Bad On Paper: April 2025 Three Things Episode Summary

Hosts: Becca Freeman & Olivia Muenter
Release Date: April 9, 2025

In this engaging episode of Bad On Paper, hosts Becca Freeman and Olivia Muenter delve into a variety of topics ranging from personal experiences to media critiques, all structured around their signature "Three Things" format. Below is a detailed summary capturing the key discussions, insights, and memorable quotes from the episode.

1. Highs and Lows

Becca’s High:
Becca enthusiastically shares her recent trip to France, emphasizing the rejuvenating experience she had in Paris and Bordeaux. She highlights the balance between exploring bustling cities and relaxing in serene vineyard settings.

Becca Freeman [00:43]:
“I fully let myself have the time. Office vacation. I didn't work except for I finished a newsletter while I was on the train there. But otherwise, I was very detached from email, from work, and it was wonderful.”

Olivia’s High:
Olivia recounts her experience teaching a writing workshop to junior and sophomore girls. Despite initial nervousness, she found the experience rewarding and gained a newfound appreciation for educators.

Olivia Muenter [04:46]:
“I felt, like, proud of myself, and it was just inspiring.”

Becca’s Low:
Becca discusses battling illness during her vacation, initially mistaking it for allergies but later identifying it as a cold. She appreciates the ability to rest without disrupting her friend's schedule.

Becca Freeman [10:23]:
“I ended up getting sick in the second half of the vacation. It was the worst.”

Olivia’s Low:
Olivia opens up about her struggles with maintaining a consistent sleep routine, citing late-night activities like watching basketball and TV shows as culprits.

Olivia Muenter [09:27]:
“I just can't get into the habit of going to sleep at the same time and waking up.”

2. Netflix’s Content Strategy and Streaming Trends

Becca introduces an article from N+1 discussing Netflix's shift toward content designed for casual, second-screen viewing. She cites the example of the Lindsay Lohan movie Irish Wish, which simplifies plot points to cater to viewers multitasking during watching.

Becca Freeman [14:25]:
“It’s literally the studio notes that they’re giving. And there was this example... summarizing what has happened so far... just like to marry this person tomorrow.”

The hosts debate recent Netflix shows, including The Night Agent and Running Point. Becca criticizes these shows for being "clunky" and designed for half-hearted viewing, while Olivia acknowledges the trend but also notes Netflix's investment in high-budget projects like Black Mirror and upcoming films.

Becca Freeman [16:14]:
“It felt hollow... designed to be watched while you’re cooking dinner and not actually watching what’s happening.”

Notable Quote:

Olivia Muenter [20:44]:
“I just think this is going to be like the movie event of the last five years for me for sure.”

The discussion concludes with reflections on streaming service preferences, highlighting Apple TV, Hulu, Peacock, and HBO as potential choices if one had to retain only one subscription.

3. Favorite Bookstores around the World

Becca and Olivia share their beloved bookstores, blending local favorites with international gems.

Becca’s Favorites:

• McNally Jackson in Williamsburg & SoHo: Praised for its gorgeous renovations and vibrant atmosphere.
• Beacon Hill Books in Washington D.C.: Holds sentimental value from hosting their book event.
• Trident Booksellers in Boston: A nostalgic spot from her college days with an attached café.
• Back Cove Books in Maine: Admired for its charming setup and friendly staff.

Olivia’s Favorites:

• Buxton Books in Buxton, North Carolina: A tiny, beloved bookstore where she attended Twilight midnight releases.
• Daunt Books in London & Rare Birds in Edinburgh: Celebrated for their unique selections and aesthetic appeal.
• Kinderhook Books & Tombolo Books: Local spots she frequents for their community events and welcoming environments.

Notable Quote:

Olivia Muenter [38:14]:
“Buxton Books in Buxton, North Carolina... I went there for Twilight midnight release parties. It is the best place in the world.”

The conversation touches on the challenges of owning a bookstore, with both hosts expressing admiration for the passion and effort behind independent bookshops.

4. The Bird or Potato Celebrity Game

Becca introduces a playful classification game where celebrities are categorized as "bird" or "potato" based on their facial features. Despite the fun premise, the hosts find themselves frequently disagreeing on classifications.

