Looking back at the cheers, tears of 2016

On this week's Mark&Mark Podcast, Mark Podolski and Mark Meszoros of The News-Herald and Morning Journal look back at 2016 and discuss the following subjects:

- The Marks reveal their favorite movies and TV shows of 2016, plus honorable mentions and more.

- Their favorite sports moments of the year.

- The deaths in sports and pop culture that hit them the hardest.

- Podolski gives his sports wish list, and the Marks discuss their most anticipated films of 2017. 

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Cavs, Browns plus 'Rogue One' spoiler discussions

On this weeks' episode of the Mark&Mark podcast, Mark Podolski and Mark Meszoros of The News-Herald and Morning Journal discuss the following topics:

- How will the J.R. Smith injury affect the Cavaliers?

- Despite being 0-14, the Browns are still in a battle for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft with the 1-13 49ers.

- Is star players sitting out bowl games good for college football?

- Podolski reacts to the departure of John Carroll football coach Tom Arth to the FCS level.

- The reality TV show "America Ninja Warrior" is coming to Cleveland in May.

- A spoiler discussion of "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story."

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Stars Wars Rogue One non-spoiler discussion

On this week's episode of The Mark&Mark Podcast, Mark Podolski and Mark Meszoros of The News-Herald and Morning Journal discuss the following topics:

- The official title of the film is "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story." With that out of the way, Meszoros and Podolski break down the film in non-spoiler fashion.

- Meszoros breaks down the Golden Globe nominees for best picture as the race for the Oscars officially begins.

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Catching up with the Cavs

On this week's Mark&Mark Podcast, Mark Podolski and Mark Meszoros of The News-Herald and Morning Journal discuss the following subjects:

- With the Cavaliers hosting the Clippers for a big Dec. 1 game, the Marks discuss the state of the team.

- The aftermath of Ohio State's double-overtime win over Michigan.

- What should the 0-12 Browns during their bye week?

- Podolski is nostalgic about the 40th anniversary of the original "Rocky."

- The Marks have plenty to be thankful for in the world of sports and pop culture.

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Ohio State's playoff chances

On this week's episode of the Mark&Mark Podcast, Mark Podolski and Mark Mezsoros of The News-Herald and Morning Journal discuss the following topics:

- With the Nos. 2, 3 and 4 teams in college football losing last week, Ohio State moved up to No. 2 in the latest College Football Playoff rankings. Can the Buckeyes stay there, especially with a potential road block keeping them out of the Big Ten Championhsip game?

- Podolski shares his memories from covering John Carroll's historic win over Mount Union to end the Purple Raiders' 112-game regular-season winning streak.

- Mezsoros gives thumbs up to new films "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them," and "Edge of 17."

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Trump trumps Hillary

On this week's episode of the Mark&Mark Podcast, Mark Podolski and Mark Meszoros of The News-Herald and Morning Journal, discuss the following topics:

- Donald Trump's historic presidential win over Hillary Clinton shocked the nation. The Marks take on Trump's win from all angles.

- The Cavaliers visited the White House and President Obama on Nov. 10, signifying the last celebration of last season's NBA championship. At 6-1, is the team already on cruise control.

- The Browns could be heading to a historic 0-16 campaign. Is this worse than any Browns fans hoping to hit rock-bottom and build it back up could imagine?

- On Nov. 10, the Browns play the Ravens in prime time, and North Carolina QB and Mentor graduate Mitch Trubisky, who could be one of the top QBs in next year's draft, is also playing in prime time. What game will you watch?

- Meszoros talks about the new sci-fi film starring Amy Adams "Arrival," and Podolski gives his take on "Doctor Strange."

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Game 7 heartbreak

On this week's episode of the Mark&Mark Podcast, Mark Podolski and Mark Meszoros of The News-Herald and Morning Journal discuss the following topics:

- It was Game 7 heartbreak for the Indians, as they lost the World Series to Cubs, who ended 108 years of frustration. The Marks give their reaction.

- Progressive Field turned into Wrigley Field east as thousands took over the ballpark in Game 7. Who's to blame - Indians fans who sold their tickets, the secondary ticket market, or the Indians?

