Men's Journal's Blog, page 40

July 25, 2025

Sam's Club Is Selling a Stylish Double Basket Air Fryer, and It Just May Replace 6 of Your Most Used Appliances

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Air fryers have been all the rage for several years now, and for good reason. You can cook just about anything in a mini countertop convection oven and expect a crisp, perfectly cooked result. But those with bigger families often find a standard size air fryer frustrating because you can only cook one item at a time, and most people are preparing at least two items to make a complete meal.

Well, that’s where the Ninja® Foodi® 6-in-1 8-qt. 2-Basket Air Fryer sold at Sam's Club comes into play. This smart appliance allows you to cook two separate items at the same time, and features DualZone™ Technology’s Smart Finish, so contents in both baskets finish cooking at the same time. Each side is 4 quarts with independent cook settings, so you can prepare 4 pounds of chicken wings, nuggets or strips and 4 pounds of French fries, tater tots or onion rings, for example, at the same time.

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Fans are thrilled with the double basket situation. “I love being able to use both baskets at different temps and getting both items done at the same time”, exclaimed one reviewer. “Easy to use kitchen multitool, this item can replace a few kitchen items [with] lower cooking times”, said another. Each basket has a cooking temperature range of 105°F–400°F.

Ninja Foodie 2-Basket Air Fryer

Sam's Club

This Ninja tool can air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, reheat and keep warm, unlike many air fryers out there. The unit is easy to clean, as the cooking baskets are nonstick and the crisper plates are dishwasher safe. “We are thrilled with the convenience, simplicity and operation of our purchase”, one person said.

Featured Story: Sam’s Club Stylish 'Perfect for Small Spaces' Beverage Fridge Holds 128 Cans and Is On Sale Right Now

Users love having the ability to quickly and effectively reheat leftovers. “Flexible and powerful kitchen tool. Amazingly fast on reheating items like chicken tenders and pizza. Far better in the air fryer than in the microwave to keep foods crisp”, stated a fan.

The package also comes with 15 chef-crafted recipes and cooking charts to make the air frying experience a smooth one. A quick internet search populates millions of air fryer recipes, so you’re likely to find something delicious to prepare.

The Ninja 2-Basket Air Fryer is $30 off at Sam’s Club as part of their weekend doorbuster sale, going on July 25-27. Don’t wait on this one if you want to up your air fryer game.

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Related: Sam's Club's Sleek 'Must-Buy' 18-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set Is 'the Best Tableware' Ever

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Published on July 25, 2025 15:45

Costco Shoppers Are Rushing to Get This Must-Have Kitchen Tool That's Less Than $25

Sometimes, it's the most essential kitchen tools that are the ones that get brushed aside. Well, it's time to put that fancy stand mixer and ultra-sleek blender to the side because Costco is selling a kitchen must-have, and it's currently less than 25 bucks. That tool that should absolutely be in your kitchen is the Taylor Digital Thermometer Set.

On Reddit, a Costco customer revealed that they spotted the must-have set for $21.49, and asked fellow shoppers if it's worth it for the price.

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"Is this digital thermometer set a good value? Almost picked it up last time but I hesitated. I’m sure they’re accurate but I’m curious if the probe is very fast. My current probe thermometer takes a long time when checking temps of items on the grill. Anyone find this set is good?" they asked.

The original poster was met with plenty of comments from Reddit users urging them to get the Taylor Digital Thermometer Set.

Related: Costco's Folding Picnic Table Is Affordable, and 'Super Strong and Sturdy'

"Taylor is a reputable brand, FWIW," one person shared.

"I do prefer my Thermapen probe, but To me the IR gun is worth $20 by itself, so this seems reasonable," another Redditor pointed out.

The Reddit post even inspired one shopper to pick up a digital thermometer set for themselves.

"I am SO picking that up tomorrow! And red I'd my kitchen accent color. Thanks for the heads up," they wrote.

The Taylor Digital Thermometer Set was also met with favorable reviews on the Costco website.

