Call It with Erin Slaver (Part One)

Summary

Podcast Summary: Call It What It Is – Featuring Erin Slaver (Part One)

Introduction In this engaging episode of Call It What It Is, hosted by Camille Ludington and featuring guest Erin Slaver, listeners are treated to an intimate conversation about friendship, career journeys, relationships, and the balancing act of family life. The episode delves deep into Erin's experiences as a musician and her relationship with actor Chris Carmack, offering relatable insights and heartfelt discussions.

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Meeting at a Cast Party ([03:32] – [09:23])

The episode begins with Camille introducing Erin Slaver as a guest host, highlighting their friendship rooted in their shared experiences during the pandemic. Erin reminisces about meeting Camille at a cast party celebrating their showrunner’s wedding, marking the start of a meaningful friendship.

• Camille shares: “I met you at this party and memorable night for me. I met a bunch of the cast first time, and Chris had just started the show.” ([05:27])

• Erin reflects: “We rode the pandemic together. Me and Aaron, mommies together.” ([09:16])

This bond, forged during challenging times, laid the foundation for their enduring friendship both on and off set. They discuss how the pandemic felt like an extended period of togetherness, allowing them to develop a "trauma bond" that strengthened their relationship.

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Erin’s Musical Journey ([09:56] – [25:38])

Camille shifts the conversation to Erin's impressive background as a musician. Erin elaborates on her dual expertise in classical violin and fiddle music, explaining the nuances between the two styles.

• Erin explains: “Classical violinists were taught to learn the music... focusing on your tone, technique, and musicality.” ([10:21])

• Camille clarifies: “It is the same instrument.” ([12:03])

Erin shares her experiences as a backup musician for renowned artists like Rod Stewart, Rascal Flatts, and Martina McBride. She recounts landing her first major gig at the CMA Awards within two weeks of moving to Nashville, highlighting the supportive and collaborative nature of the Nashville music community.

• Erin recounts: “Within two weeks, I met someone who booked me for the CMA Awards...” ([15:03])

This opportunity not only kickstarted her career in Nashville but also led to her involvement with the hit TV show Nashville, where she worked closely with cast members and honed her musical skills on set.

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Meeting Chris Carmack and Building a Relationship ([25:38] – [37:19])

The conversation takes a personal turn as Camille and Erin discuss how Erin met Chris Carmack, a fellow actor on Nashville. Erin shares her initial impressions and the evolution of their relationship from friends to partners.

• Erin admits: “I thought I was not his type. I was like, Chris Carmack and I are never going to happen.” ([29:36])

• Camille adds: “There was chemistry.” ([32:19])

Erin narrates how casual hangouts and shared experiences gradually deepened their connection. A pivotal moment occurred during a Memorial Day event where Chris made a romantic move, solidifying their bond.

• Erin reveals: “We went together and it felt like we were on a date all of a sudden.” ([30:18])

The hosts discuss the authenticity and gentleness that Chris brings to the relationship, contrasting it with his previous roles, and how their mutual respect and commitment have fostered a strong and resilient partnership.

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Navigating Marriage and Parenthood ([36:44] – [44:54])

As the conversation progresses, Camille and Erin delve into the dynamics of marriage and parenting. Erin emphasizes the importance of communication and therapy in maintaining a healthy relationship.

• Erin advises: “Even back then, he was committed to trying. We talked to a therapist a few times.” ([37:19])

They discuss the challenges of balancing careers and family life, especially the logistical hurdles of moving from Nashville to Los Angeles. Erin reflects on the difficulties of making new friends in a bustling city and the sacrifices involved in prioritizing family time over social engagements.

• Erin shares: “I'm so busy that I know... I'm limited in the time I have.” ([43:00])

The hosts offer relatable anecdotes about managing friendships and family responsibilities, highlighting the universal struggle of maintaining personal connections amidst busy schedules.

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Wedding Stories and Romantic Gestures ([46:02] – [50:21])

Camille and Erin reminisce about Erin and Chris's wedding, celebrating the thoughtful and romantic gestures that defined their special day. They humorously discuss the idea of singing vows and the behind-the-scenes efforts that went into making the event memorable.

• Erin describes: “He rented out the rooftop of this hotel... had a jazz quartet to play... he got down on his knee and he had the ring.” ([48:29])

The discussion turns playful as they imagine alternative wedding scenarios, showcasing the blend of love and humor that characterizes Erin and Chris’s relationship.

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Social Media Antics and Pranking ([50:43] – [56:14])

Towards the end of the episode, Erin shifts the focus to her vibrant social media presence, particularly her playful pranks on Chris. She explains her creative process and the inspiration behind her elaborate setups, aiming to keep their content original and entertaining.

• Erin explains: “I'm always trying to be original... switching out a wine bottle with grape juice.” ([51:28])

• Camille humorously probes: “Doesn't he know that she's pranking you?” ([51:45])

Erin details some of her favorite pranks, including pretending to eat sand and substituting egg yolks with peaches, illustrating the fun and spontaneity they bring to their online interactions.

• Erin shares: “I made a fake raw egg... it was so elaborate.” ([54:18])

The segment highlights the couple’s playful dynamic and their ability to find joy and creativity amidst their busy lives.

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Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two ([56:14] – End)

As the episode draws to a close, Camille teases the continuation of their conversation in part two, promising more delightful stories and insights into Erin and Chris's life together.

• Camille signs off: “Stay tuned for part two, because we are not done chatting.” ([56:14])

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Notable Quotes

1. Erin Slaver: “We rode the pandemic together. Me and Aaron, mommies together.” ([09:16])

2. Camille Ludington: “It is the same instrument.” ([12:03])

3. Erin Slaver: “Within two weeks, I met someone who booked me for the CMA Awards...” ([15:03])

4. Erin Slaver: “We were just friends for probably about a year. And he texted...” ([30:22])

5. Camille Ludington: “What is one piece of advice you would give to brides for the day?” ([38:36])

6. Erin Slaver: “Everyone's like, how does he not know that she's pranking you?” ([52:05])

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Key Takeaways

• The Power of Friendship: Erin and Camille’s friendship exemplifies the strength and support that comes from shared experiences, especially during challenging times like the pandemic.

• Pursuing Passions: Erin’s journey as a musician underscores the importance of perseverance and networking in breaking into competitive industries.

• Building Healthy Relationships: The couple’s open communication and commitment to therapy highlight effective strategies for maintaining strong and resilient relationships.

• Balancing Life’s Demands: Navigating career, marriage, and parenthood requires careful prioritization and adaptability, as illustrated by Erin and Chris’s experiences.

• Infusing Fun into Life: Erin’s playful pranks on Chris demonstrate the value of humor and creativity in keeping relationships lively and enjoyable.

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Conclusion

This episode of Call It What It Is offers a heartfelt and comprehensive look into the lives of Erin Slaver and her journey through friendship, career, and love. With candid conversations and relatable stories, Camille and Erin provide listeners with inspiration and a deeper understanding of balancing personal and professional spheres. Stay tuned for part two, where the dialogue continues to unfold with more personal anecdotes and insights.

Transcript

[Camille Ludington]

This is an iHeart podcast.