- The top rivalry in the NBA in Cavs-Warriors. Is Indiaans-Cubs the next great rivalry in Major League Baseball?

- The 0-8 Browns are trending to the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, and Mentor graduate and North Carolina quarterback Mitch Trubisky is the No. 1 quarterback on draft guru Mel Kiper Jr.'s "Big Board." The Marks wonder if Trubisky to the Browns is a good idea.

- Meszoros gives two big thumbs up to two films opening this weekend, "Doctor Strange," and "Hacksaw Ridge." Plus, Podolski goes back in time to remember a lost comic book treasure found by his brother last Christmas.

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The fun doesn't stop as the Indians are in the World Series

On this week's Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald's Mark Podolski and Mark Meszoros discuss the following topics:

- The Indians are in the World Series, and are awaiting their opponents. The Marks break down this playoff run, and compare it to the Cavaliers' postseason run to the championship.​

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- Just how valuable is Andrew Miller to the Indians?

- Meszoros on the state of movies in 2016, and a lookahead to "Doctor Strange" in November and "Star Wars: Rogue One" in December.

- The Marks are watching news shows such as NBC's "Timeless" and FOX's "Pitch" and "Lethal Weapon." Listen for thumbs up or thumbs down.

 

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Indians storm into ALCS; will the Browns go 0-16?

After a hiatus, the Mark&Mark podcast is back!

Hosts Mark Podolski and Mark Meszoros are joined by Cleveland pro sports writer Jeff Schudel to discuss the following topics:

- The Indians rolled into the ALCS with a sweep of the Red Sox, but can their starting rotation hold up vs. the Blue Jays?

- The 0-5 Browns injury situation is a mess heading their Oct. 16 game at Tennessee, and it doesn't seem to be getting better. Will this team go 0-16?

- The Cavaliers are in the middle of their preseason, but it's never to early to discuss what many believe is the inevitable - Cleveland-Golden State in the NBA Finals.

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Josh Gordon is back, Tyronn Lue cashes in, Indians struggling

On Episode 25 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, Cleveland pro sports writer Jeff Schudel joins The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros and Mark Podolski to discuss the following topics:

- Wide receiver Josh Gordon has been reinstated by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. Should the Browns welcome him back? (00:00-14:00)

- Coach Tyronn Lue signs a reported five-year, $35 million deal with the Cavaliers. (14:00-20:00)

- The Indians are 7-11 since their 14-game winning streak. Is there reason to be concerned? (20:00-28:00)

- The Marks break down the new "Justice League" and "Wonder Woman" trailers that debuted at San Diego Comic-Con, plus others. (28:00-37:00)

- The Mark also give their take on the new animated film, "Batman: The Killing Joke." (37:00-44:00)

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Wrapping up the Rebuplican National Convention

On Episode 24 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald's Mark Podolski and Mark Meszoros discuss the following topics:

- The Marks' experiences at the Republican National Convention in downtown Cleveland.

- What are expectations if Browns receiver Josh Gordon is reinstated, and what to make of the Indians' Michael Brantley's recent injury setback.

- Meszoros reviews "Star Trek Beyond," which opens in theaters this weekend.

- The Marks review this year's "Cinema at the Sqaure" slate of films at the Playhouse Theatre.

- Podolski summer reading recommendation of the week: "The Last Great Fight," by Joe Layden.

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The circus (aka the RNC) is coming to town

On Episode 23 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros and Mark Podolski discuss the following topics:

- The Republican National Convention comes to Cleveland beginning July 18. With Donald Trump, expect the unexpected.

- Kevin Durant is now a Golden State Warrior. Who's the favorite next season, the Cavaliers or the Warriors?

- Running back Isiah Crowell's controversial social media post and what the Browns should do.

- The Marks look ahead to the second half for the first-place Indians.

- Meszoros reviews the just-released Emmy Award nominations

- What's with the bashing of the all-female cast of the "Ghostbusters" remake that hit theaters this weekend?

- The Marks share their choices for a new segment: Summer books

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Talking red-hot Indians, Cavs and favorite summer movies

On Episode 22 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald's Jeff Schudel fills in for Mark Meszoros as Schudel and News-Herald Sports Editor Mark Podolski discuss the following topics:

- The key to the Indians' current 12-game win streak, should the team be active at the trade deadline and what player has been the Tribe's MVP. Hint: his name rhymes with Windor. (00:00-23:00)

- Schudel puts a capper on the Cavs' historic run to the NBA championship and how he prepped for the parade in downtown Cleveland. (23:00-35:00).

