Podcast Summary: Chicks in the Office – "Are Glen Powell & Lily James Dating? + Meghan Markle Rebrands" (Released February 19, 2025)

Hosted by Ria and Fran from Barstool Sports, "Chicks in the Office" delves into the latest in pop culture, entertainment news, and celebrity gossip. In this episode, the hosts tackle trending rumors about celebrity relationships, Meghan Markle's business rebranding, and a significant collaboration between Skims and Nike. Additionally, they engage with listeners through the "Popcorner" segment, addressing fan voicemails on various fun topics.

1. Navigating Windy Weather and Office Life

The episode opens with Ria and Fran discussing the challenges of dealing with extremely windy weather in the city. Fran humorously shares her attempts to minimize blinking during video recordings, recalling advice from an acting coach in her child actress days.

Notable Quotes:

• Fran (00:10): "I am going to actively try to stop blinking as much when I look in the camera and do that because blinking, yes, I noticed myself doing it."
• Ria (02:29): "Your eyes well up so much faster. Like when you're thinking about blinking, you're going to blink a lot."

The conversation shifts to the physical discomfort caused by the wind, including sensitive eyes and breathing difficulties. They recount humorous anecdotes, such as watching someone struggle on an electric scooter against the strong gusts.

2. Celebrity Relationship Rumors: Glen Powell & Lily James

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to speculating about the relationship between actors Glen Powell and Lily James. The hosts analyze recent sightings of the two together, particularly at a BAFTA after-party, where they were seen laughing and sharing a jacket.

Notable Quotes:

• Fran (19:10): "You're like, 'Oh, I shouldn't ski.' Maybe he's like, 'Oh, I shouldn't ski.'"
• Ria (28:13): "They were seen leaving the Charles Finch and Chanel BAFTA party at Lulu's in Mayfair Saturday."

They reference the 2018 film "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society," where Powell and James played romantic interests, pondering whether their on-screen chemistry has translated into real-life romance.

Conclusion: While there's no definitive evidence, the hosts express excitement over the potential rekindling of their relationship, emphasizing the charming interactions observed at recent events.

3. Meghan Markle's Business Rebrand

Meghan Markle's lifestyle brand undergoes a significant transformation. Originally named American Riviera Orchard, Markle rebrands it to As Ever to encapsulate a broader lifestyle vision beyond just jams.

Discussion Points:

• Brand Name Challenges: The original name was deemed too lengthy and restrictive. Markle aimed for a name that's memorable and versatile.
• Trademark Issues: Markle secured the name "As Ever" in 2022, though it faced similarities with regional symbols, prompting logistical changes.

Notable Quotes:

• Ria (34:41): "American Riviera Orchard was not going to be something quick and simple and easy for people to remember."
• Fran (35:02): "As Ever. Is not flying off the shelves to me as a jam."

The hosts brainstorm alternative names, suggesting options like Markle Sparkle and With Love, while also highlighting the importance of securing exclusive social media handles for the new brand.

Conclusion: Despite the initial confusion over the new name, As Ever represents a strategic move to diversify Markle's brand portfolio, aiming for broader market appeal.

4. Skims and Nike Collaboration

One of the episode's highlights is the announcement of a groundbreaking collaboration between Skims, Kim Kardashian's shapewear brand, and Nike. This partnership aims to create a new activewear line, Nike Skims, set to debut in the spring with a global rollout planned for 2026.

Discussion Points:

• Strategic Importance: Nike seeks to bolster its appeal among women aged 18-35, a demographic where Skims already has a strong presence.
• Market Positioning: With activewear brands like Lululemon and Alo Yoga dominating, Nike Skims aims to carve out a unique space by merging Skims' design aesthetics with Nike's manufacturing prowess.
• Potential Impact: This collaboration could rejuvenate Nike's image in the activewear sector, addressing past criticisms about innovation lag and market share loss.

Notable Quotes:

• Ria (44:31): "Nike's partnership with Skims comes as the company tries to win over more women and bring in new products as it faces criticism for falling behind on innovation."
• Fran (49:12): "It's an insane deal. Kim for the stuff that they have right now for Skims, the intimates, the shapewear, all things that we love."

Conclusion: The Skims-Nike partnership is hailed as a mutually beneficial move, leveraging Skims' popularity and Nike's extensive resources to potentially dominate the activewear market.