[Ryan Seacrest]

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[Erin Slaver]

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[Camille Ludington]

With Jessica Capshaw and Camille Ludington, an iHeartRadio podcast. Hello, hello, hello, Call it crew. And welcome to another episode of Call it what it Is. Um, today is actually really special because Jessica Capshaw is in Nashville right now and she is filming 91 1. And I needed a guest host, so I brought on someone that some would call a violin virtuoso, a social media queen, but I like to call her my sister wife because she's married to Mr. Chris Carmack or somebody called Carmack, I don't know. Erin Slaver. Welcome to Call it what It Is.

[Erin Slaver]

What an introduction.

[Camille Ludington]

There's so much more that I could list, like mommy extraordinaire. There's so many things I'm so excited to have you on.

[Erin Slaver]

Thank you for having me on. It's such an honor.

[Camille Ludington]

And guest host with me and all the listeners are really excited and there's so much I want to get into because I feel like so many people know you from your social media.

[Erin Slaver]

And it's.

[Camille Ludington]

As soon as I told I heart that, I was like, I want Aaron on. They're like, oh my God, she's so funny on social. And I was like, we'll get into that. But there's so much more that I want to talk about so that listeners can get to know you. Okay, so let's just. Are you ready to jump in?

[Erin Slaver]

Yes. Yes, absolutely.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay.

[Erin Slaver]

So the crew wanted to know the.

[Camille Ludington]

First time that we. And I said I. It's all a blur for me, especially pre pandemic.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, I'm sure.

[Camille Ludington]

So we. But you said that we met for the first time at a cast party for our showrunners wedding celebration.

[Erin Slaver]

Yes. Yeah. And like for me, it was a huge deal. Here I am meeting these people I had watched on my TV set.

[Camille Ludington]

Did you watch Grace before it started? Okay, okay. Before he got on, I knew your face, your character.

[Erin Slaver]

I mean, it was crazy. And by the way, I always thought like, you were so gorgeous on tv.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh my God, I don't believe. You're so cute.

[Erin Slaver]

Always gorgeous.

[Camille Ludington]

Because we have a whole glam team. Erin, you've seen me without makeup, like in the middle of the pandemic having a nervous breakdown.

[Erin Slaver]

No, you're still so gorgeous.

[Camille Ludington]

You gorgeous.

[Erin Slaver]

You really are. But. And what is crazy is when Chris started the show, it was like, too bad he can't be with that Joe character.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh, my God, I love you.

[Erin Slaver]

She's so cute. And he would be so cute with her. I honestly thought that you were rooting.

[Camille Ludington]

For them as a couple.

[Erin Slaver]

I, like, secretly was.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh, my God, I love it. We haven't talked about this before. Well, okay.

[Erin Slaver]

Because, you know, you had your husband and he had Amelia, and, you know, things were set.

[Camille Ludington]

Things were set on the show.

[Erin Slaver]

But, yeah. Yeah. So I met you at this party and memorable night for me. I met a bunch of the cast first time, and Chris had just started the show. You know, is he making a good impression? Yeah. And I remember you guys were so sweet. Big smile, and you were like, hi.

[Camille Ludington]

It'S so nice to meet you.

[Erin Slaver]

So, yeah, you guys were super welcoming, even to a wife of a not.

[Camille Ludington]

Serious regular, by the way, I feel like the partners are, like, more important than the cast, because behind the scenes, when we're having late nights, you guys are holding down the ship, make or break.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, I know.

[Camille Ludington]

And you guys. It's a lot of work. It's a lot of work, but I.

[Erin Slaver]

Don'T do a good job.

[Camille Ludington]

No, you do an amazing job. I know, because I'm sat next to Chris for, you know, at, like, midnight. And I know that you're like.

[Erin Slaver]

And I'm, like, texting him, like, the baby's sick. When are you getting home?

[Camille Ludington]

When are you? Listen, our kids are always sick.

[Erin Slaver]

I know. It's tough, right?

[Camille Ludington]

That's the truth. Like, oftentimes, Chris and I share on set.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

I'm like, what happened with you this week? And he's like, well, we've got salmonella and this virus and that. And it's almost like I'm like, well, I've got those two and these two.

[Erin Slaver]

Right, right. It's. And then. And then he'll. That's the week where he's working till.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah, that'll be them 100%. That's when you're calling another fever. Anyway, honestly, I feel like we should just bring them to set.

[Erin Slaver]

We have so many doctors on set. You guys take care of her.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah, we should have them. We should have them while we're filming.

[Erin Slaver]

I wish.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay. So that was the first time that we met. And then people might not know this, but we partnered up. You were our family. Our Covid family.

[Erin Slaver]

That's right.

[Camille Ludington]

In the pandemic, we bubbled together.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

Did you bubble with anybody else? I didn't bubble with anyone else. There was no other family.

[Erin Slaver]

No. I mean, we had. We had a set of neighbors that didn't have children that we would do like parking lot wine nights with, and that was it.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh, my God.

[Erin Slaver]

Parking lot wine nights. Yeah. Remember? It was so weird. Yes. Yeah. But you were the only family that we.

[Camille Ludington]

Yes. And I think it's. Cause Chris and I were testing for grades so we felt safe enough. But Aaron and Chris's kids. Well, it was just Kai at the time.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. We didn't have.

[Camille Ludington]

We're the only kids. And I was pregnant with Luga.

[Erin Slaver]

So you had. We were like, remember, we were the first people to meet you.

[Camille Ludington]

You were the first people to meet my baby. I can't believe that. Over family.

[Erin Slaver]

She was like six months, I think around or when.

[Camille Ludington]

By that time. Yes. Yeah. When we came over by that time. Yes. They were the very first people to meet the baby over literally anybody. And but so I had Lucas and then we were. And then the girls played together and it was such a relief because Hayden had not seen another kid.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, same.

[Camille Ludington]

And so it was like, so amazing to like have you guys come over or come over to you and just like swim and be like, oh, my God, I can actually touch another human being.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. It gave them like a sense. Sense of normalcy that we were all severely lacking.

[Camille Ludington]

We were trying to make it during the time, but I feel like we did a good job of like kind of in the pandemic, making it work together as best we could. We had to be really careful.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. And I mean, I look back and it felt like an eternity. What was it like nine months before we got the vaccine and everyone started sort of going out again. But it felt. Yeah, it felt a lot longer.

[Camille Ludington]

It did.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. We did park dates at Lacey. We did.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah, we did park at parks. And then we did. We had super bowl at our place.

[Erin Slaver]

You were the super bowl party. I remember we baked cookies.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah, we baked. Yeah.

[Erin Slaver]

Thanksgiving.

[Camille Ludington]

Thanksgiving.

[Erin Slaver]

This is good times. It was.

[Camille Ludington]

And it's like it. But those memories are like all a blur. But it really did feel like almost a two year period.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

Even though it wasn't. It felt like a two year period that we were hunkering down together. So people don't know that we. We rode the pandemic together. Me and Aaron, mommies together.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. We really got to know each other's families. And that was before you and Chris were linked up on the show.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah. In a way, I've thought about this because I felt like that history between Joe and Link on the show, I think what really helped, like that friendship history, was actually sort of that time because we all got to know each other so well in a way that I wouldn't have probably gotten to before and. Or without it. And so I think it added a layer into, like, the Joe and Link of it all, because we. I don't know, it's like we really hunkered down. We all went through something together.

[Erin Slaver]

Method acting right there.

[Camille Ludington]

We have a trauma bond.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. Trauma bond. Yeah. Okay, so let's go back a little.

