Transcript

Asher Angel (0:00)

Thanks for selling your car to Carvana. Here's your check. Whoa. When did I get here? What do you mean?

Tom Schwartz (0:04)

I swear it was just moments ago.

Asher Angel (0:06)

That I accepted a great offer from Carvana online. I must have time traveled to the future. It was just moments ago. We do same day pickup. Here's your check for that great offer. It is the future. It's. It's the present and just the convenience of Carvana. Sorry to blow your mind. It's all good. Happens all the time. Sell your car the convenient way to Carvana. Pick up. Times may vary and fees may apply.

Narrator (0:31)

Searching for a romantic summer getaway escape with Rich Girl Summer. The new Audible original from Lily Chiu. The exquisitely talented Philippa Sue. Returning to narrate her fifth Lily Chu title. This time, Philippa is joined by her real life husband, Stephen Pasquale. Set in Toronto's wealthy cottage country, AKA the Hamptons of Canada, Rich Girl Summer follows the story of Valerie, a down on her luck event planner posing as a socialite's long lost daughter while piecing together the secrets surrounding a mysterious family and falling deeper and deeper in love with the impossibly hard to read and infuriatingly handsome family assistant, Nico. Caught between pretending to belong and unexpectedly finding where she truly fits in, Valerie learns her summer is about to get far more complicated than she ever planned. She's in over her head and head over heels. Listen to Rich Girl Summer now on audible. Go to audible.com richgirlsommar.

Tom Schwartz (1:28)

It'S now time for your weekly retox with Tom Schwartz. What is up?

Co-host (1:36)

Welcome to another episode, Detox Retox Harmony check. How you feeling? Yes, you. Are you good? How's your harmony? Are you keeping it together? Are you falling apart? Hopefully a bit of both. When I say fall apart, I don't mean anything toxic.

Tom Schwartz (1:55)

Yeah, man.

Co-host (1:55)

