Ariana Grande finally addresses the hate…

Summary

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Fool Coverage Episode Summary

Podcast: Fool Coverage with Manny MUA and Laura Lee
Episode: Ariana Grande finally addresses the hate…
Date: August 7, 2026
Hosts: Manny MUA & Laura Lee
Main Theme:
A candid, comedic, and insightful dive into major pop culture news, including Ariana Grande’s response to public scrutiny about her appearance, the fallout from high-profile celebrity lawsuits, influencer culture, and social media trends—with plenty of personal stories, life advice, and think-out-loud moments from two OG beauty influencers.

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Episode Overview

Manny and Laura serve up a signature blend of personal stories, industry gossip, social commentary, and hot takes. The episode’s centerpiece is Ariana Grande’s public handling of criticism over her appearance and break from the spotlight, sparking a thoughtful debate on celebrity responsibility, public scrutiny, and body image. The duo also unpacks fresh legal drama between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, talks about the perils of hacking in the digital age, discusses recent movie releases, and gets brutally honest about their lives as creators.

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Personal Updates, Pits & Peaks (01:00–16:04)

• Busy Lives: Manny's week has been “hectic,” booked with non-beauty events—a relief to his introverted, non-camping self.
• Pits:
  • Manny played back-to-back volleyball, resulting in “severe diarrhea,” migraines, and “body shutting down.”
  • Missed opportunity: Manny’s brothers went on a “real camping” trip—no glamping allowed—which Manny (happily) declined, reinforcing his “indoor gay” identity.
• Peaks:
  • Both hosts reflect on the joy and vitality of friendship circles with “a group of gays.”
  • “What is it like to not have a gay crowd around you? Is it sad? It must be unfulfilling!” — Manny (15:25)
  • Recent memories: dinner outings, escape rooms, and the camaraderie of chosen family.
• Food Talk: Laura reminisces about her Southern upbringing of fried food and comments on the mysterious ways of high cholesterol (“Fatty blood. That’s high cholesterol.” — Manny, 12:28).

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Main Segment: Ariana Grande Addresses the Hate (25:11–35:00)

The Scrutiny

• Ariana’s Visuals: Ariana’s recent “Petal” album video features images of her looking thinner than ever, sparking widespread shock and concern online.
  • “That got a lot of backlash online...just that it’s shocking.” — Manny (26:18)
• Hosts’ Stance:
  • Both are firmly against talking about women’s bodies in any shaming way.
  • “We try not to even talk about it—thin, thick. We don’t body shame.” — Laura (26:18)
• Celebrity Responsibility:
  • “When you’re one of the most famous humans on the planet, you do kind of adapt the responsibility...there’s a little bit of responsibility in a way. This is dangerous and triggering for some people to see.” — Laura (27:34)
  • Manny notes that having a platform brings an onus to model positive, healthy behavior total strangers will want to copy.
  • Debates the blurry line between respecting privacy and acknowledging when public behavior might be “irresponsible to show something...if someone looks like they might need help” (28:25).

Ariana’s Response

• Stepping Back:
  • Ariana announced a break, asserting it wasn’t a “reactive or impulsive thing”: “It’s a decision from a thoughtful and empowered place.” (32:10)
• Multiple Truths:
  • “Many things can be true at the same time...Boundaries, they need to be set. Human beings can need a break sometimes.” — Ariana, reading statement at her concert (32:25)
• Album Themes:
  • Manny suggests “Petal” is as much about public scrutiny as about Ariana’s relationships: “It could almost be a double entendre.” (33:47)
  • Both hope Ariana takes care of her mental and physical health.
• Respect & Grace:
  • Both hosts urge understanding: “At the end of the day I’m sure she is happy...but it’s a double-edged sword.” — Manny (34:34)
  • Close with “have grace for all parties,” affirming the toll fame takes.

Notable Quotes

• “When you’re one of the most famous humans on the planet, you do kind of adapt the responsibility.” — Laura (27:34)
• “At what point is it being irresponsible to show something? ... There’s a boundary to cross, but I don’t know where it is.” — Manny (28:25)
• “So, Ari, like, was literally at her concert and basically was like, I want to have a conversation real quick...It is something that I decided to plan...I want you to know many things can be true at the same time.” — Manny, quoting Ariana’s statement (32:28)
• “There’s always a price to pay. And I’ve paid that price for this fame and like the life that I live. But she’s blessed regardless.” — Manny (34:35)

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Rapid Fire Drama Roundup (25:11–54:58)

Ariana Grande’s Ongoing Legal Woes (36:18–40:44)

• Hacking Lawsuit:
  • Ari faces hackers leaking her unreleased music (“45 of her songs within a year!” — Laura)
  • Subpoena attempts to unmask hacker identities.
  • Discussion: Hacker skills are wild, but “using your smarts for evil” sucks (Manny, 40:23).

Justin Baldoni vs. Blake Lively: Lawsuit Fallout (41:17–47:44)

• New York Times Defamation Case:
  • Justin’s suit against NYT is dismissed under anti-SLAPP law; now he owes the Times $175,000 in legal fees.
  • Blake Lively is counter-suing Justin for $8 million more.
  • “The lawyers are the only ones that win.” — Laura (46:05)
  • Both hosts marvel at the public humiliation and career damage.

Movie Talk: The Odyssey & Spider-Man (47:59–51:59)

• Laura reviews “The Odyssey” (loved it, but too long).
• Manny’s hype for the new “Spider-Man” film, which broke box office records.
  • “Tom Holland is clearing the chat!” — Laura (51:05)
  • Both gush over “Logan" as the best Marvel film.

Influencer Culture Musings: Divorce, Trends, and Petty Moments (52:02–68:53)

• Mikayla Is Divorced:
  • “Every time a woman leaves a shitty man, an angel gets his wings.” — Laura (52:46)
• Life Advice:
  • “In every self development book I’ve ever read, you have two choices in every situation. You can learn to love it or you can leave it.” — Laura (54:14)
• Messy Game (“Get Real” Q&A fun):
  • Pettiest reason to unfollow: “If you never like or comment [on my posts], so I’m like, you. Go yourself.” — Laura (57:23)
  • Worst thing about brand deals: Excessively restrictive briefs hurt authenticity.
  • “There’s something really magical about letting someone do what they want to do with that product.” — Manny (60:57)
  • Most embarrassing influencer trend: Screaming at the camera for attention. “That’s just not my vibe.” — Manny (62:03)
  • Unsolicited advice: Never welcome, especially not from creators performing worse than you.
  • “If I’m not doing something 10 times better than you, why would I tell you something?” — Manny (64:50)
  • Spicy Charlotte Tilbury “dupe” drama is “popcorn drama”—reminds listeners that disagreement is OK, and opinions don’t have to be universal (66:07–68:53).

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Memorable Quotes

“Every time a woman leaves a shitty man, an angel gets his wings.”
— Laura Lee (52:46)

“It takes a ton of effort just to be mid.”
— Manny MUA (20:07)

“At the end of the day, you have to live. You only get 75 summers.”
— Laura Lee (18:42, 54:14)

“There’s something really magical about just letting someone do what they want to do based with that product. Like, just let them be themselves.”
— Manny MUA (60:57)

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Timestamps for Key Moments

• 01:00 — Pits & Peaks: Camping, volleyball, and growing up Southern
• 15:25 — The magic of having gay friends
• 25:11 — Rapid Fire begins: Ariana Grande’s public body discourse
• 26:51 — Public scrutiny, body talk, celebrity responsibility
• 32:18 — Ariana’s statement at her concert
• 36:18 — Ariana’s hacking lawsuit
• 41:17 — Justin Baldoni/Blake Lively lawsuit fallout
• 47:59 — Odyssey and Spider-Man movie reviews
• 52:02 — Divorce celebrations & advice on leaving bad relationships
• 55:59 — Messy game: secrets, apologies, influencer culture
• 60:57 — Brand deal authenticity rant
• 66:07 — Charlotte Tilbury “dupe” discourse; opinion wars

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Final Thoughts

Manny and Laura blend light-hearted banter with real talk—whether it’s about self-preservation, handling public scrutiny with grace, or the high-stakes drama of influencer and celebrity life. The episode is as much a meditation on self-acceptance and boundaries as it is a recap of this week’s wildest headlines.

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Next week: Special guest tease—“He’s amazing, and we think you guys are absolutely going to love next week’s guest!” (68:53)

Transcript

[Manny Mua]

Evening. Buyer's remorse. Buy a new car. I'll be moving in. Let's get started.

[Lara Lee]

Sorry, I think there's been a mistake. I bought it from Carvana.

[Manny Mua]

You what?

[Lara Lee]

Yeah. Great price. I even have seven days to love it or return it.

[Manny Mua]

So there's no.

[Lara Lee]

No, no buyer's remorse. More like. Buyers rejoice.

[Manny Mua]

I guess I'll let myself out.

[Lara Lee]

Congratulations.

[Manny Mua]

I mean it.

[Lara Lee]

Buyers rejoice. Buy your car today on Carvana. Limitations and exclusions may apply.

[Manny Mua]

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[Lara Lee]

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[Manny Mua]

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[Lara Lee]

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[Manny Mua]

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[Lara Lee]

When you bundle your home and auto policies. The process only takes minutes and it could mean hundreds more in your pocket. Visit progressive.com after this episode to see if you could save Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and affiliates. Potential savings will vary. Not available in all states. I don't think you would live long. Like if there was like apocalypse or

[Manny Mua]

something, I would die immediately.

[Lara Lee]

You think? Yeah, I don't think you would live long.

[Manny Mua]

I would not live long.

[Lara Lee]

Manny, what is a secret that you've never shared publicly?

[Manny Mua]

I'm not gonna.

[Lara Lee]

She's 37 for God.

[Manny Mua]

First of all, sir. See that right there?

[Lara Lee]

Every time a woman leaves a shitty man, an angel gets his wings.

[Manny Mua]

Hey guys. Welcome back to full coverage, your favorite podcast with your host, Manny Mua and Lara Lee. What is up? We are back, back, back again, again with a new episode in a rapid

[Lara Lee]

fire to tell you we're gonna talk and tell you all the tea talk to get hit.

[Manny Mua]

You guys, we are just. It's been a long week and it's Tuesday, so I need. I need to. First and foremost, it's Tuesday and it's been a long week.

[Lara Lee]

That's really sick.

[Manny Mua]

I know, but it's like. It's. It's like a really busy week. It's hectic for me this week.

[Lara Lee]

Yes, it's hectic.

[Manny Mua]

Things are happening. Yes, Things are moving and grooving. I. My only. Like my next free day is Friday.

[Lara Lee]

Oh, yes, you're booked.

[Manny Mua]

Booked and busy.

[Lara Lee]

Are you going to a beauty event?

[Manny Mua]

I'm so blessed. How dare you even bring that to this house? I'm not going to a single activities. You have activities. I just have activities. I love that.

