Chicks in the Office Podcast Summary
Episode: Love Island USA S7 Is a MESS + DWTS' Ezra Sosa Interview
Release Date: July 7, 2025
Host/Authors: Ria Ciuffo & Fran Mariano
Guest: Ezra Sosa from Dancing with the Stars
1. Hosts' Exciting Vacation Adventures (01:07 - 09:36)
Ria and Fran kick off the episode by sharing their recent travels, offering listeners a vivid account of their experiences in Italy and Sardinia. Ria recounts her four-night stay in Bellagio with her family, highlighting the stunning scenery, delectable food, and a visit to a unique nightclub built into a cliffside. She describes Puerto Cervo's opulent marina, filled with mega yachts, leaving her in awe:
Ria (02:04): "It was just a beautiful, like, outdoor Italian mall basically called, like, the Promenade. And it was just all these amazing stores, and you walk along the side of the marina and it was just yacht after yacht. My jaw was on the floor."
Fran chimes in with her enthusiasm about their adventures, touching on the vibrant nightlife and exclusive venues they encountered.
2. Culinary Highlights and Local Experiences (09:36 - 23:16)
The duo delves into their gastronomic experiences, praising new restaurants like Joya and Joya Mia at Hotel du Lac. Ria shares her delight in trying innovative dishes such as lake fish ravioli in a dill and fennel broth, despite initial reservations:
Ria (06:05): "It was honestly very hot. Very. But I just can't picture you swimming upon... so I could."
They also discuss unique dining experiences like Dispenses 63’s pop-up excursions and the fusion of international cuisines they enjoyed, emphasizing the rich culinary landscape of their destinations.
3. Transition to Love Island USA Season 7 (25:06 - 39:12)
Shifting gears, Ria and Fran transition to discussing the tumultuous seventh season of Love Island USA. They express frustration over the show's direction, highlighting key controversies such as the abrupt removal of contestant Sierra due to past racist remarks. The hosts analyze the forced coupling dynamics, particularly focusing on Nick and Alandra's pairing:
Ria (43:53): "I don't know if we're gonna get Movie night. So I think the whole male challenge thing, the mail in, whatever, is really what they use to replace, like, what could have been a movie night."
They critique the authenticity of relationships formed under production’s influence, questioning whether genuine connections are being fostered or manufactured for dramatic effect.
4. Deep Dive into Love Island Controversies (39:12 - 86:00)
Further dissecting the season, Ria and Fran discuss specific incidents:
- Sierra's Removal: They ponder the lack of transparency about why Sierra was pulled from the villa, suspecting it was due to her racist past behavior.
- Nick and Alandra's Forced Couple: The hosts argue that their rapid pairing feels artificial, lacking genuine emotional foundation.
- Ace's Behavior: Criticism is directed at Ace for being defensive and escalating conflicts rather than addressing issues maturely.
Ezra Sosa (Interviewer) (86:00): "He doesn't give a... he's just, it's mayhem."
They also touch on the production's handling of eliminations and the impact on both contestants and viewers, emphasizing the show's shift towards sensationalism over meaningful storytelling.
5. Interview with Ezra Sosa from Dancing with the Stars (137:22 - End)
In the latter part of the episode, Ria and Fran welcome Ezra Sosa, a professional dancer from Dancing with the Stars, for an in-depth interview. Key discussion points include:
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Ezra’s Journey: He shares his unexpected casting into the show and his aspirations for future seasons.
Ezra (109:03): "I can’t believe this is happening. And it was in that moment I knew my life changed forever."
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Impact of Social Media: Ezra discusses how platforms like TikTok have revitalized interest in Dancing with the Stars, attracting a younger demographic.
Ria (115:12): "It's so true. And you, you were really a pro in your own right. How do you feel about the new generation of dancers?"
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Tour Life: Matt recounts his experiences on tour, emphasizing the camaraderie and challenges faced by professionals on the road.
Matt (123:05): "I really do feel like Dancing with the Stars culture, that's, like, really in Utah. Like, that's really how it was born."
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Future of the Show: They speculate on future cast members and the show's evolving format, considering the integration of reality TV stars and influencers.
Ria (133:16): "What are you guys going to do next season? Actress from Crush?"
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Personal Anecdotes: Matt shares humorous stories from his competitive dance days, adding a personal touch to the conversation.
6. Pop Culture Roundup and Final Thoughts (86:00 - 137:37)
The hosts wrap up the episode with a roundup of recent pop culture events, including:
- Jeanette McCurdy’s Book Adaptation: Excitement about Jennifer Aniston starring in the TV adaptation of I'm Glad My Mom Died.
- Glastonbury Highlights: Recaps of major performances and celebrity sightings, such as Harry Styles at the festival.
- Dancing with the Stars Updates: Announcements of new cast members, including Whitney and Jen from Mormon Wives.
Ria (137:03): "It felt like the first time she was free in a long time."
They conclude by expressing their enthusiasm for upcoming shows and expressing gratitude to their listeners, promising more engaging content in future episodes.
Notable Quotes:
- Ria Ciuffo (02:04): "It was just a beautiful, like, outdoor Italian mall basically called, like, the Promenade."
- Ezra Sosa (109:03): "I cannot believe this is happening. And it was in that moment I knew my life changed forever."
- Matt Mariano (123:05): "I really do feel like Dancing with the Stars culture, that's, like, really in Utah. Like, that's really how it was born."
This episode of Chicks in the Office offers a blend of personal storytelling, critical analysis of Love Island USA’s latest season, and an insightful interview with a prominent figure from Dancing with the Stars, making it a comprehensive listen for fans of pop culture and reality TV.