Handsome Podcast: Detailed Summary of "Pretty Little Episode #41"
Release Date: May 30, 2025
Hosts: Tig Notaro, Fortune Feimster, and May Martin
1. Episode Overview
In "Pretty Little Episode #41," hosted by Tig Notaro, Fortune Feimster, and May Martin, the trio delves into a variety of engaging topics ranging from cultural peculiarities and personal anecdotes to creative brainstorming for sitcoms. The episode is peppered with humor, heartfelt stories, and insightful discussions, offering listeners a blend of entertainment and reflection.
2. Cultural Conversations
British Phrases and Locations
The hosts kick off their conversation by discussing the phrase "across the pond," a term commonly used to refer to the Atlantic Ocean, separating the United States from the United Kingdom.
- May Martin [01:14]: "Run through the meadows like you're my wife."
- Fortune Feimster [01:24]: "Yeah, across the pond is such an annoying phrase when you think about it."
They explore the prevalence of meadows in Britain and contrast it with the landscapes in Los Angeles, highlighting cultural differences in language and geography.
Japanese Culture and Cuisine
The discussion shifts to Japan, with the hosts expressing curiosity and admiration for Japanese food and culture.
- May Martin [02:07]: "In Japan, apparently they have chocolate slices that are wrapped like cheese slices, and they're kind of bendy like that. And they're like Kraft Singles, but chocolate."
- Fortune Feimster [02:42]: "Every person I've heard who's been to Japan says the food's amazing and that even going into their 7-Eleven... it's like, the food is so good and fresh, and it makes me so curious to go."
They touch upon the allure of Japan's culinary offerings, the beauty of cherry blossoms, and the blend of bustling cities with serene natural landscapes.
3. Personal Anecdotes and Memories
Fortune's Connection with Trees
Fortune shares heartfelt memories of her grandmother, who nurtured her appreciation for nature by identifying various trees during their car rides.
- Fortune Feimster [03:23]: "I love trees in a weird way, because when I was growing up, my grandmother... her big thing was trees."
This deep-rooted connection influences her present-day appreciation for nature, symbolized by the two giant trees at her first home.
May's School Experiences with Ms. Garou
May narrates her school days, particularly her interactions with Ms. Garou, her crush and teacher, highlighting the challenges of not completing homework.
- May Martin [09:06]: "I had a crush on my grade six teacher, Ms. Garou... I had not done my homework nine times in a row."
- Fortune Feimster [09:54]: "Talking one on one time."
May recounts the consequences of her actions, including meeting Ms. Garou after class and the support she received in the form of chocolate bars when she improved her homework habits.
4. Exploring Self-Help and Spiritual Practices
May's Engagement with Witchcraft and Spells
May discusses her interest in witchcraft and the use of spells as a form of self-help, emphasizing the psychological benefits of verbalizing intentions.
- May Martin [05:26]: "I'm looking for shortcuts, and I should be going to therapy twice."
- Fortune Feimster [06:12]: "You have the power in your mind."
She explains her routine involving four candles—yellow, white, black, and red—and the specific spells she performs to "step into her power," underscoring the therapeutic aspect of such practices.
The Power of the Mind
The conversation evolves into a broader discussion about the mind's ability to shape reality and the importance of mental resilience.
- Fortune Feimster [06:19]: "You can train your brain to do some powerful things."
- May Martin [06:27]: "We shape our realities."
This segment highlights the hosts' belief in the interplay between mental strength and personal empowerment.
5. Storytelling and Inspirational Moments
Tig's "Taylor Dane" Story
Fortune introduces Tig's "Taylor Dane" narrative, a piece featured on This American Life, which they both find amusing and relatable.
- Fortune Feimster [07:25]: "Tig pointed that out and now."
May shares her appreciation for Tig's comedic timing in the story, particularly a segment about attending Brokeback Mountain.
- May Martin [07:58]: "She was cracking me up. Her friend that wouldn't go to Brokeback Mountain with her because her hair is too short."
6. Experiences in School: May and Fortune's Recollections
May's Struggles with Homework and Teacher Interactions
May elaborates on her school experiences, including gaslighting incidents when disputing with Ms. Garou about homework submissions.
- May Martin [09:17]: "I gaslit... I said I put it in your hand."