[Lara Lee]

I love that.

[Manny Mua]

No beauty events.

[Lara Lee]

Perfect. Sounds like a perfect week to me.

[Manny Mua]

Stunning to you as a virgo type A. Gorgeous filled week. Love it. Or a type B like me.

[Lara Lee]

Disaster. What is a bigger pit of yours?

[Manny Mua]

I'll go pit first. Okay, pit first. So I played on Sunday. I played volleyball with my league and played a game, very intense game. Went to three, three rounds. Like it was like first to 25. First like set. Super close. We won. Second set to 25. We lost but it was like 27, 25. Like it was like that close. We had to go to a third game and then we ended up winning that one by one point. Okay. So it was very, very close. I got asked to sub after because they were missing libero for the next game. So I was like, I'm so gassed. Like I'm truly like, I'm like I'm done. Like I'm so profusely sweating. Like I'm just like done. But I was like, sure, I will sub that game. Went to three as well.

[Lara Lee]

Oh my gosh.

[Manny Mua]

Let me tell you guys something. I was physically ill after. I have not like exerted myself like physically exert myself and sweat that much. And like I truly don't know how long I end up getting like a bad migraine. Had like severe diarrhea after I. I was just like, I was truly like falling apart. I'm not even kidding. Like I don't even know. My body just like started shutting down on me because I just like over exert myself too much and I was. I had to go to sleep. Like I like went right back home afterwards to sleep. I slept for like two and a half hours. Just like recoup and I was off the rest of the day. Like I was completely just like but you won. Huh?

[Lara Lee]

But you won.

[Manny Mua]

But we won.

[Lara Lee]

But now team won the second team life. It ruined your life.

[Manny Mua]

My life that day. But mind you, that is the night that we ended up going out. Like that was that day. That's why I was so like, I'm just like, I want you to talk

[Lara Lee]

about your brothers going camping and inviting you and you not going because I know your family's listening right now. And I want you to talk about. Because that's the thing.

[Manny Mua]

You saw the fudge of photos that I posted. I saw your comment. You guys, okay, so get Aaron were like talking to me and they're like, so we're going to go camping at the end of like last month, right? And I was like, oh that's so fun. So cute. Like love that for you. Never in my wildest dreams am I thinking like they're going to invite me because they know, like, I'm not, like, a camper. And then so I was like, oh, my God. Sounds so fun. Blah, blah. Literally, that night, later on, my brother calls me Aaron, and he's like, I just want to see if you want to come with us, like, go camping. And I was like, let's talk about

[Lara Lee]

Aaron camping real quick.

[Manny Mua]

Aaron camping is real camping, baby.

[Lara Lee]

They're on a tent.

[Manny Mua]

It's like, tent ground vibes.

[Lara Lee]

Not, like, Mercedes, like, van, like, glamping. There's no glamping.

[Manny Mua]

There's no, like, motorhome. Like, there's none of that stuff. So I was like, you know, it's a beautiful sentiment for you to invite me. And it's sweet. It's very sweet. It's lovely. And I love that you guys invited me. However, I just don't think this is for me.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

Specifically, I think this is more of, like, my straight brothers kind of vibes, and I would really be a hindrance.

[Lara Lee]

You would be awful.

[Manny Mua]

I would be awful. Like, I'm gonna be real. I'm gonna be so real. Because I know myself well enough to be like, I would be a. Like, I would not be great on that trip. Like, I would be very unhappy the entire time. And I. It makes me sad to, like, miss out on activities with them, obviously, because it's like, I love my brothers, and they're. Yeah, they're incredible. But things like that, I'm like, I just don't.

[Lara Lee]

What if it was just, like, a courtesy invite and they' like, okay, thank God he's not going.

[Manny Mua]

He's not going to say probably what was. What it was.

[Lara Lee]

You know, it's probably courtesy.

[Manny Mua]

They want to be kind to me,

[Lara Lee]

and they probably would have been like, it's cool if he goes. But they're probably like, thank God, because they know you were going to the hallway.

[Manny Mua]

Okay. But see, they're the types that. They're both going to be, like, shirtless on a hike.

[Lara Lee]

Huh. And why not you?

[Manny Mua]

Because I don't want to do that out there in the wilderness. I don't want to be in the wilderness getting, like, bit by mosquitoes and stuff like that. Like, hurt this on. On a trail.

[Lara Lee]

Manny, I don't think you would live long. Like, if there was, like, a apocalypse

[Manny Mua]

or something, I would die immediately.

[Lara Lee]

You think? Yeah, I don't think you would live long.

[Manny Mua]

I would not live long.

[Lara Lee]

I'm sor. I mean, really quick as the second

[Manny Mua]

I can't charge my phone. Kill me.

[Lara Lee]

Well, there's apocalypse you don't need your phone. I mean, I guess you would for, like, looking up survival things, but, like, as far as.

[Manny Mua]

Then once the Internet goes in an

[Lara Lee]

apocalypse, I take you with you.

[Manny Mua]

I have to go with that. That's not going to work for me. I can't live like that. I'm not an apocalyptic girl. So, of course, Nick posts, like, the wilderness calls I answer. And I commented. I was like, I did get a call from the wilderness, and I had no service to answer that. And so it was just funny because they were telling me about the trip, and I was, like, talking to Nick about it, and I was like, how was it? And he was like, Aaron's kind of caffeine is, like, different. Like, it's brutal. It's like, wow. Going through the gigs, like. But he was like, I was scared. Tyler, thank you.

[Lara Lee]

Protein just showed up.

[Manny Mua]

Protein just showed up. We just got our little drinks.

[Lara Lee]

Truly so scary.

[Manny Mua]

I was like, I'm scared for you. And this is also why I knew, like, it wasn't my kind of tea.

[Lara Lee]

So what did they do out there? Just, like, hiking, exploring, walking around, sleeping on the ground, Cooking out, like, campfire. Yes, like, that. I really want to go on Survivor.

[Manny Mua]

I think I want to do great.

[Lara Lee]

No, I think the food part would get me. But these. The. Okay. The earlier seasons, they would starve them to death, and obviously that's foul.

[Manny Mua]

So now they have to give them a little piece of rice.

[Lara Lee]

They feed them more now. So that's why I think I would be okay now because, like, they're getting fine. Yeah. The way they do the show. Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

We have a moment. Real quick. Hold on. Should we. Should we do one of these? My shirt is color coded.

[Lara Lee]

You guys, look at Manny's shirt. Okay. For our listeners, Manny is wearing a shirt that, like, if it cold touches it, the shirt turns hot pink. It's such a cool shirt.

[Manny Mua]

Sickening.

[Lara Lee]

He got it at Revolve, and, yeah, it changes based off of your body heat or if you're cold. So it was like, light the second

[Manny Mua]

I put it on. White.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah, white. And it goes. How sick is that?

[Manny Mua]

Sickening. Yeah, they're just doing more, like, wildernessy things. Like, they're like, literally like, oh, I feel like it's a white T shirt.

[Lara Lee]

They're like, Ty just threw water at him.

[Manny Mua]

Ty just threw water at me. And it got little droplets, but they're like bright pink drops. I'm like, so. Yeah, that's just not my vibe. Yeah, not the vibes, but I'm telling, like, I was literally telling. I was like, you guys, if you want to do like a drive through

[Lara Lee]

California, want to do like we ho. Hit me up. I'm going to be out there anyway. We can run through the gate.

[Manny Mua]

We can do a quick one too. Like we would just figure something out.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

To do. But yeah, I. I did feel bad, like in the way of like missing out on their totally time. But I just know myself too well.

[Lara Lee]

Sounds like you're going to have to plan a brotherly thing then to make it up.

[Manny Mua]

But like a thing that I like would be down.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

Like not necessarily like camping on the ground, but definitely more like a what if you guys.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah. Do like a road trip.

[Manny Mua]

That's what I was thinking. That could be really cool. Really cool and cute. And we're going to go on a family vacation soon with all of us. So that's really, really great. But I definitely would do something with like just them.

[Lara Lee]

Perfect.

[Manny Mua]

We can do a road trip to like Washington or something.

[Lara Lee]

Uhhuh. Huh.

[Manny Mua]

How far is that?

[Lara Lee]

It's real driving. Because you gotta go through Oregon too. In California, baby. This state, it never ends. It's like its own country.

[Manny Mua]

Maybe not to Washington.

[Lara Lee]

Maybe Washington. Do Big sir. Do a trip up like, to like canyon. Do Yosemite.

[Manny Mua]

Yosemite.

[Lara Lee]

Insane.

[Manny Mua]

We can do a drive to Yosemite. Drive back. One dare.

[Lara Lee]

Seven hours up, seven hours down, in and out.

[Manny Mua]

One, two.

[Lara Lee]

Okay.

[Manny Mua]

Get back to filming with them very soon.

[Lara Lee]

I love that so much for you. Thank you, my pets. Well, I decided to cook bacon this morning and it made my whole house smell like bacon. I don't ever cook bacon anymore, but I just had some in the fridge and I was like, damn, this stinks. Our house growing up, the whole house smelled like fried food every day. Every day.

[Manny Mua]

So you know it like very well. You know, I lived in it very well.

[Lara Lee]

I didn't see smell it.

[Manny Mua]

Oh, yeah, yeah.

[Lara Lee]

But I just know.

[Manny Mua]

Oh, you just like. It just was embedded in your DNA.

[Lara Lee]

My mom fried food every single night for dinner.

[Manny Mua]

No, what's. What's rough is feeding your cats.

[Lara Lee]

Manny had feed my cats the wet food where you had to microwave it. And it's the fish smell. Smells of the house. It's.

[Manny Mua]

I went to go feed Laura's cats when she got stranded by poor angel stranded in a different state. And so the cats need to be fed. So of course I go over and be the good Judy that I am, and she's like, so this we got to do. You got to open the wet food The Smalls, you got to nuke it. And we got to mix some water in there. When I tell you guys, when I nuked that Smalls food, yuck. I was like. And I was smashing it with, like, the fork to get them to eat

[Lara Lee]

it got a mush it.

[Manny Mua]

I go. I was truly heaving. And I did it three times for three different cats.

[Lara Lee]

That's right.

[Manny Mua]

So it truly was like, you love them. Like you guys love those cats to feed them that wet fish food.

[Lara Lee]

Human grades.

[Manny Mua]

They love it.

[Lara Lee]

They love it.

[Manny Mua]

They love it.

[Lara Lee]

It's sick. It's really dark. But, yeah, we just. That's all I know is fried food. But I try to keep the stank stank. I try not to fry food in my house. I try not to fry food at all because I feel like I ate enough of it growing up to the point where my arteries are already clogged. So I think I gotta.

[Manny Mua]

Yeah, let me tell you something.

