Pod Meets 50 Million Downloads PART 1

Summary

Pod Meets World – "Pod Meets 50 Million Downloads PART 1"

Date: December 31, 2025
Hosts: Danielle Fishel, Rider Strong, and Will Friedle
Location: Yamava Resort & Casino

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Episode Overview

In this special milestone episode, the cast of Pod Meets World (Danielle Fishel, Rider Strong, and Will Friedle) celebrate reaching 50 million downloads by taking a well-earned trip together to the Yamava Resort & Casino. The trio reminisces about their enduring friendship, shares festive gift exchanges, gives an intimate look at their adventures at a resort—highlighted by a Janet Jackson concert—and reflects on their outrageous success as a podcast. The tone is festive, humorous, and deeply personal, packed with behind-the-scenes camaraderie.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Holiday Gift Exchange & Longstanding Traditions

[03:22 – 07:57]

• The hosts gather for their closest-in-time-ever Christmas gift exchange, poking fun at their habitual seating arrangement and joking about being “90s robots” who always stand the same way in photos.
• Gifts included:
  • Rider's gift: Fancy friendship bracelets for each host (Will's is green, Danielle’s is ivory, Rider’s is black). Discussion about the hidden world (and surprising cost) of upscale friendship bracelets.
    • Quote: “It’s a thing I didn’t know I needed until it’s on my wrist.” —Will Friedle [06:11]
  • Danielle gifts Rider a “Frog and Toad” shirt, referencing his favorite book, and each gets Lego sets—her "selfish" passion developed through her kids.
  • Will fails to bring a present, joking that someone always "flubs it" every year.

2. Reaching 50 Million Downloads—A Major Milestone

[07:57 – 08:52]

• The hosts express immense gratitude for their audience, but with tongue-in-cheek self-congratulations.
  • Quote: “From what I understand, this means 50 million people listen to every single episode.” —Danielle Fishel [08:17]
• Jokes about not knowing what a "download" truly means and refusing to be corrected.

3. Celebration at Yamava Resort & Casino

[08:55 – 12:34]

• The group travels to Yamava for relaxation, food, a Janet Jackson concert, and some gambling. Danielle chose the destination; the group is joined by their significant others.
• Observations about the resort:
  • Beautiful, clean, feels “brand new” despite its 40-year milestone.
  • Spa experiences: Will and Danielle enjoyed their massages, Ryder (ever the introvert) skipped being touched by strangers.
    • Memorable Moment: Will jokes about needing pain to feel alive when getting a tattoo. [06:24]
    • Detailed (and comedic) discussion about spa etiquette, the awkwardness of undressing, and getting "the chime bells" for massage timing.

4. Spa & Casino Antics

[12:34 – 22:38]

• More spa talk: Will’s description of how quickly 90 minutes flies by during a massage; Danielle describes the specifics of a facial and spa attire. Will jokes about wearing Batman underwear for protection.
  • Quote: “I gotta keep my Batman underwear on. You never know when the Riddler’s gonna attack you.” —Will Friedle [16:55]
• Gambling stories:
  • The group hits up the casino, gets Yamava cards.
  • Danielle and Ryder play roulette together, carefully syncing their bets for harmonious “good vibes.”
  • Idea for a "Pod Meets World" themed slot machine—impractical due to Disney licensing.
    • Quote: “Maybe a Pod Meets World slot machine... where you only lose.” —Will Friedle [22:33]

5. Dinner at the Pine Steakhouse

[27:18 – 28:02]

• The group recounts their memorable meal: ribeye, sea bass, lobster bisque, wedge salad, and a divisive blue cheese and candied walnut “spumoni” salad.
  • Danielle raves about the candied walnuts and pomegranate; Will and Ryder violently disagree.

6. Janet Jackson Concert Experience: An Intimate Main Event

[28:02 – 34:43]

• Riding the high point of the trip, the hosts dive into the experience of seeing Janet Jackson live in Yamava’s 2,800-seat theater.
  • Quote: “It’s like being in a private room… seeing like an intimate stage show in a more intimate space.” —Will Friedle [28:34]
• Janet Jackson’s performance:
  • Live vocals, relentless dance numbers—defying modern pop expectations.
  • Danielle admits she doubted Janet would sing live given the show’s intensity, but Janet proved her wrong.
  • The backup dancers’ stamina and the “shirtless except for one fully clothed dancer” moment triggers extended debate and laughter. Will identifies with the “denim-on-denim” dancer, who never undresses.
    • Quote: “I would’ve gone backstage, put on another jean shirt, and then come out again.” —Will Friedle [32:12]
    • Everyone speculates if he’s the dance captain or choreographer.
• Janet's interaction with fans: Accepting a lei from an audience member, showing warmth and appreciation to her fans.
  • Quote: “You can tell she’s super appreciative of her fans.” —Danielle Fishel [34:21]
• Brief celebrity sighting: Yvette Nicole Brown ("Community") was in the audience and posed for a group photo.

