Smosh Mouth: Episode #64 - Try Not To Laugh: The Podcast with Damian & Arasha

Release Date: September 30, 2024

In Episode #64 of Smosh Mouth, titled "Try Not To Laugh: The Podcast with Damian & Arasha," hosts Shane Topp (referred to as Shane or "short") and Amanda Lehan-Canto (known as Arasha or "tall") team up with recurring guests Damian and Arasha for a hilariously challenging edition of their popular game: "Try Not To Laugh." This episode dives deep into the dynamics of their friendship, personal anecdotes, impressions, and the ever-entertaining attempts to keep a straight face amidst rapid-fire humor.

1. Setting the Stage: Introduction to the Challenge (00:24 - 10:25)

Shane kickstarts the episode by explaining the premise: initiating a "Try Not To Laugh" game with Damian and Arasha, both known for their resilience against laughter.

• Shane [00:43]: "I feel like you both are the hardest to break."

• Damian [01:15]: "We're very dry. I call this the dry goods."

To motivate participation, the group devises a unique prize system where each member contributes a $5 item into a "potluck." The winner gets to choose a gift from the collective pool, adding stakes to the competitive spirit.

2. Acting Classes: Sharing Personal Experiences (02:06 - 06:53)

A significant portion of the early conversation revolves around acting classes, with Shane sharing his mixed experiences and frustrations:

• Shane [04:06]: "Every acting coach is gonna tell you, don't do what that last acting coach said."

Damian opens up about his struggles in an acting class, highlighting how his neurodivergent thinking clashed with traditional acting techniques.

• Damian [05:02]: "I'm neurodivergent because his whole thing was like, you have to be thinking as the character."

Arasha expresses her desire for acting classes to focus more on the technical aspects of the profession, such as submitting auditions and self-taping.

3. Prize Potluck: Establishing the Stakes (08:07 - 10:14)

Before diving into the game, the hosts solidify the rules and prize contributions:

• Damian [09:14]: "Every time I've won something here, it's been like an Olive Garden gift card."

After humorous banter about past prizes, they agree to each contribute a $5 item, ensuring a fair and engaging competition.

4. The Game Begins: Jokes, Impersonations, and Skits (10:27 - 43:27)

As the "Try Not To Laugh" game commences, the conversation becomes a whirlwind of jokes, impersonations, and playful skits:

• Shane [10:30]: "Did you guys watch the Hawktua podcast? Talk to a."

The group discusses recent events like the VMAs, with Shane and Arasha praising performances by Chapel Roan and Sabrina Carpenter.

• Shane [10:33]: "I did see Chapel Roan's performance. That was awesome."

They transition into impersonating characters, including a mock scene from the Christmas movie "Spirited," showcasing their comedic timing and chemistry.

• Damian's Impression [11:31 - 12:00]:

  "Spirited interior, corporate office, Christmas time. Clint Briggs. Ryan Reynolds is typing furiously at his cubicle..."
  

Throughout the gameplay, the hosts perform various impressions, including Damian's take on a Japanese dub of SpongeBob, and Arasha's attempt at a recorder sound effect, eliciting genuine laughter and playful competition.

• Damian [33:22]: "Mushi mooshi bokawa. Patrick Da."

• Arasha [42:02]: Attempts a recorder sound, leading to uncontrollable laughter.

5. Personal Anecdotes and Inside Jokes (43:28 - 58:57)

Interwoven with the gameplay are personal stories and inside jokes that deepen the listeners' connection to the hosts:

• Shane [46:35]: Reflects on past roommate experiences with Damian, highlighting the camaraderie and unique living arrangements.

• Arasha [53:09]: Shares a childhood anecdote about introducing herself in a classroom in Hindi, adding a heartfelt touch to the episode.

The conversation also delves into linguistic humor, cultural references, and playful teasing, such as discussing Hindi versions of popular American TV shows.

• Arasha [57:31]: "I just have seen the Hindi versions. They will take, like, Disney Channel shows and basically just like, recast an Indian cast..."

6. Language and Cultural Discussions (58:00 - 59:45)

The hosts explore the concept of language adaptation in media, touching upon how Indian versions of shows like The Suite Life of Zack and Cody and Hannah Montana are reimagined for local audiences.

• Shane [58:15]: "They did do that here, though. They call it muzzy."

The discussion highlights the blend of humor and cultural insights, enriching the episode's depth.

7. Wrapping Up: Final Laughs and Announcements (59:46 - 63:05)

As the episode nears its conclusion, the hosts tally their laughs:

• Shane: "You laughed four times, loser."

• Damian: "Selena, what is. Tally had four laughs. You laughed four times, loser."

Despite the competitive edge, the atmosphere remains light-hearted and supportive. Damian announces his participation in MCC London Comic Con, inviting listeners to join the festivities.

• Damian [51:52]: "I took up. I've got an exorcism impression."

The episode wraps up with a humorous reflection on their performance, acknowledging Shane's win by a narrow margin.

• Shane [60:53]: "Damien pulling out with the win by one laugh."

8. Notable Quotes and Moments

• Shane [04:06]: "Every acting coach is gonna tell you, don't do what that last acting coach said."

• Damian [05:02]: Discussing neurodivergence in acting classes.

• Arasha [57:31]: On Hindi adaptations of TV shows.

• Shane [33:10]: Initiating the Japanese SpongeBob impression: "Can you give me, like, two seconds to just prepare for this?"

Conclusion

Episode #64 of Smosh Mouth masterfully balances humor with heartfelt conversations, offering listeners a glimpse into the hosts' personal lives and creative dynamics. Through shared stories, playful competitions, and genuine camaraderie, Shane, Arasha, Damian, and Arasha create an engaging and entertaining experience that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Whether you're an avid listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode promises laughter, relatable moments, and the unique charm that defines Smosh Mouth.