[Camille Ludington]

Bit, because people might not know that you are incredible, an incredible musician. And I was reading the notes, and I feel like a idiot asking this. So it's in. In my notes about you, it says that you started the classical violin at age three and then later focused on the fiddle. And I was like, what's the difference?

[Erin Slaver]

Oh, yeah, no, that's. Don't. That's not stupid at all.

[Camille Ludington]

What is the difference?

[Erin Slaver]

Many people ask this. It's really. It's really a style. Just stylistically, is it the same? Like, it's the same instrument? It's the same instrument. It's the way a musician processes the music. I'd say would differentiate between fiddler or violinist. Like, classical violinists were taught to learn the music. We're interpreting music. Someone else wrote, like, hundreds of years ago, interpreting it to be perfect. You want it to just, you know, sound beautiful. You're focusing on your tone, you're focusing on your technique, and, of course, the musicality of it. You want to express it, but you're still trying to be true to this other composer's vision. And then you get into fiddle music, and suddenly you're really just. You're sort of like a jazz musician. Um, you're listening to chords and chord changes, and you're playing over them. So you're kind of. I mean, great fiddlers are just improvising as they go. They have licks that they keep up their sleeve that they can play. And I mean, like, I don't think. I'm not that level of fiddler because I trained classically. So it's really hard to get out of your head. When you train classically, you're like, must play the right notes all the time. You're like this little violin robot, Ed. So when they say, just play, you're like, just play what? Oh, wow. But I mean, I love the freeness of playing, you know, any kind of music. Fiddle, rock, folk, whatever. You Know, like, getting to write your own parts or play your own solos. So that's what, you know, after college, I really wanted to, you know, get into that side of music, not just the classical aspect of it. Okay. Yeah. So a fiddler.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay, so the same. It is the same instrument.

[Erin Slaver]

Technically the same instrument, yes.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay. Because I was like, oh, my God, there's an instrument called the fiddle. And this whole time I thought it was the violin. Okay, so I'm right. It's not so stupid.

[Erin Slaver]

No, no. Like. Like a violin, like a classical violinist will probably play on a hundred K instrument. I mean, very expensive instruments. And a fiddler would not care as much because you're just. It's more of a workhorse in a band. A fiddle. You know, you're playing your solos, you're filling up space, You're. You're creating a pad underneath whatever the singer is doing or whoever is soloing at the time. Whereas the violin, you're soloing or you're playing in an orchestra. So, yeah, it depends on what you're using it for.

[Camille Ludington]

I hear you. Okay, so now I have a question. You have been a backup violinist and singer for some major, major artists, and I'm gonna list a few. Rod Stewart, Rascal Flatts, Martina McBride, Sugarland, Keith Oban, Amy Grant. So many. Okay, so when you were back up, were you playing the fiddle?

[Erin Slaver]

You know what? On some of those, I was. On some, I was playing more of a violin style. Like Rod Stewart, he would travel.

[Camille Ludington]

I cannot believe that you played.

[Erin Slaver]

Okay, well, I didn't tour with him, so it's different. You know, some people I toured with and some people I played backup for when they came to n. So, like, Rhett Stewart came to Nashville, I was contracted to play. He had, I don't know, like, 10 violinists come out on stage, and we played a couple different songs. He needed violin in the background for. Okay, so that would be more like a classical style. This is what I hoped to do when I went to Nashville. I thought, hopefully I can bridge this place where you can be a violinist. I can read music. I have good technique, and then also I can transition and do a more fiddle style. Yeah, playing, you know, and so someone like Trace Atkins or Martina McBride or something. It was more of a fiddle. Fiddle style that I was playing. So, yeah, it depended on the gig. It was. I was basically freelancing and just whatever.

[Camille Ludington]

You know, this is so wild to me. So as an actor, that's like. As an actor, everyone knows you sort of, like, land in Hollywood. You Most likely don't know anybody. And then you're sort of auditioning. If you're a musician because you're originally from New York.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah. You're from New York, right? Okay, so you're originally from New York, you moved to Nashville, and then what are you just, like, arriving with your violin? And, like, how does that work? How does. Cause I know the process on our side, but how does that work for a musician? Like, arriving in Nashville, trying to get work?

[Erin Slaver]

I think it's so similar what? The lives we lived. Like, I picked up and moved from New York. I had my fingers crossed something was going to happen. I rented an apartment for six months, and we were like, if nothing happens, I go back home or whatever. I go back home.

[Camille Ludington]

Did you have to, like, wait tables or have, like, a dinner?

[Erin Slaver]

I did. I was a hostess winner. Yeah. At a restaurant called Sambuca. To tell.

[Camille Ludington]

You have to tell Jessica to go. Okay, I voted. Oh, my God.

[Erin Slaver]

It might have closed, actually. I know it was. Yeah. They had, like, live dinner music. But I was a hostess. I lived walking distance, so I would.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay, so you arrived and you're doing, like, the hostess.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. First thing I did, I got a job as a hostess. Okay. And I think, though, I did get really lucky. Within two weeks, I met someone who booked me for the CMA Awards, which is like, the Grammys of Nashville.

[Camille Ludington]

No, I know. I definitely know it is. So within two weeks.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. I mean, I met the right person. I knew a few people. I knew a few contacts in the music industry, and I happened to be backstage at the Grand Ole Opry, and I met the bass player who's still there. I think he's the, like, MD now, and he's like, oh, you gotta email my wife. She'll give you a job. It's like, okay, So I email. People are very nice in Nashville. They're very friendly. They take you for your word. If you say, I'm a fiddler and I can sing, they will hire you, and they'll say, okay, fiddle and sing. And, like, you will get hired, and sort of, they will. They'll test you out, and if they like you, then you keep getting work. So I was very fortunate. I got hired for the. And that's when I played for Rascal Flatts at the CMA Awards. And this is unbelievable.

[Camille Ludington]

It was so fun. That was your first gig in Nashville?

[Erin Slaver]

In Nashville, it was. No. My friends at home were like, what is happening? Because I, you know, I had, like, 10 seconds. No, not even 10. 2 seconds of airtime where you could see my face.

[Camille Ludington]

But that's, that's, that's like those dreamy stories that I hear as an actor where you land and someone discovers you. It's almost like, I know maybe you wouldn't call it being discovered technically because you're like networking, but that early and that to be your first gig is insane.

[Erin Slaver]

Well, yeah, no, I was, I felt very fortunate and everyone was like, how did you do that? But I really did get lucky. And, you know, that opportunity opened up a whole new network of people and like, that's how I ended up working background on Nashville, the show.

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[Erin Slaver]

Oh, me too.

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[Jenna Ashkowitz]

There's something special about folks who come through without being asked. Like your coworker surprising you with your favorite coffee just because. Or your friend handing you the aux cable the moment you get in the car. No debate, no fight, just positive vibes that kind of love. It just hits different. And that's exactly the energy. AT&T is on with their new guarantee. If there's ever a network interruption, AT&T will proactively credit you for a full day of service. No calls, no emails, no jumping through hoops. It's just handled. It's like the universe saying I got you. Except this time it's not the stars aligning, it's your network. And let's be real, that connection is everything. Whether you're holding down the group chat, checking in on your parents scrolling TikTok, your network's gotta come through. And if there's a problem, AT&T is on the case. No stress, no drama, just real backup when it counts. Credit for Fiber downtime lasting 20 minutes or more or wireless downtime lasting 60 minutes or more caused by a single incident impacting 10 or more towers. Restrictions and exclusions apply. See att.com guaranty for full details. AT&T connecting Changes Everything this is Jenna.