7. Reflections and Looking Forward

[34:43 – 36:28]

• Hosts discuss upcoming acts they're excited to see (Violent Femmes, Busta Rhymes).
• Ponder why pop stars say "I love you" to their audiences—becoming a running joke.
  • Quote: “When you see somebody who was born to entertain doing what they were born to do. It’s an experience.” —Will Friedle [35:43]

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “It’s a thing I didn’t know I needed until it’s on my wrist.” —Will Friedle (on friendship bracelets) [06:11]
• “From what I understand, this means 50 million people listen to every single episode.” —Danielle Fishel (deadpan about download numbers) [08:17]
• “I gotta keep my Batman underwear on. You never know when the Riddler's gonna attack you.” —Will Friedle (spa/massage conversation) [16:55]
• “I would’ve gone backstage, put on another jean shirt, and then come out again.” —Will Friedle (recalling the fully-clothed dancer) [32:12]
• “You can tell she’s super appreciative of her fans.” —Danielle Fishel (about Janet Jackson) [34:21]
• “When you see somebody who was born to entertain doing what they were born to do, it’s an experience.” —Will Friedle (about Janet Jackson’s show) [35:43]

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• Holiday Gift Exchange/Banter: [03:22 – 07:57]
• Celebrating 50 Million Downloads: [07:57 – 08:52]
• Arrival & Impressions at Yamava: [08:55 – 12:34]
• Spa Antics: [12:34 – 18:33]
• Casino Adventures & Slot Machine Jokes: [18:33 – 22:43]
• Dinner at The Pines: [27:18 – 28:02]
• Janet Jackson Concert Debrief: [28:02 – 34:43]

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Final Thoughts

This celebratory episode radiates nostalgia, warmth, and humor as the Pod Meets World hosts come together not just to mark a major podcast milestone, but to underscore the enduring bond they share—and the special connection they have with their fans. From inside jokes about 90s habits to sharing amazement at Janet Jackson’s showmanship, the episode is full of relatable, candid moments. Stay tuned for Part 2 as their celebration (and storytelling) continues!

Transcript

[A]

This is an iHeart podcast.

[B]

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[A]

You know at&t believes hearing a voice can change everything. It's why people love a good podcast or save voicemails from loved ones cause everyone appreciates the sound of a familiar voice. And when you need a recharge or want some comfort, you call a family member or friend. AT&T wants everyone to share their voice over the holidays. So send a voice note, leave a voicemail, Call someone because that convo is a chance to say something they'll hear forever. Happy holidays from AT&T. Connecting changes everything. Every year I think I'm ready for the holidays and then suddenly I'm the one hosting. This year though, Whole Foods Market low key saved me.

[B]

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[A]

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[B]

And Will Friedle from Pod Meets World.

[A]

Whether you're a seasoned small business owner or thinking about getting started, check out season four of Mind the Business small business success stories from iHeartMedia's Ruby Studios and Intuit QuickBooks.

[B]

In this latest season, hosts Austin Hankwitz and Janice Torres are talking to self starters about the ins and outs of entrepreneurship and how QuickBooks helps you to get more done in less time. You won't want to miss it. Listen to Mind the Business Small Business Success Stories on the iHeart app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[A]

This is the closest to Christmas we have ever exchanged.

[B]

I thought you were going to say the closest. We've been sitting to each other while podcasting, which is also true. We are kind of an odd distance. We're like, are we? Well, it's in my contract. I need to be three and a half feet away from Danielle at all times. Six feet away from you on a triangle. It's a very specific contract if we.

[A]

Meet in person, but we are still in our same standing configuration. We always do.

[B]

We like to have an equilateral podcast.

[A]

I'm always in the middle, Will's always on my left, writer's on my right.

[B]

Yeah, it's the of child abuse. Guys, let's be honest.

[A]

We are programmed to only is being thrown around.

[B]

It's like when you hear the cookie rattle, we fall into the it's true. We've just been programmed. We are 90s robots. How many people sent us pictures of us at 12, 13, 14 where we're standing exactly the same. I'm telling you, we're stuck. Well, we did this morning.

[A]

We took a even like each other.

[B]

Or we just turned out fine. At this point we're conditioned to be with each other. It's not liking. That's what it is. Yeah. Oh man.

[A]

Well, I we didn't get Will's Christmas gift because apparently nobody gave him the memo that we would be exchanging Christmas.

[B]

No one told me every every year one of us has to has to flub it. It was Ryder last year, I think.

[A]

Yeah, right.

[B]

But the year before it was Ryder.

[A]

And I did forget indies. Even though I told him what it was, I did forget it. So I also screwed something up. But you did tell us one of our gifts. Yes, you sent us.

[B]

I'm not sure I want to talk about this on air because then people.

[A]

Are like, I agree we're not going to share but it's delicious.

[B]

It's going to be the world's best panettone. Like, the guy is apparently. I don't know what a panettone is. You're gonna. My friend. I thought it was a pan with Tony Danza on it. A panettone. I know. That's different, Mona. Trust me. Ryder. Ryder. Oh, God.

