Podcast Summary: Handsome – Episode: "Melissa Etheridge Asks About Getting It On"

Release Date: January 21, 2025
Host/Authors: Tig Notaro, Fortune Feimster, and Mae Martin
Guest: Melissa Etheridge

1. Opening Banter and Personal Anecdotes (00:33 – 14:34)

The episode kicks off with the hosts engaging in their signature playful banter. Mae Martin initiates a lighthearted conversation about childhood games, leading to humorous attempts to play a counting game. Fortune Feimster expresses her disinterest in traditional game nights, contrasting with Mae's enthusiasm for activities like Monopoly.

Notable Quote:

• Mae Martin (01:19): "Like, you know that game where you have to each say you have to count to 10 without saying it at a number at the same time?"

The discussion seamlessly transitions to personal stories, including the guest speaker's experience attending the premiere of "The Bob Dylan Movie." They commend co-star Monica Barbaro for her portrayal of Joan Baez, highlighting her dedication in learning to play the guitar for the role.

Notable Quote:

• Guest Speaker (02:44): "My FUBAR co-star, Monica Barbaro, she is in it playing Joan Baez."

Mae Martin shares her thoughts on portraying iconic figures in biopics, expressing a desire to embody strong characters like Judi Dench. The conversation explores the challenges and fun of imagining themselves in the shoes of notable personalities.

2. Motorcycles, Scooters, and Time Capsules (07:39 – 25:59)

The hosts delve into a nostalgic discussion about motorcycles and scooters. Fortune Feimster reveals her vintage Honda CB 350s, affectionately named "Goldie Honda" and "Kurt Russell," sharing anecdotes about their storied pasts, including previous ownership by Phil Collin of Def Leppard.

Notable Quote:

• Fortune Feimster (08:21): "I have two CB, Honda, CB 350s. They're so adorable. One is from 1969, one is from 1970, and one is gold. And I call that one Goldie Honda."

Mae Martin and the guest speaker exchange stories about renting scooters in Switzerland and Chicago, emphasizing the freedom and occasional perils of riding. They humorously discuss the idea of centaurs in relationships, blending mythical imagination with real-life experiences.

Transitioning to the concept of time capsules, Fortune shares her unique approach of maintaining an ongoing personal time capsule in her garage. She details her method of periodically reviewing and decluttering items that hold sentimental value.

Notable Quote:

• Fortune Feimster (24:28): "It's like a cabinet and... it's something I go through regularly. And then I get rid of some things that I don't feel attached to, connected to."

Mae Martin suggests creating a "Handsome Pod" time capsule filled with quirky items like their merch, plastic plants, and a propeller hat, showcasing their camaraderie and playful spirit.

3. Tarot Card Reading Segment (25:59 – 35:31)

The hosts introduce a mystical segment involving tarot card readings using the "Ghost" deck Mae Martin purchased. Fortune Feimster seeks guidance on her potential relocation between Los Angeles and Toronto for the upcoming year.

Notable Quote:

• Fortune Feimster (27:33): "I want to know, am I going to be based in Los Angeles or Toronto next year?"

Mae draws the "Magician" card, symbolizing power, influence, and personal ability. The hosts interpret its meaning, encouraging Fortune to embrace her own power in making decisions about her future.

Notable Quote:

• Mae Martin (29:17): "So the magician card is like a magic wand. It can mean making your dreams come true, healing in your life, thinking about spiritual things..."

The guest speaker also engages in the tarot session, pulling the "Sun" card, which signifies energy, balance, and overall well-being. They discuss the positive implications of the card, reinforcing messages of personal growth and vitality.

Notable Quote:

• Mae Martin (31:27): "The sun card... represents energy, balance, and overall well being. If you've been unwell, this card suggests a speedy recovery and feeling better than before."

The segment concludes with light-hearted remarks about integrating tarot readings into their lives, blending the mystical with their comedic rapport.