- Their favorite summer movie. Podolski goes with "Jaws," and Schudel "The Sandlot." (35:00-45:00)

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Stipe Miocic visits The News-Herald, plus the Cavs are champions

On Episdoe 21 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald's Mark Podolski and Mark Meszoros discuss the following topcis:

- UFC heavyweight champion and Eastlake North graduate Stipe Miocic visits The News-Herald's office to promote his title bout vs. Alistair Overeem at UFC 203, and discuss the Cavaliers' NBA championship, being a parade of the team's parade and more. (00:00-16:00)

- The Marks put a capper on the Cavs' historic performance to win the NBA Finals and Cleveland's first pro sports championship in 52 years. (16:00-36:00)

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Can the Cavs force Game 7?

On Episode 20 of The Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald's Mark Podolski and Mark Meszoros discuss the following topics:

- Can the Cavaliers force an improbable Game 7 vs. the Warriors? Plus the Marks argue if NBA commissioner Adam Silver suspended Golden State's Draymond Green intentionally to extend the series. (00:00-26:00)

- Almost two episodes in, the Marks discuss ESPN's five-part 30 for 30 "O.J.: Made in America." (25:00-31:00)

- Meszoros reviews the Duane Johnson-Kevin Hart comedy "Central Intelligience," plus Meszoros laments his missed opportunity to screen "Finding Dory," and is Johnson the new Arnold Schwarzenegger for moviegoers? (31:00-41:00)

Quick hits

- The Lake Erie Monsters won the Calder Cup; does Meszoros care? (41:00-43:00)

- The prequel to Frank Miller's iconic graphic novel "The Dark Knight Returns," hit comic book shops June 15. (43:00-44:00)

- The newest contestant to run NBC's "American Ninja Warrior" is a ... dinosaur? (44:00-47:00)

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Cavaliers alive in NBA Finals, Muhammad Ali's legacy

On Episode 19 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros and Mark Podolski discuss the following subjects:

- The Cavaliers are back in the NBA Finals with a convincing Game 3 win. Can they tie the series in Game 4? (00:00-21:00)

- Muhammad Ali's legacy (21:00-30:00)

- ESPN's five-part 30 for 30 "O.J.: Made in America," which debuts June 11 on ABC (30:00-36:00)

Quick hitters

- Meszoros previews the new movie "Warcraft" (36:00-38:00)

- Podolski begins his countdown to the shark film "The Shallows" (38:00-41:00)

- Tickets for UFC 203, featuring Stipe Miocic's first title defense, at Quicken Loans Arena, go on sale June 24 (41:00-44:00)

- The Indians are still in first place, plus preparations for the June 17 News-Herald Senior Bowl begin on June 12. (44:00-46:00)

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Are the Cavaliers Finals bound? Plus, Stipe Miocic to fight at The Q, “X-Men:Apocalypse” review

On episode 17 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald’s Mark Meszoros and Mark Podolski discuss the following:
• After their Game 5 blowout win over the Raptors, are the Cavaliers bound for the NBA Finals? (00:00-10:00)
• UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic is set for his first title defense Sept. 10 at Quicken Loans Arena. Will the joint be sold out? (10:00-16:00)
• Meszoros’ review of “X-Men: Apocalypse.” Thumbs up or down from Mez? (16:00- 24:00)
In rapid fire ...
• The Marks discuss the series premiere of AMC’s new TV series “Preacher” and one Mark asks, “What the hell did I just watch?” (24:00-29:00)
• The Akron Rubberducks’ “Happy Gilmore” night is May 28, with an appearance from actor Christopher McDonald, who played the great Shooter McGavin. (29:00-31:00)
• Meszoros’ update on HBO’s “Game of Thrones” (31:00-33:00)
• Is Meszoros buying into the Indians? (33:00-35:00)
• Will the Buffalo Bills’ new media policy work? (35:00-43:00)

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Stipe Miocic delivers Cleveland a championsip