[A]

Ryder got us extremely touching fancy.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Friendship bracelets. Will's is green. They're like fancy rope. Mine is ivory, and yours is black.

[B]

Which is like your soul.

[A]

It kind of.

[B]

Like, your soul kind of matches. Guys, there's. When I started searching for fancy friendship bracelets, there's a whole world. Oh, my God. Well, it gets very expensive. Oh, really? Yeah, because people do like, buying a friends. Right? Like when you get into stones. Yeah. You know, and that's what I. I was like, okay, there's a cap here, but yeah, it's like, either. You could have $5 or 50 cents, and then it's like $1,500 for, like, Ryan. I was like, wow, They've got to go somewhere in between. Yeah, I like it. I like a good, fancy friendship bracelet.

[A]

I know.

[B]

It's a thing I didn't know I needed until it's on my wrist.

[A]

Same. And it fits perfectly into my. Into my already existing bracelet stack. So I'm very excited about that.

[B]

Until we get tattoos. Yes.

[A]

Which we discussed probably 2026, the year of the tattoo.

[B]

So excited. Every time I get a tattoo, I think to myself, finally, I can feel something.

[A]

Who has the black skull?

[B]

You know, it's just like, I need this pain to feel alive. Pretty exciting. Cutter, Friedel.

[A]

I got you. Gentlemen. I got Rider a frog and toad.

[B]

I'm so happy with this frog and toad shirt.

[A]

The minute I saw it, I was like, oh, my God. And it was right next to a.

[B]

Blockbuster T shirt, which is, you know how important Blockbuster is to me.

[A]

You're married because of Blockbuster.

[B]

That's true.

[A]

And so I got you guys those, and then I got you each your own Lego set.

[B]

I have.

[A]

It was basically a really selfish gift because I have become obsessed with building Legos. Started with my boys and them saying, like, I want to build this. They build it for about 10 minutes, and then it becomes my responsibility, and I love it.

[B]

You might as well take up skiing or horseback riding with how expensive Legos are nowadays. It's like, the most expensive hobby. Like, do you do Legos? Like, yeah, they're like hundreds of dollars a set. Yes, they are.

[A]

Yes, yes, yes.

[B]

I guess there are, like, the Bigger ones that are super expensive, but they're. I haven't done Legos in 30 years, so I can't wait to build. I got a Batmobile.

[A]

You got a Batmobile from the original series?

[B]

Yeah. The 60s Batmobile. The Jaws movie set.

[A]

The Jaws, Yeah.

[B]

I actually knew about this set because I remember when it was, like, being promoed, like, a couple years ago. It was, like, a big release. Yeah. Does the Lego shark only work half the time? There you go. There's a good inside movie joke. Yeah.

[A]

Well, as 2025 comes to a close, so does the lengthy wait for season seven recaps. But before we dive into what is sure to be a mixed bag of emotions, we wanted to celebrate a major milestone for our podcast, which was 50 million downloads. And from what I understand, this means that 50 million people listen to every single episod episode.

[B]

We're gonna go with that.

[A]

Yes. That may actually.

[B]

150.

[A]

That may be incorrect, but don't correct me.

[B]

50 million people.

[A]

Every single episode.

[B]

Crazy. Yeah. Unbelievable.

[A]

Yeah. What a milestone.

[B]

Incredible.

[A]

Yeah. Okay. Well, either way, we are very excited about this accomplishment. And although we really only have you, our dear listeners, to thank for such undying support and persistence, we wanted to thank ourselves.

[B]

I wasn't aware of that.

[A]

Well.

[B]

Well, thank you.

[A]

So we have traveled to the beautiful Yabova Resort and Casino as their special guests, alongside our significant others for a little relaxation, some delicious food, a Janet Jackson concert, and also gambling.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

As you can probably predict, I got to choose where we were going.

[B]

You think you actually went to bed early last night?

[A]

I was surprised. I was so tired. The Christmas comedown has hit me hard.

[B]

Yeah, the holidays are exhausting.

[A]

They are exhausting.

[B]

You also had some stuff going on this year. What? So 2025 was a little crazy for you, so. Yeah. Yeah. But it's what a place to. To celebrate a couple days, though, right? Yeah, I've been pretty happy.

[A]

I know. We're recording from the Y Lounge here on the 17th floor. We have a gorgeous view, and we are just days away from what will be Yamava's 40th anniversary.

[B]

Really? Yes. Jeez.

[A]

I mean, we were just talking with Kenji, the gm, who was saying how often they have to replace the carpet because of how much traffic they get. You would not know this place was a day over.

[B]

Well, that's what I'm wondering. How old is the actual building that we're in, though? Well, he said the jet. The place where we saw Janet Jackson last night was built. That's 2020. 1 or 20? 22. So I wonder what the actual. Because it used to be a bingo hall. That's what I've heard. Yeah.

[A]

Yeah, but there was a bingo hall. No, that.

[B]

It was originally just a bingo hall. Like that's what was here on this property. And so I'm won. If we're going back 40 years, does that mean that or are we talking about this building itself is 40 years old?