"This purchase was a no-brainer on the price alone! We just upgraded our outdoor cooking set-up and with a griddle and a pizza oven we really needed help with surface temperature tracking. The infrared is a great tool - it was quick to respond and easy to read," one reviewer shared.

Related: Costco Is Practically Giving Away This $130 Williams Sonoma Wine Glass Set for Just $17

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Published on July 25, 2025 15:30

Amazon Is Selling a $110 Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad for $70, and Campers Say It's 'Incredibly Comfortable'

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The most comfortable sleeping pads are usually the thickest, which means they’re also the heaviest, which means they’re also sometimes a pain to bring along on a camping trip. The best way to disrupt this dynamic is to sleep on air, and the best way to sleep on air is with a self-inflating sleeping pad. Thankfully, this brand-new model that's making waves on Amazon just got a temporary discount.

The Ogery Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad is just $70 at Amazon right now, a 36% discount from its normal $110 price tag. It’s a newcomer to the category, but it’s already earned 89 five-star ratings out of—wait for it—89 total ratings. That perfect score comes with reviews calling it “incredibly comfortable and supportive,” “ridiculously easy” to set up, and “light enough to take anywhere.”

Ogery Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad, $70 (was $110) at Amazon The Ogery Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad.

Courtesy of Amazon

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This pad combines an air chamber with a 3.15-inch-thick foam sleeping pad, all encased in a 50D stretch knit fabric that’s breathable, tear-proof, water resistant, and noiseless while sleeping. The included pump can inflate the pad seven times on a single charge and recharges easily via USB-C. It folds down to a compact package that’s roughly 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide and weighs less than 6 pounds.

“Living in Hawaii, we’re always out at the beach or park, and this Ogery self-inflating sleeping pad has been a total game changer for my family,” one reviewer wrote. “It’s super comfortable and thick, and the built-in electric pump makes setup quick and effortless.” They added that it’s “lightweight enough to carry and packs down well,” so it’s easy to recommend for “any family who loves the outdoors.”

Related: Bass Pro Shops Is Selling a $170 Sleeping Pad for Only $80 Right Now, and It's 'Very Easy to Inflate'

Another reviewer wrote that this pad is “much thicker and more comfortable than our previous camping pad…really a cut above the other ones I’ve seen.” They’re big fans of the pump: it “inflates the pad in about a minute and can be reversed to deflate just as quickly” to “roll up easily and pack in the included bag.”

At just $70, it’s worth it for every halfway outdoorsy person to try out the Ogery Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad. The 89 Amazon reviewers who’ve already taken the plunge have nothing but good things to say about the experience, and with the added satisfaction of scoring one on sale, it seems more than likely that you will too.

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Published on July 25, 2025 15:15

July 24, 2025

Ozzy Osbourne's Bandmate Breaks His Silence on His Death

Earlier this week, rock 'n roll legend Ozzy Osbourne of Black Sabbath passed away just a couple of weeks after a farewell concert. Now, one of his longtime Black Sabbath bandmates is speaking out about The Prince of Darkness' passing.

During a recent interview, legendary Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi opened up a little bit about his longtime bandmate's passing.

“It was a shock for us,” Iommi said, according to Guitar World. “When I heard yesterday, it couldn’t sink in. I thought, ‘It can’t be.’ I only had a text from him the day before.

Iommi admitted that Osbourne did not look well while they were rehearsing for their farewell show, and he speculated that Ozzy was planning for that to be the final thing he ever did.

“It just seemed unreal, surreal,” he continued. “In the night, I started thinking about it: ‘God, am I dreaming all this?’ But he’s not looked well through the rehearsals.

“I think he really just held out to do that show. And just after that, he’s done it and said goodbye to the fans. And that was the end of it, really.

“I think he must have had something in his head that said, ‘Well, this is gonna be it, the last thing I’m ever gonna do.’ Whether he thought he was gonna die or what, I don’t know. But he really wanted to do it; he was determined to do it. And fair dues, he’d done it.”