Just treating yourself, not being too hard on yourself. Not feeling bad about feeling good. But we're trying to level up in every way. Way more Detox than Retox. Today we're gonna go. We're gonna meet Asher angel up on the Sunset Strip, which we need to talk about. I'm very worried about the Sunset Strip, guys. Hollywood in general is facing an existential crisis. Asher is not, though. He's been killing the game for a long time. You might know him from the Disney Channel. Andy Mack. The Shazam Movies. He's been in a ton of stuff. He's only 22, but he's a veteran of the industry. He's also a musician, writer, singer. He's got A new song out Rodeo with Nelly. Going to talk about it, but. But yeah, man, we're going to the Sunset Strip, which will always be iconic in my mind, but I'm worried about the Sunset Strip and just the whole ecosystem here in Hollywood. Are movie stars even still a thing? I don't know. Asher is making me think they are, but it does feel like a ghost of itself lately up there. We're gonna meet at Saddle Ranch, one of my old stomping grounds. I think they've been around since 99, but, like, they're one of the few remaining old school spots up there. It's tough out there for mom and pops right now, man. Every time I go up there, there's a new high rise and one less former haunt dive. I'm worried. I'm worried. Yeah, there's this shift towards luxury up there. You don't feel like that local flavor that you used to. And of course, it's still steeped in history and lore. It's still rock and roll up there, but like, man, it just feels kind of like a ghost of its former self. I highly recommend you go watch the documentary the Sunset Strip. It's really good, man. There's a lot of lore on the Sunset Strip back in the day. You know, it's kind of leaning into luxury apartments, boutique chic hotels, exclusive spots. It's. It's expensive up there now. It's definitely not dead by any means. It's just. It's just changing, drastically changing. And I'm not going to be a Debbie Downer. I don't want to lose you guys here. Not going to be a Debbie Downer. I think the dream is still alive, but, man, can we do like a little eulogy for the places that have closed? I think just post. Covid. Covid ravaged this whole industry, in this whole town. The fires didn't help either. But like, longtime favorites up on Sunset, La Petite 4, 44 years running. RIP, the Standard Hotel that's been closed for a while. Oh, my God, the things I've done up there. The Den, one of my favorite spots. Right across from the Chateau, Rip Rock and Riley's Rip the Pearl, which was above where I freaking. The Pearl where I proposed to Katie. Just a distant memory now, man. Just in quesos, which I had a chance to invest in. Glad I didn't because it's no longer with us. No disrespect to that crew. Shout out to Justin Queso's crew. Happy Endings didn't have a happy ending. If you know, you know man, one of my OG spots. Greenblatt's Deli, next to the Laugh Factory. The iconic West Hollywood eatery closes permanently after 95 years. That was like in 2001 or I think 20. 22. I mean, 21. It's gone. The Hudson house, man. Pig Taco just closed down 1Oak. That place was a beast. I don't think anyone's gonna miss One Oak. That's okay. I wasn't there that long, so it's not. I'm not talking, but it's tough out there. The Black Cat. Anybody go to the Black Cat on Sunset? Max used to manage there. Max was on Vanderpump Rules. It's gone, man. It's just tough out there. It's hard to keep up with Ren. It's brutal for mom and Pops right now. Just rising costs. They're crushing small businesses. Rent and overhead on the Strip are insane. They're on par with Rodeo Drive. It's around like $92 per square foot. That is brutal. It makes it tough for mom and Pops to survive. Maybe survive, but definitely not thrive. I know this pain very well. Rent is brutal here in West Hollywood. I mean, operating costs can be up to 70% higher than other parts of LA. Yeah, man. Soaring taxes, insurance, labor costs. A 30% minimum wage hike since COVID which sounds good, but it makes it just really hard for these businesses to make a profit just because everything's so damn expensive now. And yeah, man, I don't know. Hollywood's getting existential, Tom. Keep it positive. But there's been a steady decline in all forms of production. So many productions are choosing to film and other more affordable, tax friendly locations. And, man, yeah, there's been a trickle down effect that hurts everyone. All the businesses here. Yeah. And I met a lot of people that have decided that they can still pursue their dream, live their dream of acting or music while living somewhere else cheaper. Asher's the perfect example. He lives a chill life in Phoenix, but he's crushing it. He's killing the game. Listen, I still get that old Hollywood swinging feel when I'm up here. It's still a vibe still steeped in rock and roll lore and I'm still fond of. I've had so many great memories up here. I think when I got to LA in 2009, it was still rocking. You know, it was cool. But it's not necessarily dying. It's. It's just changing. Evolving. Yeah, man, I guess that's a mix of, like we talked about earlier, economic pressure, just changing social habits. People drink and party less, which I guess is a good thing socially. But, man, I don't know. Makes it tough for bars and restaurants. Urban redevelopment, it's just. Yeah, it's. It's. Guess it's all reshaping its character, and it's this. This transition. It's been gradual, but it feels very abrupt. You go up there now, and it's all just luxury high rises. I remember being at the Chateau back in the day when I first got here. Celebrity sightings. I swear, I remember seeing Paris Hilton smoking a ciggy out front. Like, the first time I went there, and I was like, I've arrived. I remember being back there in, like, 2012. VPR was just getting ready to take off into orbit back when Lindsay Lohan was holed up there, like, $46,000 in unpaid charges. So she got the boot out of the iconic Chateau Marmont. At least allegedly. By the way, this is from a book called the Castle on Sunset. Highly recommend. You get it. Author Sean Levy. So much history up there. It's haunted, enchanted, in the best possible way, man. But, yeah, back in the day. Back in the day, man. Yeah. I don't know. I don't know. It feels a little. Not dystopian, but, like, all these high rises, mom and pops disappearing. I remain optimistic. It still has its. It still has its spots, you know, it's still the Sunset Strip. It still has that magical feeling. And I'm. I'm still hopeful that the Strip has a bit stripped of its glitz, at least not completely. I do think the dream is still alive. That's the takeaway from this episode, but please listen to the rest. That's the takeaway. So is Sunset Boulevard. It's just changing, evolving. For better, for worse, I think. Worse. But the dream is still alive. Asher angel is living it, and he's worked very hard to maintain and accomplish everything. He's killing the game. He also has a new collab with Nelly. Yes, that Nelly. Yeah, that's what I'm talking about, the Nelly. And it is a banger. Certified. We're also going to reminisce about some former songs that were the blueprint for collabs like this. You know what I'm talking about? You remember this one?

Summary

Podcast Summary: Detox Retox with Tom Schwartz

Episode: Live On The Sunset Strip with Asher Angel
Date: August 26, 2025
Guest: Asher Angel
Location: Saddle Ranch, Sunset Strip, Los Angeles

Overview

This vibrant episode of Detox Retox finds Tom Schwartz and his co-host taking their signature blend of “mindfulness and mischief” to the iconic Sunset Strip, where they meet up with multi-talented performer Asher Angel. The conversation navigates a wide range of topics, from the evolution and existential challenges of Hollywood’s most storied boulevard, to Asher’s journey as a young artist, his collaborations (including with Nelly), and reflections on fame, balance, and creativity. Along the way, they reminisce, joke, and dig into what keeps the “dream” of Hollywood alive, even as the city around them rapidly changes.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Changing Sunset Strip & Hollywood (01:28–13:09)

Tom expresses anxiety and nostalgia about the rapid gentrification and loss of “mom and pop” spots on the Strip.
- Quote: “Every time I go up there, there’s a new high-rise and one less former haunt dive. I’m worried...it just feels kind of like a ghost of its former self.” (03:25)
They lament closures of institutions like The Standard Hotel, Greenblatt’s, and The Den, discussing rising rents, post-COVID struggles, and shifts in nightlife and Hollywood production.
Despite the changes, Tom remains hopeful that “the dream is still alive,” but calls for a “eulogy for the places that have closed.”
Discussion about the resilience of old-school venues like Saddle Ranch, where they record the episode.
Reference documentaries and books that capture the old magic (“Sunset Strip,” “Castle on Sunset” by Shawn Levy).