Game Highlights:

• Pedro Pascal: Becca classifies him as a "potato," while Olivia opts for "bird."
• Timothée Chalamet & Jennifer Lawrence: Mixed classifications leading to humorous disagreements.
• Kate Hudson & Taylor Swift: Further debate illustrates the subjectivity of the game.

Notable Quote:

Becca Freeman [46:04]:
“What I've brought for you is a slideshow of celebrities for you to tell me if they're a bird or a potato.”

The segment underscores the subjective nature of such fun classifications, leaving listeners amused and curious to try the game themselves.

5. Exploring Pinterest: Personal Boards and Inspirations

The hosts explore each other's Pinterest pages, revealing personal interests and aesthetic preferences.

Becca’s Pinterest:

• Focus Areas: Clothing inspiration, mood boards for books, recipes, and eclectic home decor.
• Notable Pins: Layered necklaces, striped pillows, blue nails, and inspirational quotes.

Becca Freeman [54:25]:
“The main thing that I use Pinterest for is my annual mood vibe board.”

Olivia’s Pinterest:

• Focus Areas: Garden designs, house interiors, watercolor art, and cozy film setups.
• Notable Pins: Built-in bookshelves, garden inspirations, Virginia Woolf quotes, and journaling ideas.

Olivia Muenter [56:38]:
“There’s a photo of a garden. I should say that I have two Pinterest accounts and this one is my lesson frequented one.”

The exchange highlights how both hosts use Pinterest as a tool for creativity and personal organization, inspiring listeners to explore their own boards.

6. Obsessions and Recent Reads

Olivia’s Obsession:
Olivia is captivated by the Pen Pals Podcast, which focuses on writing goals and topics relevant to aspiring authors.

Olivia Muenter [59:40]:
“I am obsessed with this podcast. It’s called Pen Pals Podcast.”

Becca’s Obsession:
Becca shares her passion for learning French using Duolingo, aiming to enhance her language skills further.

Becca Freeman [60:21]:
“My obsession is generally learning French... I want to keep doing it every day.”

Recent Reads:

Becca’s Book Reviews:

1. "Broken Country" by Clare Leslie Hall:
   A literary romance mystery set in rural England, praised for its beautiful writing and engaging twists.

   Becca Freeman [63:07]:
   “It really made me feel like myself again.”

2. "Great Big Beautiful Life" by Emily Henry:
   A romance novel about two competing writers, noted for exploring themes of public perception versus reality.

   Becca Freeman [64:27]:
   “…it’s a forced proximity romance. And there’s kind of like the backstory of the heiress and how much of the public narrative is true.”

3. "Jane and Dan at the End of the World" by Colleen Oakley:
   A humorous take on a hostage scenario in a high-end restaurant, blending romance and mystery.

   Becca Freeman [66:11]:
   “It was very fun. I really, really liked it.”

Olivia’s Book Club Pick:

• "Wild Dark Shore" by Charlotte McConaughey:
  Described as a literary thriller set near Antarctica, focusing on a family's efforts to protect a research facility and a stranded woman.

Olivia Muenter [69:00]:
“I would describe it as very emotional. It’s beautiful, and it should make for a good discussion.”

Conclusion

This episode of Bad On Paper offers a delightful mix of personal anecdotes, media analysis, interactive fun, and literary discussions. Becca and Olivia's chemistry and diverse interests create a comprehensive and enjoyable listening experience for both regular listeners and newcomers alike.

Notable Quotes:

• Becca Freeman [00:43]:
  “I fully let myself have the time. Office vacation. I didn't work except for I finished a newsletter while I was on the train there. But otherwise, I was very detached from email, from work, and it was wonderful.”

• Olivia Muenter [04:46]:
  “I felt, like, proud of myself, and it was just inspiring.”

• Becca Freeman [14:25]:
  “It’s literally the studio notes that they’re giving. And there was this example... summarizing what has happened so far... just like to marry this person tomorrow.”

• Becca Freeman [46:04]:
  “What I've brought for you is a slideshow of celebrities for you to tell me if they're a bird or a potato.”

• Becca Freeman [60:21]:
  “My obsession is generally learning French... I want to keep doing it every day.”

Tune in next week for another insightful and entertaining episode of Bad On Paper with Becca Freeman and Olivia Muenter!