That said, Iommi didn't expect him to pass away so soon after the farewell show, so his passing was still quite a shock to him and everyone else who was close to him.

“We didn’t expect him to go that quickly, really. We didn’t expect him to go. So it’s been a shock,” Iommi said.

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Published on July 24, 2025 21:01

Pluto TV’s Latest Move Could Change Free Streaming Forever

Pluto TV is quietly testing a change that could redefine what "free TV" actually means.

Free TV With Strings Attached

Pluto TV, Paramount’s free ad-supported streaming service, has built its reputation on being simple, accessible, and—most importantly—free. But a new change rolling out to some users is triggering backlash and raising questions about the platform’s future.

For years, Pluto let users stream hundreds of live and on-demand channels without signing in. While it encouraged users to create a free account for personalization, there was always a “Not now” button to skip it. That’s changing.

Now, according to user reports on Reddit, Pluto TV is requiring logins to access certain channels. One user posted a screenshot showing a login wall with a message reading “Unlock Free TV,” adding, “As of last night, I noticed Pluto is requiring a sign-up in order to change channels… I’m out.”

A Warning Shot—or a New Standard?

While Pluto previously tested this restriction earlier in the year and quickly rolled it back, it appears to be testing it again—this time more broadly. And not everyone is taking it lightly.

“It’s still free, just use another email,” one user shrugged. But others saw it as a slippery slope. “This could be the first step toward putting a price on it,” another warned.

These changes come as Pluto TV reports record-breaking viewership, The Street reported. Co-CEO Chris McCarthy said in a May earnings call that global viewing time jumped 26 percent year over year. However, he admitted that monetization was “softer than expected” due to an oversaturated ad market.

A Crowded Free TV Battlefield

Pluto isn’t alone in chasing eyeballs and ad dollars. Tubi, Fox’s free platform, is also booming, with CEO Lachlan Murdoch calling it “mainstream.” DirecTV’s MyFree app now offers over 90 channels without a subscription.

As competition heats up, Pluto may be betting that a sign-in wall helps capture more user data and improve ad targeting. But in doing so, it risks alienating the very users who made it a leader in the free streaming space.

Pluto says it’s still experimenting. But if this test sticks, it could signal a major shift—not just for Pluto TV, but for the future of “free” streaming altogether.

Related: Netflix Makes Final Decision on 'Wednesday' Season 3

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Published on July 24, 2025 20:26

American Airlines CEO Does Not Hold Back on Delta's Controversial Move

Earlier this week, Delta Air Lines President Glen William Hauenstein told reporters that the company was moving forward with expanding the use of AI in its pricing. However, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom is not a fan of that plan.

This week, Hauenstein told reporters that about 3 percent of the airline's domestic ticket prices are already set using AI, and the company hopes to expand that to 20 percent by the end of the year.

In his comments, Hauenstein also spoke highly of Delta's partnership with Fetcherr, a tech company that claims to be able to "set the perfect price every time" using AI.

"The convergence of AI, machine learning and real-time data processing completely transforms how airlines approach pricing strategy," a Fetcherr post on dynamic pricing in aviation reads. "Gone are the days of rigid pricing rules and manual adjustments. Welcome to the era of true dynamic pricing, where artificial intelligence can process millions of data points instantly to set the perfect price every time. Welcome to the modern age of AI dynamic pricing."

Some lawmakers have already expressed concerns about the move, citing concerns about privacy and "pricing discrimination." It sounds like Isom isn't a fan of the move, either.

"I don't think it's appropriate," Isom said during American Airlines' earnings call on Thursday, according to The Points Guy.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 30: An American Airlines Airbus A321 taxis at Los Angeles International Airport on March 30, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Carter/Getty Images)

Kevin Carter/Getty Images

Isom went on to make it very clear that this is not something that American Airlines will pursue in the future.

"I quite frankly think that some of the things I've heard are just not good," Isom said.

"Consumers need to know that they can trust American, ok? This is not about bait and switch. This is not about tricking," Isom added. "And certainly, from American, it's not something we will do."