2. Meeting Asher Angel: Humble Beginnings & Career Milestones (13:09–19:12)

Asher Angel joins at Saddle Ranch; Tom runs down his multi-hyphenate status (actor, singer, writer, producer, musician) at only 22 years old.
Asher expresses his excitement to be on the show and his fandom for Tom’s Vanderpump Rules days.
- Quote: “This is an honor and a privilege...those were some of the podcasts that I wanted to go on.” (14:32)
They share memories of Sunset Boulevard and Asher recalls performing at The Roxy (his first LA venue).

3. The Enduring Coolness and Lore of the Strip (15:02–18:25)

Tom and Asher discuss whether Sunset Boulevard is “still cool” for younger generations.
- Asher: “Yeah, I think everyone comes here...there’s something in the air over here, and it’s special.” (17:51)
Tom’s nostalgia for music history: The Comedy Store, Chateau Marmont, the Rainbow Room, and memorable celebrity encounters and performances.

4. Music Talk: Collabs, Inspirations, and Instruments (18:25–23:43)

Asher details his partnership with Nelly for their new song “Rodeo,” revealing how the collaboration came about.
- Quote (on Nelly): “He heard the song...immediately loved the record and wanted to hop on it. As soon as I heard that, I was like, ‘Nelly? Are you kidding me? Nelly’s going to be on my song?’” (19:28)
Tom nerds out on “Country Grammar,” presenting Asher with a vinyl copy and connecting it as a blueprint for cross-genre hits.
- Quote: “For me? That album...may as well have been a national anthem when it came out. You couldn’t escape it...this shit’s ingrained in my DNA.” (21:21)
They reminisce on Nelly/Tim McGraw’s “Over and Over,” Run DMC & Aerosmith “Walk This Way,” and the cultural evolution of genre-mashing music (Lil Nas X, Jelly Roll).

5. Karaoke & Early Musical Experiences (24:30–26:10)

Asher’s go-to karaoke song: “Hallelujah” (Jeff Buckley version), the first song he ever sang and learned on guitar, inspired by his dad.
Music is deeply rooted in his family; his uncle was in a band called Surgical Steel.

6. Acting Roots and Hollywood Hustle (26:10–31:07)

Tom and Asher swap stories about early commercial work and first film roles; Asher’s first set was “Jolene” (screenplay by his uncle).
Asher shares the experience of growing up in the industry, embracing performance, and gratitude for opportunities.
- Quote: “I struggled with being present for a long time... now I’m just so present. Sometimes you forget, like, you’re on set all the time...but I get to make movies for a living. How fucking cool is that?” (29:23)

7. Disney Channel and “Andi Mack” (30:10–31:22)

Asher recalls “Andi Mack” as a career-launching, formative experience, tight-knit cast, and their groundbreaking storylines.
- Quote: “There was no show like Andi Mack...it really tackled so many significant, important moments.” (31:22)
Recent charity reunion for California wildfires.

8. TMZ Crashers & Fame Reflections (31:22–34:43)

Unexpected cameo: TMZ tour bus pulls up; fun meta-commentary on being recognized and “celebrities being fans of celebrities.”
Asher reflects on the strangeness of fame and how surreal it still feels.

9. Musical Theater Roots & Aspirations (34:45–39:15)

Tom gifts Asher a “Pippin” vinyl (from Amoeba Records), Asher’s dream Broadway role—sparked by a family trip to NYC and seeing the show with his mom.
Community theater stories, moving from ensemble to lead in “Oliver!” with a live orchestra, feeling validated and “on his path.”

10. Upbringing, Balance, and Staying Grounded (39:15–41:11)

Asher discusses how growing up in Arizona (not LA) helped keep him grounded and avoid industry pitfalls.
- He’s focused on “setting up [his] future” and not getting swept up in Hollywood party culture.

11. Resilience, Rejection, and Passion (41:26–47:10)

The importance of staying present, facing “a thousand no’s,” and not letting rejection become your identity.
- Quote: “People don’t really know...the inside of the business and the rejection. That part of it is hard. Some people...just can’t even move past the rejection...It’s hard, really hard.” (39:37)
Asher shares how he stays resilient, keeps his circle small, and focuses on creative passion—even when faced with burnout.