[Lara Lee]

I gotta start off early. You know what I mean? I can't keep eating fried food because my mom embedded us in fried food. Because the vein should be like that, babe. Clogged.

[Manny Mua]

Your white is like this. Made it like that.

[Lara Lee]

It's like a little needle of a pin blood going through those arteries.

[Manny Mua]

Wait, so when someone has high cholesterol,

[Lara Lee]

it means their is clogged?

[Manny Mua]

I have high cholesterol?

[Lara Lee]

Are you serious?

[Manny Mua]

Dead ass.

[Lara Lee]

We should look into that on chat GBT and find out more information.

[Manny Mua]

But it's. Mine is genetic.

[Lara Lee]

Okay?

[Manny Mua]

So, like, even though I have, like, a healthier, not sedentary lifestyle, I've always actually had high cholesterol. Even when I was like, the. In the most, like, ends of it with playing volleyball in high school, like, every time. I've always had high cholesterol. Isn't that weird? Like, it can just be a genetic thing where it's like you're just.

[Lara Lee]

Maybe it's a medication you're taking.

[Manny Mua]

It says that high cholesterol means you have too much fat in your blood.

[Lara Lee]

It means you have too much fat in your blood.

[Manny Mua]

Fatty blood.

[Lara Lee]

Fatty blood. That's high cholesterol.

[Manny Mua]

Oh, Tyler's like, sing it into the mic. He's like, high cholesterol. Like, high cholesterol. Fatty blood. Fatty blood. That was me, like, ten years ago. Parody. That is fatty blood. No. Yeah. So, like, I just. I just have fattier blood.

[Lara Lee]

So what do you take for your high cholesterol?

[Manny Mua]

I take nothing. It's not high enough where I have to take anything. It's just like one of those Things where it's like, you have higher cholesterol than you should at your age. And I've always had it like that.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

So it's more of a genetic thing. My. I think my mom has it as well. So we just like fatty blood. I'm just predisposed.

[Lara Lee]

Yep.

[Manny Mua]

So if I. If I was more sedentary and I didn't work out, I could probably have,

[Lara Lee]

like, heart attack stroke.

[Manny Mua]

Heart attack strokes. Like, something like, crazy, like a clot to go through me.

[Lara Lee]

Open heart surge. All those things relate to. It is the devil. I do love fried food. I grew up, like, we did not drink water. We didn't go to the dentist. We drank sweet tea. That was our. Like, it's a miracle. I have two teeth.

[Manny Mua]

Miracle.

[Lara Lee]

It is a miracle. There are two teeth left in my head.

[Manny Mua]

And they're strong teeth.

[Lara Lee]

Those are strong braces. And whenever I say braces or privilege. Invisalize a privilege, they look at me like I'm crazy. I'm like, no, we didn't get to go to the dentist growing up. And I know you live in America, and some people's families, like, you just get that parents take you to the dentist. Like, you get to do all those things. Some people live in the bubble and they don't realize not everybody gets that privilege. You know what I mean? That was just so low on our poll of things that needed to get done.

[Manny Mua]

Right.

[Lara Lee]

But anyway, so I try to eat less fried food, but, baby, I love a little bacon, egg, and cheese. Oh, I. I love a little bacon.

[Manny Mua]

You do? I know you love it.

[Lara Lee]

Well, I love fried food. Actually, I love anything fried. It's because we grew up with.

[Manny Mua]

I'm sure Tyler loves fried ass, too. I like fried stuff, too, but not, like, probably today.

[Lara Lee]

Who on earth doesn't?

[Manny Mua]

Like, once they get into the fair food, the fried, like, Oreos. You're getting sick. It's pissing me off.

[Lara Lee]

Have you tried a fried Oreo? They're pretty good. I have.

[Manny Mua]

That's why I liked it.

[Lara Lee]

I know, but I really liked it.

[Manny Mua]

But I'm saying, like, when they. They fry, like, crazy things.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

Beyond.

[Lara Lee]

Like, I'm never gonna order a fried Oreo just because I feel, like, taboo.

[Manny Mua]

Like, you want to clog that. That last artery you have, it's just

[Lara Lee]

fighting for its life.

[Manny Mua]

It's already battling demons.

[Lara Lee]

It is so we cannot.

[Manny Mua]

Luckily, your heart is so strong. You have such a pumping heart that you probably have, like, zero plaque in your arteries.

[Lara Lee]

I am in the best cardiovascular health of my life.

[Manny Mua]

Currently, I'm saying, like, you're not. Like, you're not gonna have some crazy ass, like, clog. I just don't see it happening. Me, however.

[Lara Lee]

No. Volleyball's got you. You're good.

[Manny Mua]

Yeah, it's been happening.

[Lara Lee]

Gotta get that cardio up. We're gonna go on a run. 5K.

[Manny Mua]

Let's find. Let's go.

[Lara Lee]

I got him.

[Manny Mua]

I think I'm okay. Yes. But I could do a 5k.

[Lara Lee]

I think it's 3 miles.

[Manny Mua]

After playing, like, as much I've been playing with the cardio, I can definitely do a three mile.

[Lara Lee]

You run it as slow as you want, too, so it doesn't matter.

[Manny Mua]

Glacial. And, you know, I would be absolutely.

[Lara Lee]

What's our peak?

[Manny Mua]

We have a combined peak.

[Lara Lee]

Well, my peak is that I have gay friends. Is that your peak?

[Manny Mua]

That's always my peak.

[Lara Lee]

I wonder what people's life is like when they don't have, like, a group of gays.

[Manny Mua]

What is. You guys. What is it like to not have a gay crowd around you? Like, what is it? Is it sad? It must be unfulfilling.

[Lara Lee]

No one laughs.

[Manny Mua]

No one laughs. If you don't have a good gay friend, you're not laughing, baby.

[Lara Lee]

No one's laughing. No one's laughing.

[Manny Mua]

Honestly, I'm gonna be so real. That's the truest thing you've ever said.

[Lara Lee]

Thank you.

[Manny Mua]

That's like. And that's like. That's a feat. No one laughs because we did. We ended up having a gay night. And Laura's always including gay night. As you know. It was like, me, Laura, Gabriel, Z, we all went to dinner. Super cute. We went, ate, had, like, a cute little moment everyone's giving our kids.

[Lara Lee]

You can hit a little Chaconis. You could do a little Chacon in Hollywood.

[Manny Mua]

Sickening. We were in and out. It was so good. It was amazing. And then we ended up going to do an escape room.

[Lara Lee]

The guy at the restaurant thought I was under 21.

[Manny Mua]

Oh. And he did not try to card her.

[Lara Lee]

He tried to card me. But it wasn't like a restaurant policy card. Because I figure anytime I get carded, I'm assuming it's just a hardcore policy and they just have to do it. But he kept looking at me weird while I was ordering a glass of wine.

[Manny Mua]

And he didn't do to the boys.

[Lara Lee]

He didn't do it to the boys. And he was like, I need to see your id. And I was like, what? And I was like, I don't have my id.

[Manny Mua]

So of course I go, I Never have my famous birthdays.

[Lara Lee]

Yep, Manny sure did.

[Manny Mua]

I go, you guys. So I'm like, listen, she's actually famous.

[Lara Lee]

Manny does this whole bit, and it's a picture of me mogging the out on famous birthday.

[Manny Mua]

No, it's literally, like, darker, like.

[Lara Lee]

Yep. And he let me order my drink.

[Manny Mua]

She's fine.

[Lara Lee]

Actually, one of y' all are like, she's 37, for God. You're like,

[Manny Mua]

first of all, sir, she's 37.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

See that right there?

[Lara Lee]

She's old. She's old.

[Manny Mua]

I'm like, dare you. But it's also nice to see a Carter, though. I feel like it's, like, very common in a way.

[Lara Lee]

It was very flattering, and it was

[Manny Mua]

like a genuine carding. Because he was looking at you weird.

[Lara Lee]

He was. He was looking at me crazy. And I would have said no if he would have carted everybody at the table, but he was like, no, I don't need to see any of yours.

[Manny Mua]

Y' all know, old. That youthful diva right there. Not. She's not 21. I was like, no, Almost like this.

[Lara Lee]

But me thinking I'm under 21 is insane. I'm like, are you like.

[Manny Mua]

I feel like, yeah, like 20s for sure. 21 is like a stretch.

[Lara Lee]

Under 21, though.

[Manny Mua]

No. Like, that's like crazy work right there. 25,000% 26, 100% 24. So now you're pushing it. So now you're pushing it.

[Lara Lee]

You know, the crazy. Oh, silly, silly, silly.

[Manny Mua]

Now we're just being.

[Lara Lee]

That's crazy. We are. We're being bullish. You know what the crazy thing is, though, is like, 18, 18. Oh, you got a full beard. 18, 18. As a grown ass man, I'm so dead. The thing is about age is like, I want to look my. I want to look good for my age, but I want to look my age. Like, I never want to try to look 21. I never. I'm not interested in wearing a 21 years outfit. Even though sometimes my tops and off are cutesy, but you know what I mean? Like, I'm. The goal is never to be.

[Manny Mua]

Like, I'm trying to be so young.

[Lara Lee]

No, it's never the goal. I. I want to look my age. I want to look good for my age, and I love my age. I think I'm a great age. So, like, I have nothing to be ashamed of with my age.

[Manny Mua]

My favorite decade that I've been in

[Lara Lee]

it is this is actually the best decade of my life. So I want to look like I'm in my 30s. That's the goal. I want to look like I'm in my 30s because I think 30s is a beautiful time in life. And if you look at the perspective of life, the average lifespan is like 75, which that's sad because you only get like 75 summers, 75 winter. Like, it's sad in that way.

[Manny Mua]

We have only 75, like Summers.

[Lara Lee]

We're here for a blip.

[Manny Mua]

Crazy.

[Lara Lee]

We are here for a blip. But your 30s is like, you know, you're still in your youthful year.

[Manny Mua]

So like, absolutely was also like, I feel the exact same. I always am very much adamant about like wanting to look good for my age. Like, I'm not trying to look 20. I want to look like, I want to look at. I want to look good for my 30s. I want people to be like, oh my God, like, you look like you take care of yourself in your 30s. That is what I want. I want people to think that like, oh, you actually like try.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

And I'm like, mind you, we also live in like la, which I feel like is a very kind of vain city in a way. Like you, like you. When you're out here, there's a lot of resources and a lot of things and it's a very much the place that you would like, try to, you

[Lara Lee]

know, there's a lot of effort.

[Manny Mua]

There's effort.

[Lara Lee]

People put a lot of effort into themselves in the city of Los Angeles. There's a lot of effort happening.

[Manny Mua]

That's why people are like, they'll say like, oh, I'm an LA6, but like a blank, blank 10.

[Lara Lee]

That's where it comes from. Because you know, in LA it's like top tier effort. You're gonna. And you know what, there's this saying and I think it's so true. It takes like a ton of effort to be mediocre, baby. And that's the truth.