In the statement, Delta denied any plans to use personal information to target customers with individualized offers and claimed that the new AI technology is simply streamlining its process for setting its fares.

"There is no fare product Delta has ever used, is testing, or plans to use that targets customers with individualized offers based on personal information or otherwise," the airline told Newsweek in a statement late Monday. "A variety of market forces drive the dynamic pricing model that's been used in the global industry for decades, with new tech simply streamlining this process. Delta always complies with regulations around pricing and disclosures."

Clearly, Isom does not think AI should be used in pricing air fares.

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Published on July 24, 2025 20:25

Ozzy Osbourne's Daughter Kelly Osbourne Breaks Silence on His Death

Earlier this week, rock 'n roll legend Ozzy Osbourne of Black Sabbath passed away at the age of 76 years old, just weeks after a farewell concert. While his daughter, Kelly, had remained silent in the hours and days immediately following her father's death, she broke her silence on his passing on Thursday.

In a post to her Instagram story, Kelly opened up for the first time since Osbourne's death as she expressed her sorrow after losing her father.

"I feel unhappy I am so sad," Kelly wrote in an Instagram story. "I lost the best friend I ever had."

Shortly after the news broke of Osbourne's passing, his family issued a statement, per Kerri-Ann Roper of PA Entertainment.

“It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning," the statement read. "He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time."

Following his death, there has been a showering of tributes from those mourning the rock 'n roll legend's passing.

Lady Gaga wore an Ozzy Osbourne shirt while performing "Crazy Train" at a recent concert.

"I’m trying to compute the last couple days and honestly I’m absolutely f—ing shattered," Yungblood wrote in the caption of a recent video. "You have been my North Star for everything for as long as I can remember from when I was misunderstood as a child to the way people thought I was just a little 'too much' or 'strange' in my life and career." 

Metallica reacted to his death with a simple broken heart emoji.

"Ozzy Forever!" Black Sabbath posted on social media.

Clearly, the legendary artist lived a full life and will be greatly missed by many people.

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Published on July 24, 2025 19:52

The North Face's Legendary Backpack Is a Rare 30% Off at REI, and Shoppers Say It's 'Extremely Roomy'

Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services.  If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

While not quite as ubiquitous as the brand’s black fleece jackets, The North Face daypacks are hard to miss on campuses, public transit, and hiking trails. There's a good reason, too—the brand's gear, especially its tactical backpacks, is made to last. So it’s big news that REI just knocked the price down on the Jester pack—one of The North Face's best bags overall.

You can get The North Face's Jester Daypack for as low as $52 at REI right now, a 30% discount from its normal $75 price tag. The discount is good on the sleek mid grey dark heather colorway, while the remainder are still full price. With nearly 4,700 five-star ratings and reviews calling it “extremely roomy,” “super comfortable,” and “sturdy and durable.”

The North Face Jester Daypack, $52 (was $75) at REI The The North Face Jester Daypack.

Courtesy of REI

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This 28-liter backpack is made of 600-denier, 50% recycled polyester. It has a laptop sleeve, tablet sleeve, and front compartment with an internal organizer and additional zipped pockets. Outside, there are two water bottle pockets and an elastic bungee system for external storage. The FlexVent suspension system, sternum strap, and padded mesh back panel ensure that this backpack is comfortable to wear all day long.

One satisfied customer called this bag “very durable, nice, and spacious.” After 2 years of use, they can say it “has plenty of room for all of your school supplies, and it is very durable.” Beyond normal wear and tear, it’s held up very well.

Related: Nordstrom Rack Is Selling This Classy $219 Backpack for Just $48, and It's Perfect as an Everyday Office Bag

Another reviewer wrote that this is the “perfect pack for a weekend getaway with lots of room for expansion.” It’s a “very durable and ergonomic” bag that they “would recommend highly,” not least of all because their previous Jester lasted for years.

