Batteries Not Included

The Deluxe Talk Boy, an electronic toy from the early 90s, was born as a prop for Home 2: Lost in New York.

The device featured a handheld cassette player and recorder with an extendable microphone and built-in speaker. You could record your voice, play it back, or modify the playback speed to create amusing sound effects.

I received my first one in 1995, which unlocked a new world of creativity and, unbeknownst to me, a career path I was about to embark on at nine years old.

Far from a confident or gifted speaker, I was enthusiastic and loved to entertain others, so I saw this gadget as a newfound source of amusement.

Initially, I started recording commentary for wrestling matches I was watching on television before branching out to record quirky comedy segments with friends. Over the next year, I recorded at least 100 of those bits, mainly with others and also solo.

I also recorded myself introducing songs on the radio and then modifying the playback speed of the music for a good laugh.

Though undeniably silly, the recordings provided a liberating experience as I allowed my thoughts to flow unrestrained.

During this period, I vividly recall, in Grade 5, being required to fill in the blank of, "What would you like to do for a career when you grow up?"

My response: "Radio or TV broadcaster."

Though I may shudder at the mere thought of hearing those audio pieces now, sharing them with my son would have an enjoyable trip down memory lane.

Born from a prop in Home Alone 2 was a spark of creativity, ultimately culminating in the manifestation of a dream turned reality.