Podcast Summary: CHEERS! with Avery Woods
Episode: Laughing Through the Pain | Rae
Release Date: May 5, 2025

In this heartfelt and humorous episode of CHEERS! with Avery Woods, host Avery Wood sits down with her longtime friends and fellow content creators, Ray and Vince, to explore the intricate balance between humor and personal struggles. Titled "Laughing Through the Pain," the episode delves deep into topics such as addiction, the challenges of maintaining relevance on social media, navigating toxic relationships, and the therapeutic power of laughter.

1. Introduction and Guest Introduction (01:18 - 02:33)

Avery Woods welcomes listeners from Unwell Studio in New York City and introduces her enthusiastic guests, Ray and Vince. Avery sets the stage by highlighting Ray's sharp wit and unfiltered humor, which resonates deeply with her audience.

Avery Wood (02:19):
"Today you'll get to know the little lightning rod that is Ray and a little bit more details about some personal things in her life."

2. The Power and Perils of Social Media (02:33 - 07:00)

Ray and Vince share their initial interactions on social media, emphasizing the instant connection and admiration that often sparks online friendships. Vince recounts how he instantly followed Ray upon seeing her content, driven by an immediate sense of obsession and admiration.

Vince (02:55):
"So I took Stevie to Black Rock, like my favorite coffee place in Arizona. And I made that sound. But as soon as I saw that, I immediately followed you... I immediately am obsessed with her."

However, the conversation takes a reflective turn as they discuss the darker side of social media—particularly the rampant sexism and the double standards women face compared to their male counterparts. They express frustration over how female content creators are often harshly criticized, while male creators receive praise for similar content.

Ray (07:21):
"No one makes me laugh as much as her. Her name is Ray. She's hilarious, sharp, totally unfiltered like myself."

Vince (07:47):
"Everything is so critical, and it just turns me off. And, like, TikTok used to be, like, such a fun thing, I feel like. And now that it's work and I have to, like, have a certain, you know, Persona, whatever."

3. Personal Stories of Addiction and Family Struggles (13:00 - 21:00)

Vince opens up about his personal history with addiction within his family. He reveals the late discovery of a half-brother struggling with addiction and his subsequent efforts to connect with him before his untimely passing in February 2024. This revelation underscores the pervasive impact of addiction on families and personal lives.

Vince (14:22):
"He is obviously older than you. So this is where we'll get to the real bomb that I'll drop."

Ray relates by sharing her husband's experiences growing up with parents who struggled with addiction, illustrating the universal challenges faced by those with loved ones battling substance abuse.

Ray (20:10):
"So, you know, personally, in my, like, my husband has a way about him where it was. He could be extremely wonderful and nice and this and that... And then it would turn into a completely different scenario where we would be just like, butting heads so bad."

4. Coping Mechanisms and Sobriety (21:00 - 26:03)

Both guests discuss their paths to sobriety, highlighting the choices they've made to protect their mental health and future relationships. Vince attributes his sobriety to wanting to honor his late brother and ensure a better life for himself and his future family.

Vince (21:54):
"Being a child of an addict... you have to earn that time with those kids. And I totally agree that you should do that. And that's how I'm gonna be with my children."

Ray emphasizes the importance of shielding one's children from the trauma of addiction, advocating for setting boundaries to prevent repeating familial patterns.

Ray (22:30):
"You also never want your kids to experience what you've experienced."

5. Life in New York, Pets, and Personal Challenges (26:03 - 40:38)

Transitioning from heavy topics, the conversation lightens as Ray and Vince discuss their daily lives, including living situations, pets, and the challenges of balancing personal space with career demands. Vince humorously describes the chaos of living out of suitcases and managing his two French Bulldogs, while Ray shares anecdotes about her cats and the humorous antics of her dog's high tolerance.

Vince (27:05):
"I'm a freak. I need to be comfortable. I need to have my decor look nice. And my freaking... I am living out of suitcases."

Ray (28:54):
"We wanted a Frenchie really bad, but my son was so obsessed with cats. We went with cats."

6. Navigating Toxic Relationships and Breakups (40:38 - 47:26)

Vince candidly discusses his tumultuous relationship history, including a prolonged engagement that ultimately ended, leading to personal growth and recognition of unhealthy patterns. He reflects on the emotional toll of staying in a toxic relationship and the importance of prioritizing one's well-being.

Vince (34:21):
"I ended up tracking my brother down. I meet him, like, a couple months after he told me about my brother, whatever. And my brother has an addiction problem... he passes away in February."

Ray (46:31):
"You were so into him because you're shy and giddy, but you need to protect your peace."

7. Future Plans and Aspirations (47:26 - 58:07)

Looking ahead, Vince shares his aspirations to expand his personal brand beyond social media, aspiring to launch a mocktail drink and invest in real estate to secure his financial future and reduce his dependence on online platforms. Ray encourages Vince's ambitions, offering support and highlighting the importance of diversifying income streams.

Vince (57:00):
"I want to transform into something else. Use the money and then see it later. That’s my goal. Raise my family. I want kids, I want a family and I want to be able to give them a life that they deserve and that I wanted."

Ray (58:10):
"If you ever need help with investments and stuff, just text me."

8. Lighthearted Moments and Personal Anecdotes (58:07 - 60:28)

The episode wraps up with delightful banter between Ray and Vince, sharing humorous stories about their experiences with psychedelics, hotel life, and their pets' quirky behaviors. Their playful interactions serve as a testament to their enduring friendship and ability to find joy amidst life's challenges.

Ray (59:12):
"I'm so happy for you. Okay, we'll move on because you're getting shy."

Vince (60:25):
"I really appreciate that."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Vince (02:55):
  "I immediately followed you... I immediately am obsessed with her."

• Ray (07:21):
  "No one makes me laugh as much as her."

• Vince (14:22):
  "He is obviously older than you. So this is where we'll get to the real bomb that I'll drop."

• Ray (22:30):
  "You also never want your kids to experience what you've experienced."

• Vince (34:21):
  "I ended up tracking my brother down... My brother has an addiction problem... he passes away in February."

• Vince (57:00):
  "I want to transform into something else. Use the money and then see it later."

Conclusion

"Laughing Through the Pain | Rae" is a compelling episode that marries humor with profound personal narratives. Avery Woods skillfully facilitates a conversation that not only entertains but also offers deep insights into overcoming adversity. Through Ray and Vince's open discussions, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of the struggles inherent in fame, personal loss, and the quest for inner peace. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the healing power of laughter.

Connect with Our Guests:

• Vince's Social Media Handles:

  • TikTok: @R_A_696969
  • Instagram: @R_A_696969
  • YouTube: Search for "Vince's Channel"

• Ray's Platforms:

  • TikTok and YouTube: Watch Ray's "Korean Corn Dog Vlog" for more of her adventures and humorous takes on life.

Stay tuned for more episodes of CHEERS! with Avery Woods, where laughter meets life's most challenging moments.