like he is hooked on hospital morphine. Jennifer's witty takes on Ari's stubbornness add a lighthearted touch to the emotional narrative. Thin...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Part 3, Chapter 2 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Join them as they explore Ari’s funny and heartfelt hospital stay, his strange green-eyed doctor, and the growing bond between Ari and Dante. Jennifer and Dan share their hospital stories, including Dan’s impatience with getting discharged and their take on Ari’s swearing. Things To Listen For: Ari’s descript...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Part 3, Chapter 1 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. The chapter begins with Ari waking up in a hospital after a dramatic car accident. As he navigates the pain and confusion of his injuries, the tension and humor unfold in typical Banned Camp style. From Ari's morphine-induced musings to the touching moments with his parents and Dante, this episode is filled wit...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapter 12 of Part two of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. As Ari and Dante navigate their teenage years, the episode explores themes of friendship, identity, and the struggles of growing up. Highlights include a heartfelt walk in the rain and a sudden, dramatic event that leaves listeners on the edge of their seats. Alongside the book discussion, Jennifer and Dan...

Send us a Text Message. Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into chapters 10 and 11 of part 2 in "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari reflects on his relationship with his mother, the weight of family expectations, and the hidden history of his brother. As the duo delves into the complexities of growing up, they explore the humorous and poignant moments of Ari's journey. Dan shares his own story of being an "un...

Send us a Text Message. Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapters 8 and 9 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. The discussion centers around Ari’s feverish dreams, poignant family moments, and his complex relationship with his parents. From Ari’s introspective conversations with Dante to heartwarming interactions with his mother, this episode explores the theme of understanding and connecting with one’s ...

Send us a Text Message. Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan read chapters 5 though 7 of Part 2 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. As Ari battles a persistent fever, his dreams become a poignant exploration of family ties and emotional distances. From surreal dreams featuring his brother Bernardo to introspective moments with Dante, these chapters explore the complex landscapes of Ari's mind. Listen in as Jennifer...

Send us a Text Message. Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan read chapters 3 and 4 of part two of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari reflects on his aversion to television, his mother's teaching philosophy, and the complexities of their relationship. The episode also highlights Dante's artistic gesture and its emotional impact on Ari. Jennifer, Dan, and Robot chime in to answer Donald Trump's stupid question: shark...

Send us a Text Message. Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan read Chapters 1 and 2 of Part 2 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Aristotle battles a fierce fever, leading to surreal nightmares and tender moments with his family. Jennifer makes fun of the time paramedics were called to Dan's house while he was going the the bathroom. Things To Listen For: Aristotle's intense fever and surreal nightmares Symbolic si...

Send us a Text Message. Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapter 12 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Ari and Dante's friendship deepens through heartfelt conversations and tense encounters. From discussing the oddities of body awareness to a dramatic confrontation involving BB guns and a sparrow, this chapter is packed with moments that reveal the boys' characters and their evolving bond. Things To ...

Send us a Text Message. Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan dive into Chapters 9-11 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe." The discussion touches on Ari and Dante's unique perspectives on identity, culture, and the peculiarities of Dante's aversion to shoes. Jennifer and Dan navigate through humorous anecdotes and thoughtful insights, exploring why Dante doesn't like wearing shoes and how the boys bond over seemingly trivial yet profound expe...

Send us a Text Message. Episode Summary: In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan read chapters 5 to 8 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. As Ari and Dante's friendship blossoms, they navigate the ups and downs of teenage life, meeting Dante's dad, and debating the merits of vinyl records. From a memorable encounter with a non-ball-tanning dad to Jennifer's dog-wrangling moment, this episode captures the heartfelt and quirky sides of gro...

Send us a Text Message. Episode Summary: In this episode, Jennifer reads Chapter 4 of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Aristotle talks about his unease with locker room conversations and his dislike for showering with other guys, which sparks a discussion about masculinity and societal pressures. The chapter introduces Dante, who offers to teach Aristotle how to swim, leading to a new friendship based on shared experiences and mutual understandi...

Send us a Text Message. Episode Summary In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan embark on their new season with Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. They read chapters 1 through 3, where we meet Ari, a Mexican-American teenager navigating life in El Paso during the summer of 1987. As Ari contemplates his existence and bonds with his mom over music, we get a taste of the book's rich setting and themes. Jennifer and Dan reflect on Ari's struggl...