- Fortune Feimster [10:42]: "She was like, this kid just... does not know what's going on."
The exchange underscores the complexities of student-teacher relationships and the emotional toll of academic pressures.
Fortune's Exemplary School Conduct and Rule-Breaking
Fortune reflects on her impeccable school record juxtaposed with occasional rule-breaking, such as giving the middle finger in first grade.
- Fortune Feimster [11:24]: "I have been a rule follower my whole life... gave a kid the middle finger in first grade."
- May Martin [11:47]: "Whoa. In first grade. Oh, my God."
This blend of adherence to rules and minor rebellions paints a nuanced picture of her school life.
7. Creative Brainstorming: Designing Sitcoms
May's "Feel Good" Concept
May envisions a sitcom titled Feel Good, inspired by her own life and experiences, blending comedy and drama.
- May Martin [16:51]: "It would be called Feel Good and it'd be a comedy drama for sure."
She connects this idea to the existing Feel Good series, noting similarities in character portrayal and thematic elements.
Fortune's "Family Fortune" Pilot
Fortune shares her past endeavor in creating a sitcom pilot titled Family Fortune, which, despite its promising elements and notable cast, was not picked up by networks.
- Fortune Feimster [19:45]: "We filmed it. It was great, but they did not pick it up."
- May Martin [20:26]: "Did you?"
Fortune details the show's premise, including her role as a PE teacher coming out to her Southern parents, and the involvement of actress Annie Potts and actor John Carroll Lynch.
Idea Generation with Lee's Question
Responding to listener Lee's question about an original sitcom concept, the hosts brainstorm various titles and premises, infusing humor and personal touches.
- Lee [16:15]: "If there was a sitcom about you, what would the title and the premise be?"
- May Martin [22:22]: "What would yours be?"
They explore titles like Good Fortune for Fortune and Making It Right for May, integrating elements of their personalities and life stories.
8. Listener Questions and Interactions
Zir Dan's Sweet Inquiry
A heartwarming question from a five-year-old listener, Zir Dan, asks if the hosts have ever gotten in trouble at school.
- Zir Dan [08:30]: "Have you ever gotten in trouble at school before?"
- May Martin [08:56]: "Oh my God, that is so cute."
The hosts engage playfully, sharing their respective school misadventures and fostering a connection with younger listeners.
Lee's Creative Sitcom Challenge
Lee from Black Mountain, North Carolina, inquires about potential sitcom titles and premises for the hosts, prompting a lively and imaginative discussion.
- Lee [16:04]: "If there was a sitcom about you, what would the title and the premise be?"
- Fortune Feimster [16:26]: "Fellow North Carolinians, shout out."
This segment showcases the hosts' creative synergy and their ability to weave personal experiences into entertaining concepts.
Bella's Early Days Inquiry
Towards the episode's end, Bella poses a quirky question about childhood behaviors, such as biting tin foil, sparking nostalgic reflections.
- Bella [22:55]: "Would you rather bite tin foil or..."
The incomplete thought leaves room for listeners to ponder similar childhood habits.
9. Closing Remarks and Call to Action
The hosts wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners to submit their own questions and share their stories, fostering an interactive community.
- Fortune Feimster [23:13]: "May, if you want to ask us any questions, you never know which pair of us you'll get."
- May Martin [23:51]: "Spread the word, send your questions, and until then, keep it pretty."
They provide contact information and invite fans to engage via email and social media platforms, ensuring accessibility and continued interaction.
Notable Quotes
- Fortune Feimster [03:23]: "I love trees in a weird way... we shape our realities."
- May Martin [05:26]: "I'm looking for shortcuts, and I should be going to therapy twice."
- Fortune Feimster [11:24]: "I have been a rule follower my whole life... gave a kid the middle finger in first grade."
Conclusion
"Pretty Little Episode #41" of the Handsome podcast offers a rich tapestry of conversations that blend humor, personal storytelling, and creative exploration. From cultural insights and nostalgic anecdotes to discussions on self-improvement and creative ventures, Fortune Feimster and May Martin, alongside Tig Notaro, deliver an episode that is both entertaining and meaningful. Listeners are left with a sense of connection to the hosts and an invitation to participate in the ongoing dialogue of the Handsome community.