Giggly Squad: Episode Summary – “Giggling about Maternity Leave, Method Acting, and Brain Farts”

Release Date: May 13, 2025
Hosts: Hannah Berner & Paige DeSorbo

1. Reflections on the Met Gala and AI-Generated Celebrities

The episode kicks off with a humorous and nostalgic discussion about the Met Gala, delving into the surreal experience of encountering AI-generated images of celebrities. Paige DeSorbo shares her amusing mishap while attempting to greet her listeners, leading to confusion about the relevance of the Met Gala.

Paige DeSorbo [02:40]:
"The last time we spoke to the Gigglers was the Morning of the Met. But, like, it's been so long that the Met's not even in the news cycle anymore."

Mitchell recounts her experience of showcasing a viral AI-generated Katy Perry photo to friends, highlighting the blurring lines between reality and digital fabrication in modern pop culture.

Mitchell [03:30]:
"It was an AI photo of Katy Perry that I completely missed. The Internet fell for it again, just like the second year in a row, except for Best Dressed."

The conversation evolves into a playful speculation about the future of celebrity appearances, suggesting that AI might take over red carpet glamour, reducing the need for actual physical presence.

2. Podcast Recording Dynamics: Virtual vs. In-Person

Transitioning from pop culture, the hosts discuss the logistics and emotional nuances of recording the podcast virtually versus in person. They express a preference for the energy and spontaneity of face-to-face recordings but acknowledge the challenges that sometimes necessitate virtual setups.

Mitchell [05:41]:
"I love when we record in person; the energy is different, the pod is different."

Paige adds that while virtual recordings can feel nostalgic, especially to older listeners, they miss the personal touch that comes with being physically together.

Paige DeSorbo [06:09]:
"My mom said she actually likes when we record on Zoom because it reminds her of Instagram Live days, which is so nostalgic and beautiful."

They humorously discuss the logistical hurdles of setting up in different locations, ultimately committing to improving their recording situation over the summer.

3. Mitchell’s Journey Through Egg Retrieval and Maternity Leave

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Mitchell’s personal experience with egg retrieval and her thoughts on motherhood. She provides an in-depth account of her procedure, emotional state, and the physical aftermath.

Mitchell [08:23]:
"It’s considered like, if you’re like, no, you have to show up. It’s like, okay, wow. So we don’t give paid maternity leave."

Mitchell details the medical process she underwent, including the number of eggs retrieved and the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies such a life-changing decision.

Mitchell [09:14]:
"Walking down the streets of New York City, I was like, if anyone steps to me right now with my eggs just brewing, ready to be taken out, I'll cut some."

She candidly discusses the hormonal fluctuations and emotional challenges she faces post-retrieval, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and understanding.

Mitchell [13:21]:
"The female body is capable of alien behavior. It’s crazy."

The discussion also touches on the complexities of diagnosing PCOS, highlighting the frustrations often faced by women in medical systems.

Mitchell [16:25]:
"It is extremely hard to diagnose. And the same thing happens to them."

4. Navigating Mental Health: Brain Farts and Thought Management

Hannah and Paige segue into mental health topics, introducing the concept of “brain farts” — fleeting, often irrational thoughts that can lead to anxiety or spiraling. They explore strategies to manage these intrusive thoughts without giving them undue attention.

Paige DeSorbo [35:31]:
"No, literally, it'll be like, do you remember this one memory when you were a kid and that was really upsetting to you, and you're like, why are you bringing that up?"

Mitchell offers practical advice on labeling these thoughts as "brain farts" to defuse their impact, promoting a lighthearted approach to mental wellness.

Paige DeSorbo [37:25]:
"Brain fart, Period. Brain fart. Ill brain fart. Bye."

They discuss the importance of not overanalyzing every thought and instead acknowledging them without letting them dictate emotional responses.