[Camille Ludington]

Ashkowitz and Kevin McHale from and that's.

[Ryan Seacrest]

What you really missed.

[Erin Slaver]

So we both got the same delivery.

[Camille Ludington]

Ding dong at our door the other day from Dietz and Watson.

[Erin Slaver]

Did I not tell you immediately after.

[Camille Ludington]

That we were podcasting that I literally ripped into the packages and was eating.

[Erin Slaver]

The spicy cheese and the prosciutto and.

[Camille Ludington]

I was like, oh, that's prosciutto. Give it to me.

[Ryan Seacrest]

I was so excited.

[Camille Ludington]

So Dietz and Watson has been handcrafting.

[Erin Slaver]

Premium meats and artisan cheeses for over 85 years. They're family owned and operated and by that we mean their family is on.

[Camille Ludington]

The floor every day ensuring everything goes.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Above and beyond their quality.

[Camille Ludington]

Above all else standard.

[Erin Slaver]

And even if it's slower or if.

[Camille Ludington]

It'S inconvenient, it's the only way they.

[Erin Slaver]

Know how to do it.

[Ryan Seacrest]

And they never cut corners.

[Camille Ludington]

Ever.

[Ryan Seacrest]

They do things the right way, even if it's the hard way.

[Camille Ludington]

And they're transparent about what goes into.

[Erin Slaver]

Their food and what doesn't.

[Ryan Seacrest]

They know good taste doesn't need a long list of ingredients.

[Camille Ludington]

They stick to what matters, like using.

[Erin Slaver]

The fewest, highest quality ingredients to craft.

[Camille Ludington]

Their meats and cheeses.

[Erin Slaver]

Simply made. Simple as that.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Visit dietzandwatson.com therightway to learn more about the Dietz difference.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay, so before we get to background on Nashville, people want to know who your favorite singer, whoever band was to play for to play.

[Jessica Capshaw]

Such a.

[Erin Slaver]

Well, I gotta say Carolyn Don Johnson. Even though maybe not everyone would know who she is, but she. She had a big hit in the 90s. Okay. When I. Before I was working a whole lot, I saw her singing at the Bluebird Cafe, which is like this renowned songwriter's venue. It's very small, intimate, like this, and everyone sings the songs they wrote. And so Carolyn had a hit in the 90s. She's from Canada. And I turned to my friend. That song was amazing. And then I think, like, a year later, I was playing for Carolyn. Oh, my God.

[Camille Ludington]

That is weird. But, yeah, I understand how that would feel. Even though it's not as big a name as some of these other names, it would feel like a whole full circle.

[Erin Slaver]

It really did. Yeah. It was so cool. And, I mean. And then, you know, we opened up for the Eagles in.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh, my bad.

[Erin Slaver]

That I played for later on. And I guess I didn't technically play for the Eagles, but that was my favorite thing to do ever, because we were touring with the Eagles. We would watch their show afterwards. It was. I mean, that was a dream come true. So that's wild.

[Camille Ludington]

That is incredible. Okay, so then how do you land Nashville?

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, that was going back to that first gig I had. I met some contractors in Nashville and a gentleman who worked with the Opry. The Opry house is, like, a powerhouse in Nashville.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah.

[Erin Slaver]

Of music. And, yeah, I got a call. I think it was the night before they were starting filming the pilot. And this is. Chris wasn't even on the show yet, and he's like, so you were on.

[Camille Ludington]

The show before Chris was on the show?

[Erin Slaver]

Technically, I was.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh, my God.

[Erin Slaver]

I knew.

[Camille Ludington]

Karma castmates, I'm here calling you out.

[Erin Slaver]

Oh, I do it at home all the time.

[Camille Ludington]

You're like, God, you're just sprawling my toe tail.

[Erin Slaver]

Just remember, I was on Ears. But, yeah, they were like, can you be at the Opry house tomorrow? What? They say? Yeah, they're filming this pilot. They think it's gonna go. They need a background singer for Connie Britton, and she's from Friday Night Lights.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah, of course.

[Erin Slaver]

And she was a huge star to be there in Nashville, everyone was flipping out that they had Connie, and that was why a big reason they thought it was gonna go. You know, Connie Braven is the star.

[Camille Ludington]

I do remember hearing about the pilot and thinking, oh, it's definitely gonna go.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, yeah, it was. It was such a cool experience. And she was playing, like, a Faith Hill sort of character, and. Yeah. So I was like, sure, I'll be there. And I was her background singer in the band, and it was amazing. Like, Callie Corey, the creator of that show, and her husband T Bone, who's a renowned producer, they really were adamant about hiring real musicians and real people who lived and worked in Nashville to be in the show and play the roles that they were supposed to play. So they had, you know, they had real guitar players, just like you have real doctors on set. They had real guitar players making sure everyone was doing the fingering right and the playing right. And the entire band that they would hire for every scene was always real session players or touring musicians. So I met a ton of people, like, back doing background with me who have gone on to, you know, play for Katy Perry and Kelly Clarkson and. And.

[Camille Ludington]

And so then were you hired for every episode? Like, every episode, they needed someone. Were you consistently in it?

[Erin Slaver]

It was for a while, yeah. They started changing things up. I think it was probably maybe second season. And that was partially because they. They couldn't, you know, give us any kind of retainer, like, can you be here? So people would get jobs, and we. Tory, we'd be doing other tours or whatever, and they have to, like, bring.

[Camille Ludington]

Someone else, and then they can bring you back.

[Erin Slaver]

So.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay, so this is where you met. We had a lot of questions about this. This is where you met Chris Carmack for the first time? Do you remember seeing Chris for the first time?

[Erin Slaver]

I do.

[Camille Ludington]

Do you think, okay, we need to know that story?

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

Did you think, oh, my God, he's so hot? Or were you, like, eye roll? Another actor.

[Erin Slaver]

You know what? Yeah. His reputation preceded him. I was really good friends with Sam, his co actor, the guy who played Gunner. I played in Sam's band, and Sam had told me all about him. He was like, oh, this new guy is here. He works out all the time. He's telling me about how he's in the gym with him. He's super ripped. And he told me he was on O.C.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah.

[Erin Slaver]

So I. I guess I just had this assumption he was going to be so arrogant.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah. I don't know why.

[Erin Slaver]

Just, you know, a buff guy who had been on the O.C.

[Camille Ludington]

I think first off, he played Luke on the O.C.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

And Luke was a dick.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. Yeah, he was.

[Camille Ludington]

So it's like he's known as the bad boy. Then he's like, there's a new guy coming. He's in the gym all the time. I'm like, no.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, right. I was like, oh, this guy's gonna be.

[Camille Ludington]

Yes.

[Erin Slaver]

And so when I met him, it was eye roll, like, oh, great.

[Camille Ludington]

This guy.

[Erin Slaver]

Hi. And I couldn't have been more wrong because I'm sure, as you know, Chris, he's such a gentleman. Very humble. Nothing. He doesn't look. His personality and the way he looks don't match.

[Camille Ludington]

Don't go. Thank God. I have to say that I think that because of social media, fans have gotten to know at this point that he's not like the Abercrombie. You know, he's not Luke, right? He's not Luke. He's now an actor.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

I don't know if you know this, but I know Chris's side of the story of you.