12. Inside the Actors Studio: Detox Retox Questionnaire (42:24–53:11)

A playful homage to James Lipton’s famous questionnaire:

Detox: Asher’s favorite way to unwind: “Spending time at home. My family, my friends. Phoenix in the summer—just being with my loved ones helps me decompress, relax, detox.” (43:06)
Retox/Vice: Food is his vice (“Foodie. Food for me, too. All day.” 43:33)
Worst Job: Indie sets with difficult directors/producers, but always shows up prepared and treats every role as “something special. It’s art.” (45:18)
Creative Turn-on: Shared moments, settlement, time with “my brother, my buddy,” and his passion for his craft. (45:55)
Turn-offs: Negative energy and people (“I keep them as far away from me as possible.” 47:21)
Favorite curse word: “Probably…shit. I say shit a lot.” (48:31)
Sound he loves: High-frequency relaxing sounds sent by his partner Kylie to help him sleep (49:13)
Sound he hates: “People sneeze and don’t cover their mouth…that’s foul.” (50:12)
Alternate Career: Sports—”Probably basketball…maybe golf…in another life, maybe real estate like my dad.” (51:11)
Career he’d never try: “Being a comedian. So challenging. So hard… you might hear some crickets.” (51:38)
If heaven exists, first meal & drink at the gates: “An In N Out cheeseburger…It’s a triple triple…animal fries, duh.” (52:20)

13. Final Reflections: Is the Dream Still Alive? (53:30–end)

Tom, Asher, and the co-host affirm the evolving but enduring magic of the Sunset Strip and Hollywood:
- Quote: “I think the dream is still alive. It’s just different now. Asher, you’ve given me hope again.” (55:00)
Shout-outs to the Rainbow Room, Beverly Hills Hotel, and the lasting “Tinseltown magic” that persists even amid change.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Nostalgia and Change:
“It’s not necessarily dying…it’s just changing. Evolving. Guess it’s all reshaping its character and it’s this transition...it’s been gradual but feels very abrupt.” —Tom Schwartz (06:11)
On Resilience:
“People don’t really know…the inside of the business and the rejection…Some people lose themselves. I think I did for some time. Now, I’m so present.” —Asher Angel (39:37/29:23)
On Performing:
“I was like the kid who always wanted to perform for everyone…just make people happy…through the art.” —Asher Angel (26:49)
On Collabs:
“Nelly’s going to be on my song? Are you kidding me?” —Asher Angel (19:28)
On “Old Hollywood” Lore:
“I swear, I remember seeing Paris Hilton smoking a ciggy out front…the first time I went there, and I was like, I’ve arrived.” —Tom Schwartz (08:50)
On Role Models:
“If I was to go on Broadway, [Pippin] is the show I want to do.” —Asher Angel (35:30)

Timestamps of Important Segments

| Timestamp | Segment | |-------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 01:28 | Tom’s reflection on the Sunset Strip’s changing landscape | | 13:09 | Asher Angel joins at Saddle Ranch | | 17:51 | Asher’s take: is the Strip still cool? “There’s something in the air...” | | 19:28 | How the Nelly collaboration for “Rodeo” happened | | 21:21 | “Country Grammar” as blueprint for cross-genre hits | | 24:35 | Karaoke & early musical experiences | | 26:10 | Acting career beginnings, “Jolene” story | | 29:23 | Asher on growing up in the industry and staying present | | 31:22 | “Andi Mack” impact and representation | | 34:45 | Asher’s musical theater roots and Broadway dreams | | 39:37 | The reality and resilience required in show business | | 42:24–53:11 | Detox Retox “Inside the Actors Studio” lighthearted questionnaire | | 53:30 | Final reflections on Sunset, Hollywood, and keeping the dream alive |

Tone and Style

The episode is lively, heartfelt, irreverent, and deeply nostalgic. Tom brings vulnerability, affection for old-school LA, and self-deprecating humor. Asher matches with grounded optimism, openness about industry pressures, and passion for music and acting. The show is a blend of “real talk,” playful banter, and genuine reflection, all set against the storied backdrop of Sunset Boulevard.

Conclusion

This episode of Detox Retox captures the bittersweet evolution of Hollywood’s heart, the Sunset Strip, through the eyes of both its longtime denizens and rising stars like Asher Angel. Asher’s sincerity, combined with Tom’s nostalgia, makes for an engaging exploration of ambition, creativity, and perseverance. The episode ultimately reaffirms that, though Los Angeles and the business may change, the dream—and a little magic—still endures.

“I think the dream is still alive. It’s just different now. Asher, you’ve given me hope again.”
—Tom Schwartz (55:00)