5. Encounters with Glamorous Icons: Meeting Anna Wintour

A standout moment in the episode involves the hosts' memorable encounter with Anna Wintour at the New York Public Library. They humorously narrate their initial nervousness, awkward interactions, and eventual success in making a positive impression.

Paige DeSorbo [46:46]:
"The gigglers are freaking out. They wrote because you posted the photos and they were like, Paige, how nervous were you that you've waited your whole life to be in front of Anna Wintour..."

Mitchell shares her anxiety about the interaction, revealing how they managed to engage with the iconic editor-in-chief and even cracked a joke that left Anna smiling.

Paige DeSorbo [49:48]:
"We made her giggle. We're on cloud nine."

This segment underscores the hosts’ ability to blend humor with personal anecdotes, making their experiences relatable and entertaining.

6. Embracing Self-Care and Skincare Routines

The podcast also delves into the importance of self-care, particularly focusing on skincare routines as a form of self-love and mental health support. Paige showcases her extensive skincare products, while Mitchell highlights her own regimen.

Mitchell [20:15]:
"My number one thing. And it would not be possible without my mattress for a mattress. I love it."

They emphasize the role of physical self-care in maintaining overall well-being, encouraging listeners to invest time in routines that make them feel good.

7. Humorous Takes on Age and Identity

A lighthearted discussion ensues around age perception and identity, with both hosts sharing their frustrations and humorous insights about how they are perceived by others.

Paige DeSorbo [31:19]:
"I was like, what? No, don't call him tired."

Mitchell [32:16]:
"You do not have to chase happiness. It's within you."

They navigate the complexities of age-related stereotypes and the pressure to conform to certain appearances, all while maintaining their signature comedic flair.

8. Pet Naming Conundrums and Relatable Anecdotes

In a delightful detour, the hosts discuss the quirky and creative names they give their pets, sharing laughs over unconventional choices and the stories behind them.

Paige DeSorbo [66:32]:
"This one girl's cat's name is Crunchwrap. Ms. Supreme, get over here."

Mitchell [67:24]:
"Like the name Pickle."

This segment highlights their playful personalities and the joy pets bring into their lives, resonating with pet owners in the audience.

9. Closing Thoughts and Reflections

As the episode wraps up, Hannah introduces a final motivational segment on manifesting dreams and setting goals, tying back to the earlier themes of personal growth and self-care.

Gary [73:29]:
"Every successful person had a time when they had to start from the beginning."

Mitchell and Paige share their personal approaches to manifesting and goal-setting, encouraging listeners to dream big and stay focused.

Mitchell [73:31]:
"I like to set a five-year totally unrealistic goal list. It doesn’t have to be long and it doesn’t have to be totally attainable."

The hosts conclude with a lighthearted mention of upcoming content, promising more laughs and relatable stories in future episodes.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Paige DeSorbo [03:11]:
  "And that's why when you're ever down, remember that nothing matters. And no one will remember, including yourself."

• Mitchell [08:23]:
  "So it's considered like, if you're like, no, you have to show up. It's like, okay, wow. So we don't give paid maternity leave."

• Paige DeSorbo [37:25]:
  "Brain fart, Period. Brain fart. Ill brain fart. Bye."

• Mitchell [49:48]:
  "We made her giggle. We're on cloud nine."

• Mitchell [73:31]:
  "I like to set a five-year totally unrealistic goal list. It doesn’t have to be long and it doesn’t have to be totally attainable."

Conclusion

In this episode of Giggly Squad, Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo blend humor with heartfelt conversations, offering listeners a candid glimpse into personal journeys, mental health struggles, and the humorous side of navigating adulthood. From discussing Mitchell’s egg retrieval and hormonal changes to their unforgettable encounter with Anna Wintour, the hosts ensure a lively and engaging discussion that resonates with a wide audience. Whether you're tuning in for the laughs or the genuine insights, this episode captures the essence of Giggly Squad—making fun of everything, especially themselves, while providing relatable content on pop culture, mental health, and personal growth.