[Erin Slaver]

Oh, what is it?

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah. So Chris remember. No, no, no, no. He remembers. And he. It was so sweet because I think this is, like, way, way, way back when, and we were talking about how we, you know, met our partners, and I was talking about, like, you know, waiting tables with Matt, and I. I thought Matt was, like, really boring. I've talked about this before. I thought he was so boring. I was like, he doesn't talk. It's norfest if we were, like, on the same shift together. I was disappointed.

[Erin Slaver]

Really?

[Camille Ludington]

Yes. That is so funny. And obviously things change people, but. So when I asked Chris about you, he had the sweetest story. This is exactly what I would want to hear if I was like you. And it basically was that he saw you and then you were obviously beautiful, and then he realized how talented you were, and he was just, like, really taken by you and your. He. He said that just basically, like, your personality was just so bright, and you were so shimmery and shiny, basically. And it was, like, such a cute story. And here I am being like, well, I thought my husband was so boring.

[Erin Slaver]

It's okay, Camilla. Ask him what he thinks about me now.

[Camille Ludington]

No, no, no. Of course. It's all a listener.

[Erin Slaver]

Shimmery and shiny. Not very well.

[Camille Ludington]

Like children.

[Erin Slaver]

I know.

[Camille Ludington]

And the shiny can be really hard. It's hard to be shiny.

[Erin Slaver]

Having that, like, optimistic attitude all the time.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay, so then you learned that he was, like, not douchebag, right?

[Erin Slaver]

Yes. Spent some time hanging out with him. Yeah. What's interesting is sort of like Joe and Link.

[Camille Ludington]

Yes.

[Erin Slaver]

We were just friends for a while.

[Camille Ludington]

Yes.

[Erin Slaver]

And then he dated several girls that I would always get along with because I would get invited to hang out with this group of people.

[Camille Ludington]

So you were kind of watching him go through.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

Cycle through somewhere else.

[Erin Slaver]

Oh, yeah. And I thought I was not his type. Okay. I was like, chris Carmack and I are never going to happen.

[Camille Ludington]

Not that I was lucky. I feel like he was your type. Like, had you dated guys before that was, you know, like, that look like him or was like him? No. He's not your type.

[Erin Slaver]

No, I always went for, like, small, artistic music guys, you know, very, you know. Tortured artist.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah. Tortured artist.

[Erin Slaver]

Tortured artist, yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

Chris is not. He doesn't give tortured artists.

[Erin Slaver]

He might be one, but he doesn't give it.

[Camille Ludington]

He doesn't give it. Yes, I can see that he could. Yeah, he might be a little bit. But no, he's not. It's not like, you know.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. So. Yeah, no, I.

[Camille Ludington]

So you did not feel like you were his type? I know he was technically not your type, but were. As. He was, like, dating other girls. Were you developing feelings?

[Erin Slaver]

Well, this is an interesting story, and I made sure it was okay. I told it okay.

[Camille Ludington]

I love it. Exclusive for Callaway. Exclusive.

[Erin Slaver]

We were just friends for probably about a year. And he texted, like, the group chat, even back then, and he said, hey, guys, my girlfriend can't come to this comedy show I got tickets for a while ago. And he seemed kind of pissed.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah, okay.

[Erin Slaver]

And he was like, is anybody free tonight to come? And I don't know. I was feeling outgoing, I was feeling extroverted. And I was like, yeah, I'll come. And.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay, when you be honest, when you were like, yeah, I'll come, was there a part of you that was like.

[Erin Slaver]

I'll come, you know, I don't know. I don't think so. I just wanted to get to know him. I think I had seen him perform as well recently. I had seen him perform and I was super impressed. I was like, this guy's a great musician. So, yeah, I had, like, a lot of respect for Chris and I loved their friend group. I loved, you know, hanging out with all of them. And I thought, oh, you know, this is an opportunity to, like. Yeah. See every. Yeah. To hang out. And, you know, we were all talking about hanging out as a group later, so I thought, oh, I'll go to the show. I don't have anything to do. So anyway. So, yeah, I don't know what he was expecting when I answered the text, but we went together and it was. I mean, it'd be lying if I didn't say it felt like we were on a date all of A sudden, because Chris is such a gentleman, you know, like, he's gonna open the door for you, and he's gonna pull out the chair for you, and he's gonna pay, and he's gonna. Like, he really treats you so well, and I think that's just how he was raised to treat women very respectfully. He does that to everyone. But we had a great time. You know, we ended up hanging out at him.

[Camille Ludington]

He does have all those things to him. But I'm assuming that there was that. That's, you know, his, like, gentlemanness. I'm assuming that there was also that, like, chemistry.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, I think there was.

[Camille Ludington]

To make it feel like a date.

[Erin Slaver]

There was def. I think there was chemistry. I asked him, and I think he said that he felt there was a little chemistry there too, I'm assuming. Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

Who made the first move? First kiss move? That.

[Erin Slaver]

That was Chris. Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

Good for him. Yeah.

[Erin Slaver]

He invited me over so that, like, a couple months go by, and we had this, like, faux date.

[Camille Ludington]

Was it clear that at that point it was a date because you guys are friends? So, like, was it, like, how did. How did it. What made it different than just like, hey, you want to go grab something? Like, was it obvious? Like, hey, do you want to.

[Erin Slaver]

Oh, you mean that when he made the move?

[Camille Ludington]

Yes.

[Erin Slaver]

Yes. Because he specifically texted me, can you come over and hang? Like, he never would just specifically text me. You know, he would maybe text the group chat or. Or there would be an event we're all going to.

[Camille Ludington]

You got moved off the group chat?

[Erin Slaver]

Yes. Yeah, I got a personal text from him, and I think I was about to go out on tour for, like, three weeks, and I couldn't even. The first time he texted me personally.

[Camille Ludington]

And I was like, oh, I love this.

[Erin Slaver]

This is weird. Like, you know, Carmack never just texts me, and so I couldn't come. And then I love.

[Camille Ludington]

Actually. I really love this part of the story where you're like, I just don't. I'm on tour. I can't.

[Erin Slaver]

I was, like, not gonna be there in town. Okay. And then I got back in town, and I don't know how we reconnected or I texted him or whatever. But then he invited me again to. It was Memorial Day, and he invited me. His best friend was there with his girlfriend, and. And it was just Chris and me. And then later that night, he made a move.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and safeway. Now through July 15th. Stock up on all your favorite personal care brands and earn four times points to use on later purchases. For discounts on groceries or gas. Shop in store or online for items like Pantene Shampoo, Old Spice, Total Body Deodorant, Tampax Pearl Venus Razors, Head and Shoulder Shampoo, Olay Body Wash and Pantene conditioner. And earn 4 times points. Hurry before these deals are gone off rans July 15th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details. It's Danielle Fishel, Ryder Strong and Will Friedle from Pod Meats World.

[Erin Slaver]

Here's my theory.

[Camille Ludington]

Every summer cookout has two types of grillers.

[Erin Slaver]

The eh, it's fine folks and the true flavor experts.

[Ryan Seacrest]

And if you're the second kind of folk, then Dietz and Watson is your new secret weapon. They've been handcrafting premium meats for over 85 years. No cutting corners, focusing on real ingredients done the right way, even if it's the hard way.

