Adam Carolla Show – Episode Summary: COVID Learning Losses + Drake Bell + Michael Malice Release Date: February 17, 2025

1. Introduction and Guest Overview

In this episode of The Adam Carolla Show, host Adam Carolla welcomes actor and musician Drake Bell and Michael Malice, the host of "You're Welcome" with Michael Malice. Additionally, Jason "Mayhem" Miller joins for news and trending topics segments.

Adam Carolla [02:35]:
"Today, Drake Bell has joined me in studio. Drake and Josh, of course, is where we know you from. Lots of acting roles, lots of Nickelodeon stuff. Probably a blessing and a curse. Nickelodeon."

2. Music Industry Insights

Drake Bell and Michael Malice delve into Drake's musical career, particularly highlighting his unexpected popularity in Mexico. Michael shares his experiences touring there and discusses the differences in fan reception compared to the United States.

Michael Malice [04:06]:
"Back in 2006, I released my second album, and when we toured Mexico City, it was like the Beatles showing up to New York. People were literally chasing our cars and screaming our names."

Drake Bell [06:00]:
"It's hard to figure out how it works. Although, for some reason, Rio de Janeiro seems to be the place that goes the most nuts over the most artists."

The conversation transitions into discussions about various music genres, including rockabilly, punk rockabilly, and collaborations with notable musicians like Brian Setzer. They reminisce about iconic bands and the evolution of music styles over the decades.

Michael Malice [07:33]:
"All of my influences are on my sleeve. It's all lush Brian Wilson Beach Boys harmonies and Brian May Queen guitar solos. You can tell you’re influenced by 10 different artists."

They also touch upon the challenges of maintaining creativity in the music industry and the shift from persona-driven performances to more authentic interactions.

3. Michael Malice’s Experience with Abuse in Nickelodeon

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Michael Malice sharing his harrowing experience with molestation on the set of a Nickelodeon show. He recounts the abuse by a dialogue coach during his time as a child actor and the subsequent lack of accountability within the industry.

Michael Malice [50:37]:
"I broke my jaw in three places, knocked out all my teeth, and had my face wired shut for five months. It was brutal, but thankfully I received great medical help."

He further discusses the investigation process, including the discovery of numerous letters from prominent celebrities defending the abuser, highlighting a systemic issue of protecting perpetrators over victims.

Michael Malice [56:09]:
"They wrote 41 letters in support of him, from people like James Marsden and Alan Thicke, saying they never felt uncomfortable around him. It's wild."

The discussion underscores the challenges victims face in seeking justice and the pervasive culture of silence that often surrounds such abuses.

4. Political Commentary on COVID and Media

Drake Bell and Jason Mayhem Miller engage in a robust critique of the government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly focusing on school closures and their impact on children from marginalized communities.

Drake Bell [75:01]:
"You closed the beaches, threw kids out of school for long periods, and wondered why kids are trailing by half a grade level. It’s all economic, not about public good."

They express frustration with political figures like Gavin Newsom and Dr. Anthony Fauci, accusing them of incompetence and deliberate harm.

Jason Mayhem Miller [76:29]:
"Dr. Fauci has been irresponsible for decades, from AIDS to COVID. There's no accountability in this system."

The conversation extends to media criticism, where they condemn mainstream outlets for perpetuating misinformation and protecting the status quo.

Michael Malice [63:48]:
"The corporate press continues to sweep child abuse under the rug, leaving no room for accountability or justice."

5. Employer and Workplace Trends

The hosts discuss evolving workplace dynamics, contrasting past structures with contemporary trends that emphasize flexibility, sometimes at the expense of accountability.

Drake Bell [118:30]:
"Time cards used to keep everyone in line. Now, with no accountability, people just float in and out, making excuses for absences."

They lament the decline of structured work environments, advocating for systems that ensure productivity and responsibility, such as reinstating time clocks or stricter attendance policies.

Jason Mayhem Miller [121:08]:
"When Trump eliminated remote work benefits, it forced employees to be present, eliminating the excuses that lead to decreased productivity."

Furthermore, they critique modern workplace perks that may inadvertently foster irresponsibility, drawing parallels to their earlier discussions on education and government.

6. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The episode wraps up with continued political discussions, emphasizing skepticism towards institutional power and advocating for personal accountability and freedom. Drake Bell expresses hope for more pragmatic leadership that prioritizes effective governance over bureaucratic stagnation.

Drake Bell [133:01]:
"I want to see leaders who focus on getting things done, not just maintaining the bloated status quo. It's time for real change."

Michael Malice praises the resilience of individuals fighting against systemic issues, while Jason Mayhem Miller underscores the importance of dismantling corrupt institutions to foster a healthier society.

The hosts conclude by inviting listeners to explore more content from their respective podcasts and expressing gratitude for the engaging discussions.

Notable Quotes

• Michael Malice [04:06]:
  "Back in 2006, I released my second album, and when we toured Mexico City, it was like the Beatles showing up to New York. People were literally chasing our cars and screaming our names."

• Michael Malice [56:09]:
  "They wrote 41 letters in support of him, from people like James Marsden and Alan Thicke, saying they never felt uncomfortable around him. It's wild."

• Drake Bell [75:01]:
  "You closed the beaches, threw kids out of school for long periods, and wondered why kids are trailing by half a grade level. It’s all economic, not about public good."

• Jason Mayhem Miller [76:29]:
  "Dr. Fauci has been irresponsible for decades, from AIDS to COVID. There's no accountability in this system."

• Drake Bell [133:01]:
  "I want to see leaders who focus on getting things done, not just maintaining the bloated status quo. It's time for real change."

Conclusion

This episode of The Adam Carolla Show offers a deep dive into personal trauma, the complexities of the music industry, and a scathing critique of governmental and media institutions. Through candid conversations and personal anecdotes, Adam Carolla, Drake Bell, and Michael Malice explore the intersections of fame, abuse, and societal challenges, providing listeners with a mix of humor, insight, and thought-provoking commentary.