On Episode 16 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros and Mark Podolski discuss the following topics:

- Northeast Ohio native Stipe Miocic knocks out Fabricio Werdum to win the UFC heavyweight championship. Does it mean the end for Cleveland's 52-year championship drought? (00:00-12:00)

- Can it get any better for the Cavaliers after its 31-point win over the Raptors in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals? (12:00-20:00)

- Meszoros gives his take on the new Ryan Gosling/Russell Crowe film, "The Nice Guys," which opens this week. (20:00-25:00)

In rapid fire, the Marks discuss:

- DC has announced Geoff Jones will be in charge of its cinematic universe. Good move for DC? (25:00-28:00)

- Should the Browns retire Bernie Kosar's No. 19? (28:00-30:00)

- AMC's new TV series, "Preacher," which debuts May 23 (30:00-32:00)

- Should Indians' shortstop Francisco Lindor start the All-Star Game? (32:00-35:00)

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Stipe Miocic-UFC 198 preview, Cavs playoff layoffs and Marvel movies talk

On Episode 15 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, Mark Meszoros and Mark Podolski of The News-Herald disccuss the following topics:

- UFC 198 preview as Northeast Ohio's Stipe Miocic fights for the heavyweight championship. (00:00-11:00)

- What's a Cavaliers fan to do during these long playoff breaks? (11:00-20:00)

- (Note spoilers) The Marks discuss what they liked and didn't like about "Captain America: Civil War" and rank their five favorite Marvel Cinematic Universe films. (20:00-39:00)

- Rapid fire segment: "X-Men: Apocalypse" early reaction (39:00-40:00); The Mark's favorite vacations (40:00-41:00); Jon Snow's return to "Game of Thrones" (41:00-42:00); Why Indians' attendance remains low (42:00-43:00); Favorite two movies to watch if deserted on an island (43:00-44:00); "Money Monster" review (44:00-47:00).

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2016 summer movie preview

On episode 14 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros and Mark Podolski preview the 2016 summer movie season, which is highlighted by "Captain America: Civil War." The Marks also discuss the Cavaliers' record-setting performance against the Hawks in Game 2 of their second-round playoff series, and put a capper on the Browns' draft.

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NFL draft preview, plus Cavs playoff talk and Prince's legacy

On Episode 13 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros and Mark Podolski are joined by Jeff Schudel to preview the NFL Draft and the Browns' plans, plus they discuss the Cavaliers after their first-round sweep of the Pistons. The Marks then discuss the tragic death of Prince and the pop singer's legacy.

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Talking Browns-Eagels draft trade, 'Game of Thrones' and the Cavaliers

On episode 12 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros and Mark Podolski are joined by a third Mark - former News-Herald reporter and 'Games of Thrones' fanatic Mark Koestner - to discuss the following topics:

- The Browns-Eagles NFL draft trade. Is it the right move for the Browns? (00:00-18:00)

- The return of HBO's "Game of Thrones" for Season 6 (18:00-37:00)

- The Pistons-Cavaliers first-round series as the teams head to Detroit for Game 3 on April 22 (37:00-46:00)

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Talking Rams' trade for No. 1 pick, NBA playoffs, and a memorable NBA season finale

On episode 11 of the Mark&Mark podcast, Sports Editor Mark Podolski and Entertainment Editor Mark Meszoros are joined by Cleveland Pro Sports Writer Jeff Schudel to discuss the following topics:

How the Rams trading for the No. 1 overall pick in the draft affects the Browns (00:00-18:00)

The NBA playoffs and the Cavs' chances (18:00-30:00)

A magical end to the NBA's regular season (30:00-34:00)

The Indians' Corey Kluber's lack of run support (34:00-35:00)

Season 2 of AMC's "Better Call Saul" wrapping up (35:00-42:00)

The new "Doctor Strange" trailer (42:00-44:00)

The announcement by Warner Bros. of a stand-alone Batman film with Ben Affleck (44:00-46:00)

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Talking Indians' opening day fiasco, Star Wars Rogue One trailer and the rise of UFC's Stipe Miocic

On episode 10 of the Mark&Mark podcast, News-Herald Entertainment Editor Mark Meszoros and N-H Sports Editor Mark Podolski discuss the Indians' timing in postponing opening day on April 4, reaction to the Star Wars 'Rogue One' trailer, the rise of UFC heavyweight Stipe Miocic and more.

