Pablo Torre Finds Out: Share & Bang & Tell with Dan Soder and Katie Nolan

Release Date: July 11, 2025

In this lively episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out, host Pablo Torre engages in a spirited conversation with co-hosts Dan Soder and Katie Nolan. The trio navigates through a variety of topics ranging from personal anecdotes and pop culture references to the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. Below is a detailed summary of the episode's key discussions, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps.

1. Sun Exposure and Self-Tanning Adventures

00:17 – 03:30

The episode kicks off with Katie Nolan and Dan LeBatard sharing their recent experiences with sun exposure and self-tanning products. Katie reveals her cautious approach to achieving a gradual tan to avoid the dreaded "dyed skin" look.

• Katie Nolan (02:17): "I started using this lotion... it's supposed to be self-tanning gradually because I'm afraid of self tanner. Cause if you do it wrong, your skin is dyed."

• Pablo Torre (03:03): "Your Italian heritage crazy. It's just like it's a high stakes decision."

Despite their efforts, both end up with unexpected results, leading to humorous exchanges about their tanning mishaps.

2. Memories from ESPN and Ben Affleck’s Smoking

03:30 – 10:00

The conversation shifts to nostalgic memories from their time at ESPN, specifically recalling an incident involving Ben Affleck smoking cigarettes in the office. Katie shares a vivid memory of seeing Ben Affleck sneak a smoke near her locker.

• Katie Nolan (04:47): "He was always right here. We're thinking of you, Ben."

• Dan LeBatard (06:07): "I don't know. She was there for 30 minutes. That’s ego. You can't tell her she can have..."

The trio reminisces about the challenges of working in a high-profile environment and the quirky moments that became memorable stories.

3. Madonna’s Stand-Up Comedy Attempts

10:00 – 19:00

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing Madonna's unexpected foray into stand-up comedy. Dan expresses his surprise and amusement at the pop icon's comedic efforts.

• Dan LeBatard (06:25): "She's done it twice. She's done stand up at the Comedy Cellar. I was there the first time and... I don’t know. I did try."

• Katie Nolan (09:14): "What does sex mean... page eight is... Is that Madonna nipple? That's her."

Pablo shares insights from a New York Times review titled "The Empress has no clothes," highlighting differing opinions on Madonna’s talents beyond music. The hosts humorously critique her stand-up routines, ultimately praising her ability to incorporate humor despite mixed receptions.

• Pablo Torre (11:25): "Some people think Madonna never did have talent or humor or appeal, but I am not one of them."

• Dan LeBatard (17:49): "What's the deal with sex books?"

4. The Limits of AI in Humor and Creativity

19:00 – 23:00

The discussion transitions to the capabilities and limitations of artificial intelligence, particularly in replicating human humor and creativity. Katie argues that AI struggles with the social and emotional nuances that make humor effective.

• Katie Nolan (21:48): "AI is a real. Will never be. I think the last thing AI is going to be good at is humor. I don't think AI is funny."

• Pablo Torre (22:24): "Humor is fundamentally social. Implicit context clues."

Dan adds that while AI can mimic voices and generate content, it lacks the "soul" that humans inherently possess.

• Dan LeBatard (22:41): "There's no... They can make it sound pleasing or whatever. And I know with music especially, you can trick it by, like, the counts and stuff... but I just think AI will never be able to replicate, like, the human soul."

The hosts delve into examples like AI-generated ASMR and its inability to fully capture human emotional responses.

5. Peter Thiel’s Controversial Interview and the Future of Humanity

23:00 – 27:00

A heated discussion unfolds around a controversial interview with billionaire Peter Thiel, where he questions the necessity of humanity's continued existence. The hosts critique Thiel’s views and the broader implications for society.

• Katie Nolan (23:09): "He takes these long pauses... he's like, I'm trying to teach myself to slow down and allow some silence."

• Dan LeBatard (24:56): "Peter Thiel would feel like you're trying to wipe out humanity. You gotta give us 2 billion."

Pablo contextualizes Thiel’s background, referencing his role in Gawker’s downfall and his ambitions with the upcoming “Enhanced Games”—a project aimed at testing human limits through steroid use.

• Pablo Torre (33:28): "The idea is the brainchild of Dr. Aaron D', Souza... 'this is the route towards eternal life.'"

The segment reflects the hosts' skepticism and concern over the ethical dimensions of such projects.

6. Reheating Chicken Parmesan: Culinary Tips and Tricks

35:00 – 37:30

Switching gears to a lighter topic, the hosts explore the best methods for reheating chicken parmesan. Katie offers practical advice on maintaining the dish’s texture and flavor.

• Katie Nolan (35:12): "You have the chicken that... the microwave heats from the inside out. So that's something to keep in mind... I would do that separately."

• Dan LeBatard (35:07): "How do you get 30?"

The conversation blends humor with useful tips, showcasing the hosts’ chemistry and ability to keep the dialogue engaging.

7. Nostalgia for Three Ninjas and Childhood Impact

44:00 – 48:00

As the episode progresses, the trio delves into their childhood memories of the "Three Ninjas" movies, reflecting on how these films influenced their interest in martial arts and shaped their perceptions of heroism.

• Katie Nolan (44:18): "I had a crush on one of them. Which ninja did I have a crush on?"

• Pablo Torre (46:39): "Yes. But it's also surf ninjas. I think there was an era by."

They humorously recount their aspirations to emulate the young ninjas, discussing the unrealistic yet inspiring nature of the characters.

• Dan LeBatard (46:03): "That was what got you in there."

The segment highlights the lasting impact of pop culture on personal development and interests.

8. Chekhov's Gun and the Art of Maintaining Browser Tabs

48:00 – 50:00

Concluding the episode, the discussion turns to the principle of Chekhov's gun in storytelling and its playful application to their habit of keeping numerous browser tabs open.

• Katie Nolan (49:30): "Every element in a story be necessary... If a gun features in a story, there must be a reason for it..."

• Pablo Torre (49:44): "And to create the through line through this whole episode."

The hosts use this literary concept to humorously justify their looped dialogues and scattered discussions, reinforcing the episode's theme of interconnected topics.

• Dan LeBatard (49:21): "Keep them all open. Never, never shut your tabs."

Conclusion

Throughout the episode, Pablo Torre Finds Out seamlessly blends humor, personal stories, and thoughtful commentary. The dynamic interplay between Pablo, Dan, and Katie keeps listeners engaged, offering both entertainment and insightful reflections on contemporary issues. From nostalgic reminisces to critical takes on AI and societal advancements, the episode exemplifies the show's commitment to in-depth and entertaining conversations.

Notable Quotes:

• Katie Nolan (02:17): "I started using this lotion... it's supposed to be self-tanning gradually because I'm afraid of self tanner."
• Pablo Torre (11:25): "Some people think Madonna never did have talent or humor or appeal, but I am not one of them."
• Dan LeBatard (22:41): "There's no... They can make it sound pleasing or whatever. But AI will never be able to replicate, like, the human soul."
• Dan LeBatard (24:56): "Peter Thiel would feel like you're trying to wipe out humanity. You gotta give us 2 billion."
• Katie Nolan (49:30): "Every element in a story be necessary... If a gun features in a story, there must be a reason for it."

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