SmartLess Podcast Summary

Episode: Bad Dates Season 2 with Joel Kim Booster!
Release Date: October 23, 2024
Hosts: Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett
Guest: Joel Kim Booster

Introduction

In this engaging episode of SmartLess, hosts Sean Hayes, Jason Bateman, and Will Arnett welcome Joel Kim Booster as the new host for Season 2 of the popular Bad Dates series. Joel, known for his roles in Apple TV's Loot, Hulu's Fire Island, his Netflix comedy special, and his guest appearance on HBO's Industry, takes center stage to share and explore notoriously awkward and humorous dating experiences.

Sean Hayes kicks off the episode by introducing Joel and teasing the kind of entertaining stories listeners can expect:

“He'll be your guide through all of the iconic and painfully true bad date stories that his guests reveal with all the gory details you loved in season one.” (00:04)

Joel Kim Booster’s Bad Date Story

Joel narrates a particularly memorable bad date experience that sets the tone for the episode.

Meeting and Initial Connection

Joel recounts meeting his date at a show in Los Angeles around a decade ago. Despite being only seven years old at the time, he humorously downplays his own role in the story:

“No, I'll say like seven. Still am.” (01:06)

The evening seemed promising initially as they hit it off, exchanged numbers, and entertained the possibility of a long-distance relationship between Los Angeles and New York.

The Discrepancy in Reality

After maintaining contact for a few months, Joel decides to visit his date in New York. However, upon arrival, Joel is taken aback:

“He didn't look like the guy that I had seen that night.” (01:57)

Justin Martindale interjects with a humorous observation:

“York can do a lot of damage.” (02:27)

Joel humorously considers the possibility of a "twin switch" or a catfish:

“Do you think, Oh, I never thought about that. You're trapped. Oh, my God. Yes. Seriously, A twin catfish.” (02:38)

Unveiling Quirks and Awkward Moments

Inside his date's New York apartment, Joel notices peculiar Broadway memorabilia, notably a trench coat from Les Misérables:

“He had, like, a trench coat that was nailed to the wall.” (03:11)

This immediately raises red flags for Joel, who isn't particularly into musical theater:

“I am not like, a big musical theater gay.” (03:22)

The conversation reveals that his date is deeply entrenched in musical theater fandom, leading to heightened awkwardness.

The Wicked Incident

The date culminates in a disastrous outing to the Broadway show Wicked. Joel recounts the cringe-worthy experience:

“He is in the show, like, every song. And I'm mortified. I'm sitting there and I'm like, shut the fuck up.” (05:15)

A flying monkey from the show sternly asks them to quiet down, adding to the discomfort:

“Hushed by a flying monkey, which is not a CBS sitcom.” (05:19)

Joel emphasizes his discomfort with his date’s over-the-top enthusiasm:

“I've never seen it, so shut the fuck up.” (05:41)

Despite Joel’s efforts to get through the show, his date's behavior remains intrusive and embarrassing.

Aftermath and Reflection

Post-show, Joel discovers that his date has sadly passed away, adding a somber twist to the story:

“I clicked, and it was like this is like an in Memoriam, like, account now.” (06:25)

Reflecting on the experience, Joel shares how it has impacted him:

“But I will say, because I knew him, I have been changed for good.” (06:39)

His friends express disbelief and humorously speculate on the fate of the musical memorabilia:

“He probably was trying to sneak backstage and get something from Funny Girl and Leah Michelle Stand Her Ground Laws shopping.” (07:11)

Host and Guest Reactions

The hosts and Joel engage in lighthearted banter throughout the story, balancing humor with the underlying awkwardness of the situation. Their interactions add depth and relatability, making the narrative both entertaining and insightful.

Justin Martindale provides comic relief and empathetic reactions:

“Well, you flew across the country, and I'm assuming coach just.” (04:28)

Unnamed Speakers contribute humorous commentary, enhancing the storytelling with playful jabs:

“Do you think you got twin switch?” (02:36)
“What musical is that referencing?” (03:12)

Notable Quotes

• Sean Hayes: “He'll be your guide through all of the iconic and painfully true bad date stories that his guests reveal with all the gory details you loved in season one.” (00:04)
• Joel Kim Booster: “I've never been hushed to be.” (05:19)
• Joel Kim Booster: “I have to watch Elphaba so you don't steal her hat.” (04:14)
• Joel Kim Booster: “I have been changed for good.” (06:39)

Conclusions and Takeaways

This episode of SmartLess effectively combines humor with heartfelt moments, illustrating the universal experience of navigating the treacherous waters of dating. Joel Kim Booster's candid storytelling not only entertains but also invites listeners to reflect on their own dating mishaps.

Key Takeaways:

1. Authenticity Matters: Discrepancies between online personas and real-life appearances can lead to unexpected and awkward situations.
2. Shared Interests vs. Overcommitment: While shared interests are a foundation for connections, overzealous enthusiasm can become overwhelming.
3. Humor as a Coping Mechanism: Laughing at uncomfortable experiences can provide relief and perspective.
4. Impact of Experiences: Even negative experiences can lead to personal growth and change.

Final Thoughts

Joel Kim Booster's episode on Bad Dates is a blend of laughter, cringe-worthy moments, and poignant reflections. His ability to convey the nuanced emotions of a disastrous date while keeping the conversation light-hearted makes for an engaging and relatable listen. Whether you've had similar experiences or simply enjoy a good story, this episode offers valuable insights and plenty of laughs.

Listen to the full episode of Bad Dates Season 2 with Joel Kim Booster! wherever you get your podcasts to hear more hilarious and heartwarming bad date stories.

Timestamp Reference

• 00:02 - Joel Kim Booster introduces the theme.
• 01:06 - Joel begins his bad date story.
• 02:27 - Justin Martindale comments on New York's influence.
• 03:11 - Joel describes the trench coat.
• 04:14 - Joel explains the Wicked surprise.
• 05:19 - Joel gets hushed by a flying monkey.
• 06:25 - Joel reveals his date has passed away.
• 07:11 - Speculation about the trench coat's fate.