[Manny Mua]

I said, do you know how much work it takes to be mid.

[Lara Lee]

To be mid? It takes a ton of work to be mid mid. So. And. But we're also brainwashed and live in Los Angeles. So that's like where that comes from. You know what I mean? True.

[Manny Mua]

I could be brainwashed.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah, we could be brainwashed.

[Manny Mua]

Morphia. So there's like a lot of you.

[Lara Lee]

Do you want to take your shirt off? And I'm really tired of it. I'm sick of it. It's okay. One day I'm going to get him drunk and I'm going to get him to take his shirt off.

[Manny Mua]

Oh, no. The double Is crazy drunk and shirt off is.

[Lara Lee]

So I'm going to have to double dip on it.

[Manny Mua]

We're going to do a double.

[Lara Lee]

I can get him drunk. I can get a shot.

[Manny Mua]

You're so double D. Here we go. Double. No, it's true. I do have it. But what can you do? I'm not perfect.

[Lara Lee]

I think it's disgusting. I tried that. I mean like, I've always supported you're not drinking hardcore. To the fact that like anyone even tries it. I'm like, shut up. You know, I'm like that bitch. But I do think there is a point in your life where you do deserve to have to wake up the next morning and see horrible photos of yourself. Nasty videos of yourself that make you want to die. See, everyone should experience that.

[Manny Mua]

What I love about that though is I've got to experience that through you.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

And wake up the next day.

[Lara Lee]

Camera on. Every time I'm drunk. Why y' all can't just let me be drunk? Everybody's gotta film it.

[Manny Mua]

Why?

[Lara Lee]

You know, I used to get so pissed at that.

[Manny Mua]

Do you know why?

[Lara Lee]

Why?

[Manny Mua]

Because you're funny. When you get up and drink, you're just like. It's just wild. And so it's like a fun time. It's like, I'm not recording you.

[Lara Lee]

No, you never.

[Manny Mua]

But people have and they have sent it and it has been funny. Mind you, I've appreciated it every single time. Cuz I get to go. Go back.

[Lara Lee]

I'm so sick of it.

[Manny Mua]

Thank you.

[Lara Lee]

That's why I want you to experience.

[Manny Mua]

That's nasty.

[Lara Lee]

It is.

[Manny Mua]

It's really nasty. To think that we also did an escape room and it was really scary and like I literally screamed multiple times.

[Lara Lee]

Stupid too. We couldn't figure it out.

[Manny Mua]

Girl. That was one of the hardest escape rooms I've ever done.

[Lara Lee]

Our escape room, we signed up for someone broke some and so he was like, we're going to have to put you in zombie.

[Manny Mua]

And I'm like, okay. You guys truly. Like. I think they gave us extra time.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah, he did.

[Manny Mua]

I truly feel like they gave us extra time. We were on the right path. But it was so. So it was hard. I just did not know anything. Yeah, I was like. I felt like Tweedledum.

[Lara Lee]

I kind of just like thought like we wouldn't get out if we were captured, you know, like it was a bad situation and like how we get out? Four of us were captured somewhere. I didn't see us ever getting out. I think we would be murdered.

[Manny Mua]

Would we? If us four were captured.

[Lara Lee]

We'd be making jokes.

[Manny Mua]

I would laugh the whole time and you know, that's my problem.

[Lara Lee]

We always start. We would start bullying the captor. We would start bullying him.

[Manny Mua]

That's so real. And I honestly would be laughing in really bad situations. Yes, every time. And I've done it multiple times. So yeah, that was a great weekend.

[Lara Lee]

And that's our pigs and pets. Thank you to Cash App for sponsoring this episode of Full Coverage. If you weren't up to Speak feed already, Cash App is way more than just a safe way to send money and receive money. With Cash App Card you can unlock tons of perks without all the hidden fees. Enjoy benefits like exclusive early access to nationwide concert pre sales. Ooh, that includes Kendrick Lamar and maybe in a little Sabrina Carpenter. Plus you'll get discounts on everyday purchases and popular brands you're probably already spending money on. Add your car to your digital wallet and make your money moves easier.

[Manny Mua]

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[Lara Lee]

is found, the clock starts ticking 48

[Manny Mua]

hours before the trail goes cold From A E and Crime House.

[Lara Lee]

This is the official podcast from the famous true crime series the first 48.

[Manny Mua]

I'm Carter Roy. Every Thursday I revisit a landmark homicide

[Lara Lee]

investigation in depth with long form storytelling built for your ears. Listen to and follow the First 48 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music or wherever you listen to podcasts.

[Manny Mua]

So let's move on to our Rapid Fire Fire and we're starting in now. I'll leave a timestamp for the Rapid Fire Divas.

[Lara Lee]

Ariana Grande. You want to talk about her first?

[Manny Mua]

That's, like, the biggest one right now. I feel like that's what I'm seeing the most in the media right now is about Ariana Grande. So there's been a lot of public scrutiny about the way Ariana looks, and it's been happening for years. They've been scrutinizing her body, the way she looks because of her thinness and, you know, just looks shocking at times through photos and things like that. So recently, she came out with the album Petal, which is such a banger I've been listening to on repeat since it came out. She, the team, like, released a statement basically saying that Ariana was going to be taking a step back. Yes. So basically, the pedal album came out, pedal music video came out, and so there's some screenshots of her in a black outfit, and she's, like, kind of moving forward, and it shows a lot of, like, the rib cage, and it's like a very visually shocking, you know, image. And so that got a lot of backlash online, and a lot of people just talking about the scrutiny of, you know, of just that it's shocking. Right?

[Lara Lee]

It's a shocking video because I'm always against talking about women's bodies or just people's bodies in general on this podcast. We try not to go there. We try not to even talk about it. Thin, thick. We try not to talk about people's bodies. Bodies. No body shame in any way. So whenever I saw this disrupt happening, I was kind of like, oh, here we go again, talking about women's bodies. I went on threads and I saw the music video because they were, like, playing the clips. It was shocking. And so I was like, oh, okay, now I'm starting to see why this is causing so much discourse.

[Manny Mua]

Right.

[Lara Lee]

She does look thinner than she's ever looked before. Scary to see, like, an artist you love look like that in that position. And no one knows what's going on because she hasn't seen said. So we can't, like, talk about it in the way of, like, assumptions of what's going on. You can't do that.

[Manny Mua]

You can't just be like, oh, this is the problem. It's like, you don't know. No one knows.

[Lara Lee]

No one knows. But it's sad. And the problem is, is, like, there are a lot of young girls that love Ariana Grande. I mean, there's a lot of people who love. She's one. I think she's one of the biggest superstars in the whole wide world, internationally. I think she's one of the most famous people in the world. And what me and Manny were kind of talking about, we were like, the thing is, is, like, everybody's problem is their problem. You can't cater your life to be like, oh, this may affect this, this and that. Think when you're one of the most famous humans on the planet, you do kind of adapt the responsibility. Whenever you put out a music video with looking like that, like, I think there's a little bit of a responsibility in a way of, like, this is dangerous and triggering for some people to see.

[Manny Mua]

I also think that it's really important for people who have a platform, people who have fame, to do, you know, their due diligence for their people and their audience to make sure that they're representing them in a way. So it's like, I even. I remember, like, when I first started even getting attraction with my audience, it made me, like, kind of grow up in a way where I was like, I want to be better for them because they're looking up to me in some capacity, so I need to be better. Like, I just. I. I, like, wanted that. I wanted to make sure I was able to present something that I was proud of so that they could look up to someone. And if they wanted to emulate that, then it was something that was, like, proud to emulate in a way, you

[Lara Lee]

know, cut to me. 25 drama videos were like, we tried.

[Manny Mua]

Emulate. We tried.

[Lara Lee]

If you want to do this, I'm not perfect, then do it.

[Manny Mua]

But I remember thinking that, like, when I was first starting, I was like, totally. I have to, like, be better. I have to be better. I have to be better, have to do better. So I feel like there is a hype of responsibility for that kind of level of fame. To try your best to make sure that people are looking at you in a way that, like, you know, if they wanted to emulate that, that you would be proud of that in some capacity. So it's a really. It's a tough conversation because I'm so about, like, respecting someone's privacy, the way that they want to, like, be perceived and not judging the way people look. Like, I'm so about that. But then there's the other conversation of, like, at what point is it being, like, irresponsible to show something and to, you know, if, say, if someone looks like they might need help for something? Like, at what point is that, like, is there a boundary to cross? Like, I don't know, like, you Know if that's why the conversation I feel like is so, like, polarizing.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

Because there's people that defend her and they're like, don't talk about her. Don't talk about her. Of course, like, obviously. And there's people that are like, you need to talk about this because this is something that's dangerous. Dangerous. So it's like, what, what can you even do? It's really, It's a tough situation because you want to respect someone and what their privacy. But then also you have to think about the responsibility of the public eye as well.

[Lara Lee]

And this is shocking. And I do think, like, whenever, you know, there's a lot of people involved in a music video, there's hair, makeup, there's teams that's produced. There's like hundreds of hundreds of people involved. Her team's involved. I do kind of think whenever they see this music video, there's no world. They can look at this music video and go, oh, yeah, this isn't going to cause any stir, like watching that. I mean, hundreds of people, even more, maybe even thousands have seen it before it got released to the public. So why has no one on the team been like, hey, when we put this out, like, it's an obvious response. Like, there's no world where people are not going to speak on what's going on the music video. So I always wonder how that works. I mean, does like Ariana know what she's getting into before she puts that out there? Based off her team telling her, does no one say anything? And they just wait till kind of like this bomb drops, you know, and this chaos happens, you know, about her life, because it is too about protecting her, you know, so it's like a tricky situation. But I always wondered that, like, teams see this go out, like, they think that, no, it's going to blow. Like, come on, she's one of the most famous.

[Manny Mua]

But I'm like, then I wonder. I'm like, so then is it on purpose, like, is it like, to be like, to be talked about? I genuinely, like, other thoughts come into your mind with that situation because you don't really know.

[Lara Lee]

You're like, what is going motive here? Exactly. Like, what is going on here? So with that being said, her, after all the discourse from the music video, her team put out a statement that says, okay, she's going to be taking a step back. And so I, I think that's a good idea because whatever's going on, we don't know what it is and it might be a good idea. Just to take a step back to focus on herself. And then after that, Ari put out a statement.

