The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns are mentioned as contributing factors to the surge in Bob Ross's popularity on Twitch and the guests' decisions to become certified instructors.
The COVID-19 pandemic is referenced as another crisis compounding parenting challenges.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy, business models, and the housing market is discussed as a factor contributing to the current economic and housing market conditions.
The podcast episodes cover a range of topics related to the COVID-19 pandemic, from its effects on social isolation and making new friends How to make friends as an adult, to its impact on the housing market and economy 971: BiggerNews: Mid-Year Housing Market Update + Mortgage Rate Forecast w/Redfin Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather, and the challenges of parenting during crises 'Lessons for Survival' thinks about parenting through social and environmental crises.
The pandemic is also referenced as a backdrop for discussions on mental health, self-care, and finding solace during difficult times Wisdom, Solace, and Courage for 2024 and I Choose...Me.
Additionally, the podcasts explore the pandemic's influence on memory and perception of time The science of memory with Charan Ranganath, as well as its impact on popular culture and nostalgia The Caramel Apples Presents: A Caramelicious Anniversary Celebration! and A Pursued Interest (Episode 24), The Joy of Bob Ross Twitch (Episode 20).