4. Q&A with Melissa Etheridge: "Go-To Making Love Song" (35:31 – 55:31)

The highlight of the episode features a special guest, Melissa Etheridge, who poses a heartfelt question to the hosts: "What is your go-to making love song?" This prompt sparks a vibrant discussion about music's role in setting romantic moods.

Mae Martin describes her preference for artists like River Phoenix (likely a humorous mix-up with the actor's legacy) and Judi Dench, while Fortune Feimster advocates for the timeless allure of Sade's music.

Notable Quote:

• Fortune Feimster (39:59): "Sade... there is... I can never remember if I'm saying this person's name right or wrong, but Sade."

Mae shares a funny anecdote about a friend attempting to use Alexa to add humorous items to a to-do list, resulting in an unexpected and embarrassing reveal.

Notable Quote:

• Mae Martin (46:14): "So as a joke, my friend said, Alexa, add to the list, pick up eggs and Catherine's head on a platter..."

Melissa Etheridge responds by sharing her own favorite love song, "No Ordinary Love" by Sade, reinforcing the significance of music in intimate moments.

Notable Quote:

• Melissa Etheridge (50:15): "So my go-to song. I'm a big Sade gal. Pretty much any Sade song can do for me. But Sade, No Ordinary Love."

The hosts engage in a playful exchange about music choices, with Mae Martin planning to incorporate "No Ordinary Love" into her own romantic repertoire. They emphasize the importance of curated playlists and how specific songs can enhance the romantic atmosphere.

Notable Quote:

• Mae Martin (35:31): "What is your go to making love song?"

5. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts (55:31 – End)

As the episode winds down, the hosts return to their comedic roots, sharing light-hearted interactions and promoting upcoming projects. They encourage listeners to engage with their content, share episodes, and stay connected through social media.

Mae Martin expresses admiration for Melissa Etheridge's influence in the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting her role as a pioneer and advocate.

Notable Quote:

• Mae Martin (52:38): "An honor paving the way for us gays. Opening all those doors and being brave in a time when it was really hard to be out."

The episode concludes with a blend of humor and heartfelt appreciation, reinforcing the strong bond among the hosts and their guests.

Key Takeaways:

• Personal Connections: The hosts share intimate and humorous stories, strengthening their rapport and offering listeners relatable content.
• Music and Romance: A deep dive into how music influences romantic experiences, with Melissa Etheridge highlighting the power of Sade's "No Ordinary Love."
• Mystical Elements: The inclusion of tarot card readings adds a unique and engaging layer to the episode, blending spirituality with entertainment.
• LGBTQ+ Advocacy: Melissa Etheridge's participation underscores the podcast's commitment to celebrating and supporting the LGBTQ+ community.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Mae Martin (01:19): "Like, you know that game where you have to each say you have to count to 10 without saying it at a number at the same time?"
• Guest Speaker (02:44): "My FUBAR co-star, Monica Barbaro, she is in it playing Joan Baez."
• Fortune Feimster (08:21): "I have two CB, Honda, CB 350s. They're so adorable. One is from 1969, one is from 1970, and one is gold. And I call that one Goldie Honda."
• Fortune Feimster (24:28): "It's like a cabinet and... it's something I go through regularly. And then I get rid of some things that I don't feel attached to, connected to."
• Fortune Feimster (27:33): "I want to know, am I going to be based in Los Angeles or Toronto next year?"
• Mae Martin (29:17): "So the magician card is like a magic wand. It can mean making your dreams come true, healing in your life, thinking about spiritual things..."
• Melissa Etheridge (50:15): "So my go-to song. I'm a big Sade gal. Pretty much any Sade song can do for me. But Sade, No Ordinary Love."
• Mae Martin (52:38): "An honor paving the way for us gays. Opening all those doors and being brave in a time when it was really hard to be out."

This episode of "Handsome" masterfully intertwines humor, personal storytelling, mystical insights, and meaningful dialogues, making it a standout entry for both long-time listeners and newcomers alike.