Good Guys Podcast Summary: The Peruvian Puff Podcast with Isabela Merced

Podcast Information:

• Title: Good Guys
• Hosts: Josh Peck and Ben Soffer
• Guest: Isabella Merced
• Episode Title: The Peruvian Puff Podcast with Isabela Merced
• Release Date: July 7, 2025

1. Introduction

The episode kicks off with the hosts, Josh Peck and Ben Soffer, displaying their characteristic humor and camaraderie. They introduce themselves as "two Jews, both big and tall," setting a lighthearted tone for the discussion.

2. Welcome Isabella Merced

Josh Peck warmly welcomes Isabella Merced to the podcast, expressing excitement about their shared interests and aspirations to collaborate professionally.

Josh Peck (00:24): "We're just the good of the good guys. Mazel morons. Welcome back to the Good Guys podcast."

Isabella Merced (00:38): "Thank you for doing this."

3. Early Career and Nickelodeon Experience

Isabella delves into her appreciation for Josh's early work, particularly praising his role in the 2004 film Mean Creek. She highlights the contrast between his dramatic roles and his subsequent success in the Nickelodeon series Drake & Josh.

Isabella Merced (01:11): "You were in a film in 2004 called Mean Creek, and I absolutely love it. It's like a macabre Stand by Me. It's so dark and gritty."

She reflects on the golden era of Nickelodeon and its transition into the modern digital age, discussing the impact of shows like Drake & Josh on her career.

Isabella Merced (03:09): "I was a slime person. I got slimed. Nickelodeon was cool."

4. Transition to Drama and Film Roles

The conversation shifts to Isabella's transition from Nickelodeon to more dramatic roles. She shares her experience working on projects like Instant Family and Oppenheimer, emphasizing the meaningful impact these roles had on her personal and professional growth.

Isabella Merced (20:03): "Instant Family... just so much happening at once. Like, are you trying to do more serious stuff?"

She also touches on her involvement in The Last of Us and the challenges of balancing multiple high-profile projects simultaneously.

5. Current Projects: The Last of Us and Superman

Isabella provides an in-depth look into her roles in both The Last of Us and the upcoming Superman movie. She discusses the audition process, interactions with prominent figures like James Gunn, and the rigorous filming schedules that span several months.

Isabella Merced (33:09): "I auditioned four times. We did forms of scene recitations and camera tests... It was a full day."

The hosts express their admiration for her dedication and the significant milestones these projects represent in her career.

6. Personal Insights: Family and Acting Therapy

A heartfelt segment where Isabella shares insights into her family dynamics and how her upbringing has influenced her acting. She discusses the therapeutic aspect of acting, allowing her to process personal experiences through her characters.

Isabella Merced (23:38): "My mom is such an amazing parent, and she has taught me what it is to be loved unconditionally."

She reveals how her understanding of both presence and absence of love informs her portrayal of fatherless characters.

7. Cultural Discussions: Peru and Coca Tea

The discussion takes a cultural turn as Isabella talks about her Peruvian heritage, addressing misconceptions and introducing listeners to traditional elements like the Peruvian puff pepper and coca tea. She explains the significance of these cultural staples and their practical uses, such as alleviating altitude sickness.

Isabella Merced (07:13): "The coca leaf is something that you can make a tea out of. Sometimes you can just chew it."

8. "What Are You Nuts?" Segment

In the episode’s recurring segment, the hosts and Isabella share pet peeves that made them exclaim, "What are you nuts?" This lighthearted segment includes humorous anecdotes about distracted pedestrians, deep sleepers, and peculiar designs like the Cybertruck.

Ben Soffer (56:08): "People are just crossing against red lights in the middle of the street... What are you nuts?"

Isabella Merced (58:58): "Whenever I see a Cybertruck, I think, 'What are you nuts? It looks ridiculous.'"

9. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, the hosts promote upcoming projects, including the release date for the Superman movie, and encourage listeners to engage with their content across various platforms.

Josh Peck (59:05): "Superman's July 11th. Gang. Gang."

Isabella Merced (59:22): "There it is."

The episode concludes with expressions of gratitude towards Isabella for her participation and a reminder about potential paid endorsements.

Notable Quotes:

• Josh Peck (03:22): "Nickelodeon was cool."
• Isabella Merced (10:37): "Nature's Zen."
• Ben Soffer (41:38): "Shopify does it for you."
• Isabella Merced (24:33): "I wish I could apply [personal experiences] to a character right now."

Timestamp Highlights:

• 00:24: Hosts introduce themselves with humor.
• 01:11: Isabella praises Mean Creek and Josh’s performance.
• 03:09: Discussion about Nickelodeon’s influence.
• 20:03: Isabella reflects on Instant Family and serious roles.
• 33:09: Insights into the Superman audition process.
• 23:38: Personal reflections on family and acting.
• 07:13: Cultural discussion about Peru and coca tea.
• 56:08: "What are you nuts?" anecdotes.
• 59:05: Promotion of Superman movie release.

This episode of the Good Guys Podcast offers a blend of professional insights, personal anecdotes, and cultural discussions, all delivered with the hosts' trademark humor and warmth. Isabella Merced's candid conversation provides listeners with an intimate look into her career trajectory, personal growth, and cultural heritage, making it a valuable listen for fans and aspiring actors alike.