5. Popcorner: Listener Voicemails and Fun Debates

Segment Overview: In the "Popcorner," Ria, Fran, and Noah interact with listener voicemails, engaging in light-hearted debates and sharing personal opinions on various topics.

1. High School Musical Debate:

   • Question: Which "High School Musical" sequel is the best—2 or 3?
   • Discussion: Fran and Ria both favor High School Musical 2 for its superior songs and plot, while expressing less enthusiasm for the third installment.
   • Notable Quotes:
     • Fran (52:35): "2 is 1, 3, hands down. I'm 2 for me."
     • Ria (53:27): "The songs in two are what solidifies it for me."

2. Best Musician Crossover into Acting:

   • Question: Who is the best musician who has successfully transitioned into acting?
   • Discussion: The hosts mention Lady Gaga, Harry Styles, Mark Wahlberg, Beyoncé, Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, and others, debating their success and versatility.
   • Notable Quotes:
     • Fran (54:44): "Miley Cyrus would be my answer."
     • Noah (55:10): "Mark Wahlberg for sure."

3. Kiss, Marry, Kill with Bobby Flay, Gordon Ramsay, and the Property Brothers:

   • Question: If you had to choose to kiss, marry, or kill Bobby Flay, Gordon Ramsay, and the Property Brothers, who would you choose?
   • Discussion: Fran and Ria both agree to marry Gordon Ramsay for his stable family life, kiss Bobby Flay for his playful persona, and kill the Property Brothers as they don't fit the criteria.
   • Notable Quotes:
     • Fran (60:26): "I'm picking Gordon. Marrying Gordon, kissing Bobby, killing the Property Brothers."
     • Ria (60:37): "Gordon Ramsay has four kids. Been married since 1996."

4. Best Year of Music to Relive:

   • Question: If you could go back to one particular year of music, which year would it be?
   • Discussion: The hosts reflect on personal favorite years such as 2012 for its nostalgic vibes and memorable hits, and 2008 for its iconic albums like Coldplay's Viva La Vida.
   • Notable Quotes:
     • Fran (65:06): "I would probably pick 2009 or 2011."
     • Ria (65:21): "I have a soft spot for 2012."

Conclusion: The "Popcorner" segment fosters a fun and interactive environment, allowing listeners to hear the hosts' personalities shine through their opinions and playful debates.

6. Product Promotions and Sponsorships

Throughout the episode, Ria and Fran incorporate promotional segments for various brands, seamlessly integrating them into the conversation.

1. Abercrombie's New Long Weekend Collection:

   • Details: The hosts highlight the versatility of Abercrombie's latest collection, perfect for transitioning from day events like brunch to evening reservations.
   • Products Mentioned: Scarlet Skort, Mila Dress, Bubble Hem Mini Dress, YPB Active Line.
   • Quote (16:06 - 16:09): "Abercrombie's new long weekend collection online or in store."

2. Truly Hard Seltzer:

   • Details: Fran promotes Truly Hard Seltzer, emphasizing its lightness, refreshing flavors, and low-calorie count.
   • Quote (33:40): "Truly is the official hard seltzer of Chicks in the Office."

3. Batiste Light Dry Shampoo:

   • Details: The new Batiste Light Dry Shampoo promises seamless blending without white residue, available in Mello Melon and Zen Matcha scents.
   • Quote (50:03): "Batiste Light Dry Shampoo blends seamlessly into your hair and leaves no visible white residue."

Conclusion: These promotional segments provide listeners with information on trendy and useful products, enhancing the show's value by introducing popular brands in an engaging manner.

7. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, the hosts encourage listeners to engage with the show through social media and upcoming episodes. Fran and Ria express their gratitude towards their audience, reinforcing their connection with fans through heartfelt messages.

Notable Quotes:

• Fran (69:13): "Thank you for watching and listening. We love you guys, oh, so very much."
• Ria (69:22): "Love you. Big kisses, big hugs, big cuddles on the way out."

Overall Conclusion: In this episode, Ria and Fran provide insightful commentary on celebrity relationships, Meghan Markle's innovative business moves, and significant brand collaborations that shape the pop culture landscape. Through engaging discussions and interactive segments like "Popcorner," they maintain a lively and relatable connection with their audience, offering both entertainment and valuable insights into the latest trends and news.