[A]

I don't know, but it doesn't feel a day over two.

[B]

Brand new.

[A]

Brand new. It's absolutely gorgeous.

[B]

Everything feels gorgeous. Yeah, it's amazing.

[A]

Yeah, it's incredible. You did not get a spa treatment because as everyone knows, being touched is one of Ryder's least favorite things ever.

[B]

I want to be touched by the.

[A]

Right people or by people that I know and are allowing into your personal space.

[B]

I'm not like anti touch. My God, I was so relaxed. If there could have been 10 strangers in the room, I wouldn't have even known. I don't like being pampered in general.

[A]

Yeah, that's true.

[B]

But then I also don't like massages.

[A]

But you do like being tortured. You like being dropped off in the middle of the woods with very little provisions and figuring it out and torture.

[B]

I'll see you three days. That's living life.

[A]

Living is what Will and I did yesterday.

[B]

Yeah, living is what we did yesterday. When they ask you, do you want to start with sandalwood? And you're like, yes, please. That's living, my friend. Yeah. Oh, man.

[A]

So you had a massage?

[B]

I did. I did 90. First of all, if you ever want 90 minutes to feel like five minutes, get it. A massage.

[A]

I know.

[B]

Cuz it's like, I swear to God, I looked at her, I was like, that's it. She's like, yeah, it was 90 minutes. Like, I don't believe you. You're lying.

[A]

I think you must have fallen asleep.

[B]

I did, actually. She said at one point I was snoring. Oh. So. And then I was like, I'm sorry. She's like, it is the ultimate compliment for us when we know you're.

[A]

Cause then I just get to sit down.

[B]

Yeah, exactly. She stopped for 87 minutes, covers it up with some sandalwood. No, it was. I mean, it was great. Did you ring the bells to bring them?

[A]

Okay, so here's the thing.

[B]

The ringing of the bells.

[A]

Yes, the ringing of the bells. So when you get a spa treatment, there's always this slightly awkward part where they leave you alone, obviously, to get undressed, to take off your robe and then get under the covers on the table and then they have to like door stalk to hear when they think you are no longer moving in there. And then they have to knock and you would be like yes, you can come in here. They give you two beautiful chime bells and you just, just get into your and then ring the bells and they come in. It was spectacular.

[B]

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[A]

You know, AT&T believes hearing a voice can change everything. It's why people love a good podcast or save voicemails from loved ones because everyone appreciates the sound of a familiar voice. And when you need a recharge or want some comfort, you call a family member or friend. AT&T wants everyone to share their voice over the holidays. So send a voice note, leave a voicemail, call someone. Cause that convo is a chance to say something they'll hear forever. Happy holidays from AT&T. Connecting changes everything. I'm Danielle Fishel, Ryder Strong and Will.

[B]

Friedle from Pod Meets World.

[A]

Whether you're a seasoned small business owner or thinking about getting started, you will definitely want to check out season four of Mind the Business small business success stories from iHeartMedia's Ruby Studio and Intuit QuickBooks.

[B]

Mind the Business is part entertainment, part instruction manual, part inspiration. Each episode features practical tips and success stories that will resonate with entrepreneurs in any industry. In this latest season, hosts Austin Hankwitz and Janice Torres are covering topics on the forefront of running a small business.

[A]

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[B]

Games on Prime Video January 8th Watch the trailer on trainer games.com. Do you Strange question. Do you go fully the full Monty when you're getting massage?

[A]

I do. You do?

[B]

I can't.

[A]

I can't.

[B]

I gotta keep my Batman underwear on. It's just, it's weird if I don't. You just need to feel protected. I do. I do wave my utility belt. Massage or no. You never know when the Riddler's gonna attack you. I mean, thank you. This could be the day. Thank that Batarang. I don't think I realized I had them on until I then put on my robe and I was like, this is gonna because then I have a choice. Do I go fully naked, which is embarrassing enough, or keep the Batman underwear on? You gotta go naked. I stayed full. I stayed full, Batman. Did you keep staying Batman voice? Then make it all make sense. Please rub my shoulders. Thank you. Sandalwood. Sandalwood. I'm carrying some trenches in my trouser. I was the voice of Batman. That's why I wear this. Explain it. You just gotta throw it to the W. You know, assume that they understand you're awesome is just what. Is what it comes down to.

[A]

Did you then pull your underpants down a little bit so that they can get to your low back?

[B]

No, they. She did. She, like, does the tuck. Wait, she tucked the utility belt? No, she didn't touch the utility belt. There's a danger there she might hit the wrong button. But she did. She tucked a little bit.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

I also noticed a little thing. You know how like. Like, they'll do, like, a soft thing on your lower back on your tush a little bit, but they do that to distract you from the fact that she's digging her elbow into my shoulder where it was like. Cause she's like, oh, you're a little tense here. And I was like, oh, that's nice. Kind of in the lower. She's like, does this hurt? I'm like, yes, but in a good way. It was awesome. Good. But I also. Susan will tell you I bruise like a peach. So I look like I just took baseballs to my body. Most of the time is great.