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Does 'Batman v Superman' deliver and should the Browns sign Robert Griffin III?

On Episode 8 of the Mark&Mark Podcast, News-Herald Sports Editor Mark Podolski and Entertainment Editor Mark Meszoros discuss the following topics:

- "Batman v Superman Dawn of Justice" is getting mostly panned by the critics, but what do the Marks think?

- Should the Browns sign free-agent quarterback Robert Griffin III?

- The importance of Michael Brantley's return to the Indians lineup

- Does LeBron James love to stir the pot and create unwanted drama?

- Plus, we preview next week's show, which will spotlight the upcoming ESPN 30 for 30 "Believeland"

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Donald Trump talk, why America loves March Madness and brackets, plus movie and TV talk

On episode seven of the Mark&Mark podcast, Sports Editor Mark Podolski and Entertainment Editor Mark Meszoros discuss Donald Trump as a presidential candidate - why some love him and some hate him - one Mark's love affair with the first two days of March Madness, America's fascination with brackets, plus we break down films "10 Cloverfield Lane" and "The Divergent Series: Allegiant," the return of the FX TV series "The Americans," why we still love FX's "The People v. O.J. Simpson" and if we're excited about the announcement of a fifth Indiana Jones move in 2019.

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We can say goodbye to 'Downton Abbey'

It's ringer week at the Mark&Mark podcast for Episode 5, as one Mark has never watched PBS' 'Downton Abbey,' which airs its series finale episode on March 6. News-Herald Sports Editor Mark Podolski's wife, Julie, has been brought in to bring balance to the show, and to geek out - Downton-style - with N-H Entertainment Editor Mark Meszoros. Topics discussed include favorite story lines, characters, the lasting legacy of the popular series, and more.

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Oscars preview, top 10 films of 2015, favorite sports moments

Episode 4 of The Mark&Mark Podcast previews the Oscars, as News-Herald Entertainment Editor Mark Meszoros and Sports Editor Mark Podolski discuss if this is finally Leonardo DeCaprio's year to win as Best Actor, if Sylvester Stallone breaks through with a historic win as Best Supporting Actor. The guys also rank their top 10 films of 2015 and more.

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Talking "Race," return of "Walking Dead" and "Better Call Saul," plus Cavs trade rumors

In episode 3 of the Mark & Mark podcast, Entertainment Editor Mark Meszoros and Sports Editor Mark Podolski discuss the following topics:
 
Jesse Owens film "Race," which opens in theaters Feb. 19 (00:00-13:00)

"Walking Dead" (13:00-19:40)

"Better Call Saul" (19:40-23:00)

New HBO series "Vinyl" (23:00-25:20)

Cavaliers trade talk (25:20-28:45)

"Star Wars: Episode VIII" begins filming (28:45-29:50)

30th anniversary of graphic novel "The Dark Knight Returns" (29:50-32:20)

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Talking 'Deadpool,' athletes we love to hate, 25th anniversary of 'The Silence of the Lambs' and more

On episode 2 of the Mark&Mark podcast, Entertainment Editor Mark Meszoros and Sports Editor Mark Podolski discuss Ryan Reynolds' new movie "Deadpool." One Mark likes it. The other Mark? Not so much. Find out where they stand on the big screen's newest superhero. Also, the Marks talk about the athletes they love to hate, Super Bowl 50, plus the 25th anniversary of the 1991 thriller, "The Silence of the Lambs."

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Mark & Mark: Is new FX O.J. Simpson trial miniseries worth watching

The new Mark & Mark podcast is a weekly show with Entertainment Editor Mark Meszoros and Sports Editor Mark Podolski crossing over into discussions sports and pop culture. On the first episode, Meszoros and Podolski talk about the pilot episode, which debuted Feb. 2, of FX's 10-episode miniseries "The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story." Is it worth your time? Other topics include Super Bowl 50 and commercials, the likely end of the Johnny Manziel era in Cleveland, and if super Cavs fan Meszoros is all in on new Coach Tyronn Lue.

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