Jeff Lewis Has Issues – Episode Summary: Jennifer Fessler & Doug Budin: Hockey Players & Latest Beef
Release Date: March 26, 2025
Host: SiriusXM
Introduction of Guests and Episode Topics
In this episode of Jeff Lewis Has Issues, Jeff Lewis welcomes longtime friends Jennifer Fessler and Doug Budin to delve into a candid discussion about personal struggles, relationships, and recent conflicts within their social circles. The episode promises an unfiltered look into Jeff’s life, touching upon themes like dating, weight loss, past traumas, and the latest interpersonal beefs.
Personal Relationships and Experiences
The conversation kicks off with Jennifer Fessler sharing her annual trips to Orange County for her husband’s conference, highlighting the emotional toll of waiting alone in a luxurious hotel. Jeff empathizes, remarking on the Montage Hotel's allure, while Jen vents about her strained relationship with her friend Shari Friedman.
Notable Quote:
- Jeff Lewis [01:05]: "She shut me down. She’s like, I don’t want this toxic man near me."
- Jen Fessler [02:25]: "Every time we’re together, it’s all about them. I resent it."
Weight Loss and Ozempic Discussions
A significant portion of the episode centers around weight loss journeys. Jen openly criticizes exercise, expressing frustration over its ineffectiveness for her and dismissing the concept of endorphins.
Notable Quotes:
- Jen Fessler [03:46]: "I just think it’s stupid. I never lost weight exercising. I always gained weight when I exercised."
- Doug Budin [04:19]: "Alternatively, you could try Ozempic."
- Jen Fessler [16:43]: "I have to do headshots today for SiriusXM because..."
The trio discusses the impact of GLP1 medications like Ozempic on relationships, with Jeff noting that despite Jen’s significant physical transformation, her relationship with him remains unchanged.
Sleepaway Camp Memories
Doug Budin reminisces about his traumatic experiences at a weight-loss-focused sleepaway camp during his youth. He shares harrowing stories of physical abuse and the psychological scars it left, emphasizing the long-term effects on his mental health.
Notable Quotes:
- Doug Budin [15:45]: "They used to tie him up to his bed. We were like a bunch of fat kids... It was a nightmare."
- Jen Fessler [16:18]: "I was beaten. I don’t know. A lot of kids have those stories."
Collaboration with American Dream Mall
Jennifer Fessler discusses her role as a brand ambassador for the American Dream Mall, highlighting the challenges of promotion without receiving timely compensation. The guests critique the mall's events, including the upcoming Jonas Brothers concert, and joke about the complexities of modern mall experiences.
Notable Quotes:
- Jen Fessler [07:54]: "The Jonas Brothers are coming. They’re kicking off Jonas Kahn at the American Dream Mall."
- Doug Budin [25:39]: "I am pleased to announce the 20.25 tomato of the year is Persuasion."
Social Media Interactions and Live Shows
The episode features anecdotes about live interactions on social media, including mishaps during calls and accidental interruptions during live shows. Libby from Portland shares her amusing experience with Doug handling calls, showcasing the unpredictable nature of live broadcasting.
Notable Quotes:
- Libby [27:12]: "Doug was the screener. And he was so adorable because I don't think he had done it a lot before."
- Jeff Lewis [29:14]: "So I know you’re not really supposed to do that, but she gets the message."
Recurring Themes and Humor
Throughout the episode, recurring themes of self-deprecation, humor, and blunt honesty persist. The hosts and guests frequently engage in playful banter, addressing each other’s quirks and past incidents with a mix of sarcasm and camaraderie.
Notable Quotes:
- Jen Fessler [17:24]: "I was just a fucking fat slob trying to make my way through Boston University."
- Doug Budin [22:27]: "I love cursing. In fact, Jamie yesterday said to me, he was like, I love when you curse."
Conclusions and Reflections
As the episode wraps up, the guests reflect on the importance of authenticity in their relationships and personal growth. Jeff emphasizes the value of honest conversations, while Doug acknowledges the need to overcome past traumas without letting them dictate current interactions.
Notable Quotes:
- Doug Budin [18:34]: "I used to really beat myself up about it, but now I don’t let what you do affect me in the same way."
- Jeff Lewis [20:04]: "Your glow up didn’t change your relationship."
Final Thoughts
This episode of Jeff Lewis Has Issues offers an unvarnished glimpse into the lives of Jeff Lewis, Jennifer Fessler, and Doug Budin, blending humor with serious discussions about personal challenges and interpersonal dynamics. For listeners seeking an honest and entertaining exploration of personal issues, this episode delivers in spades.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Jeff Lewis [01:05]: "She shut me down. She’s like, I don’t want this toxic man near me."
- Jen Fessler [03:46]: "I just think it’s stupid. I never lost weight exercising. I always gained weight when I exercised."
- Doug Budin [15:45]: "They used to tie him up to his bed. We were like a bunch of fat kids... It was a nightmare."
- Jen Fessler [07:54]: "The Jonas Brothers are coming. They’re kicking off Jonas Kahn at the American Dream Mall."
- Libby [27:12]: "Doug was the screener. And he was so adorable because I don't think he had done it a lot before."
- Doug Budin [22:27]: "I love cursing. In fact, Jamie yesterday said to me, he was like, I love when you curse."
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