Podcast Title: Good Guys
Host/Authors: Josh Peck & Ben Soffer
Episode: Elmo Said WHAT?
Release Date: July 31, 2025

1. Elmo's Social Media Scandal

[00:24 - 03:30]
The episode kicks off with Josh Peck and Ben Soffer delving into a bizarre incident involving Elmo from Sesame Street. Ben, acting as the head of Elmo's crisis team, reveals that Elmo's Twitter account had been compromised, leading to the posting of anti-Semitic messages such as "kill the Jews."

Ben emphasizes the absurdity of the situation, saying, “Elmo would never, by the way” [00:49], and critiques the weak apology issued in Elmo's voice. The hosts humorously brainstorm an episode scenario where Elmo learns a lesson about his inappropriate tweets:

• Ben: “Elmo, why was your password 1, 2, 3? I told you that you needed to make your password stronger.” [01:31]
• Elmo (role-played by Ben): “Elmo made a mistake. He was hanging out with his friend Mr. Kanye…” [01:40]

They highlight the ludicrousness of a beloved children's character being implicated in such a scandal, blending humor with satire to underscore the importance of cybersecurity and responsible social media use.

2. The Epstein Tape Conspiracy

[03:37 - 06:10]
Transitioning from Elmo's mishap, Josh and Ben pivot to discussing the ongoing mystery surrounding Jeffrey Epstein's videotapes. Ben expresses skepticism about the incomplete footage, stating, “All I know is I don't know enough.” [04:20] They explore the broader implications of powerful individuals potentially being involved in heinous activities, reflecting on how such conspiracies are often hushed up:

• Ben: “I get why people are angry. I'm angry. I want to know.” [05:11]

Josh relates this to the broader theme of living in a "constructed matrix reality," where critical issues are overshadowed by everyday concerns, making it difficult for the public to stay informed and engaged.

3. Launching the Big Boys Club

[14:05 - 15:43]
In a creative twist, Josh and Ben introduce their initiative—the Joshi and Benny Big Boys Foundation. This mock segment envisions a supportive community for "thick boys of any class," providing better access to appropriately sized clothing.

• Josh: “These are for thick boys of any class, economic class, but who need better access to bigger pants, bigger clothes.” [14:05]
• Ben: “We're fully inclusive. You have a size 80 and you're one step closer to God.” [14:43]

The duo humorously outlines the foundation's features, including a website powered by Shopify, and emphasizes inclusivity and body positivity. This segment serves as a satirical commentary on niche communities and the commercialization of body image.

4. Health Journeys and Mental Health Insights

[17:00 - 27:54]
Ben shares his personal health journey, discussing his transition to using creatine supplements:

• Ben: “I'm on day five. I'm taking the recommended dose... And my muscles are like, hey, Ben, you want to go fucking do something?” [18:03]
• Josh: “I like looking a little bloated in the face, but it's solid stuff.” [18:44]

The conversation shifts to mental health, with Josh opening up about his own struggles with anxiety and the eventual decision to discontinue antidepressants:

• Josh: “I've been in my cholesterol medicine for life... I stopped taking my antidepressant after three years.” [22:14]
• Ben: “When did you stop?” [22:10]
• Josh: “Two months ago.” [22:14]

Ben offers supportive remarks, advocating for non-judgmental attitudes toward medication and mental health tools:

• Ben: “I support anybody wanting to take anything. Nobody can know what's going on inside of somebody else's head.” [27:08]

This heartfelt exchange highlights the importance of mental health awareness, support, and the personal choices individuals make in managing their well-being.

5. Music, Concerts, and Personal Stories

[35:16 - 50:04]
Josh and Ben engage in a lively discussion about music preferences and concert experiences. They reminisce about iconic bands and concerts, reflecting on how music shapes personal identities:

• Ben: “We're a musical people. Very musical.” [50:25]

The hosts joke about attending concerts, such as Coldplay and the Backstreet Boys, and share humorous anecdotes about their musical tastes and experiences as young fans. This segment underscores the universal connection through music and the nostalgic memories it evokes.

6. Audience Interaction: Q&A Session

[50:39 - 57:54]
The podcast incorporates audience interaction through SpeakPipe, where listeners submit questions seeking advice on personal relationships. Two main queries are addressed:

1. Divorce Consideration:

   • Anonymous Listener: "I'm thinking about divorcing my wife. Hear me out... I just love sucking. What the hell?" [51:23]
     Josh and Ben humorously respond, blending serious advice with their trademark wit.

2. Plus-One Dilemma for a Wedding:

   • Olivia: "Should I talk to my boyfriend or his sister about not having a plus-one?" [52:14]
     They offer practical suggestions, emphasizing respectful communication and setting clear time limits for speeches to ensure the wedding remains enjoyable.

These interactions demonstrate the hosts' ability to balance humor with sincere advice, fostering a connection with their audience.

7. Moments of the Week: Gripes and Rants

[59:37 - 61:23]
In their "Moment of the Week," Josh and Ben vent about everyday annoyances:

• Josh: Complains about his cardiologist’s formal language: “Could you just write 'nourished'?” [60:00]
• Ben: Rants about a rude individual at Carvel: “Can you shut up, roid head loser?” [60:22]

These segments provide comedic relief, showcasing the hosts' personalities and their knack for turning minor frustrations into entertaining content.

Conclusion

Throughout "Elmo Said WHAT?", Josh Peck and Ben Soffer adeptly navigate a mix of topical issues, personal anecdotes, and humor. From addressing the absurdity of Elmo's social media scandal to discussing deep-seated conspiracy theories and personal health journeys, the hosts maintain an engaging and relatable dialogue. Their ability to intertwine serious discussions with lighthearted banter ensures that both regular listeners and newcomers find the episode both informative and entertaining.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben: “Elmo would never, by the way.” [00:49]
• Josh: “This is our Big Boys Club. It’s the Benny and Joshi Big Boys Club.” [14:05]
• Ben: “I'm on day five. I'm taking the recommended dose... and my muscles are like, hey, Ben, you want to go fucking do something?” [18:03]
• Josh: “I've been in my cholesterol medicine for life... I stopped taking my antidepressant after three years.” [22:14]
• Ben: “Don't be judgmental over meds.” [27:54]
• Josh: “I have three children. Can you imagine me explaining to people like, oh, Josh, you finally got away a little.” [39:46]

This summary excludes all advertisement segments and focuses solely on the core content of the podcast episode.