Pod Meets World
Episode: Be Kind, Rewind: “Back 2 School” with Ethan Suplee
Host/Authors: Danielle Fishel, Will Friedle, Ryder Strong
Release Date: May 22, 2025
Introduction
In this special episode of Pod Meets World, hosts Danielle Fishel, Will Friedle, and Ryder Strong delve deep into their nostalgic journey revisiting the iconic TV series “Boy Meets World.” The episode centers around a heartfelt conversation with guest Ethan Suplee, best known for his role as Frankie Stacchino—the beloved bully with a heart—from the show. The discussion not only reminisces about Suplee’s first acting job but also explores his personal growth, community initiatives, and insights into the entertainment industry.
Guest Introduction: Shiloh Strong
The episode begins with a warm welcome to Shiloh Strong, Danielle’s brother, who joins the conversation early on. Shiloh shares snippets about his life, mentioning his love for the beach and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle.
Impact of Fires on the Entertainment Industry
Danielle opens up about the devastating impact of wildfires in California, recalling how these natural disasters have become tragically frequent and their effects on the local community and the entertainment sector.
Danielle Fishel [05:00]: “We lost a lot of jobs, we lost a lot of the industry...”
Will and Ryder echo these sentiments, emphasizing the ripple effect of such disasters on various professionals in the entertainment field, from makeup artists to directors.
Ethan Suplee’s Personal Story and Community Response
Ethan Suplee shares his personal history of losing his home to a fire 15 years ago when he was just 15. This traumatic experience fueled his passion to give back and support others facing similar hardships.
Ethan Suplee [05:45]: “When the fires were happening in LA, I was running around donating and doing all the immediate need stuff...”
Ethan recounts how the loss of his home led him to question his life’s direction, eventually inspiring him to create a nonprofit organization aimed at supporting creative individuals affected by the fires.
Creation of "Ashes to Films" Nonprofit
Ethan details the inception and mission of his nonprofit, "Ashes to Films," which aims to empower filmmakers impacted by the fires. Originally intending to fund a short film, Ethan pivoted to establish a nonprofit after recognizing the broader need for community support.
Ethan Suplee [06:30]: “I took that money and built out a nonprofit because I didn't know how to do that...”
The nonprofit focuses on providing grants and support to ten short film projects, culminating in a festival showcase scheduled for January of the following year.
Goals and Initiatives of Ashes to Films
The primary objective of "Ashes to Films" is to revive the creative spirit within the community by offering financial assistance and mentorship to aspiring filmmakers affected by the wildfires. Ethan highlights the importance of art in the recovery process, equating it to fundamental needs like housing.
Ethan Suplee [07:15]: “The goal is to raise money to fund 10 short film projects... It's all about reviving the creative spirit and coming together as a community...”
Collaborations and Future Plans
Ethan reveals an exciting partnership with the New York Film Academy through the Young Storytellers program. This collaboration aims to provide micro-grants and intensive courses for young filmmakers under 18 who have been affected by the fires.
Ethan Suplee [14:28]: “We're teaming up with the New York Film Academy...”
The initiative includes mentorship opportunities, access to resources like cameras and locations, and a platform for young filmmakers to showcase their work.
Reflections on "Boy Meets World" Episode "Back to School"
Shifting gears, the hosts and Ethan revisit the "Boy Meets World" episode “Back to School,” reflecting on the dynamics of the show during its early seasons. Ethan reminisces about his first acting experience and the challenges he faced.
Ethan Suplee [25:10]: “It was the first time that I got to experience the collaborative nature of what it is to be a professional actor...”
The discussion highlights the intense preparation, numerous rehearsals, and the pressure of performing for a live audience, underscoring the complexities of acting even in a seemingly light-hearted sitcom.
Lessons Learned from First Acting Job
Ethan shares invaluable lessons from his debut role, emphasizing professionalism, collaboration, and adaptability in the acting profession. He recounts the stress of delivering lines that were subject to frequent changes and the importance of resilience when facing potential job insecurity.
Ethan Suplee [35:00]: “I learned how to be a professional actor. It was the first time that collaborating was essential...”
The hosts acknowledge Ethan’s growth and the profound impact this role had on his career trajectory.
Life After "Boy Meets World" and Current Endeavors
Post the sitcom, Ethan discusses his continuous journey in the entertainment industry, including his ventures into mental health advocacy, weight loss, and fitness. He mentions his writing efforts on Substack, where he shares essays on personal struggles and recovery.
Ethan Suplee [78:46]: “I write an essay every week and it's all about my terrible mental health and my struggles with weight and addiction...”
The conversation underscores the importance of mental health and community support, mirroring Ethan’s own initiatives with "Ashes to Films."
Advice for Upcoming Actors
Drawing from his experiences, Ethan offers sage advice to aspiring actors:
Ethan Suplee [60:00]: “Show up on time, know your lines, and have an idea.”
He stresses the significance of preparation, punctuality, and bringing personal insight to roles, advocating for a balance between professionalism and creative expression.
Closing Remarks
As the episode wraps up, the hosts express their admiration for Ethan’s dedication to community service and his unwavering commitment to his craft. They encourage listeners to support "Ashes to Films" by visiting the organization's website and following their Instagram handle.
Will Friedle [16:30]: “Ashes to Films is just what we need right now.”
The episode concludes with a nostalgic nod to their shared history on "Boy Meets World," celebrating the enduring legacy of the show and its impact on their lives and careers.
Notable Quotes
- Danielle Fishel [05:00]: “We lost a lot of jobs, we lost a lot of the industry...”
- Ethan Suplee [06:30]: “I took that money and built out a nonprofit because I didn't know how to do that...”
- Ethan Suplee [14:28]: “We're teaming up with the New York Film Academy...”
- Ethan Suplee [35:00]: “I learned how to be a professional actor. It was the first time that collaborating was essential...”
- Ethan Suplee [60:00]: “Show up on time, know your lines, and have an idea.”
- Will Friedle [16:30]: “Ashes to Films is just what we need right now.”
Conclusion
This episode of Pod Meets World offers a rich tapestry of memories, insights, and heartfelt discussions bridging past and present. Through Ethan Suplee’s candid reflections and his commendable efforts to uplift the creative community, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and collaborative spirit inherent in the entertainment industry. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the podcast, this episode serves as an inspiring testament to the enduring bonds forged through “Boy Meets World” and the ongoing quest to support and nurture creative talents in challenging times.