Podcast Summary: Pod Meets World – "JB Gaynor Meets World"

Episode Information:

• Title: JB Gaynor Meets World
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
• Release Date: May 5, 2025

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of Pod Meets World, hosts Danielle Fishel, Will Friedle, and Ryder Strong welcome former child actor JB Gaynor. Known for his memorable role as Tommy in the iconic 1990s sitcom Boy Meets World, JB shares his journey from early fame to his life beyond the entertainment industry. The conversation delves into his experiences on set, his relationships with co-stars, and his passion for golf, offering fans an intimate glimpse into his life.

Early Acting Career

JB Gaynor recounts his introduction to acting, influenced heavily by his sister's involvement in the industry.

JB Gaynor [22:14]: "Honestly, it was my sister. My sister got into acting first and she was actually on Wonder Years. So it was super crazy because then I was onboarding at twelve then."

He highlights the dual life he led as a child actor, balancing public school with acting commitments.

JB Gaynor [22:57]: "I was pretty much in public school all my life. Until like maybe fifth grade through seventh grade, I was working a lot. So I was homeschooled. But yeah, I was in public school. I lived pretty much a double life."

Boy Meets World Experience

JB shares insights into his role as Tommy Matthews and his interactions with the main cast, particularly Will Friedle.

JB Gaynor [24:16]: "I remember Michael [Jacobs, the show's creator] liked me because I looked kind of like his son. That's the reason why I got the part."

He reflects on the dynamics on set and his camaraderie with co-stars.

JB Gaynor [25:55]: "We got along really well. You were fun to hang out with. And I knew you were kind of a comic book nerd, a little bit of a superhero nerd. So we would talk about stuff like that."

Life After Acting

Transitioning from acting, JB discusses his decision to step away from the spotlight and focus on personal passions.

JB Gaynor [42:46]: "It was a tough transition for me, from a child actor to getting older. Once you start thinking about criticism and what you’re doing wrong, it starts to hurt a little more as you get older."

He reveals his deep-seated love for golf, which became his primary pursuit post-acting.

JB Gaynor [43:27]: "I fell in love with golf, and I just wanted to spend all my time doing that. I just went into, I just wanted to spend all my time doing that."

Reunion and Return to Acting

JB discusses his return to acting with Girl Meets World and the challenges and joys that came with it.

JB Gaynor [49:22]: "Honestly, my agent just called me and she was like, I think they want to bring me back for Girl Meets World. I was like, all right. So I went. I auditioned for it."

He shares memorable moments from the reunion, including the first interactions back on set.

JB Gaynor [54:48]: "I told everyone I'm going to be on Girl Meets World. It was almost 20 years later."

Current Life and Future Plans

Currently, JB balances his work in the printing industry with his passion for golf, contemplating teaching the sport in the future.

JB Gaynor [60:21]: "Pretty regular boring life. I work for my dad, but I go golfing, go to comedy shows. That's about it."

He expresses his contentment with his current lifestyle and the decision to prioritize personal well-being over the pressures of the entertainment industry.

JB Gaynor [46:55]: "I miss being on set. I don’t miss auditioning. I just go on auditions when casting directors ask for me."

Notable Quotes

• JB Gaynor [18:58]: "This week on Pod Meets World, we talk to the former actor who may have been the true love of Eric's life. It's forever, R. Tommy, J.B. Gaynor."

• Will Friedle [40:15]: "Do you think Eric should have adopted Tommy?"

• JB Gaynor [40:19]: "Of course. Of course. You don't want to go to California at that time."

• JB Gaynor [42:50]: "I fell in love with golf, and I was just... I just wanted to spend all my time doing that."

Conclusion

The episode serves as a nostalgic yet insightful exploration of JB Gaynor's contributions to Boy Meets World and his life thereafter. The hosts and JB reflect on the enduring legacy of the show, the impact of early fame on child actors, and the importance of pursuing one's passions. JB's candidness about his challenges and triumphs offers listeners a meaningful perspective on the realities of life after childhood stardom.

Key Takeaways:

• JB Gaynor's early entry into acting was inspired by his sister.
• His role as Tommy left a lasting impression on fans and co-stars alike.
• Transitioning away from acting allowed him to cultivate his love for golf.
• His return to acting with Girl Meets World was a fulfilling yet challenging experience.
• JB emphasizes the importance of mental health and pursuing personal happiness over external pressures.

Notable Timestamped Quotes:

• [22:14] JB Gaynor: Discussing his introduction to acting through his sister.
• [24:16] JB Gaynor: Recalling how he landed the role of Tommy.
• [46:55] JB Gaynor: Talking about missing being on set but not the auditioning process.
• [49:22] JB Gaynor: Explaining how he was approached to join Girl Meets World.
• [60:21] JB Gaynor: Detailing his current life balancing work and golf.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the "JB Gaynor Meets World" episode, providing listeners and fans with a rich overview of JB's journey, contributions, and personal growth since his time on Boy Meets World.