[Manny Mua]

Yeah. So Ari, like, was literally at her concert and basically was like, I want to have a conversation real quick. Pulls out her phone, be like, I want to, like, read this because I'm scared I'm gonna, like, lose my train of thought. And I want to talk about from the heart. So she basically talks about, like, how, you know, with everything going on, she's, like, really appreciates, you know, people and, like, her followers and her audience. But she's been thinking in about this break for a really, really long time. And this is something that, like, was already going to happen. It wasn't like this, like, immediately screw this. This, like, scrutiny from pedal. It was like, maybe it's been happening. She's been getting screwed a long, long time. She has. So I'm just gonna read her statement verbatim so I don't misuse my own words. She goes, so basically, the announcement that was made yesterday was not a reactive or impulsive thing. She told the crowd. It is something that I decided to plan that had quietly made a long time ago. And it's a decision that was made from a thoughtful and empowered place. And I want you to know many things can be true at the same time. I heard that my fans were worried that negativity was ruining things for me, but I just have to say that could not be more the opposite. Honestly, this is not what that. Honestly, that is not what it is. And I just want to be very, very clear. Multiple things can meet you at the same time. Yes. Boundaries, they need to be set. Human beings can need a break sometimes. And also, this can be and will continue to be the greatest experience of my professional and creative life. So I just. Like, that. Like, that was, you know, kind of

[Lara Lee]

like she's saying, I'm not stepping away due to the scrutiny of the music video. It kind of sounds like she's saying I was gonna step away anyways.

[Manny Mua]

Exactly. So I think that's what she was trying to say, because when the Saving was released, it kind of looks like, oh, this is the scrutiny from, like, pedal, like, all these things. But she's like, baby, this. Like, I've needed these boundaries, and I needed to take a step back for a long, long time. And she's finally taking a break after Eternal Sunshine. Her tour that she's on right now is when she's gonna take a little break from, like, the public eye, which I just feel like, in general, as creatives and artists, especially at that level, you need to have those breaks. You have to have that time for yourself. You need to focus on yourself and your own mental health and your physical health and do those things. And so a lot of, you know, people are also thinking that the album pedal is not just about like her breakups. It's about like the public eye and about like, like the songs and the things that she's saying are about like the scrutiny of the relationship with.

[Lara Lee]

The relationship with people having a public life since she's been a kid and like the scrutiny she's faced. It's like what the album's about. It's like about the fans, the public.

[Manny Mua]

Yes.

[Lara Lee]

Not about her love life.

[Manny Mua]

Right. So it's like it could almost be like a double entendre where it could be partly about her, but her love life, but then it's also could be like she's talking to people that's, you know, scrutinize her. And it like makes sense when you listen to it because the album is very, I mean, it's great, I love it, but it, you can tell that there's like some deep like feelings about things happening in that. So it's like, it makes a lot of sense. And I really just like, like I just want her to be like good, healthy and happy and happy and you know, I want people to perceive her as helpy and happy and like, you know, I really want that for her and I just. At the end of the day, I'm sure she is happy and with a lot of amazing things and she has a blessed life, which she also talks about on her album. She's like, baby, I am so blessed. And this is like basically what comes with it. Like I'm blessed and like, I know I'm blessed, but it's a double edged.

[Lara Lee]

There's always a price.

[Manny Mua]

There's always a price to pay. And I've paid that price for this fame and like the life that I live. But she's blessed regardless. So I just think that it's one of those things where it's a tricky situation, it's a tricky conversation and you want to have grace for like all parties at the end of the day and you want to have grace for her because she could be going through something.

[Lara Lee]

Exactly.

[Manny Mua]

But it is tough when you're in that public eye, like in that level. And you do want to make sure that, you know, you're safety for all

[Lara Lee]

and not triggering for all.

[Manny Mua]

Right, thank you so much to progressive response in this portion of full coverage. You're listening to this podcast so I know you've got a curious mind. Here's a helpful fact you might not know yet. Drivers who switch and save with Progressive save over $900 on average. They make it super simple. Pop over to progressive.com answer some questions and you'll get a quick quote with coverage options tailored to your choices. Plus you'll see which discounts you may qualify for, like the online quote discount or savings for paying in full. In fact, 99% of Progressive Auto customers earn at least one discount.

[Lara Lee]

See if you could save when you switch to Progressive. You'll feel good about making a savvy choice. Visit progressive.com and see if you can enjoy a little extra cash back Progressive Casualty Insurance Company affiliates national average 12 month savings of $946 by new customers surveyed who saved with Progressive between June 2024 and May 2025. Potential savings will vary this episode is

[Manny Mua]

sponsored by Better Help. You guys, you've heard of us talk about better Help a gazillion times here on Full coverage. We're huge, huge advocates of Better help. We absolutely love it and I don't know if you guys have ever heard us talk about why we love it so much and I really feel like it's because the service that they use is just absolutely incredible and the things that they provide for people is truly incredible. And you guys can actually check out their reviews yourselves if you want to. You just go to betterhelp.com reviews and see what real people have to say about better help.

[Lara Lee]

BetterHelp has an average live therapy session rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on over 1.7 million client reviews. You guys, that is actual feedback from people who have used their services. Also, more than 6 million people have used Better Help globally. This is consistent feedback from real users and they really make it easy to see can see why it's so important for people to choose Better Help. Better Health therapists have also had at least three years and a thousand hours of hands on experience. They also hold all required education, training and certifications across mental health specialties. Better Help makes it easy to get started. All you have to do is answer a few questions and you get matched with a therapist based on your needs and you can switch therapists at any time. See the reviews and see what stands out and see if Better Help is right for you. Visit betterhelp.com Full coverage that's better. H-L-P.com Full coverage okay, so more Ariana Grande tea on top of all of that Happening. She is subpoenaing in court. So it's kind of like a lawsuit. Kind of a lawsuit. So basically there are hackers online that are hacking her team, her producers, her music company. And they're releasing. They've already released 45 of her songs before she's been able to release them herself within a year. So they don't know who the hackers are. And her lawsuit is to subpoena to find out where it's coming from. So they're gonna be able to get more information off where they're being hacked. But it's like, coming from her team, like, they're getting the songs from her team.

[Manny Mua]

I thought that was so crazy to see that they're like hacking like dropboxes and they're hacking. Yes, you know, people's phones and producers. And it's not necessarily like she's being hacked. It's like people around her, like, production and like. Like photographers, and they're like people are creating fake accounts to pretend that they are photographers or something. And then like, they're getting access to things. And so it's like kind of crazy

[Lara Lee]

that it's like blowing up her, though, because imagine you do all this work, you create all these songs, you film all this stuff, and then hackers are just going in and there's dropping the bomb and blowing your up. It's so sad.

[Manny Mua]

I wonder how you can, like, get that information. Like, what, what can you do to like. Like, like, let's say from the courts, right, to like, sue. Like, how do you get that information? Like, can. Can they show like their.

[Lara Lee]

Maybe they know IP address, kind of like IPS where it's coming from, but they don't have the legal ability to investigate who it is or like, track it back to a home or where the IP is. Maybe they don't have like, enough information and that's what they're trying to subpoena for.

[Manny Mua]

I see, so then you would do that from like the. The, like the Internet provider and like, you would do it from things like that?

[Lara Lee]

Yeah. Maybe they can see that they've been hacked, but they just don't have any further information of like, who did it and the person keeps doing it. So maybe with the subpoena they'd be able to launch an investigation.

[Manny Mua]

Yeah. And I wonder if it's like one person or it's like a party.

[Lara Lee]

It feels like a party.

[Manny Mua]

It must be. There's just no way there's one human being that's able to hack all these different things. Like there Must be like a little group.

[Lara Lee]

It's like, what do you get out of that money?

[Manny Mua]

How do you become a hacker?

[Lara Lee]

I don't even want to know. These people are sick.

[Manny Mua]

Like, the idea to be able to do those. That's, like, why it's so shocking right there to be able to hack a system. Do you know how smart you have to be? So you're using your smarts for evil.

[Lara Lee]

A lot of people do, though, because you have to think about it. A lot of evil people. If you actually watch documentaries, they're not stupid, right? They're just evil. People relate evil with bad, so automatically they think they're dumb. Actually, it's like evil people, very smart. They. Yes, a lot smart. You would have to be smart to execute a lot of the evil things that people do. I know people that are evil as hell.

[Manny Mua]

Hell.

[Lara Lee]

And they're actually not stupid.

[Manny Mua]

Right.

[Lara Lee]

They're just evil.

[Manny Mua]

And I know sweet people that are dumb as bricks.

[Lara Lee]

Sure do. Sure do.

[Manny Mua]

Like, exactly.

[Lara Lee]

Bliss is bliss. They live in bliss. Ignorance is bliss. So a lot of times smart people are evil.

[Manny Mua]

Like, honestly, 100.

[Lara Lee]

You gotta be smart to execute evil.

[Manny Mua]

The idea of even being able to hack, though, like, sounds just so, like, yuck. It sounds like. I don't know. To me, it sounds, like, cool. Like, the idea that you could. I know it sounds bad.

[Lara Lee]

Oh, so maybe he's a hacker. No, no, no, no.

[Manny Mua]

I'm just saying to be able to have the know how to do those things is so incredible to me that you can, like, figure out a system and then get around a system. Like that sounds incredible. But not using it for evil, obviously. But the fact that you can manipulate a software and code to be able to do something like that is just so baffling.

[Lara Lee]

Baffling.

[Manny Mua]

Like, that's so crazy. Like, the idea that is insane. It will be hacking crazy.

[Lara Lee]

I'd be like, we're gonna record this song on my tape recorder in my hand, and this is where it will live. That's all you're getting on my little 1990s tape. And that's all you're gonna get because

[Manny Mua]

it's like, if they're gonna get hacked constantly, then, like, gotta get out. Yeah, you have to.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

At that point, needs to be on,

[Lara Lee]

like, a drive, one hard drive.

[Manny Mua]

And that hard drive gets shipped around.

[Lara Lee]

Yep.

[Manny Mua]

That's what it is.

[Lara Lee]

That's what it is.

[Manny Mua]

You know what? We just figured that out.

[Lara Lee]

Ari. Call us. We figured it out.

[Manny Mua]

We got it. We're good. You're gonna do a hard Drive.

[Lara Lee]

Okay, our next toppy. Toppy. Let's talk about Justin Balzani.

[Manny Mua]

Oh, yeah. Quick little. Another little closeout. So, baby, that this is the thing that never ends. Let me tell you, Justin Blake will never die.

[Lara Lee]

Freaking ends. Okay, so Justin Valdoni, bless it, he, in the infamous lawsuit battle with Blake Lively, gets an article. So he gets an article written by the New York Times, but the article kind of like blows it. Blows it up. Yeah, it's a big article. It blows it up. Doesn't make him look great because it is able to have quotes and things that he. He said that got leaked to his PR team. So it's not great. So during the midst of suing in the battle with Blake Lively, Justin Baloni did try to sue the New York Times for that article for defamation, which I kind of think you're crazy to do that because the New York Times is such a steady publication. You think they don't know what they can and cannot post to get them in trouble? You think they don't know is the New York Times Post. You know, a legal team combs through everything that they release. So it's like they don't get sued for defamation. So. So Justin Baldoni kind of did blow up his situation a little bit. So he did end up suing them for defamation. Case got thrown out. He did not win. Now, this is what happens, though, in America. So in America, you can sue anyone for anything. That's kind of the law. Like you can truly do that, but they have different laws intact to protect people and to negate people from suing for stupid. I don't think he was suing for stupid, but they do. So you're not wasting the court's time. So in this case, they have the anti S slap law, and that is a law that protects journalists and. And free people, free speech. And basically it's a law where if you sue for defamation, it's not defamation, they have the right to turn around and back sue you for their legal fees. So the New York Times is now suing Justin Baldoni for $175,000 worth of legal fees because his defamation case got

[Manny Mua]

thrown out and he's going to have to pay it.

