Podcast Episode Summary: "Molly Shannon Asks About Irish Goodbyes"
Release Date: November 5, 2024
Podcast: Handsome
Hosts: Tig Notaro, Fortune Feimster, May Martin
Guest: Molly Shannon
Introduction
In this lively episode of "Handsome", comedians Tig Notaro, Fortune Feimster, and May Martin tackle a relatable social dilemma posed by guest Molly Shannon: "When you are leaving a party, do you say goodbye on your way out, or do you do the Irish exit—the quick say-no-goodbye exit?" The hosts delve into their personal habits, cultural nuances, and humorous anecdotes surrounding the act of departing gatherings gracefully—or not so gracefully.
Understanding the Irish Exit
The Irish exit, also known as the French exit, refers to leaving a social event without saying goodbye. The hosts explore the origins and implications of this practice:
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Fortune Feimster asks, "Why do you think they call it an Irish exit?" at [00:33:05], sparking a discussion on cultural etiquettes and alternative terms.
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May Martin adds, "I've heard it called a French exit as well," highlighting that different cultures have their own versions of discreet departures [00:33:09].
Personal Approaches to Leaving Parties
Each host shares their unique strategies for exiting events:
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Tig Notaro prefers a structured approach:
"I do say goodbye when I leave and do my thank yous and everything, but I kind of... That's kind of my favorite part of being at a party is being like, okay, it's time to leave. Let's go say goodbye."
[00:35:17] -
May Martin identifies strongly with the Irish exit, admitting:
"I'm an Irish Exeter in a big way... that's why it's always a 45-minute process to me."
[00:35:45]
She explains that saying proper goodbyes often leads to extended farewells, making the exit more cumbersome. -
Fortune Feimster emphasizes her preference for formal goodbyes:
"I'm not an Irish goodbye or Exeter because I feel too guilty. I feel like I need to properly say thank you to the host to tell my friends I'm leaving."
[00:55:22]
Humorous Anecdotes and Stories
The conversation flourishes with entertaining personal stories:
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Tig Notaro reminisces about her close friendship with Molly Shannon:
"I have the absolute pleasure of living in the same neighborhood as Molly. She rides her bike around the neighborhood... she's like the mayor of our neighborhood."
[00:29:21] -
May Martin shares a funny incident involving her attempt to coordinate an exit from a party:
"I organized a cast gathering and booked karaoke for an after-party, knowing I wouldn't attend. My friend gave me grace, letting me make a graceful exit without judgment."
[00:35:39] -
Fortune Feimster reflects on her high school experience performing as Mary Katherine Gallagher:
"I dressed up as Mary Katherine Gallagher and did her sketch in the talent show. That was my first taste of performing."
[00:30:24]
Molly Shannon's Perfect Irish Exit
When Molly Shannon shares her approach, the hosts are all ears:
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Molly recounts a memorable party where she orchestrated a dramatic exit:
"There was a dance circle and I made a big scene... and then I zipped out. That was my perfect Irish exit."
[00:57:58] -
Tig Notaro humorously critiques the effectiveness of such an exit:
"But that would seem like you were really there partying if you've made such a huge scene like that."
[00:58:12]
Balancing Etiquette and Personal Comfort
The hosts discuss the balance between being courteous and maintaining personal comfort:
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Tig Notaro appreciates having a mission when leaving:
"I love to get up and beeline over and do my goodbyes. And that is the most fun."
[00:35:27] -
May Martin acknowledges the challenge of setting boundaries:
"That's my lifelong journey. For sure."
[00:36:38] -
Fortune Feimster advocates for respecting different approaches:
"If you make your presence known pretty hardcore, and then just dip out, it's a valid strategy."
[00:58:25]
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the importance of understanding diverse social behaviors and embracing individual preferences:
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Fortune Feimster wraps up the discussion:
"I wasn't an Irish goodbye or Exeter because I feel too guilty. I feel like I need to properly say thank you to the host to tell my friends I'm leaving."
[00:55:22] -
Tig Notaro emphasizes the fun in planning exits:
"I love to get up and beeline over and do my goodbyes. And that is the most fun."
[00:35:27] -
May Martin encourages embracing one's style:
"I really appreciate the friends in my life who give me grace. They let me do my thing."
[00:35:45]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Fortune Feimster [00:33:05]:
"Why do you think they call it an Irish exit?"
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Tig Notaro [00:35:17]:
"That's kind of my favorite part of being at a party is being like, okay, it's time to leave. Let's go say goodbye."
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May Martin [00:35:45]:
"I'm an Irish Exeter in a big way... that's why it's always a 45-minute process to me."
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Molly Shannon [00:57:58]:
"It was my perfect Irish exit."
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Tig Notaro [00:58:12]:
"That's a good plan if you don't want to go somewhere for a long time to, like, make your presence known pretty hardcore, and then just dip out."
Additional Highlights
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The episode is peppered with humorous banter about roommates, personal quirks, and shared experiences, adding depth and relatability to the hosts' interactions.
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Promotional segments are seamlessly integrated, promoting products like Allstate home insurance, Uncommon Goods, and more, though these are minimized in the summary per user instructions.
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The camaraderie among Tig, Fortune, and May shines through, making the discussion engaging for both regular listeners and newcomers.
Final Thoughts
This episode of "Handsome" masterfully blends humor with genuine conversation, offering listeners insightful perspectives on social etiquette while keeping the tone light and entertaining. Whether you prefer the politeness of saying goodbye or the stealth of an Irish exit, Tig, Fortune, and May provide relatable commentary that resonates with anyone navigating the complexities of social gatherings.