Podcast Summary: "The Best of Add to Cart: SuChin in Paris--18 Bottles of Sleeping Pills"
Episode Information:
- Title: The Best of Add to Cart: SuChin in Paris--18 Bottles of Sleeping Pills
- Hosts: Kulap Vilaysack & SuChin Pak
- Release Date: July 29, 2025
- Producer: Lemonada Media
Introduction
In this standout episode of Add to Cart, hosts Kulap Vilaysack and veteran journalist SuChin Pak delve into SuChin's memorable trip to Paris. The conversation weaves through humorous anecdotes, cultural observations, and the quirks of consumerism in the City of Light. The episode is infused with candid moments and insightful commentary, capturing the essence of what it means to "add to cart" both literally and metaphorically.
Anniversary Announcement [03:22 - 04:34]
Before diving into SuChin's Parisian adventures, the hosts excitedly announce their upcoming one-year anniversary milestone. They share hints about a special surprise planned for their listeners, encouraging fans to follow them on Instagram (@cartpod) to stay updated.
SuChin Pak [03:22]: "We are approaching our one-year milestone and Ku and I have something very special planned for you guys."
SuChin's Paris Trip Overview [05:49 - 14:25]
SuChin Pak recounts her journey to Paris, sparked by a combination of personal reasons and a serendipitous invitation from iconic influencer Criselle Lim to attend Paris Fashion Week. The trip was her first extended vacation in years, offering a much-needed break from quarantining with her two children during a bout of COVID-19.
Accommodations and First Impressions [07:10 - 09:36]
Staying at the luxurious Le Maurice Hotel, SuChin juxtaposes her modest packing list against the opulence surrounding her. She humorously describes waiting for Criselle after shows, feeling out of place amidst the city's chic lifestyle.
SuChin Pak [08:02]: "I had to bring the things I know I cannot get in Paris. I brought 30 sleeping pills because I just didn't know how long I'd be out."
Packing Essentials and Customs Challenges [10:07 - 14:14]
SuChin details her meticulous packing strategy, emphasizing items she couldn't find in Paris, such as specific sleeping aids. Her overpacking leads to humorous reflections on navigating customs with 18 bottles of sleeping pills.
SuChin Pak [11:15]: "I brought 18 bottles or containers from maybe eight different brands."
City Pharmacy Adventures [17:20 - 22:29]
A highlight of SuChin's trip was her daily visits to City Pharmacy, a sprawling three-story establishment renowned for its vast selection of beauty products, health aids, and, notably, French sleeping pills. SuChin shares her fascination with the variety and potency of European sleep aids compared to those available in the U.S.
SuChin Pak [20:56]: "I probably have 18 bottles or containers from maybe eight different brands."
She reflects on the differences in product formulations and the overwhelming choices, advising future travelers to come prepared with a shopping list to avoid unnecessary purchases and suitcase clutter.
Monoprix Shopping Experiences [24:15 - 26:58]
Monoprix, Paris's version of Target, becomes SuChin's go-to for children's clothing and quirky kitchen utensils. Her enthusiasm for the store's offerings is palpable as she describes the unique styles and high-quality items she procures for her children.
SuChin Pak [25:16]: "I never passed Amona Prix without going into it."
She humorously recounts the challenge of fitting large kitchen items like pasta strainers into her suitcase, highlighting the practical yet stylish nature of Monoprix products.
Bully Apothecary - A Parisian Gem [36:13 - 37:54]
One of the episode's standout segments is SuChin's visit to Bully Apothecary, a historic French store dating back to 1803. She praises the personalized shopping experience, where products like soaps and perfumes are beautifully wrapped and customized with calligraphy.
SuChin Pak [37:21]: "Wrapping up what we love about shopping. But also just what Paris is."
This segment underscores the cultural appreciation for quality and heritage in Parisian consumerism, contrasting it with the more utilitarian shopping experiences elsewhere.
Candid Moments and Humor [33:08 - 35:56]
Throughout the episode, SuChin and Kulap engage in lighthearted banter, sharing funny stories about navigating high-fashion environments and the challenges of blending into Parisian elegance. SuChin's mishaps with wardrobe changes and her inventive use of accessories add a relatable and humorous touch to her luxurious surroundings.
Kulap Vilaysack [34:08]: "There was a look of panic in her eyes as I was standing there with a bib of lace and my collar."
Engagement and Listener Interaction [40:35 - 42:09]
As the episode nears its end, Kulap and SuChin address listener feedback, emphasizing the importance of community engagement. They encourage listeners to check the show notes for links to products discussed and to follow them on Instagram for visuals and updates.
Kulap Vilaysack [40:38]: "This is why we do this podcast. What is more intimate than somebody's shopping list from their first mad foray overseas?"
Conclusion and Farewell [42:23 - 43:55]
The episode wraps up with gratitude towards their listeners and a playful sign-off. SuChin teases more engaging content to come, leaving listeners eager for future episodes.
SuChin Pak [39:54]: "Au revoir. I hope that you're in a Monaprix, wherever you are."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- SuChin Pak [03:22]: "We are approaching our one-year milestone and Ku and I have something very special planned for you guys."
- SuChin Pak [11:15]: "I brought 18 bottles or containers from maybe eight different brands."
- SuChin Pak [20:56]: "I probably have 18 bottles or containers from maybe eight different brands."
- SuChin Pak [25:16]: "I never passed Amona Prix without going into it."
- SuChin Pak [37:21]: "Wrapping up what we love about shopping. But also just what Paris is."
- Kulap Vilaysack [34:08]: "There was a look of panic in her eyes as I was standing there with a bib of lace and my collar."
- Kulap Vilaysack [40:38]: "This is why we do this podcast. What is more intimate than somebody's shopping list from their first mad foray overseas?"
Key Takeaways
- Cultural Consumerism: SuChin's experiences highlight the unique qualities of Parisian shopping, emphasizing quality, heritage, and personalized service.
- Preparation is Key: The importance of planning and having a shopping list to navigate extensive stores and avoid overpacking.
- Humorous Adaptations: Balancing high-fashion environments with practical needs brings humor and relatability to the narrative.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging listeners to engage through social media and share their own shopping stories strengthens the podcast's connection with its audience.
Conclusion
This episode of Add to Cart offers a delightful blend of personal travel stories, cultural insights, and the hosts' signature humor. SuChin Pak's Parisian adventure serves as a microcosm of the broader themes of consumerism and self-expression, making it a compelling listen for both regular fans and newcomers alike.
Follow Us:
- Instagram: @cartpod
- Website: Lemonada Media
- Listen Everywhere: Available on all major podcast platforms.