[Lara Lee]

He will have to pay that. That's looking like he's going to pay it. It gets worse. So he did not also technically, like, win his case against Blake. I think she did win, like, a little piece here and there, and then the rest got thrown out. If, from what I understand, she is now back suing him for $8 million worth of legal fees that she wants him to cover. So now he's being hit with 170k worth of legal fees for his lawsuit that did not stand, a defamation. Plus the case where he went to war with Blake Lively. Which it didn't integrate for him.

[Manny Mua]

No, no, no. And it didn't integrate for her. I mean, in a way, it's like

[Lara Lee]

they both lost, but like, as far as monetarily, like, she's suing him for $8 million.

[Manny Mua]

What I define fascinating too. It's like, let's say suing him for 8 million, but in the New York Times suing for 175. Why is there such a huge discrepancy between the amount?

[Lara Lee]

Because that was the legal fees that it took the New York Times to throw out the case of defamation. And that's how much Blake Lively had to pay to throw out a case that was way bigger against her. So basically there his. Her case was deeper, had more facts in it, and it was a longer case, so. And her lawyers definitely cost more than the New York Times lawyers.

[Manny Mua]

Right, right.

[Lara Lee]

So that basically her legal bill that got racked up.

[Manny Mua]

You have to pay 8 million.

[Lara Lee]

I don't, but I do think he will have to pay a lot of it.

[Manny Mua]

Dude.

[Lara Lee]

I don't think I'll have to pay all of it.

[Manny Mua]

I'm like, also, does Justin Baldon Aldoni have like, money like that?

[Lara Lee]

I don't know, man.

[Manny Mua]

Because I'm thinking about like Blake Ryan. They are like so well off. Like Blake ryan.

[Lara Lee]

Oh, that 8 million. I'm gonna tell you right now, that pull money, that was a drop in truly the bucket.

[Manny Mua]

That was like all of his investments, everything, like, they're like them together, like, are so monetarily sound like they are fine. But I wonder. I'm like, okay, so does Justin, like, does he have those resources to be able to pay the $8 million in legal fees? Because he's paying for his own legal fees.

[Lara Lee]

Oh, yes, yes.

[Manny Mua]

Imagine having to pay New York Times. And then on top of that, that I'm like, where. Where's all the money going to come from?

[Lara Lee]

And mind you, you have to remember Blake Lively and just Melanie closed out their case privately. So no one knew the official ruling. I remember she went to the Met gala the day they like closed it up and finished it off.

[Manny Mua]

Y.

[Lara Lee]

And now that she's able to back sue tells me something in there happened where it wasn't good for him. And the closing out of that, if she's able to back soon he's not able to back sue her. You know what I'm saying? Because it would be him. If he won that case against, like, Lively. He would be suing her for.

[Manny Mua]

Of course. Yeah, he'd be getting his money or

[Lara Lee]

whatever the opposite, though.

[Manny Mua]

So I'm like, so something must have, like, something must have went down. I'm real really curious because, you know, like. Like, they'll. They're gonna follow up. They're gonna be like, this is what they. He had to pay her, and it's gonna show us, and we'll of course, keep you guys updated. But, like, I just cannot believe that he could be having to pay $8 million to her for legal fees. Also, the fact that legal fees can get up to $8 million. I'm scared. That's what. The lawyers are the only ones that win.

[Lara Lee]

That's what we always say.

[Manny Mua]

The lawyers are the ones that win.

[Lara Lee]

Legal case. The lawyers are the only ones that win.

[Manny Mua]

Like, why y' all even fighting at this point? Why y' all even fighting?

[Lara Lee]

I know they shouldn't.

[Manny Mua]

Like, we're done.

[Lara Lee]

They blew up both of their careers Bl.

[Manny Mua]

Their.

[Lara Lee]

They blew their up.

[Manny Mua]

It's like. And. And for what? Just to get Bl. Like, just to pay legal fees.

[Lara Lee]

Oh, my God. Well, maybe Justin Balon can, like, get in like, the next Dune movie or some. And like, cuz they're writing big checks for that.

[Manny Mua]

Oh, and he's got to get a big one. He's with that. With. With reputation is right now with, like, Blake's out here.

[Lara Lee]

Her reputation's worse, I would say. And she's out here acting left and right. And he slowed her down.

[Manny Mua]

Wait, is. Wait, what is Blake coming out in?

[Lara Lee]

She did a movie in the midst of all this with Anna, Kendra Deck.

[Manny Mua]

Did she really? Because I can't. Like, I feel like right now because of what the stink was based of the fact that it was around a movie. The fact that it was around this. It ends with us. Like, I don't think a lot of production would want to have either of them attached to their projects because that would, like, be scary for their project. You know what I'm saying? Like, it. It blew up that movie in a bad way.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

So I just don't imagine there's a world in which, like, production is like, yeah, let's be part of this movie. Like, what if they blow it up again?

[Lara Lee]

She did a simple favor in 2025. Like, the.

[Manny Mua]

That's. That's when it came out.

[Lara Lee]

The second one came out.

[Manny Mua]

Yes.

[Lara Lee]

So yeah, that's when it came out. So yeah, I guess she technically did it before, huh? So, yeah, I'd say they both definitely destroyed both their careers. I mean I think they'll both be fine in like five years for sure.

[Manny Mua]

You know what I mean?

[Lara Lee]

It's gonna take some time.

[Manny Mua]

Both of them are gonna take time. It is what it is like, but it's just crazy that that it them up like that much. Like it gets got. They got wrecked, dude. And $8 million is like a reckoning.

[Lara Lee]

It was so embarrassingly public too for both of them.

[Manny Mua]

Like I would never want to.

[Lara Lee]

I'm sure the whole industry is like, that's embarrassing.

[Manny Mua]

Yeah, I would be.

[Lara Lee]

I would be so embarrassed.

[Manny Mua]

Like that's horrible. And then for it to like end out the way it did, it's like, was it worth it?

[Lara Lee]

I saw the Odyssey movie, by the way. When are you going to see it? You're seeing it soon.

[Manny Mua]

Thursday at 1pm that was the only showing they had.

[Lara Lee]

Baby, it's blown out.

[Manny Mua]

Like literally IMAX. I think so. IMAX 70. But no but see it's not. It's not like. It's just. I. I just know it's imax but it's not at like Universal. It's not there. I said Century City. So it's like that their IMAX theater 1. What 1pm I will see you guys.

[Lara Lee]

There's a long ass movie.

[Manny Mua]

I just. I know that shit's gonna be long as I just need to mentally prepare myself because I'm have to piss. I already know.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah. So I already have on tick tocks. All the part to walk out and piss on.

[Manny Mua]

No way.

[Lara Lee]

Yes. They broke.

[Manny Mua]

Wait, that's perfect. I literally will like do that. Yeah, I'll literally go watch that.

[Lara Lee]

People are breaking down when to go to the bathroom.

[Manny Mua]

Oh, genius.

[Lara Lee]

Such a long movie and you have 30 minutes of previews. People didn't like that. I said I thought it was a bit slow, but I. I did. I thought the. I don't like three hour movies. I want to be transparent. I don't like three hour movies. I don't think it's necessary for any movie. Three hours. Make a part two you. It's that simple. Give us an hour.

[Manny Mua]

I could do a four hour movie.

[Lara Lee]

I know you could. Sick.

[Manny Mua]

I could.

[Lara Lee]

I don't want to be stuck in a dark room like that for that long.

[Manny Mua]

You don't want to be off your phone.

[Lara Lee]

No, that's not it, you sicko. It is. That's why I just don't want to be in trash in a dark room. That's you. That's why you're all. Your phone in the theater. I hear Grindr going off.

[Manny Mua]

You are sick. No, but seriously, like, I feel like it's long. It's. It's tough. I. I went to see Spider man recently too. Like, and it was how long? Very long.

[Lara Lee]

Really?

[Manny Mua]

I think two and a half hours. Two hours and forty maybe.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah, you know, they just keep making them longer and longer. And then you got Obsession coming in an hour and 30 minutes, wiping everybody out of the box office. You know, the price and the budget. And then, you know, you got Christopher Nolan over here spending like crazy. Create hundreds of millions of dollars for a three hour movie. It's long, it's slow. There's a lot of. Lot of complicated conversations. There's a lot of talking you gotta lock in. But it's a really good movie. It's really good. It's worth watching.

[Manny Mua]

I cannot wait to watch it.

[Lara Lee]

It's. It's a great movie. I mean, I love the Greek mythology, Troy. Like all of it.

[Manny Mua]

Like Ology though, when I did it in college.

[Lara Lee]

Well, that was probably very hard. What's the point? No offense, but what's the point in studying that?

[Manny Mua]

I don't know. I just liked Greek mythology at the time. Yeah, I was elective.

[Lara Lee]

So you signed up for Greek mythology? It's not even real.

[Manny Mua]

I know.

[Lara Lee]

Study it.

[Manny Mua]

But it was just more like a fun thing because it was like, it was an elective. It was like what I needed to have an extra thing.

[Lara Lee]

Study it if it's not real. I'm just curious. I'm asking. I don't know.

[Manny Mua]

It was more so like, for fun. Like I just like enjoyed it. But it was much harder than it

[Lara Lee]

needed to be interesting.

[Manny Mua]

Much, much harder.

[Lara Lee]

I'm sure.

[Manny Mua]

You know, Spider man just broke the record for the biggest weekend opening of all time.

[Lara Lee]

Okay, so you know Tom Holland just back to back did that because he's one of the main characters in the Odyssey.

[Manny Mua]

Crazy.

[Lara Lee]

And then what? The literal Spider Man's his movie too?

[Manny Mua]

Yep.

[Lara Lee]

Baby, he is clear in the chat.

[Manny Mua]

By 4 million it passed. End game.

[Lara Lee]

Wow.

[Manny Mua]

No. Which is the biggest of all time.

[Lara Lee]

You're freaking kidding.

[Manny Mua]

By 4 million?

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

Crazy.

[Lara Lee]

And you thought it was great?

