Rush Postponed, Neil Peart’s Ghost & Stars Cap Crunch | Expo | Ep 238

In this episode of Your Dark Companion, host Mike Rhyner and co-host Michael Gruber are joined by fan-favorite guest Kevin “Expo” Fox to break down the last-minute cancellation of the Rush reunion tour show in Fort Worth after Geddy Lee was sidelined by laryngitis and bronchitis. The crew digs deep into Rush history, including Neil Peart’s legendary drumming legacy, his books, and how new drummer Alanna Miles is holding her own on the tour. The conversation shifts to Dallas Stars hockey, covering the disappointing playoff exit to Minnesota, the Jason Robertson contract standoff, and what Dallas needs to do to contend for the Stanley Cup.
00:00:00 – Show Open & Introductions
The hosts kick off episode 238 of Your Dark Companion, with Mike Rhyner reflecting on a personal disappointment from the night before.
00:03:45 – The Postponed Rush Concert
Mike Rhyner and guest Kevin “Expo” Fox recount the last-minute cancellation of the Rush concert due to Geddy Lee’s laryngitis and bronchitis.
00:06:07 – Mike Rhyner’s Rush Conversion
Mike Rhyner explains his long history of dismissing Rush and how he eventually came around to appreciating the band.
00:10:35 – The Rush Reunion & New Drummer
The group discusses the surprise of Rush touring again in their seventies and evaluates new drummer Temperance Keith’s performance filling in for the legendary Neil Peart.
00:22:31 – Neil Peart’s Personal Tragedies & Legacy
The conversation turns to Neil Peart’s devastating personal losses, his famous 60,000-mile motorcycle journey, his books, and his eventual death from brain cancer.
00:29:02 – Dallas Stars Season Review
Mike Rhyner and Expo break down the Stars’ disappointing playoff exit, injuries, and how fatigue caught up with the team late in the season.
00:36:33 – Jason Robertson Contract Situation
Expo details the complexities of the Stars’ salary cap crunch and the challenge of re-signing star goal scorer Jason Robertson.
00:43:51 – Sponsor Read: CBD House of Healing
Mike Rhyner delivers a personal endorsement for the CBD House of Healing and their full-spectrum products.
00:45:00 – Getting to Know Expo
The hosts shift to a lighthearted conversation about Expo’s day job, his temperament, and his role handling finances and shipping at his workplace.
00:52:09 – Closing & Show Wrap
The crew wraps up with final Rush concert logistics, a farewell to Kevin “Expo” Fox, and a plug for listeners to share the show on social media.