Podcast Summary: Chicks in the Office – Episode: Justin Baldoni Wins Access to Taylor Swift & Blake Lively’s Texts + Billy Ray Cyrus Smoked on ‘Hannah Montana’ Set
Release Date: June 20, 2025
Host/Authors: Ria and Fran, Barstool Sports
Podcast Information:
Chicks in the Office is the ultimate source for entertainment news, TV and film recaps, and celebrity interviews. Hosted by Ria and Fran from Barstool Sports, the podcast delves into the latest happenings in pop culture, offering insightful discussions and engaging banter with listeners.
1. Legal Drama: Justin Baldoni vs. Taylor Swift & Blake Lively
The episode kicks off with a deep dive into the high-profile legal battle involving Justin Baldoni, Taylor Swift, and Blake Lively. The hosts unpack the recent court decision where a judge granted Justin Baldoni access to the private text messages between Taylor Swift and Blake Lively concerning the movie It Ends With Us. However, these messages are barred from being released to the public.
Notable Discussion Points:
- Judge’s Ruling: U.S. District Judge Lewis Lyman determined that Baldoni can access the communications as they are deemed relevant to his case against Lively for harassment and retaliation.
- Privacy Concerns: Despite the legal access, there is skepticism about whether the messages will remain confidential. Ria expresses doubts, stating, “They’re supposed to only be about the movie, but with Taylor Swift’s name in it, it’s going to blow up” (16:42).
- Potential Leaks: The hosts speculate on possible leaks, suggesting that any mention of Taylor Swift could lead to public dissemination despite court orders.
Quotes:
- Ria: “Everything you do on the Internet, it stays on your phone, your computer. It's somewhere.” (17:11)
- Fran: “They’re trying to protect the messages, but with Taylor Swift involved, something’s bound to slip.” (21:19)
2. Billy Ray Cyrus and ‘Hannah Montana’ Controversy
Transitioning from legal battles to nostalgic reflections, Ria and Fran discuss revelations about Billy Ray Cyrus’s use of marijuana on the set of the beloved children's show Hannah Montana. Miley Cyrus addresses misconceptions, clarifying that while many believed she was the one smoking, it was actually her father.
Highlights:
- Miley's Clarification: Miley humorously recounts, “People thought I was smoking pot, but it was actually Billy Ray” (26:10).
- Impact on Legacy: The conversation touches on how these behind-the-scenes antics contrast with the wholesome image portrayed on screen.
Quotes:
- Fran: “It was probably both Mitchell and her dad smoking weed, which is, you know, obviously very funny.” (26:35)
- Ria: “Miley had to get it from somewhere, so it’s like, clean it up, Billy.” (27:00)
3. Emeril Exits ‘Summer House’
The hosts then shift focus to Reality TV, specifically addressing Emeril Lagasse’s departure from the hit show Summer House. They dissect Emeril’s announcement and speculate on the reasons behind his exit, considering both personal choice and possible pressures from the network.
Key Points:
- Announcement Analysis: Emeril stated, “I won’t be returning,” which Fran interprets as possibly deeper issues within the show’s dynamics.
- Future of the Show: Discussions ponder whether Bravo might introduce new cast members to rejuvenate the series or if Emeril’s departure signifies a forthcoming overhaul.
Quotes:
- Ria: “We saw the sex stuff and that was it. Maybe he just didn't want to do the show again.” (23:15)
- Fran: “Seems like there’ll be a big switch-up anyway.” (23:34)
4. Meghan Markle’s Podcast Hiatus
Moving to podcasting, Ria and Fran discuss Meghan Markle’s decision to put her podcast, Confessions of a Female Founder, on hiatus. Meghan cites the need to concentrate on her business ventures and family life as the primary reasons for this break.
Insights:
- Balancing Act: Meghan emphasizes the challenges of managing multiple projects, stating, “I need to focus on my business. The only thing I want to spread is my jam” (33:34).
- Listener Support: The hosts express support for Meghan’s decision, highlighting the importance of prioritizing personal well-being over workload.
Quotes:
- Fran: “She just doesn’t need to do a podcast. It’s her jam.” (34:28)
- Ria: “She’s missing moments with her children because of the podcast.” (35:51)
5. Pop Culture Trivia and Listener Engagement
A significant portion of the episode features interactive segments like Trivia and Popcorner, where Ria and Fran engage with listener-submitted questions and trivia about various pop culture topics. Guests from different locations join the hosts, adding diversity and excitement to the discussions.