[Erin Slaver]

Their signature Dietz dogs are made from.

[Camille Ludington]

Premium uncured beef, and it'll make you.

[Erin Slaver]

Question everything you've ever grilled.

[Ryan Seacrest]

The jalapeno cheddarwurst. It's got a World cup kick. And don't even get me started on the smoked beef hot sausage.

[Erin Slaver]

Whether you're grilling for a crowd or just mastering the solo grill sesh, Dietz and Watson's got the grillables that make it feel like summer.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Go to dietzandwatson.com the right way to learn more about the deets difference. See why doing things the right way tastes so much better? That's-I e t z and watson.com the.

[Camille Ludington]

Right way wasn't that delicious?

[Erin Slaver]

So good.

[Camille Ludington]

Your bill, ladies.

[Erin Slaver]

I got it. No, I got it.

[Camille Ludington]

Seriously. I insist.

[Erin Slaver]

I insisted first.

[Jessica Capshaw]

Don't be silly.

[Camille Ludington]

You don't be silly.

[Erin Slaver]

People with the Wells Fargo Active Cash.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Credit prefer to pay because they earn unlimited 2% cash back on purchases.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay, Rock, paper scissors for it. Rock, paper scissors. Shoo. No.

[Ryan Seacrest]

The Wells Fargo Active Cash credit card. Visit Wells Fargo.com ActiveCash Terms apply as.

[Erin Slaver]

A parent, you wear many hats. At dinner, you're the chef. When your kids play, you're the ref. And let's face it, you're basically a full time chauffeur. Fortunately, when it's time to wear your teacher hat, ABEKA makes things easy. Our proven, flexible homeschool curriculum is designed to let your kids retain and build on the knowledge they acquire, setting them.

[Camille Ludington]

Up for success later in life.

[Erin Slaver]

Abeka Learning for life begins with the right homeschool education. Learn [e-mail].

[Camille Ludington]

And from then on, were you guys together? Did you ever do, like, the makeup breakup situation that a lot of people do before they get married?

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. No, we never had an official break. We went through a little rough patch. We always worked through it, and I.

[Camille Ludington]

Think it's the working through it, obviously, that makes for a successful relationship.

[Erin Slaver]

Yes. Oh, 100%. Yeah. I mean, we. It's a little different once you have kids and you're married and you have a rough patch. You're like, okay, well, I don't think anyone's going anywhere because we had a little fight. But, yeah, when you're just dating, it's a little scarier.

[Camille Ludington]

No, it is scarier.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

So to go through that and to stick with it together, I think says a lot.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. Yeah. Even back then, he was committed to trying. You know, I think we even talked to a therapist a few times. That's good.

[Camille Ludington]

Annoying you. I love that you're talking about this because we talk a lot of times about therapy, and it's so nice and relatable to hear, like, hey, we got couples therapy even early on in dating to work through some stuff.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, it's. It was amazingly helpful. I mean, even to. To take a step back and look at myself and the way I grew up and, like, the. My tendencies that I didn't realize I had. You know, it's. It's so helpful. So I wish we should do more of it.

[Camille Ludington]

I think everyone should do. I mean, Matt was on here, and we were talking about Couple sir, because we haven't done it, and we're joking about how we. We probably do need it because everyone should have it. Right?

[Erin Slaver]

Have you done it ever?

[Camille Ludington]

No.

[Erin Slaver]

Oh, really?

[Camille Ludington]

No. But we do. We've said this on the podcast. We use it as a threat sometimes. Like, oh, really? Well, guess what? It's time for couples therapy.

[Erin Slaver]

And it's like, every time we fight.

[Camille Ludington]

We'Re using it as a threat.

[Erin Slaver]

Because really, every time we fight, I'm like, we need to call the therapist.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah, get Barbara on the phone for an emergency. Zoom.

[Erin Slaver]

Exactly.

[Camille Ludington]

So we have a lot of people. It's summertime. People are planning weddings. You guys got married. I've seen the pictures. It's beautiful. Wedding.

[Erin Slaver]

Thank you.

[Camille Ludington]

What is one piece of advice you would give to brides for the day? Because I. What I have said before, my answer's always been that I limited the. The time it took to take pictures. I gave, like, a hard outline. Is there something that you. If you could go back and change that you would change?

[Erin Slaver]

Um, well, I mean, this is sort of the opposite answer is that I. We did one of those, like, all inclusive wedding places. Okay. I mean, I cannot recommend that enough. Oh, I love it because.

[Camille Ludington]

Tell me why they.

[Erin Slaver]

They do it all for you. It is such a stress free day. You just get to show up and be the star of your show. I mean, you do.

[Camille Ludington]

They do like the flowers and everything?

[Erin Slaver]

Yes, they do the flowers. They do the food, the catering, the decorations on the table. They do the photo. Well, no, you get your own photographer, but. And they coordinate with them. They sort of have vendors that they use.

[Camille Ludington]

Yes.

[Erin Slaver]

And so you, you have to pick a few, but for the most part, they have the catering down. They have the, the florist, all the decorations, the lighting, the. I mean, just almost everything they think of for you. The transport, the.

[Camille Ludington]

Did you feel relaxed on the day then knowing it was all taken care of?

[Erin Slaver]

I. I feel like I did. I did.

[Camille Ludington]

That's amazing.

[Erin Slaver]

It was really nice. Yeah, I, I cannot recommend something like that enough. But yeah. I also wish we had made more time for family because, I mean, I had cousins and relatives and people who like, have passed away since our wedding that, you know, they traveled and you get to see them for what, 10 minutes and then you talk to other people. There's so many people there. And I don't know, I don't know what the solution is for that, but I wish there had been a way to really, you know, have quality time with all of your guests. But it's so hard because.

[Camille Ludington]

Did you feel like you had quality time with Chris? Because. Because Matt and I literally were talking about this with a couple the other day. They're about to get married and we felt like we didn't see each other much.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

During the wedding because we were trying to sort of host.

[Erin Slaver]

Right.

[Camille Ludington]

We also had Hayden and so she was two and so we were like. Matt had to. Right. She was 2.

[Erin Slaver]

And so I don't know if you.

[Camille Ludington]

Had to do this, but we'd like. We had to go. One of us had to go put her down to bed. Oh, wow.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, well, we had my. We had both of our parents, sets of parents there who were designated. And we also had. We had like a babysitter come and take care of all the young kids. So they were all together.

[Camille Ludington]

So wait, That's a great idea.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, that's a good. If you have kids. Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

Get coming to the wedding. Get some.

[Erin Slaver]

Hire someone to hire someone.

[Camille Ludington]

Absolutely. Oversee the babies.

[Erin Slaver]

Yes. Yeah. And we Had a little kids area, like, tucked away, and they all went like kids table, and they had their, like chicken fingers and their coloring books, and that's what they did. Wait.

[Camille Ludington]

This is amazing. I have never a thought of this or heard of this.

[Erin Slaver]

Oh, yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

See, I would take it a step further and just make like a jail.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. Do you know what I mean?

[Camille Ludington]

Like, where they just literally can't come out. Like, just. You just throw a chicken finger in and then you walk away and you go get your champagne. Lock them up. Lock them up. And then when you're done, you take the. You know, the.

[Erin Slaver]

Mommy's got an espresso martini to drink, baby.

