Podcast Summary: Ride with Benito Skinner and Mary Beth Barone
Episode: IT'S A HITCHHIKE PART 2
Release Date: April 2, 2025

Episode Overview

In the second part of their "Hitchhike" series, Benito Skinner and Mary Beth Barone delve into a lively discussion encompassing everything from the latest movie trailers to their experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood. The episode, filled with their trademark wit and irreverent humor, also features a series of listener-submitted reasons they "ride for" various causes and interests, showcasing the vibrant community surrounding the podcast.

Discussion on Movie Trailers and Remakes

Benito and Mary Beth kick off the conversation by dissecting the trailer for Alex Garland's upcoming movie, Warfare, sparking a debate about gender representation in action films.

• Benito Skinner [03:08]: “I texted my agents when that movie got announced and I was like, can I audition for this? And they go, it's boys only.”

• Mary Beth Barone [03:18]: “There were no women in the Middle East during the war.”

The hosts express their frustration with the lack of female roles in such films and discuss the challenges of finding auditions that align with their interests and identity.

Transitioning to Disney's Snow White remake, they critique the film's attempt to modernize a classic story, debating whether such remakes honor the original or dilute its essence.

• Benito Skinner [17:24]: “If you're going to do a movie like that, if you can't adapt it in a way that's going to appease the Die Hards, then just either make a totally new movie.”

They advocate for the creation of new narratives that reflect contemporary values, such as inclusivity and representation, rather than reworking outdated stories.

Universal Studios Hollywood Ride Experiences

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Benito and Mary Beth's visit to Universal Studios Hollywood. They compare the traditional thrill of roller coasters to the newer, screen-focused attractions.

• Benito Skinner [07:25]: “Now what you're saying about rides becoming more like screen-focused, it's like, where are the meeting places for people anymore?”

• Benito Skinner [27:54]: “I fully ride for these. I used to think they were a little indulgent, maybe a little silly, but like, that's when I was a kid and I was just like, wait, that's crazy that someone would go out of their way to do that.”

The duo expresses nostalgia for more tactile experiences like the now-closed King Da roller coaster at Six Flags, lamenting the shift towards virtual and animatronic-heavy attractions.

Benito shares a historical perspective:

• Benito Skinner [07:40]: “Post 9/11, media officially over because King Da at Six Flags has shut down. It was such symbolic in a way.”

They highlight the importance of physical rides as communal spaces and discuss the potential loss of these traditional attractions in favor of technologically enhanced experiences.

Season Updates and Future Episodes

As the episode progresses, Benito and Mary Beth provide updates on the podcast's production schedule, teasing the upcoming season finale and the launch of season three slated for May 28th.

• Benito Skinner [01:53]: “It's time for, it's time for a break. So we will be recording a full episode of the podcast.”

They also mention plans to engage with listeners in swing states, indicating a possible intersection with political campaigning or broader promotional activities.

• Mary Beth Barone [08:25]: "We're going to be going to swing states like Iowa, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Nevada, all the swing states, just to make sure they're tuning in."

Hitchhike Part II Segment: Listener Support Highlights

In the heartwarming "Hitchhike Part II" segment, listeners share various reasons they support different causes or products. Benito and Mary Beth enthusiastically discuss each submission, often interjecting with personal anecdotes and humor.

1. Hyping Up Friends' Outfits

• Leah [20:00]: “I love getting ready with your best friends... deeply confident boosting moment... core to girlhood.”

• Benito Skinner [21:09]: “Leah, you sound exactly like Malin Akerman.”

2. Custom License Plates

• Sophia [24:56]: “I ride for customized license plates because it's a way to personalize your vehicle and express personality.”

• Jackson [26:02]: “I want to have 'Love Game' on my Audi. It’s so flare.”

3. Libraries

• Clementine [29:13]: “I ride for libraries because I love reading and books can be expensive... Libraries offer more than just books.”

Benito emphasizes the cultural importance of libraries:

• Benito Skinner [30:29]: “They're Americana to me. We need to save our libraries.”

4. Girlfriend's iPad

• Clementine [41:28]: “I ride for my girlfriend's iPad because it's part of our relationship... more fun than scrolling on a phone.”

Benito highlights the convenience and futuristic appeal of the iPad:

• Benito Skinner [43:30]: “It's sleek, smaller, more convenient... like it's a piece of the future.”

5. Freudian Slips and Historical Events

Mary Beth introduces a playful yet intellectually stimulating "ride for" request:

• Mary Beth Barone [37:42]: “I ride for the defenestration of Prague in 1618... Why aren't we just kicking corruption out of windows?”

Benito and Jackson engage with the historical reference humorously, expressing a desire to learn more about such events.

Closing Remarks and Future Plans

As the episode nears its end, Benito and Mary Beth reflect on the importance of community support and positive reinforcement. They reiterate their commitment to fostering a supportive environment through genuine compliments and encouragement.

• Jackson [49:27]: “Compliments. I think everyone needs them and I think everyone deserves them.”

Benito wraps up the episode by expressing his enthusiasm for historical learning and teasing future discussions.

• Benito Skinner [50:13]: “Most mine is, of course, going to be the defenestration of Prague. And I'm going to read about that.”

They conclude with playful banter and hints at upcoming episodes, leaving listeners eager for the season finale.

Notable Quotes

• Benito Skinner [03:08]: “I texted my agents when that movie got announced and I was like, can I audition for this? And they go, it's boys only.”

• Mary Beth Barone [29:13]: “Libraries are Americana to me. We need to save our libraries.”

• Jackson [49:27]: “Compliments. I think everyone needs them and I think everyone deserves them.”

• Benito Skinner [50:13]: “Most mine is, of course, going to be the defenestration of Prague. And I'm going to read about that.”

Conclusion

"IT'S A HITCHHIKE PART 2" showcases Benito Skinner and Mary Beth Barone's dynamic chemistry as they navigate through a blend of pop culture critiques, personal anecdotes, and heartfelt listener interactions. The episode underscores the podcast's commitment to fostering a community centered around support, learning, and unabashed fun. Whether dissecting the latest movie trends or celebrating everyday joys like custom license plates and libraries, Benito and Mary Beth deliver an engaging and thought-provoking episode that resonates with both long-time listeners and newcomers alike.