[A]

Wow.

[B]

Oh, I love it. Oh, and I torture myself by going out in the wilderness. You're, like, literally coming back with bruises. So. Worth it. No, I needed the heart pressure. What about you?

[A]

I had a facial. I mean, I like firm pressure in massages.

[B]

Wait, wait.

[A]

Whoa, whoa, whoa. I know we can't talk.

[B]

You had a facial and you were naked? I think you're. Ms. Think. You're misunderstanding the assignment I was talking about when I get a massage. Okay. Thank God. It's like, wait, why did you take your underwear off as a facial mantis?

[A]

They actually give you.

[B]

Ma', am, this is a dentist's office. What's going on?

[A]

Please put some gloves on.

[B]

She's got the stirrups.

[A]

No.

[B]

Okay, so you're not talking about yesterday. You're talking about when I get a massage.

[A]

Yes, yesterday they gave you. They give you.

[B]

Cause they.

[A]

Part of a facial. Part of a facial is also your neck and decollete.

[B]

What?

[A]

Your cleavage.

[B]

Oh, so which is different than decoupage. Correct. Okay.

[A]

Wow. So they give you a thing to put on that's like a towel, basically, that goes. And so I was wearing that, so I actually had, like, a towel dress on.

[B]

Oh, okay. That makes sense.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Have you talked about massages more than we're talking about Janet Jackson? I really would not know where. A podcast.

[A]

No, absolutely not.

[B]

I'm really concerned. No, it's just we're talking about what we've done here over the last 24 hours.

[A]

We started with a spa treatment. We arrived here yesterday morning. We all started with a spa treatment. And Ryder went into his room and probably typed away on his computer.

[B]

And you wrote, what did I do yesterday? I slept, I think, took a nap.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Nice.

[A]

Great. And then we got to meet up in the casino. We signed up for the Yamava card.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Which I'm excited to be earning points for.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

And we got to gamble.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Ryder and I then had a blast taking our hundred dollar chips and going to the roulette tables.

[B]

That's where I. Cause I figured it was sleeping. That's when I said you went and took a nap. That's when I saw it. Yeah.

[A]

I'm the only one who was.

[B]

Let's just go at a safe, like, you know, almost 50, 50 chance of making our money. And did you half the time?

[A]

Yeah. We bet first on black and lost. Yeah. Then we bet on black again and won.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Then we bet on black again and lost. Yeah.

[B]

Why wouldn't one of you bet on red and one of you bet on black and then you just split the money? I thought so, but. Oh, yeah. Danielle was like, we don't want to be against each other.

[A]

I was like, I don't want. I wanted. Yeah. That feels rude.

[B]

What is that? I feel like I split all the money at the end. Oh, well, that was a guaranteed winner.

[A]

We didn't have. We didn't form an alliance.

[B]

I was going to say if it would make it better, because even if I lost, I'd feel good about her win.

[A]

Right.

[B]

So, like, it's. We're not oppositional. We can be, but again, if you're on the same team.

[A]

I'm talking about vibes, man. Like, I don't want to be sending out Yamava vibes. Red vibes while you're over there going black. Black. And now we've got competing vibes.

[B]

Wow. Like, and you're fully dressed at this point? I'm still wearing my underwear, which is great. So.

[A]

Anyway, we had a really great time. The casino's unbelievable. They have over 7,400 slots.

[B]

That. So here's the thing. When I first heard that, I was like, is that a lot or is that a little? And then hearing what other casinos have. Or they're talking about massive casinos in Vegas that have like 2,200 is insane to think how many slot machines. And I had to ask the question, what would it take to get a Boy Meets World themed slot machine? Which I think would be really cool, but apparently there's a licensing thing. I don't know. Disney owns it. Disney owns it.

[A]

We don't know who we have to.

[B]

Get that approved by, but it seems like it would be a really cool thing to have. Maybe POD Meets World. Maybe a Pod Meets World slot machine.

[A]

I know.

[B]

Yeah. Where you only lose.

[A]

There are no payouts.

[B]

There's no payouts at all.

[A]

You just put your money in, except.

[B]

For one person who wins. And there's an ad every. Every 20 minutes. There's a five minutes, 20 every 20 minutes. You can skip it. You can skip it. There's a fine. Fine. Nice. Ever been at the pharmacy counter and the pharmacist asks, do you have any questions? And suddenly your mind goes blank? That's exactly why you need to listen to beyond the script from CVS Pharmacy and iHeartMedia. Starting January 14th. Hosted by Dr. Jake Goodman, this podcast brings you real conversations with CVS pharmacists, the health experts you see most answering the questions you wish you'd asked, like which medications might not mix well, what vaccines should you consider before a big trip, and even those questions you were too embarrassed to say out loud. Each episode busts myths, decodes health trends, and gives you practical, trustworthy advice straight from the people behind the counter. No white coats, no lectures. Just real talk, real answers, and maybe a few laughs. Listen to beyond the script on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[A]

You know, AT&T believes hearing a voice can change everything. It's why people love a good podcast or save voicemails from loved ones. Cause everyone appreciates the sound of a familiar voice. And when you need a recharge or want some comfort, you call a family member or friend. AT&T wants everyone to share their voice over the holidays. So send a voice note, leave a voicemail, call someone. Because that convo is a chance to say something they'll hear forever. Happy holidays from AT&T. Connecting changes everything. I'm Danielle Fishel Ryder Strong and Will.