[Camille Ludington]

Here's a chicken finger. This is amazing. I love. Okay, that's amazing. Okay, so you guys got married in 2018. Yeah. And then that was the same year that he got graced anatomy.

[Erin Slaver]

Yes. Yeah. I don't know if you crazy. He would come back, like every weekend.

[Camille Ludington]

Yes. I do remember a lot of travel back and forth. And then. How did you feel about having to move? Move a young family to Los Angeles? That was tough.

[Erin Slaver]

That was tough moving, you know, especially going from a place where the cost of living is lower. And you had community complain about that a lot.

[Camille Ludington]

No, no.

[Erin Slaver]

You had community and community.

[Camille Ludington]

Because we have a lot of people writing and talking about how. Get this all the time. You have people saying, I just moved to a new town. I have no idea how to make friends. Like, it's very hard.

[Erin Slaver]

That's so hard. Yeah. I mean, I still have made very, very few friends, but partially. I mean, I'm so busy that I know. Yeah. I feel bad. I can't commit to when people do reach out to try to make a relationship. I'm limited in the time I have.

[Camille Ludington]

I think that's something very relatable to a lot. It is. And also, I feel like there's a lot of times where truthfully I want us. Like, when Matt comes home, I want to spend time with him.

[Erin Slaver]

Right.

[Camille Ludington]

Instead of just bounce all the time. And so it's. It's really careful. It's a really hard balance of, like, putting in effort with your friends, your family, your kids, your, you know, all of it.

[Erin Slaver]

It's.

[Camille Ludington]

It's hard.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. Yeah. And. And to your point, you know, before I had kids, when I was in my early 20s or whatever, and I was having fun in Nashville making all my friends, it's like they're all still there in Nashville. Yeah. Or my old friends from high school or New York or East Coast. And so. Yeah. Once you move from a place you've spent your young adulthood and you moved to a completely different city, people sort of already are in their grooves, too. They have their friends, they have their families. And, you know, I do find that, like, when Kai started kindergarten, we were in the La Canada area, and that's a great time to make a lot of. That's how friends. Right.

[Camille Ludington]

That's how I felt like I met mommy friends. I feel like once Hayden started school, I was just so confused. A lot of my friends did not have kids yet, and so I was so confused, like, where do I find moms?

[Erin Slaver]

It's hard in a big city like Los Angeles. It's just not like, I mean, you grew up in a different country, but I grew up in a small town in upstate New York, and it was just hardly anyone left, hardly anyone came. It was the same people our whole lives. And, I mean, in a way, that's kind of nice.

[Camille Ludington]

Do you feel like you would ever want your family to move back to where you grew up if you could move anywhere with them? Sometimes, would you go to Nashville or would you take them back home to New York?

[Erin Slaver]

I think there's a lot of advantages to being in this more metropolitan area, Los Angeles, Nashville, that I totally missed out on. And even though I loved my childhood, I loved my teenage years, I wish I had been a little more exposed to the culture and just everything that I sort of had a rude awakening when I got to college. So. Yeah, no, I think. I think Nashville or. I mean, I'm really happy where we are now. Like, outside of Pasadena, it's. It's so sweet there. It's very neighborhoody. But, you know, we're. It could be downtown LA in 30 minutes.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah, it's true. No, no. I do think there's advantages to living in Los Angeles. I do think as a new mommy, having moved to the area, it's a tough. It is a tough city. And it's. That's a really relatable thing, I think, for a lot of. Of a lot of people.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay, let's get into. Okay. Your wedding. I do have a question about your wedding, because Link and Joe just got married on Grace now.

[Erin Slaver]

Oh, yes. So cute.

[Camille Ludington]

And he sung. He's.

[Erin Slaver]

He.

[Camille Ludington]

They had him sing his wedding vows.

[Erin Slaver]

Oh, yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

If Chris had reached for his guitar and started singing to you, your. His vows, would you have been like, are you kidding me? Guitar down. Okay. I have three options.

[Erin Slaver]

Are you fine?

[Camille Ludington]

Would you be like, this is a fine line. It's just about you or me.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

Would you have been like, you know what? Let's have a battle and pick up your violin and be like, it's on. Or would you have just like, melted and loved it? Because I feel like this has been a little polarizing. Some fans have been like, this is. It's too much mushy. Yeah. And now the fans are like, of course they love it.

[Erin Slaver]

I. When. When he told me, I mean, obviously I knew, like, he was working on the song nonstop when he was helping write it. So I knew it was. This was happening. And I was kind of like, oh, is Camilla gonna like that? I mean, she's gonna have to stare at you while you sing this song.

[Camille Ludington]

I was like, she's gonna hate this, Chris. I really, like. After three hours, we just use earplugs.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

I just. I put my own pods in. I listened to a little, you know, Lady Gaga.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I don't blame you.

[Camille Ludington]

So. I'm kidding, Chris. I loved it. I was in it every time.

[Erin Slaver]

I know, but I have to say, when I watched it, I was crying, too.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh, my God, I love it.

[Erin Slaver]

You did such an amazing job not making it feel ick.

[Camille Ludington]

I thought he sold it really well.

[Erin Slaver]

He did. He did. And that's hard to sell.

[Camille Ludington]

No, it is. It's not easy. It's a fine line. It could have been super cringey, and.

[Erin Slaver]

It just felt very heartfelt. But. Yeah, no, it was.

[Camille Ludington]

But would you. For your own wedding, would you opt for just a song? Free?

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, I mean, I think so. Look, if he had done it, I think it would be something. I'd look back and say, what a romantic gesture. Like, it would be fairy tale level story. But in the moment, I mean, I was picturing myself and picturing you being me. Like, what is Camilla gonna think?

[Camille Ludington]

Like, she's gonna.

[Erin Slaver]

Is this guy for real? Get me out of here.

[Camille Ludington]

I'm not sure the wedding would have happened if Chris had sung the lyrics. We don't. I don't know if Aaron would have, you know, been on the horse riding away, but.

[Erin Slaver]

No, you know, for our engagement, though, he did. He didn't play, but he hired. This is very romantic of him for.

[Camille Ludington]

When he has to do it. I don't know the story. Okay.

[Erin Slaver]

Oh, no, this is a good story. He rented out the rooftop of this hotel in New York that I loved. It's, like, no longer in existence. It was called the Nomad Hotel.

[Camille Ludington]

Okay.

[Erin Slaver]

Thought we were going to visit a friend. And he hits the up button. And that's where I knew something's happening here.

[Camille Ludington]

And did you think engagement or did you. Or did your mind kind of go to engagement?

[Erin Slaver]

I had a feeling. I had a feeling. Were my nails done? Yes.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh, my God. Thank God.

[Erin Slaver]

My friend who was on tour with me to convince me to get my nails done. Yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

So smart. Good job.

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, he did really good. And he had her come even to take pictures. And so then we get to the top, the elevator opens, and he hired a jazz quartet to play music for us, which was really cool because it was songs that we had been playing together.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh, my God.

[Erin Slaver]

Violin and guitar. So it was, like, all very thoughtful. And he had champagne. And then. Yeah. And he got down on his knee and he had the ring. And I was really impressed.

[Camille Ludington]

Beyond.

[Erin Slaver]

This is like.

[Camille Ludington]

This is like Sleepless in Seattle. Like, movie, movie.

[Erin Slaver]

Impressed. It was. It was my one romantic gesture that.

[Camille Ludington]

Listen.

