Why ‘How Long Gone’ Created Their Own Awards Show — and ‘Squashed the Beef’ With Bowen Yang
Podcast hosts Chris Black and Jason Stewart launched the Goneies, a New York‑based awards show that turns their on‑air jokes into real‑world prizes. The event blends indie music, playful categories, and corporate sponsorships, while also mending a feud with fellow podcaster Bowen Yang.
When the Hollywood buzz around the Emmys was at its peak, a different kind of celebration was brewing on the East Coast. Chris Black and Jason Stewart, the co‑hosts of the popular pop‑culture podcast How Long Gone, announced the launch of the Goneies – a brand‑new awards ceremony that turns their playful on‑air banter into tangible trophies and live performances.
From Podcast Joke to Live Event
The idea started as a joke during a recent episode. While discussing the Las Culturistas Awards, a recurring segment on the How Long Gone podcast that pokes fun at the comedy duo Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers, Stewart mused, “What if there was a Las Culturistas Awards for guys like us?” The conversation quickly evolved into a list of mock categories, ranging from “Best Normal Restaurant” to “Ally of the Year – For the Gay Guy Who’s Rockin’ With Us the Most.”
Ian Wheeler, co‑founder of the podcast distribution hub Talkhouse, suggested the name “Goneies,” a playful nod to the podcast’s title. The duo embraced the concept, deciding that the awards would be a “real‑life” extension of their show’s humor. Wheeler, whom Black and Stewart affectionately call the “fairy godmother” of How Long Gone, joked that future events might even include a UFC‑style fight between podcasters.
Designing the Trophy and the Experience
Black and Stewart set a simple rule: the trophy must be drinkable, just like the famous Stanley Cup. Their goal was to create a fun, irreverent alternative to the polished, often sterile, mainstream awards. The result is a larger-than‑life trophy that dwarfs even Black’s own Peabody Award, according to Wheeler’s photos of his award shelf.
Corporate sponsors such as Meta’s Threads and Marshall amp makers saw the event as a way to tap into the podcast’s dedicated, culturally savvy audience. “We’re reaching a hard‑to‑reach group that values authenticity,” Black said. Wheeler added that the audience’s discerning nature makes the Goneies a perfect fit for brands looking to connect with trendsetters.
Categories, Performers, and the Vote
While the full list of categories remains a surprise, Variety has confirmed that the “It Girl of the Year” race will feature Rachel Sennott, Audrey Hobert, Ch’lita Collins, Veronika Slowikowska, Mary Beth Barone, Ivy Wolk, and Jake Shane. In the “Album of the Year” category, pop giants Drake and Charli XCX are up against indie icons Kevin Morby and Kurt Vile.
The voting body is surprisingly small: only Black and Stewart. They have not yet announced winners, and nominees who attend the ceremony have a slight advantage. The event will also feature live music, led by Grammy‑winning producer Brad Cook, with performances from Blondshell, Kevin Morby, J. Mascis, and more.
Reconciliation and the Spirit of the Show
Beyond the trophies and tunes, the Goneies also served as a platform for mending a long‑standing feud. Black recently sent Bowen Yang a heartfelt apology via Instagram, acknowledging that their frequent jokes had crossed a line. Yang received the olive branch warmly, and the two have reportedly “squashed the beef.”
Black explained that the humor often stems from a shared reality: both podcasts thrive on cultural commentary, but Yang and Rogers make more money. “We’re doing the same thing, but they get paid more,” he said. “It’s easy to get frustrated, but we’re all in the same boat.”
With the event set for Tuesday at Racket NYC in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, the Goneies promise a night of laughter, music, and a celebration of pop culture that feels both intimate and inclusive. The ceremony will feature a mix of invited friends and ticket buyers, ensuring a diverse audience that spans podcast listeners and indie music fans alike.
As the Goneies prepare to roll out, the event stands as a testament to how a podcast’s playful spirit can translate into a real‑world celebration, blending humor, music, and community in a way that feels fresh and authentic.
What’s Next?
While the winners remain a secret, the Goneies are already generating buzz. Future editions may include more interactive segments, expanded categories, and perhaps even the rumored UFC‑style showdown. For now, the focus remains on delivering a memorable night that honors the podcast’s roots while pushing the boundaries of what an awards show can be.
Stay tuned for the official winners, and keep an eye out for the next iteration of the Goneies, where the lines between podcast banter and real‑world celebration blur into a single, unforgettable experience.
Why it matters
The Goneies show how niche media can create authentic, community‑driven events that rival mainstream ceremonies, offering a fresh model for engaging audiences beyond the screen.
Key points
- The Goneies were born from a podcast joke and turned into a real awards show
- Co‑hosts Chris Black and Jason Stewart designed a unique, drinkable trophy
- Corporate sponsors like Meta’s Threads and Marshall amp makers back the event
- Categories include quirky titles and high‑profile nominees such as Drake and Charli XCX
- The event features live music led by Brad Cook and performances from indie artists
- Black apologized to Bowen Yang, mending a long‑standing feud
- The ceremony will take place at Racket NYC in Manhattan’s Lower East Side
Frequently asked questions
What is the Goneies awards show?
The Goneies is a live awards ceremony created by the hosts of the pop‑culture podcast How Long Gone, featuring playful categories, indie music, and corporate sponsorships.
Where and when will the first Goneies take place?
The inaugural Goneies will be held on Tuesday at Racket NYC in Manhattan’s Lower East Side.
Who are the main hosts behind the Goneies?
Chris Black and Jason Stewart, the co‑hosts of the How Long Gone podcast, are the creators and hosts of the event.
How were the winners chosen?
The voting body consists of Black and Stewart; winners are announced on the night of the ceremony.
What kind of music will be performed?
Live performances will be led by Grammy‑winning producer Brad Cook, featuring acts like Blondshell, Kevin Morby, and J. Mascis.
