224: On And Just Like That: The Rat Race (Feat. Karley Sciortino & Jonathan Parks-Ramage)

Podcast Title: Every Outfit
Episode: 224: On And Just Like That: The Rat Race
Release Date: June 9, 2025
Hosts: Chelsea Fairless and Carly Scortino
Guests: Jonathan Parks-Ramage and Carly Scortino
Description:
Every Outfit delves deep into the intersection of fashion and popular culture, offering sharp commentary and engaging discussions. In this episode, the hosts and their guests break down the latest happenings in the Sex and the City universe, particularly focusing on the new series And Just Like That.

1. Episode Introduction and Guest Hosting

The episode kicks off with Chelsea Fairless announcing that Lauren Garroni cannot join due to the birth of her baby. She introduces guest hosts Jonathan Parks-Ramage and Carly Scortino as temporary co-hosts.

Chelsea Fairless (01:33): "As Samantha Jones would say, just what the world needs, another man."

The transition sets a personal tone, blending the excitement of new life with the dynamic shift in the podcast’s hosting.

2. Initial Discussion on And Just Like That

The hosts dive into their initial thoughts on the first six episodes of And Just Like That, highlighting differences from the original series.

Carly Scortino (07:27): "Yeah, I know. And what blew my mind even more than the fact that she did not know this was the podcast itself was so weird..."

They discuss Megan Thee Stallion's appearance on Kristen Davis's podcast, expressing surprise at her harsh opinions about Carrie Bradshaw.

Morty (07:09): "But I thought it was interesting that Kristen Davis clearly really identifies with Charlotte."

The conversation reflects a generational gap in the perception and appreciation of the original Sex and the City series.

Carly Scortino (09:45): "No, I don't."

They also touch upon how Gen Z interacts with media and their financial consciousness compared to millennials.

Jonathan Parks-Ramage (10:39): "Yeah. So there's this whole article... how Gen Z drinks less, they have sex less..."

**3. Detailed Breakdown of The Rat Race Episode**

The core of the discussion focuses on episode titled "The Rat Race," examining character developments and plot lines.

a. Carrie Bradshaw’s Character Arc

The hosts critique Carrie’s new portrayal, noting a significant shift from her original persona.

Morty (16:33): "But what really shook me so hard was she, like, throws her phone accidentally in frustration over her shoulder..."

They express confusion over Carrie’s unrealistic behavior, such as throwing her phone into a crowd and not retrieving it.

Carly Scortino (17:23): "No, but that's what makes this camp."

The dialogue suggests a departure from authentic character traits, leaning into campiness for dramatic effect.

b. Introduction of New Characters

The episode introduces new characters like Lisette and explores their interactions with Carrie.

Carly Scortino (23:02): "He is hot."

The hosts discuss the introduction of a landscape architect, portrayed by Liv Tyler, and critique the authenticity of the set and character interactions.

Morty (28:36): "She actually is really shady that she didn't just wear that in a later scene."

c. Miranda’s Storyline

Miranda's plotline receives attention, particularly her interactions with the "tableside guac girl."

Carly Scortino (34:15): "And then there was the bold move of her hitting on the tableside guac girl."

The hosts appreciate Miranda's continued exploration of her dating life, though they find some scenes cringeworthy.

Morty (35:05): "Yes, it was giving flirty. And I do like Miranda coming back into, like, I just like dating storylines."

d. Charlotte and LTW’s Plot

The subplot involving Charlotte and LTW's obsession with hiring a college admissions consultant is heavily critiqued.

Morty (37:45): "And the show has such a blind spot when it comes to class..."

The hosts find the characters' desperate actions unrealistic and out of touch with contemporary behaviors.

Carly Scortino (38:30): "Yeah, it’s pretty wild."

They also highlight a controversial joke about an active shooter, noting its disconnect from the original series' tone.

Morty (42:25): "That was crazy."

e. Seema’s Dating Montage

Seema's dating experiences are dissected, with a focus on her interactions with a matchmaker resembling Patty Stanger.

Carly Scortino (45:37): "So good."

The hosts appreciate the introduction of Sheri Oteri's character but feel the storyline lacks development.

Morty (46:44): "But there's also Sheri Oteri, which... I wanted the Sheri Oteri matchmaker spinoff."

f. Anthony and "Hot Fellas" Store

Anthony's launch of his brick-and-mortar store, "Hot Fellas," is briefly discussed, celebrating its return after being portrayed online.

Carly Scortino (49:22): "I liked the baguette door handle."

The hosts express excitement about his character's return, emphasizing his role as a beloved and humorous presence.

Jonathan Parks-Ramage (49:30): "He is my favorite character."

4. Thematic Insights and Critiques

Throughout the episode, the hosts offer thematic analyses, critiquing the show's direction and character consistency.

Carly Scortino (28:07): "What documentary director ever is just dropping a full blown edit day from their budget to chase after in kooky outfits like their son because they got a college consultant."

They discuss the show's struggle to balance campiness with authentic character development, often resulting in disjointed storytelling.

Morty (33:41): "It's not bad. It's just the way it was said. That again, is giving uncle."

The conversation touches on the generational disconnect in humor and societal issues, highlighting the show's attempt to stay relevant.

Jonathan Parks-Ramage (43:36): "But it is something that is much more current. It's weird to see And Just Like That reference current things that are so deeply dark."

5. Notable Quotes with Timestamps

Chelsea Fairless (01:33): "As Samantha Jones would say, just what the world needs, another man."
Morty (07:09): "But I thought it was interesting that Kristen Davis clearly really identifies with Charlotte."
Carly Scortino (34:15): "And then there was the bold move of her hitting on the tableside guac girl."
Jonathan Parks-Ramage (49:30): "He is my favorite character."
Morty (33:41): "It's not bad. It's just the way it was said. That again, is giving uncle."

These quotes encapsulate the hosts' perspectives and critical insights throughout the episode.

6. Conclusions and Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the overall quality and direction of And Just Like That, expressing both appreciation and disappointment.

Carly Scortino (52:27): "I enjoy them now that they're gone."
Jonathan Parks-Ramage (52:46): "My fabulous new book is called It's Not the End of the World..."

The closing segment includes a plug for Jonathan's new book, blending personal achievements with ongoing podcast discussions.

Final Thoughts

Episode 224 of Every Outfit offers a thorough and candid examination of And Just Like That, blending sharp fashion insights with in-depth pop culture analysis. The hosts and guests navigate the complexities of character development, plot inconsistencies, and generational shifts in audience reception, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the show's current trajectory.

Notable Mention:
Lauren Garroni makes a surprise appearance at the end, briefly sharing her thoughts from the hospital, adding a personal and heartfelt touch to the episode's conclusion.

End of Summary