[B]

Friedle from Pod Meets World.

[A]

Whether you're a seasoned small business owner, or thinking about getting started, you will definitely, definitely want to check out season four of Mind the Business small business success stories from iHeartMedia's Ruby Studio and Intuit QuickBooks.

[B]

Mind the Business is part entertainment, part instruction manual, part inspiration. Each episode features practical tips and success stories that will resonate with entrepreneurs in any industry. In this latest season, hosts Austin Hankwitz and Janice Torres are covering topics on the forefront of running a small business.

[A]

They're talking to self starters about everything from how AI helps them work smarter to weathering market uncertainties and enjoying the benefits of being your own boss and using Intuit QuickBooks to help you get more done in less time. You won't want to miss it.

[B]

Listen to Mind the Business Small Business Success Stories on the iHeart app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. This ad is brought to you by Veeve Healthcare, the makers of Tobito Dolutegravir Lamivudine. If you're living with hiv, look ahead. Do chase a dream. Do consider how you stay undetectable. Do Learn about Devato. Dovato is a complete HIV treatment by prescription only for some people 12 and older. Your doctor will determine if Devato is right for you. Do find out how many medicines are in your HIV pill. Most HIV pills contain three or four. Devato is as effective with just two medicines. No other complete HIV pill contains fewer medicines. Then do dream about tomorrow. It is unknown if Devato is safe and effective if you have HIV and Hepatitis B. If you have Hep B. Don't stop Dovato without talking to your doctor as it may get worse or harder to treat. Don't take Dovato if you're allergic to.

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[A]

Ten athletes will face the toughest job interview in fitness that will push past physical and mental breaking points. You are the fittest of the fit. Only one of you will leave here with an IFIT contract worth $250,000. This is where mindset comes in. Someone will be Eliminated. Pressure is coming down.

[B]

Trainer games on Prime Video January 8th. Watch the trailer on trainergames.com. It's so clean.

[A]

I know.

[B]

And there's no smoking, so it's like. It smells. It's just. It's a really great casino floor.

[A]

And then we had dinner at the Pine Steakhouse.

[B]

Oh, my God.

[A]

We had Chilean sea bass. You had a ribeye.

[B]

No, I had the ribeye. Okay. And a lobster bisque. Oh, my God. Yes.

[A]

I had a harvest salad. You had a wedge.

[B]

No, no, Jensen had a wedge.

[A]

Jensen had a wedge.

[B]

You had blue cheese spumoni.

[A]

I think that's what it was called.

[B]

Is that what it's called?

[A]

It's like whipped blue cheese.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And it's not for you guys?

[B]

No.

[A]

I loved the salad. They had candied walnuts in it and pomegranate.

[B]

No. God. Walnuts and blue cheese. You're ringing my bells. No. Walnuts are awful.

[A]

Okay, well, not candied.

[B]

Not everything should be candied.

[A]

Yes. All right, now the big event that Ryder is chomping at the bit to talk about. Who would have thought that Ryder would be the one so excited to talk about this?

[B]

Oh, I just feel like that was the main event. That was the main. Literally the biggest thing that we did, you know, in the last 24 hours.

[A]

We saw Janet Jackson in the Yamava theater, which is 25 to 2900, maybe 2,800 seats.

[B]

Yeah. Relatively small considering how big the show was. Right.

[A]

Considering how big the games are. You are. This is like. It's like being in a private room.

[B]

That's what's so cool about it, is all like these headlining acts, but you're seeing like an intimate stage show in a more intimate space. It was awesome. This is the second show I've seen in this theater. I also saw Nate Bargazzi. And that's the thing that's so cool about the theater itself is that for concerts, amazing. And then for comedy, amazing. It's like the perfect size. I found myself actually watching her in person way more than the screen on the screen. Usually it's the other way or it's 50, 50 or whatever, but I was like, I actually am wanting to see her, like. Cause you. You could see her face and yeah, it was great.

[A]

She still sounds amazing. I made a poor assumption that her mic was going to be off for most of the show.

[B]

Just cause you're dancing and doing every other thing.

[A]

And it's common now to not really live sing that much. She sang the whole time and dance and she barely Took any breaks. And I thought the show started in a place where it was really well paced. It was like it started. By the time it ended, I was like, oh, my gosh, this woman is on fire. Like Daniel, she really blew it out.

[B]

At the end too.

[A]

And hit after hit after hit after hit. I knew four songs, which is a lot for you.