No joke, The North Face Jester Daypack is a great backpack for students, hikers, and travelers alike. This kind of deal on a backpack this beloved doesn’t come around every day, so we’d recommend grabbing one while you can.

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Published on July 24, 2025 19:30

Hulk Hogan’s Body Being Removed From His Home: Video

WWE Hall of Fame inductee Hulk Hogan died at age 71 on July 24, 2025.

Hogan was actually inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice, first in 2005 as an individual and then again in 2020 as a member of the New World Order, or nWo.

Hogan's manager told Newsweek he died after a cardiac arrest.

"Unfortunately we must confirm that Terry Bollea, aka Hulk Hogan passed away this morning," Linda Bose said. "We are heartbroken. He was such a great human being and friend."

Hogan's body was also spotted on a stretcher being removed from his Clearwater, FL home, which Realtor.com estimates is now worth $5 million.

The video of his body being removed shows more than a dozen emergency services workers around him and placing his body on the stretcher.


Video of Hulk Hogan being taken away from his home on a stretcher this morning.

This is so sad 😞 pic.twitter.com/eez3ZFzFqt

— Vince Langman (@LangmanVince) July 24, 2025

It's hard to tell in the video, but emergency workers don't appear to be administering any chest compressions as part of CPR.

Several police cars can also be seen in the video, as well as garbage cans labeled "Clearwater."

The Clearwater Police Department has said emergency workers responded to a call about a cardiac arrest around 9:51 a.m. at Hogan's home in Clearwater Beach.

The mayor of Clearwater, fans and celebrities alike have paid tribute to the wrestling icon since the news broke.

Sylvester Stalone, of Rocky fame, on Instagram said he was heartbroken.

“I have the pleasure of meeting this brilliant personality and showman when he was 26 years old,” he said. “He was absolutely wonderful and his amazing skill made Rocky three incredibly special. My heart breaks. I think that he’s gone.

Fellow wrestling legend The Undertaker, whose real name is Mark Calaway, also paid tribute.

"The wrestling world has lost a true legend. His contributions to our business are immeasurable and for that I am appreciative," he wrote in a post on X. "Thank you, Hulk Hogan."

Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector in a post on X called Hogan an "inspiration" to the community and others.

"He was so proud of his home city and was very active in our community," he said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. His memory will live forever in our city."

Related: Hulk Hogan Fans Flock to His Restaurant in Tribute After His Passing: 'My Favorite Legend'

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Published on July 24, 2025 19:23

Sacha Baron Cohen’s Unexpected Call to Matthew McConaughey and What It Might Mean for the MCU

Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Getty Images

Sacha Baron Cohen is absolutely shredded and Marvel fans are in a frenzy. The 53-year-old actor known for comedy movies like Borat and Ali G Indahouse was recently spotted looking absolutely shredded, which sparked new rumors about his supposed role as Mephisto in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

How he got to look this way? Matthew McConaughey's personal trainer.

“I called Matthew and asked for help. After asking who I was and how I’d gotten his number, he finally gave me Alfonso’s contact,” Sacha joked with Men's Fitness UK. Alfonso, aka The Angry Trainer has a reputation for transforming physiques on impossible deadlines. His no-nonsense, gimmick-free approach to training and nutrition has Baron Cohen looking significantly more muscular than fans are used to.

Donning an open shirt and sporting a toned, gym-honed frame on the cover of the magazine, the comedian's transformation marks a major physical pivot for the star, who Marvel fans have long been speculating will play Mephisto in an upcoming project. First teased by Deadline in 2022, the sudden bulk-up combined with Marvel's increasing tendency to cast against type (see: Paul Rudd as Ant-Man), makes the theory plausible, especially considering Marvel’s track record of big-name reveals.

Mephisto's appearance has been teased throughout the MCU, most recently in WandaVision and Agatha All Along, the latter of which some fans believe could feature Cohen’s official debut.

Baron Cohen hasn’t commented publicly on the transformation or the role. But if the internet buzz is any indication, his villain era might just be beginning.

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Published on July 24, 2025 18:49

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