[Manny Mua]

I loved it. I. It was honestly one of my favorite Spider man movies I've ever done. Oh, dead ass. And it's also a cool thing about this one, is that it's opening up the saga for like the mutant stuff that's about to be happening. Like X Men, which is like.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

Truly, my biggest tea is X Men has always been my teenage. So it's nice that it's like, kind of like showing that route, like it's gonna go in that world.

[Lara Lee]

I think my favorite avenger movie of all time, it's not Avengers, but Marvel movie of all time, would be Logan. Like, just the movie.

[Manny Mua]

Oh, Logan.

[Lara Lee]

Just incredible. That's one of the best movies.

[Manny Mua]

Incredible.

[Lara Lee]

I've watched, like, four times. It's so good. It's so out of the Marvel world.

[Manny Mua]

That's why I'll say that's how you like it.

[Lara Lee]

It's like a real story. You know what I mean? Like, it's not like superheroes. It's like a actual story of a man struggling 100.

[Manny Mua]

So that's why it's incredible. It's incredible. Amazing movie. What was that? We have one more thing. Was that it?

[Lara Lee]

We also have. Oh, Michaela is divorced.

[Manny Mua]

Mama. Maybe it's fully finalized. We talked about the last time where she's like, oh, my God. Hopefully she's gonna be, like, officially divorced by the time, like, you know, she goes to court. But it. You guys, it went through. The baby is divorced.

[Lara Lee]

The baby's divorced.

[Manny Mua]

Honestly. Bless.

[Lara Lee]

Bless it. Be blessed. Be closed case.

[Manny Mua]

I'm so happy, like, sitting there the whole way. It's so cutesy.

[Lara Lee]

So cute. Turn the lock, baby. He's out.

[Manny Mua]

I'm just like, gl her to be in her new chapter.

[Lara Lee]

Me too.

[Manny Mua]

Like, Angie just looks so much happier and just. I'm like, I'm just happy to see, like, I just am so happy to see, like, women, you know, if they're in a shitty situation, just leave that and, like, get out. I'm just so happy to see, like, women do that and just have that strength to be like, this sucks, and I'm not happy. I have to get out.

[Lara Lee]

And every time a woman leaves a shitty man, an angel gets his wings,

[Manny Mua]

and I'm flying and I'm an angel. So, like, I. And, like, I genuinely feel like it's just so nice to see, and I'm always very, very happy to see. Just in general, it's for anyone, anyone, any woman getting out of a situation that was not good for them. Yeah, it's just incredible because it takes a lot of strength and a lot of courage to get out of situations.

[Lara Lee]

And it doesn't matter, like, too. If you're in a bad situation right now, you're like, well, we just got married or we haven't like those things don't matter. Like don't play Kate into the, the marriage thing. The rules and the religions and the families and what this person might think. Like you'll, you're, you're getting too niche into the world. You got to look at the world way bigger than that. And you go, none of this matters because I'm not happy and get the out of there. And that's what it is. And I understand resources come into play, but like taking action too does and making that decision not based off what is this person going to think? Are people going to think I'm a failure? I've been married too many times. Who cares?

[Manny Mua]

It's the thoughts. It's like all the thoughts that come in live.

[Lara Lee]

Pamela Anderson's been married like five times. Times. Who cares?

[Manny Mua]

Rebrand.

[Lara Lee]

This is your rebrand, babe. It's a rebrand.

[Manny Mua]

Do it. Just do your own thing. As long as you are happy.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

And content with what you do and who you are and your life, at the end of the day you have. It's your life. You only have one to live. Like, like you said, we have, if we're lucky, 75 summers. Like you want to make sure that you're doing things with the people that you care about. A partner that you care about. And you know you have to get out if you don't want to be in it.

[Lara Lee]

Also in every self development book I've ever read, you have two choices is in every situation. You can learn to love it or you can leave it. Those are you hate your job, you hate your friendships, you hate your marriage, you hate your animal, you hate your religion. You either learn to love it or you get out of it. Those are your choices. Because you can't be miserable.

[Manny Mua]

Right?

[Lara Lee]

Right.

[Manny Mua]

You have to live still. At the end of the day, you gotta live.

[Lara Lee]

So those are your choices. Pick one and get the out man.

[Manny Mua]

Thank you so much to Honey Love for sponsoring this portion of full coverage. You guys, Honey Love is an independent female founded brand all Honey. Those products are intellectually designed for women who actually wear them, including founder Betsy, who is highly involved in the development of each product. You guys, we are huge fans of Honey Low over here. Amazing, amazing womenswear.

[Lara Lee]

You guys are gonna love their bras because they're supportive and they're wire free. Okay, that is so hard to find out there. That's what I personally love about them. And thanks to their bonding technology, it lifts you without that underwire. So, baby, are you ready for the most lightweight, comfortable bra out There without sacrificing the support. Check out Honey Love. They also have amazing shapewear that targets compression to enhance your curves and skin instead of squeezing them. So it's designed to work with your body, not against it. Their products are so easy. They also are beautiful. They're lingerie inspired with beautiful designs that show off the high quality fabrics. Treat yourself to the most advanced bras and shapewear on the market. Our exclusive link to save 20 off Honey [e-mail] full that's HoneyLove.com full. After you check out, they'll ask where you heard about them. Please support our show and tell them we sent you. Experience the new standard in comfort and support with Honey Love. Okay, so I wanted to end this episode with a little quick game of like just being messy and nasty.

[Manny Mua]

A quick, messy game.

[Lara Lee]

Manny, what is a secret that you've never shared publicly?

[Manny Mua]

I'm not going to fuck it next.

[Lara Lee]

All right, Manny, who owes you an apology?

[Manny Mua]

The world. I. Who owes me an apology?

[Lara Lee]

There's got to be some out there that owes you an apology.

[Manny Mua]

Do you know who owes me an apology? The guy that said that I smell like Sriracha.

[Lara Lee]

That dude owes you half of his retirement. Fine. In his adsense for YouTube.

[Manny Mua]

Cuz that was all a lie. What's the meanest thing you've thought this week?

[Lara Lee]

Oh Lord.

[Manny Mua]

And I know you've thought, oh, I know. No, I'm like, yes, it was.

[Lara Lee]

Let me think.

[Manny Mua]

What's the meanest thing you thought this week?

[Lara Lee]

Well, I'm a Virgo, so we have a lot of mean thoughts.

[Manny Mua]

And you don't act on them.

[Lara Lee]

No, no, no, no, no. And they all come from the heart, so you know they're real.

[Manny Mua]

And you know that shit's real. The meanest thought you've had.

[Lara Lee]

I don't know.

[Manny Mua]

You're so sweet.

[Lara Lee]

I'm not sweet. It's just tough.

[Manny Mua]

You're kind.

[Lara Lee]

I am kind.

[Manny Mua]

You're kind.

[Lara Lee]

Oh, sweet. I don't know. Ask me another one.

[Manny Mua]

Okay.

[Lara Lee]

If I think of one, I'll say,

[Manny Mua]

okay, let me see. What's the pettiest reason you've unfollowed someone?

[Lara Lee]

Probably because I never like or comment on any of my posts. So I'm like you.

[Manny Mua]

Yes.

[Lara Lee]

Go yourself.

[Manny Mua]

So like, petty in the way of like, if you're not.

[Lara Lee]

You see me in person, we're best friends, but you've never liked comment. And you follow me and you watch all my stories all the time.

[Manny Mua]

It doesn't support me at all, but

[Lara Lee]

it's like a ghost. But I see you and everybody that I know is comments. So it's very purposeful. So. So you get an unfollow for that. Probably that. Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

I don't even think that's that petty to be going on. That feels real.

[Lara Lee]

Okay.

[Manny Mua]

That feels a little fierce.

[Lara Lee]

I'll take that. Okay, let's see. What is something brands ask creators to do that you think is absolutely ridiculous?

[Manny Mua]

I think it's the briefs. I think talking points and briefs. You guys, it's so funny because like right now, like I was talking, I talked about this like a little while ago. Like I was like, there's like a big conversation online about people, about creators talking about brands and their branded work and it's such a huge conversation, a huge topic that's happening. And I think that is, it's important because I do think that it helps bridge the gap between corporations and people, like real people. And when let's say I love something and I want to do something with that because I'm like, yo, I love this. Like I would love to work with you on this because I'm obsessed with it and they tell me what to say. Say that's kind of odd because I'm like, oh, I already love it. So I know what I would want to say.

[Lara Lee]

They're like, oh, you can include that in there. But first, 80 points about other things.

[Manny Mua]

Correct. So I think that's really important that the conversation is being had in a way because it's just, it's authentic. Like it's real. Like I, whenever I like I've got some of my most favorite things I've ever done. Like let's say a brand is like, we know you love our stuff. We would love for you to love like make a video about things that you like. And I'm like, great. So then I'll do like a top five my favorite products from this brand that is so authentic and real for me because that's what I already use and, and why I like it. So when they're not giving me some intense outline or like things that I have to hit and say. Cuz to me that just doesn't feel real. Like it's so like not authentic to me.

[Lara Lee]

I think brands do need to hear that. And also the thing is a lot of brands that, that creators work with, we work with, they're owned by a bigger company. So therefore it creates a lot of red tape. So let's say you do a deal with I don't know what's, what's a brand that l' Oreal owns, Urban Decay.

[Manny Mua]

Okay, right.

[Lara Lee]

L' Oreal owns them. So l' Oreal is one of the biggest conglomerates in the world in beauty. So to do a deal with Urban Decay and to talk about the product, you have to go through l' Oreal red tape. So that's gonna get deep. So that brief is not coming from any creative. It's coming from a legal department that's a bunch of old men who are our number one thing is, you know, we can't get. You can't get them sued and you can't say the wrong thing. So now it's whittled down without an ounce of organicness in it because of all the filters that it has to run through from legal departments at these huge conglomerates. And almost every beauty brand out there is owned by a big brand. So. And all brands are at this point, even if they're lifestyle brands. So. But I do think the conversation needs to be had because it's going to make make sponsorships better and it's going to make them better for the brand and the creator for sure.

[Manny Mua]

And the thing is like our audience, people like the people watching, like they get it, dude. Like they know, they can tell. Like, you know, whenever, like you're talking about something authentically, which, you know, at the end of the day we are able to try the things that we, you know, get for the sponsorship and hopefully people are being authentic about liking those things and even doing the sponsorship in the first place. Place. But it's. There's something really magical about just like letting someone do what they want to do based with that product. Like just let them be themselves.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah.

[Manny Mua]

That's why I think it's really important. I think brands need to know that.

[Lara Lee]

I love that. Yep.

[Manny Mua]

I think my next one is for you. And there it goes. Where did it even go? Okay, same. Let's see what influencer trend is the most embarrassing.

[Lara Lee]

I'm gonna agree with Timothy Chalamet and I think being embarrassed is an emotion we don't play with enough. So I like when people do stupid. That's cringe to an extent. What's a trend that I think is embarrassing or just like not it?