[B]

Oh, it is. That's a ton for me. Like, I actually knew four songs. I was amazed. Cause, you know, it's not my style of music. But obviously I knew who she was, but I was like, oh, I know these songs. I know these songs. Yeah, but they didn't. So I asked you because obviously you're the dancing expert. Well, Ryder and I are the experts, but you're the dancer. Where her backup dancers danced for like two hours straight and weren't out of breath. It was the weirdest thing in the world. Like, how are they doing this? There's no breaks in between the songs. It was like she was just one banger after the next. And it's like they're dancing the whole time. I know. It's crazy.

[A]

You know, conditioning on dancers is unlike anything else.

[B]

Are we gonna talk about the dancer? I think we should.

[A]

Cause favorite dancer.

[B]

I fell in love with this guy. He was positive. For you. Totally positive. Okay, not for you. No, for me it was too. I didn't even really notice him that much. Alex was so upset. It's all she watched was it. She's like, what is he doing there? And he brought it up again this morning. We had a whole conversation about it. She was like, that guy in that hat, fully clothed. What the heck? I love it. Because he was me. He was me.

[A]

Will said to me in the middle of the show. So there is one portion of the show where the dancers. There were five dancers, five male dancers, and. And four of them came out with their shirts off and one by one walked out and showed off their.

[B]

They're all in various stages of undress. Like, you know, it's not like they're all matching outfits. They're all in different outfits. And they're all.

[A]

Denim. Denim on denim.

[B]

Jean on jean is what they were wearing. So there was like denim overalls that are down, denim jeans that are. Or denim pants that are big and like. But that one guy was fully clothed.

[A]

With a hat on. He had a turtleneck of denim.

[B]

He had like a denim vest over a denim.

[A]

Yes, he had a long sleeve denim shirt.

[B]

And that was very disturbing to my wife. She could not get over where I leaned over. I was like, that's me.

[A]

No, but guys, he was in that outfit at the beginning. They all were. Because they weren't all shirtless through the whole show. It was just for this one song. But it was just funny because he didn't disregard. Came out in the same outfit and walked the catwalk as if he had removed his shirt. And I thought, that's totally. I am fully on board with somebody being like, I will not do that. And will never was like, I like that guy. That's me.

[B]

I would have gone backstage, put on another jean shirt and then come out again.

[A]

Yeah, Maybe a jean mask.

[B]

A jean mask, yeah. Who's my favorite? I was like, that's me. I'm the guy in the pool outfit.

[A]

But I did wonder, why not just sit that one guy out for this song, Right?

[B]

Probably the symmetry of. Because the five of them, they were always kind of lined up the right way. It always looked aesthetically pleasing. But it started with him on the top and they had different levels of the theater. And yeah, it was awesome on the.

[A]

Stage there was that. The riser.

[B]

See, I thought maybe he was like the dance captain, choreographer. He's like in charge in some way.

[A]

And as the person in charge, I don't have to take off.

[B]

Exactly, exactly. I've been doing this for 30 years, kid. I've been naked long of it. Like that kind of thing. Yeah. No, I don't. I think you're right. I think he was the probably. Maybe the choreographer or one of the choreographers and somebody's danced with her for years and years. He started on the top by himself and then like joined. So my guess is he was like, it is like a team, I imagine. And they probably do have a captain or somebody who's kind of in charge. That's that guy. My wife hated it. Wow. She was like, I couldn't stop watching him the whole time. That's all I was focused on. So distracting. I just couldn't get over like, why is this guy wearing all the clothes?

[A]

I couldn't get over the fact that I couldn't figure out how she was able to sing like that with also the fans. Cuz I was like, oh, so smart that they had fans blowing on the stage for her. Because you.

[B]

I thought you meant the fans cheering us in the audience.

[A]

How could she sing like that? No, the fans blowing on her, which.

[B]

Oh, I know. Constant fan work.

[A]

Fan work was great. And she was serving so much hair. So much hair. And she was what serving face. She was what serving face.

[B]

You realize, just wiping Stuff across your face doesn't answer the question. What does that mean?

[A]

Her looks? The like, look.

[B]

She, like, you're, like, you're. You're. You're emoting with your face.

[A]

Her face was so emotive, and it was like. There were picture moments everywhere, you know, like at any point in time you could take a picture of her and it was like a. She just looked spectacular.

[B]

Did you see the thing, by the way? This. I love when she's interacting with her fans, where the guy came up and tried to give her a lay.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And. And security stopped him. And she, like, walked over. She's like, no, it's fine. She leaned down, he put the lay around her neck, and she's like, I love you so much. I mean, it was really cool. Yeah.

[A]

You can tell she's super appreciative of her fans.

[B]

Loves her fans. You can tell. And I guess this is. Was the end of her tour.

[A]

The end of her tour. Yeah. I mean, they did say it was the last. The last date of 2025. So I don't know what her plans are for moving on.

[B]

But that's something about Yamava, though, where, you know, these huge talents are like, I want to end my tour there.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I mean, it's. Yeah, it's really incredible.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And we've already talked about concerts.

[A]

We're.

[B]

We're coming back for.

[A]

Absolutely.

[B]

Violet Femmes are coming. Saw that.

[A]

I'm like, yep, Will's going to be here for Violent Femmes. I'm coming back for Busta Rhymes in March.

