Podcast Summary: Ride with Benito Skinner and Mary Beth Barone
Episode: Occupy Wall Street + The OC
Release Date: April 9, 2025
Hosted by Dear Media, "Ride" brings together besties and tastemakers Benito Skinner and Mary Beth Barone for their witty and irreverent musings on life, culture, and everything in between. In the season two finale, titled "Occupy Wall Street + The OC," the duo delves into the intersection of pop culture and socio-political movements, focusing on the iconic TV show "The OC" and the "Occupy Wall Street" movement.
1. Introduction to the Finale
The episode kicks off with Benito and Mary Beth setting the stage for a concise and action-packed discussion, aiming to wrap up the season with meaningful insights.
Notable Quote:
Benito Skinner [02:05]: "We want this one to be 15 minutes, quick and dirty."
2. Deep Dive into "The OC"
Overview of the Show
Benito provides a comprehensive overview of "The OC," outlining its central premise—the life of Ryan Atwood, a troubled youth from Chino who is taken in by a wealthy family in Newport Beach. The narrative explores the dynamics between Ryan, Seth, Marissa Cooper, and Summer.
Notable Quote:
Benito Skinner [26:32]: "So Ryan has an armband that he wears throughout the entirety of the show. It's leather, I would say if I had to shout out a brand, I think Fossil comes to mind."
Character Analysis
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Ryan Atwood: Discussed as a complex character whose struggles and identity are symbolized by his leather armband and large watch, representing a balance between toughness and vulnerability.
Notable Quote:
Mary Beth Barone [28:21]: "Ryan Atwood's quote unquote armband walked so Connell's chain in normal people could run."
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Luke's Father: Benito highlights a groundbreaking storyline where Luke's father is revealed to be gay, marking a significant moment for LGBTQ+ representation in early 2000s television.
Notable Quote:
Benito Skinner [28:48]: "Luke's dad being gay. It was boundary pushing, and I think it was important for that to happen."
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Marissa Cooper: Explored as a deeply flawed yet resilient character, whose tumultuous relationship with Ryan and personal struggles drive much of the show's drama.
Notable Quote:
Benito Skinner [32:37]: "Marissa was trying to find it and she does find it. Also Kelly Rowland, fabulous actress and..."
Impact and Legacy
Mary Beth shares her personal connection to "The OC," recounting how it inspired her creative projects, including a parody that reflects the show's influence on their podcasting style.
Notable Quote:
Mary Beth Barone [31:58]: "We did an OC parody called the FC because we're from Fairfield County and we still have the tapes."
3. Exploring the Occupy Wall Street Movement
Origins and Objectives
Mary Beth provides a historical overview of the Occupy Wall Street movement, emphasizing its inception in Zuccotti Park, New York City, and its focus on combating economic inequality, corporate greed, and the undue influence of money in politics.
Notable Quote:
Mary Beth Barone [46:08]: "It was the left-wing populist movement against economic inequality, corporate greed, big finance, and the influence of money in politics."
Personal Reflections
Benito recounts his personal experiences during the Occupy protests in Portland, Oregon, highlighting the communal spirit and the challenges faced, such as city-wide shutdowns and the resilience of protesters.
Notable Quote:
Benito Skinner [49:26]: "I couldn't go anywhere. My parents were like, obviously, we agree with this, of course, but we are just kind of like, the whole city is not running."
Movement's Impact
Both hosts discuss the lasting effects of Occupy Wall Street, acknowledging its role in igniting broader conversations about social justice and economic reforms, despite its relatively short duration.
Notable Quote:
Mary Beth Barone [50:41]: "We need more fire. We need more energy."
4. Intersection of "The OC" and Occupy Wall Street
Benito and Mary Beth draw parallels between the narratives of "The OC" and the ethos of the Occupy movement, exploring themes of rebellion, societal norms, and the quest for identity and belonging.
Notable Quote:
Benito Skinner [54:02]: "Occupy. I'm gonna ride till I die for Occupy. It was Viva la revolution."
5. Concluding Remarks and Teasers for Future Seasons
As the finale wraps up, Benito and Mary Beth express their excitement for upcoming projects and seasons. They reflect on the profound impact of "The OC" and the Occupy movement on their personal lives and creative processes, promising more engaging content in the future.
Notable Quote:
Mary Beth Barone [52:41]: "I just think it's been, wow, such a fabulous season of ride. I can't wait to come back May 28th."
6. Key Takeaways
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Cultural Impact: "The OC" remains a significant cultural touchstone, influencing viewers' perceptions of wealth, privilege, and social issues.
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Social Activism: The Occupy Wall Street movement, though brief, played a crucial role in sparking dialogue around economic disparities and political corruption.
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Personal Growth: Both hosts navigate the intertwining of pop culture and activism, showcasing how media can reflect and inspire real-world movements.
Notable Quotes Summary:
- Benito Skinner [02:05]: "We want this one to be 15 minutes, quick and dirty."
- Mary Beth Barone [28:21]: "Ryan Atwood's quote unquote armband walked so Connell's chain in normal people could run."
- Benito Skinner [28:48]: "It was boundary pushing, and I think it was important for that to happen."
- Mary Beth Barone [31:58]: "We did an OC parody called the FC because we're from Fairfield County and we still have the tapes."
- Mary Beth Barone [46:08]: "It was the left-wing populist movement against economic inequality, corporate greed, big finance, and the influence of money in politics."
- Benito Skinner [49:26]: "I couldn't go anywhere. My parents were like, obviously, we agree with this, of course, but we are just kind of like, the whole city is not running."
- Mary Beth Barone [50:41]: "We need more fire. We need more energy."
- Benito Skinner [54:02]: "Occupy. I'm gonna ride till I die for Occupy. It was Viva la revolution."
- Mary Beth Barone [52:41]: "I just think it's been, wow, such a fabulous season of ride. I can't wait to come back May 28th."
Conclusion
In this engaging season two finale, Benito Skinner and Mary Beth Barone successfully blend nostalgia with activism, offering listeners a thoughtful exploration of "The OC" and the Occupy Wall Street movement. Their insightful commentary, coupled with personal anecdotes and memorable quotes, provides a rich and comprehensive overview that resonates with both fans of the show and advocates for social change.