Highlights:
- Game Time Partnership: The episode includes a promotion for Game Time, Barstool Sports’ official ticketing partner, emphasizing smoother ticket purchasing experiences (15:13).
- Listener Stories: Personal anecdotes, such as Kelly’s humorous tale about her parents’ smoking habits, add relatability and depth to the conversation.
- Interactive Trivia: Challenging questions about shows like Friends, Austin Powers, and SpongeBob SquarePants showcase the hosts' extensive pop culture knowledge, although some questions prove particularly tough for listeners and guests.
Quotes:
- Kelly: “The judge has ordered that Justin Baldoni will be able to retrieve Blake Lively and Taylor Swift's text messages about It Ends With Us. It ends with us.” (16:42)
- Ria: “Everyone has their thing. I have the sports knowledge. It really blows my mind.” (07:37)
6. Sponsors and Advertisements
Throughout the episode, Ria and Fran incorporate promotions for sponsors like Game Time, Zola, and Batiste Dry Shampoo. These segments are seamlessly integrated into the conversation, maintaining the episode's flow without overshadowing the main content.
Promotional Highlights:
- Game Time: Emphasizes easy and affordable ticket purchases with features like GameTime Picks.
- Zola: Focuses on modern wedding planning tools, offering convenience and stress-free planning solutions.
- Batiste: Introduces the new Batiste Light Dry Shampoo, highlighting its lightweight and residue-free properties.
Quotes:
- Ria: “Zola will have your back from day one to the wedding day.” (75:37)
- Kelly: “Use the Batiste Light Dry Shampoo all the time. We need it on tour.” (76:54)
7. Live Trivia Segment Highlights
The live trivia segment with guests Brianne and Shannon, celebrating their 30th birthdays in Paris, adds an interactive and competitive edge to the episode. Questions range from pinpointing specific moments in beloved TV shows to identifying music-related trivia.
Notable Moments:
- Challenging Questions: Topics include the Austin Powers love interests, Friends’ iconic moments, and specific details from Love Island.
- Guest Participation: Brianne and Shannon's participation from Paris provides a dynamic and international perspective, although some questions prove particularly difficult.
Quotes:
- Ria: “Name the device which allows you to store and view memories in Harry Potter.” (63:31)
- Kelly: “Those are hard questions.” (85:37)
8. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Events
The episode concludes with Ria and Fran promoting their upcoming live show at the Jersey Shore and encouraging listeners to attend. They also tease future content, including more pop culture discussions and interactive segments.
Final Highlights:
- Live Show Promotion: Emphasizes the excitement of performing live and engaging directly with listeners.
- Future Teasers: Suggests upcoming episodes will continue to explore trending pop culture topics, ensuring listeners remain hooked.
Quotes:
- Fran: “We’re the best show on Earth, and we love you guys so very much!” (86:27)
- Ria: “Hope you have a fabulous weekend. We’ll talk to you on Monday.” (86:37)
Conclusion
This episode of Chicks in the Office masterfully balances serious pop culture discussions with lighthearted trivia and personal anecdotes. From dissecting high-stakes legal battles to reminiscing about beloved TV shows, Ria and Fran deliver an engaging and informative experience for both regular listeners and newcomers alike. Their ability to intertwine sponsor messages without disrupting the conversation further showcases their expertise in creating a seamless podcasting experience.
Join Ria and Fran every week for the latest in pop culture, entertainment news, and fun-filled discussions. Don’t miss out—subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube and catch every episode of Chicks in the Office.
Timestamps
- 16:42: Discussion on Justin Baldoni's legal case.
- 17:11: Ria talks about internet privacy and message retention.
- 21:19: Fran expresses concern over possible message leaks.
- 26:10: Miley Cyrus clarifies her father was the one smoking on set.
- 27:00: Ria discusses cleaning up Billy Ray Cyrus’s image.
- 23:15: Fran speculates on Emeril's departure reasons.
- 23:34: Ria comments on potential show changes.
- 33:34: Meghan Markle's quote on focusing her efforts.
- 34:28: Fran supports Meghan’s decision to pause her podcast.
- 35:51: Ria talks about work-life balance impacting Meghan.
- 15:13: Promotion of Game Time as a ticketing partner.
- 75:37: Ria discusses Zola’s wedding planning tools.
- 76:54: Kelly promotes Batiste Light Dry Shampoo.
- 63:31: Trivia question on Harry Potter’s memory device.
- 85:37: Kelly remarks on the difficulty of trivia questions.
- 86:27: Fran proclaims the show as the best on Earth.
- 86:37: Ria wraps up with well-wishes and upcoming content.