[Manny Mua]

Yeah, sure.

[Lara Lee]

I think maybe the screaming at the camera, but I do. It's like dance monkey dance though, to get people's attention to the hook nowadays, cuz you got a bubble popped of sea of influencers, so everyone's fighting for it.

[Manny Mua]

I don't like to scream in the beginning of things either though.

[Lara Lee]

You know, whatever. They act crazy as hell, and it's like, it just goes too far.

[Manny Mua]

Y.

[Lara Lee]

Perhaps that.

[Manny Mua]

I don't like that either. And I see a lot of people doing that. I see a lot of people doing, like, the scream for attention in the beginning portion. And that's just not my vibe.

[Lara Lee]

I don't like that. Just like, they're yelling really loud, the words. Like, they're like, have you ever, you know, scream?

[Manny Mua]

That's what I'm saying. It's like, part of the screaming aspect of it. Or it's like being obnoxiously loud for, like, no reason.

[Lara Lee]

Love that.

[Manny Mua]

Did Timothy Chalamet say that?

[Lara Lee]

I don't.

[Manny Mua]

Or did Austin Butler say that?

[Lara Lee]

Maybe it was Austin Butler. They're all the same.

[Manny Mua]

They're both.

[Lara Lee]

They're all the same. You could throw Timothy Chalamet, who's in. Dad's husband, Tom Holland. That's like, the same person, by the way. 100.

[Manny Mua]

Literally.

[Lara Lee]

I mean, Austin Butler. Throw them all in a bucket, draw one out. You'll never know. Young Hollywood right there, baby. Young Hollywood. But I will say I love them all.

[Manny Mua]

Oh, me too.

[Lara Lee]

I think they're very talented. They are.

[Manny Mua]

They're, like, literally stars. Timothy's like a star.

[Lara Lee]

It. Yeah. Timothy will rack up in Oscars in his later years, for sure. He's gonna be like a Leo.

[Manny Mua]

100.

[Lara Lee]

He will. Okay, who's the person who had the big, biggest ego that you've ever met?

[Manny Mua]

Person that's had the biggest ego I've ever met.

[Lara Lee]

Or what's the worst advice a creator's given you?

[Manny Mua]

Oh, okay, let me think, let me think, let me think.

[Lara Lee]

Okay.

[Manny Mua]

When it comes to worst advice, like, I honestly never really asked creators for advice.

[Lara Lee]

No, I know.

[Manny Mua]

Know what?

[Lara Lee]

That time a creator told you about your lighting when you didn't ask them.

[Manny Mua]

See, this is what I'm saying. This is what I'm talking about. I do not ask for advice from people that are not doing things 10 times better than me.

[Lara Lee]

Yes, I.

[Manny Mua]

Why would I ask you for advice if you're not like, that doesn't even make sense. But I do remember a time you

[Lara Lee]

clocked that creator hard, too. I remember you sent a voice note and got them. Yeah, I remember that you got them together.

[Manny Mua]

I'm not asking.

[Lara Lee]

That's why you got them together, because you did it. Ass.

[Manny Mua]

I'm not asking you.

[Lara Lee]

The creator text me. He's like, you need to fix this and that and that in your video. But Manny never adds. It was just like a random off the cuff. So many. Clocked them hard. Honey Diva came out and he sent them a scalding voice.

[Manny Mua]

So. Because the thing is, again, one, I hate unsolicited advice. It's one of my biggest pet peeves. Like, do not, like, do not tell me something.

[Lara Lee]

You hate comment sections. Because that's all that it is that.

[Manny Mua]

But see, the thing is, that's different than like someone in my life. Like, tell me something that, like, personal. Yeah, that's personal. Like that, like, comments like that. I'm like, baby, that's just the comment section that is literally like the sky is blue. Like, I know what I'm expecting, that unsolicited advice coming from like a creator to tell me about, like my lighting, which I never asked for. I don't need to hear that because I'm never asking you that. I'm not asking you about, like that situation. So why the fudge are you telling me something about it? Yeah, so I think that's like more so how I feel. And it's the same like when I was like telling you even like when I was playing volleyball, when I was like, you don't need to tell me what I am doing wrong. Like, I'm good.

[Lara Lee]

Oh, yeah. Like, I don't see, that's another one. That's a good. Tried it.

[Manny Mua]

Yes. So. So, like, you don't need to tell me what I'm not asking you if you're not better at something. I mean, I'm a grown ass man.

[Lara Lee]

I pay my bills.

[Manny Mua]

My bills are paid, babe. I do not need to hear that. So I'm not the type of person that is ever really asking for advice. If I'm asking for advice, it's because, I don't know, something.

[Lara Lee]

I think that it's okay to give someone elicited unsolicited advices if you're paying their bills.

[Manny Mua]

Great.

[Lara Lee]

Then you're gonna hear it.

[Manny Mua]

Absolutely.

[Lara Lee]

And you have to hear it.

[Manny Mua]

Yes.

[Lara Lee]

But whenever you're paying your bills, your bills are paid. Keep your mouth.

[Manny Mua]

And I'll always like, I don't know if this is insolic advice, but I'll always be like, oh, you have something right here.

[Lara Lee]

Like, that's not advice.

[Manny Mua]

That's not advice though, right? That's like a little help. I'm just helping.

[Lara Lee]

That's being helpful.

[Manny Mua]

Okay, great.

[Lara Lee]

That's not advice.

[Manny Mua]

Making sure that's not like, I'm not helping in that way. I'm like, hey, Laura, you got a little black.

[Lara Lee]

You're like, I'm trying to tell you Right now you have that.

[Manny Mua]

The flake. Don't forget that flake.

[Lara Lee]

You can tell me. You can tell me advice. I probably won't listen, but you can tell.

[Manny Mua]

Of course not. You think you're listening to that shit. Like, what the fuck? Why are you going to listen to me for? Again, Again, like, if I'm not doing something 10 times better than you, why the would I tell you something that doesn't make sense?

[Lara Lee]

Okay, I like that. I like that a lot.

[Manny Mua]

The. Okay, let's see. Take it to the grave. Okay, let's see. What's one opinion you know would start a comment war?

[Lara Lee]

A saying Charlotte, y' all asked Charlotte Tilbury, and it's created a comment war. And we knew that it would. Okay, I'm okay not having everybody.

[Manny Mua]

I'm okay with me and I'm okay with having a different opinion.

[Lara Lee]

I'm okay with having a different opinion. Opinion. You asked one of the most forefronting people in the beauty industry who created a brand that's so sick that every drugstore brand has been biting at the chomps to create a speckle of what she's created. And you ask her what she thought about dupes, and then.

[Manny Mua]

And we're mad at the response.

[Lara Lee]

What do you think?

[Manny Mua]

And like, also, like, people, like, I understand people being upset with the idea of, like, her having.

[Lara Lee]

You're duping the consumer.

[Manny Mua]

Yes. And I understand that aspect. Okay. I do understand.

[Lara Lee]

It still doesn't mean that you're.

[Manny Mua]

But it doesn't mean. Mean that she wasn't caught up in the moment and like, huna caught off guard as when someone's asking her about

[Lara Lee]

dupes, even though I'm like, okay, we y' all ragged a brand and said what you're gonna say. I've talked about the dupes on Charlotte Tilbury. You've talked about the dupes on Charlotte Tilbury. Everybody's been like, this is Charlotte Tilbury, dude.

[Manny Mua]

Yes.

[Lara Lee]

So at the end of the day, if she wants to say what she wants to say about it, then baby speak.

[Manny Mua]

And at the end of the day, speak on it. She is going to have an opinion about brand stooping her. And.

[Lara Lee]

And she's a trailblazer.

[Manny Mua]

She's a trailblazer for what she does. And at the fact that they do copy her all the time and they try to visibly do things to make it look like it's her brand. I'm sorry, there's no world in which I'm gonna be like, yeah, if I was her, I would. I would have said, I Understand that. Like, I'm sorry. Like, I just. I don't see it in that way. Like, I feel like as someone, like, as a trailblazer as that she is as a female founded brand, someone that's worked so hard to get to where she is, from a makeup artist artist to where she is.

[Lara Lee]

She's still in it. Charlotte Tilbury could wipe her hands and walk away, but she stays. She's in that brand deep. So it's like, that's her baby. That's what she's built. She built a empire. So, like, put some respect on it.

[Manny Mua]

Yeah. And if you don't agree with me, great. That's. And that's okay.

[Lara Lee]

Yeah. I think that's like where we get lost sometimes. I think, like with these popcorn dramas like this, like whenever people disagree or don't have the all cookie cutter same opinion on everything, that it's like the bottom falls out. But at the end of the day, what we forget is that it doesn't matter that we don't have the same opinion. Things like this, like, you know what I mean? Because we can be coming from different perspectives. And so that's going to be the difference in opinion. Whenever we've known Charlotte Tilbury for years, we've been in the beauty industry longer than these have. Even putting on makeup. We've been teaching it longer than that. You know what I mean? So, yeah, we may have a difference in opinion.

[Manny Mua]

And that is. Oh, that is completely.

[Lara Lee]

That's okay.

[Manny Mua]

And you could have a different opinion. Me, Laura, will have different opinions as well, like from each other. And that doesn't mean, like, mean like we're not trying to understand where someone's coming from.

[Lara Lee]

One's right, one's wrong, one's no.

[Manny Mua]

It's just like, okay, period. You, that's yours.

[Lara Lee]

That's a different opinion. Because. And I say. I always say popcorn drama when. Because I do think there are times whenever, like, an opinion can't be wrong. You know what I mean?

[Manny Mua]

For sure.

[Lara Lee]

But this is popcorn drama. This is dupes. This is Charlotte Tilbury again.

[Manny Mua]

It's not that serious.

[Lara Lee]

It is. Yeah. But anyways, that's it for today's episode. We love you guys.

[Manny Mua]

Love you guys so much. We'll see you guys next week's episode. We have a guest who's absolutely incredible. He's amazing. And we think you guys are absolutely. Love next week's guests.

[Lara Lee]

So bye, guys.

[Manny Mua]

See you guys later.

[Lara Lee]

Bye.

[Manny Mua]

Hello and welcome to Pluto Foe. If you know the name of the movie, you'd like to see. Just stream it for free on Pluto tv, where all your blockbuster favorites are

[Lara Lee]

landing all summer long.

[Manny Mua]

Catch.

[Lara Lee]

Anchorman.

[Manny Mua]

The Legend of Ron Burgundy. Fantastic. The Matrix Trilogy. Welcome to the real world, Mean girls.

[Lara Lee]

Shut up.

[Manny Mua]

Titanic. I'm the king of the world. And so much more. For Showtime's press, Nothing. They're free 24. 7.

[Lara Lee]

That is so fast.

[Manny Mua]

On Pluto TV. Stream now.

[Lara Lee]

Pay never.