Podcast Summary: Smosh Mouth
Episode #6 - "I Spent an Hour with Anthony Padilla"
Release Date: July 31, 2023

Hosts: Shayne Topp (Shayne), Amanda Lehan-Canto (Amanda), and Anthony Padilla

1. Introduction and Reunion

In this special episode of Smosh Mouth, hosts Shayne Topp and Amanda Lehan-Canto welcome back former Smosh co-founder Anthony Padilla. The episode marks a significant moment as Anthony returns to the Smosh family after years of absence, sparking excitement and nostalgia among fans.

Shayne Topp [00:34]: "And we are here with our very special guest, Anthony Padilla."

2. History: Smosh's Initial Success and Anthony's Departure

Shayne reminisces about the early days of Smosh, highlighting Anthony's pivotal role in creating the brand alongside Ian Hecox. Anthony reflects on the tumultuous period leading to his departure in 2017, discussing the strains within Smosh and the corporate challenges that ultimately led to his exit.

Anthony Padilla [01:44]: "The most insane story on YouTube, I think, like, the most insane arc a YouTuber has had."

3. Defy's Corporate Challenges and Smosh's Struggles

Both Shayne and Anthony delve into the difficulties Smosh faced under Defy's management. Anthony elaborates on the overwhelming number of projects imposed by the corporate side, which stifled creativity and led to burnout.

Anthony Padilla [03:13]: "A huge issue that we ran into was the corporate side of things, where they had a laundry list of, like, 10 big projects for us to work on pretty much each year that were totally unplanned."

Shayne shares his observations of the strained environment, emphasizing the lack of creative freedom and constant corporate interference.

Shayne Topp [03:57]: "You had, like, no freedom to really say what you wanted to do."

4. Anthony's Journey Post-Smosh

After leaving Smosh, Anthony embarked on creating his own content, focusing on interviews and independent projects. He discusses how this period was both challenging and enlightening, helping him discover his true identity separate from the Smosh brand.

Anthony Padilla [30:14]: "So it was never an idea of like, ooh, I could maybe go back and be a cast member. That just didn't sound right to me."

5. Ian Hecox's Leadership and Company Revival

Anthony praises Ian Hecox's transformation into a confident leader during Smosh's darkest times. He recounts Ian's resilience in maintaining the brand and guiding Smosh through Defy's collapse and subsequent revival.

Anthony Padilla [19:15]: "He had to figure it out... Ian was left making a lot of those decisions. He had to be the leader."

Shayne echoes this sentiment, highlighting Ian's unwavering confidence and dedication.

Shayne Topp [25:13]: "Ian stepped up... that's the most confident you've ever sounded about anything you've ever nailed down."

6. Smosh Pit's Emergence and Cultural Shifts

The conversation shifts to the evolution of the Smosh Pit channel, which became a creative haven away from the main commercial pressures. Anthony credits this channel for allowing Smosh members to express their authentic selves and rekindle their passion for content creation.

Shayne Topp [14:19]: "You guys always had a thing going. But Smosh Pit is where I saw the things come to life that it felt like you all had so much passion for."

7. Public Reaction to Anthony's Departure and Reunion

Anthony candidly shares his experiences dealing with public backlash after leaving Smosh, including negative comments and the emotional toll it took. Shayne and Amanda discuss how fans reacted to his departure and the ongoing jokes about his absence.

Anthony Padilla [37:22]: "When I first left smosh, there was definitely 'go back to smosh' comment... 'smosh is better without you.'"

Amanda Lehan-Canto [38:44]: "Imagine the amount of time that you have to go, like, 'How long does it take us to get over a breakup?'"

8. Anthony's Evolution and Current Contributions

Back in Smosh, Anthony shares how he's leveraging his skills and experiences to contribute meaningfully. He emphasizes his focus on fostering creativity, understanding audience preferences through data, and enhancing the collaborative environment within Smosh.

Anthony Padilla [61:37]: "I want to appear on the episodes. I want to get to know everyone really well... find out what you're most excited about, like, so you can shine."

Shayne and Amanda commend Anthony’s growth and his ability to integrate seamlessly back into the Smosh family, enhancing the collective creativity.

Shayne Topp [63:30]: "We are so glad to have you back."

9. Future Plans: Smosh Mouth Podcast

The trio discusses their plans for the Smosh Mouth podcast, hinting at exciting new content and collaborative projects. Anthony reveals the initial ideas for a joint podcast with Ian, aiming to delve deeper into conversations and explore diverse topics.

Anthony Padilla [64:03]: "We are in the very beginning phases of coming up with ideas for what a podcast that Ian and I host together would look like."

Shayne expresses enthusiasm for the upcoming projects, assuring listeners to stay tuned for future episodes.

Shayne Topp [65:03]: "I'm really stoked for it. I've heard some thoughts and stuff and I'm really excited about it."

10. Personal Reflections and Concluding Thoughts

The episode concludes with heartfelt reflections on the journey of Smosh, the importance of personal growth, and the strength of friendships. Shayne, Amanda, and Anthony express gratitude for the reunion and the future prospects of Smosh.

Anthony Padilla [44:24]: "It was the best decision, not just for me, but for everyone."

Shayne Topp [46:47]: "I really respect both of you for your individual journeys... your friendship to be able to take a step away and figure out who you guys are on your own and then come back."

11. Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Anthony Padilla [01:44]: "It's so wild just how there's this huge story to it now."

• Shayne Topp [03:57]: "You had, like, no freedom to really say what you wanted to do."

• Anthony Padilla [19:15]: "He had to figure it out... Ian was left making a lot of those decisions."

• Amanda Lehan-Canto [38:44]: "Imagine the amount of time that you have to go, like, 'How long does it take us to get over a breakup?'"

• Anthony Padilla [61:37]: "I want to appear on the episodes. I want to get to know everyone really well... so you can shine."

• Shayne Topp [65:03]: "I'm really stoked for it. I've heard some thoughts and stuff and I'm really excited about it."

Conclusion

Episode #6 of Smosh Mouth serves as a poignant reunion between Anthony Padilla and the Smosh family. Through candid conversations, the hosts explore the highs and lows of Smosh's journey, Anthony's personal growth, and the future trajectory of the brand. This episode not only celebrates the return of a beloved member but also underscores the resilience and enduring spirit of friendship that defines Smosh.