[B]

We're all pretty excited. Have you guys ever been to a concert where somebody, like, literally says I love you to their audience?

[A]

I feel like they always don't.

[B]

They all do that, do they? Maybe not. The ones I don't see Tom going, I love you anyway, I feel like we thank you. Appreciate you.

[A]

County CR was Sabrina the Greek.

[B]

She said, I love you.

[A]

Sabrina says, I love you all so much.

[B]

Yeah. So interesting. I was. I was like, I don't know if I've heard this. And then I was like, I think I've seen clips of Michael Jackson doing that.

[A]

Like, I love you.

[B]

I love you. I think it's probably more. More normalized with pop stars than it is like a singer, songwriter.

[A]

Right.

[B]

To be like, I love you or band like a big band. I think that makes more sense for a pop star. But yeah, she was great, though. I mean, whether you knew her music, didn't know her music. When you see somebody who was born to entertain doing what they were born to do. It's an experience. I mean, it really is.

[A]

We also got to see Yvette Nicole Brown, who was sitting in front of us. She was on Community. She's a spectacular actor. Incredible. It was really great to see her. She was having fun. She was here with her husband. We all took a picture together outside. Seeing Janet Jackson's name on the marquee is one of those things where you're like, shoot, this is like, this is a. This is massive. Like, this is a big name.

[B]

Yep. Yeah.

[A]

To see in such an intimate theater. So anyway, we had a fantastic time. As per usual, we couldn't shut up, so we had to turn this into a two parter. If you've enjoyed part one of our 50 million download celebration at the Yamava Resort and Casino, then you will want to check out part two.

[B]

It's way worse. It's all downhill.

[A]

We'll see you over there. Pod Meets World is an I heart podcast produced and hosted by Danielle Fishel, Will Friedle and writers for executive producers Jensen Karp and Amy Sugarman. Executive in charge of production, Danielle Romo, producer and editor Tara Sudbaksh, producer Matty Moore, engineer and Boy Meets World super fan Easton Allen. Our theme song is by Kyle Morton of Typhoon. Follow us on Instagram odmeatsworldshow or email us at podmeatsworldshowmail.com ever been @ the.

[B]

Pharmacy counter and your mind goes blank when the pharmacist asks any questions? That's why you need to listen to beyond the Script from CVS Pharmacy and iHeartMedia starting January 4th. Hosted by Dr. Jake Goodman, each episode features real conversations with CVS pharmacists, the health experts you see most breaking down the questions you wish you'd asked from which meds may not mix well to what vaccines you need before a big trip. They'll bust myths, decode trends and share practical advice you can actually use. Listen to beyond the script on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your.

[A]

Podcasts. Ten athletes will face the toughest job interview in fitness that will push past physical and mental breaking points. You are the fittest of the fit. Only one of you will leave here with an IFIT contract worth $250,000. This is where mindset comes in. Someone will be eliminated. Pressure is coming.

[B]

Down. Trainer Games on Prime Video January 8th. Watch the trailer on trainergames.com did you know Microsoft has officially ended Support for Windows 10? Upgrade to Windows 11 with an LG Gram laptop. Voted PCMag's Reader's Choice Top Laptop Brand for 2025 Thin and ultra lightweight, the LG Gram keeps you productive anywhere and Windows 11 gives you access to free security updates and ongoing feature upgrades. Visit lgusa.com iheart for great seasonal savings on LG Gram laptops with Windows 11. PCMag reader's choice used with permission all rights Reserve Deserved Support for the show comes from Public, the investing platform for those who take it seriously. On Public you can build a multi asset portfolio of stocks, bonds, options, crypto and now generated assets which allow you to turn any idea into an investable index with AI. It all starts with your prompt. From renewable energy companies with high free cash flow to semiconductor suppliers growing revenue over 20% year over year, you can literally type any prompt and put the AI to one work. It screens thousands of stocks, builds a one of a kind index and lets you back test it against the S&P 500. Then you can invest in a few clicks. Generated assets are like EFTs with infinite possibilities, completely customizable and based on your thesis, not someone else's. Go to public.com podcast and earn an uncapped 1% bonus when you transfer your portfolio. That's public.com podcast paid for by Public Investing Brokerage Services by Open to the Public Investing Inc. Member FINRA SIPC Advisory Services by Public Advisors, LLC SEC Registered Advisor Generated Assets is an interactive analysis tool. Output is for informational purposes only and is not investment recommendation or advice. Complete disclosures available at public.com disclosures hey audiobook lovers, I'm Kalpen. I'm Ed Helms. Ed and I are inviting you to join the best sounding book club you've ever heard with our new podcast, Hearsay. The Audible and iHeart Audiobook Club. Each week we sit down with your favorite iHeart podcast hosts and some very special guests to discuss the latest and greatest audiobooks from audible. Listen to Earsay on America's number one podcast network, iHeart. Follow Earsay and start listening on the free iHeartradio app.

[A]

Today. This is an iHeart podcast. Guaranteed.