[Erin Slaver]

Because he didn't sing his vows, so.

[Camille Ludington]

He didn't sing his vows, so. You know what? Honestly, I'm gonna tell you something. I kind of would have liked that.

[Erin Slaver]

You wouldn't like that.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh, yeah, I know, I know. Listen, we'll have to pitch it another scene.

[Erin Slaver]

He has had to be in the hospital. It's not the same. He got a jazz quartet. Yes, yes. Totally.

[Camille Ludington]

In the er.

[Erin Slaver]

In the er.

[Camille Ludington]

Not the same vibes. Not the same vibes, people. Good job, Carmack.

[Erin Slaver]

And I mean, he. He must have worked fast, because we were. I was in New York on a tour, so we weren't there very long. It wasn't.

[Camille Ludington]

Wow.

[Erin Slaver]

We needed to really plan this. I'm so impressed. Okay, but so now didn't sing the vows.

[Camille Ludington]

No. This is amazing. So now you guys, you have two kids, and what I feel like people have just fallen in love with you for is the social media. So we have to talk about it. First off, I wanna know, because recently your social media has been you playing a lot of pranks on Chris. I wanna know where you get these. I'm like, where are the ideas from?

[Erin Slaver]

I'm in my pranking era.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh, my God. Is it just honestly you thinking crazy things up?

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. I mean, yes.

[Camille Ludington]

Like, you went to the beach and you pretended to eat sand and it was just like, how did you even think about the cookies?

[Erin Slaver]

I don't wanna cop. Other people prank their husbands. I don't wanna copy people. Been Chris and I both, we've always been, like, on social media, we're doing this. We want to be original content creators. And, like, we don't want to just do the same. Yeah, you know, whatever. So, yeah, I'm always trying to be original. And, you know, I had done. I think I had done like, a more simple version where I had switched a wine bottle out with grape juice. And people had loved that. Right, yeah.

[Camille Ludington]

This is why you were like, early morning drinking.

[Erin Slaver]

Yes, early morning drinking. Right.

[Camille Ludington]

You're like, oh, God, it's rid of. Okay, so wait, I have. I have logistical questions when I watch this. Is your phone set up on the counter recording him? Is that how you're catching his reaction? Because sometimes you have more than one angle.

[Erin Slaver]

So we started out, it was a lot easier when we first started because Chris didn't know I was just trying to get his reaction on things so I could set up the phone. And.

[Camille Ludington]

And he honestly has no idea that that's what you're doing?

[Erin Slaver]

Well, for the most part, like, he might figure out something's up. Especially now. Cause I'm always pranking him.

[Camille Ludington]

Yeah, that was a question to you. I'm like, doesn't he know?

[Erin Slaver]

Everyone's like, how does he not know that she's pranking you? But the thing is, he might know that something is up. He might even spot one of the hidden cameras. But he doesn't know what I'm doing. Like, people. I tell people in the beginning of the video what I'm doing. So everyone knows, and they think, oh, this is obvious. How does he not know? But he doesn't because I don't tell him at the beginning of the prank.

[Camille Ludington]

So he might spy the cameras and realize something's going to be amiss at some point. But he's not knowing. So when he comes out and you've, like, bought new shoes or, like, the.

[Erin Slaver]

Shorts, I mean, he was. He, he, he. By the end of that prank, he definitely thought, like, she's got to be pranking me. But I don't know what this is about.

[Camille Ludington]

Explain to listeners that haven't seen this. What, like a couple of your top pranks?

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah. Okay. Well, okay, so we said switching out the wine for grape juice.

[Camille Ludington]

So, yeah, it's you downing a bottle.

[Erin Slaver]

A bottle of grape juice swinging from in the morning. And he thought it was wine. Then there was the beach. I picked up a bucket of sand, which I had, you know, hidden my own prop bucket of sand. I switched them out, and I pretended that I was doing, like, a total to my camera. Yeah. Like, you can eat the sand. It's actually safe and healthy. And I start just, you know, downing the sand.

[Camille Ludington]

It looks choking on it. It looks so real that even though I knew it wasn't real. I was grossed out. Yeah, I think this is really gross.

[Erin Slaver]

And it really made me choke, like I was eating a bunch of sand. So it was, it was a very realistic. Mom. At least it tasted good.

[Camille Ludington]

But you also. Okay, the peaches. Can you talk to them about the peaches and the eggs?

[Erin Slaver]

Oh, and the eggs. Oh, my. My mom loves that one. Yeah, it's so good. But you know what I do sometimes? Like, I'll come up with, how can I switch out, you know, a raw egg? And I will Google. I actually follow this guy on YouTube. It's like Scott prop and roll. And he is a prop master in Los Angeles and you might know him and he shows everyone like secret secrets behind the cameras of how they make props. So I got the egg idea from him, the sand idea. I just, I figured it out and I googled on Reddit somebody had said, make fake sand this way. But so what Erin did is she took an.

[Camille Ludington]

She took a bunch of eggs. And you switched out the yolk with peaches.

[Erin Slaver]

My God. Right? This was an elaborate one. I had to buy this special device that cracks an egg like as perfectly as you can crack it because I took. I took the shells of an egg. I know, it was insane.

[Camille Ludington]

No, this is amazing.

[Erin Slaver]

I have too much time. Everyone's time.

[Camille Ludington]

No, you don't even have time. You don't have. This is what's so crazy to me. You don't have any time. I know how busy you are. So these setups, I'm like, this is incredible that you're able to do this.

[Erin Slaver]

It's. It's definitely. And then Chris, I have to do it when he's doing yard work or something. So he's. And he's coming in the house and don't.

[Camille Ludington]

Oh, I hide him.

[Erin Slaver]

I like run in my bathroom. No. So I cracked the egg, I dumped the yolks out, and then I boiled the eggs. Cuz I wanted them to be clean.

[Camille Ludington]

Because I'm going to actually eat this stuff. Oh my God.

[Erin Slaver]

So then I had these oiled shells that I was trying to hold together and I was like, if closely he's gonna see. But what I did is I made a fake raw egg. This was a trick from a prop master. You can use peaches and thickened water. So I bought. There's actually something, a powder you can buy on Amazon that thickens a liquid so you can thicken the water. And then I put the peaches, you know, I cut them in round circles. It really looks like an egg. I put it in the shell. I was gonna try to glue it. That wasn't working out. So put em back in the carton. And then I pulled him out, and I was like, all right, Chris, you know, I'm gonna make some eggs for everybody. And so he really was not suspecting that I put all that work into a prank. That was insane. Yeah. Yeah, that was an insane one.

[Camille Ludington]

Are you feeling the pressure to just now?

[Erin Slaver]

Yeah, I know your question.

[Camille Ludington]

Yes, yes.

[Erin Slaver]

They have to get better and better. And I'm like, chris, I don't know what's gonna happen.

[Camille Ludington]

I feel like you should be, like, hosting. I feel like you should be hosting like an America's, you know, funniest. I feel like you should be hosting a show.

[Erin Slaver]

It feels like a prank show.

[Camille Ludington]

Show. Like, I think I put this out there for Hollywood, for Aaron, because there is no more perfect of a person to be doing a show like that. So let's put it out.

[Erin Slaver]

Thank you.

[Camille Ludington]

Hey, everyone. We're gonna call it the end of the episode, but stay tuned for part two, because we are not done chatting.