Podcast Summary: Handsome – Pretty Little Episode #20

Release Date: January 3, 2025

In the twentieth episode of Handsome, the charming trio of comedians Tig Notaro, Fortune Feimster, and Mae Martin dive into a variety of engaging topics, blending humor with heartfelt conversations. This episode, aptly titled "Pretty Little," offers listeners a glimpse into the hosts' personal lives, interests, and creative musings, all while fielding questions from their audience. Below is a detailed breakdown of the episode's key discussions, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps for a comprehensive understanding.

1. Makeup and Personal Grooming

The episode kicks off with Mae Martin candidly discussing her foray into makeup, a departure from her usual routine. Tig Notaro playfully questions Mae about her makeup choices, leading to an amusing exchange about the product "Boy Brow."

• Mae Martin on Wearing Makeup:
  [01:00] "Do you have makeup on?"
  Mae explains her decision to enhance her appearance for the podcast, mentioning tinted sunscreen, eyebrow products, and bronzer.

• Discussion on Boy Brow:
  [02:02] Mae introduces the audience to "Boy Brow," a versatile eyebrow product.
  Mae Martin: "You need to get into eyebrow stuff."
  Tig Notaro: "But why is it Boy Brow?"
  Mae Martin: "It's stupid. Like, you know when you buy, like, jeans that are like, boyfriend fit..."
  This light-hearted banter highlights their camaraderie and Mae's enthusiasm for makeup experimentation.

2. Favorite Movies and Viral Videos

Transitioning from makeup, the conversation shifts to favorite films and a humorous mention of Mae's friend, Chris Fairbanks, and his creative viral video inspired by the movie "Cocktail."

• Mae on Tom Cruise Movies:
  [04:24] "I've got really into like painting pictures and watching 90s Tom Cruise movies... I watched Vanilla Sky, Eyes Wide Shut, Magnolia..."
  Mae shares her nostalgia for classic Tom Cruise films, sparking a lively discussion about his diverse roles.

• Chris Fairbanks' "Cocktail" Video:
  [05:00] Tig introduces Chris Fairbanks' 11-minute rendition of "Cocktail," praising its creativity.
  Tig Notaro: "Look up Chris Fairbanks and Cocktail. It will destroy you..."
  This segment underscores the hosts' support for their friends' artistic endeavors and adds a layer of humor to the episode.

3. Listener Question: Navigating the Dating Scene

Fortune Feimster presents a heartfelt question from Helen, a single mom looking to re-enter the dating world. The trio offers insightful and humorous advice on maintaining engaging conversations during dates.

• Helen's Question:
  [09:26] Fortune introduces Helen from Columbus, Georgia, seeking tips on keeping conversations interesting on dates.

• Mae's Advice on Asking Questions:
  [10:46]
  Mae Martin: "I like questions, but I am worried that, like, if you approach it like, oh, I gotta get. Make sure that I'm an interesting person on this date, then you're just gonna be performing your personality..."
  Mae emphasizes the importance of genuine interest over scripted questioning.

• Tig's Tips on Staying Present:
  [10:46]
  Tig Notaro: "I do think that is key. Asking questions, you know, asking about their life and their job..."
  Tig underscores the value of being present and truly engaging with the date.

• Mae on Activity Dates:
  [14:08]
  Mae Martin: "I'm a big fan of activity dates as well. It is really... Go do. Go to an art gallery or an escape room..."
  Mae suggests activities that naturally facilitate conversation, reducing the pressure of maintaining a dialogue.

4. Favorite Performance Venues

The conversation naturally evolves into a discussion about the hosts' favorite venues to perform, blending professional insights with personal anecdotes.

• Tig on Carnegie Hall:
  [15:16]
  Tig Notaro: "I was actually just talking last night about how I did Carnegie Hall and the way that theater is built... it feels like laughter is just raining down on your head."
  Tig shares the unique experience of performing at such an iconic venue, highlighting its ambiance and impact.

• Mae on Largo and Intimate Theaters:
  [17:08]
  Mae Martin: "That's, I think, my favorite type, as well as a small theater that still feels intimate. I love Largo in LA..."
  Mae expresses her preference for cozy venues that foster a close connection with the audience.

• Discussion on the Sydney Opera House and Red Rocks:
  [17:44 & 18:55]
  Mae and Tig discuss the challenges and beauties of performing at large, prestigious venues like the Sydney Opera House and the natural amphitheater of Red Rocks in Colorado, respectively.

5. Band Aspirations and Collaborative Dreams

In a delightful twist, the hosts entertain the idea of forming a band, blending their comedic talents with musical ambition.

• Brainstorming a Band:
  [20:50]
  Mae Martin: "So if my style was, like, pacing back and forth on the stage, yelling, delivering, like, really tight punchlines... I'm a rambler and a gambler..."
  Tig Notaro: "We could do just, like, three songs."
  The playful discussion highlights their chemistry and willingness to explore creative projects together.

6. Closing Remarks

As the episode winds down, the hosts encourage listeners to submit more questions and promote their upcoming performances, maintaining an engaging connection with their audience.

• Encouragement to Submit Questions:
  [22:16]
  May Martin: "Keep sending in your questions for us."

• Promotion of Upcoming Shows and Social Media:
  [22:18]
  Tig Notaro: "Go to handsomepod.com for merch as well. And subscribe to the podcast..."

Notable Quotes:

• "You're not wearing a stitch of makeup, but you look handsome as ever."
  Tig Notaro (03:22)

• "It has 803 views right now. Okay, let's double that."
  Tig Notaro (06:00)

• "I think I'm falling in love with you."
  Tig Notaro (12:41)

• "It sounds like you're just performing your personality."
  May Martin (11:37)

• "Laughter is just raining down on your head."
  Tig Notaro (15:16)

Conclusion

"Pretty Little Episode #20" of Handsome masterfully intertwines humor, personal stories, and sincere advice, showcasing the dynamic rapport between Tig, Fortune, and Mae. From makeup mishaps and viral videos to heartfelt dating tips and dreams of forming a band, the episode offers a rich tapestry of conversations that resonate with both longtime fans and new listeners alike. The hosts' ability to navigate diverse topics with wit and warmth makes this episode a standout installment in the Handsome podcast series.