Podcast Summary: Smosh Mouth Episode #66 - Teaching Amanda Internet Lore

Introduction

In episode #66 of Smosh Mouth, released on October 14, 2024, hosts Shayne Topp (Shane) and Amanda Lehan-Canto (Amanda) are joined by their guest Trevor for a special segment titled "Internet School." The primary goal of this episode is to educate Amanda on various significant internet events, memes, and phenomena that have shaped online culture over the years. The hosts blend personal anecdotes with in-depth discussions of internet lore, creating an engaging and informative experience for both longtime listeners and newcomers alike.

Amanda's Trip to Greece

The episode kicks off with Amanda sharing her recent personal adventure in Greece, where she traveled with her three sisters for the first time without any partners or children.

• Challenging Dynamics ([02:16] - [12:31]):

  Amanda recounts the complexities of traveling with siblings, highlighting instances of tension, such as the struggle to choose restaurants. She humorously describes the group's debates over dining preferences, emphasizing the balance between touristy spots and authentic local experiences.

  Amanda (02:42): "Choosing dinner at night was the hardest thing I've ever done in my life... We'd all be like, well, we're fucked."

  The trip included cultural immersions like an e-bike tour and a motorboat excursion. Amanda vividly describes interactions with locals, including a memorable encounter with a man named Nicthymos who recognized her from Smosh.

  Amanda (10:12): "He was so sweet. And it was just an unbelievable experience."

• Cultural Insights ([05:10] - [09:33]):

  Amanda delves into Greek traditions, such as shepherding and olive oil harvesting, providing listeners with fascinating insights into the country's heritage. She explains the intricacies of olive oil production, noting its flavor profiles and shelf life.

  Amanda (07:09): "Extra virgin olive oil should be green and spicy in the back of your throat."

• Memorable Moments ([08:00] - [12:31]):

  From unexpected bar experiences where the floor was humorously set on fire to the endearing behavior of her younger sister, Amanda paints a lively picture of her Greek getaway.

  Amanda (08:28): "We danced and they lit the floor on fire... Why?"

Internet School: Testing Amanda's Knowledge

Transitioning from personal stories, Shane introduces the "Internet School" segment aimed at assessing and expanding Amanda's understanding of key internet phenomena.

• Initial Assessment ([19:35] - [23:38]):

  Shane presents a list of notable internet events, gauging Amanda's familiarity with each. Events discussed include Dramageddon, Gamergate, Leroy Jenkins, Salt Bae, GameStop Meme Stalker, and Kony 2012. Amanda admits limited knowledge on several topics, setting the stage for deeper exploration.

  Shane (19:36): "I'm gonna list out a bunch of huge Internet events and see how much of them you are aware of."

  Amanda (20:32): "No. 0%."

• Exploring Memes and Viral Events ([23:38] - [36:38]):

  The hosts delve into specific events, providing detailed explanations and sharing their perspectives.

  • Milkshake Duck ([26:00] - [27:52]):

    Shane explains the term Milkshake Duck, originating from a 2016 tweet, which describes a scenario where a beloved figure is swiftly canceled after a problematic revelation.

    Shane (26:04): "Whenever someone becomes a viral sensation, they are basically canceled because we discover something."

  • Gamergate and Leroy Jenkins ([20:06] - [20:21]):

    Brief mentions of Gamergate and Leroy Jenkins highlight significant moments in gaming and meme culture.

    Shane (20:25): "Leroy Jenkins sounds familiar."

  • Salt Bae and GameStop Meme Stalker ([20:38] - [21:22]):

    Discussion around popular figures like Salt Bae and the GameStop Meme Stalker illustrates the rapid rise and fall of internet fame.

    Shane (20:40): "We got a hit, honey."

  • Kony 2012 ([55:19] - [61:44]):

    A comprehensive analysis of the Kony 2012 campaign explores its initial success and subsequent decline. Shane and Trevor discuss the documentary's impact, the phenomenon of internet activism, and the consequences faced by the campaign's orchestrators.

    Shane (57:02): "The can opener is also a bottle opener. But I explained that part wasn't relevant."

In-Depth Analysis of Specific Events

• Alex from Target ([35:23] - [39:35]):

  The episode recounts the story of Alex from Target, a teenage cashier who became an overnight internet sensation after a photo was posted on Twitter by a customer. Shane discusses the psychological and social impacts of sudden fame, emphasizing the lack of foresight and the ethical implications of posting unsolicited photos.

  Shane (35:36): "He becomes the biggest celebrity... He's now Alex from UPS."

• Bean Dad ([41:41] - [51:14]):

  Bean Dad serves as an example of self-cancellation, where a seemingly innocent story of a father struggling to teach his daughter how to open a can of beans was mocked for its over-the-top narrative and perceived lack of practical parenting.

  Shane (44:55): "You are a psycho... Your child needs to be taken immediately from your hands."

Additional Internet Highlights

• Mudang and Other Memes ([64:48] - [66:31]):

  The hosts briefly touch upon newer internet memes and trends like Mudang, a mischievous baby hippo, showcasing the ever-evolving landscape of online humor.

  Amanda (65:25): "Oh, my God."

Conclusion and Teasers for Future Episodes

As the episode wraps up, the hosts express enthusiasm for future discussions, hinting at more in-depth explorations of phenomena like Don't Hug Me I'm Scared and Dashcon. Their lively banter and shared experiences underscore the fun and educational nature of the Smosh Mouth podcast.

Shane (66:00): "Part two of this because... we have a bunch of research on Dashcon."

Amanda (66:18): "Okay, let's offline about my favorite thing to do."

Notable Quotes

• Amanda (02:42): "Choosing dinner at night was the hardest thing I've ever done in my life... We'd all be like, well, we're fucked."

• Shane (26:04): "Whenever someone becomes a viral sensation, they are basically canceled because we discover something."

• Shane (35:36): "He becomes the biggest celebrity... He's now Alex from UPS."

• Shane (44:55): "You are a psycho... Your child needs to be taken immediately from your hands."

Final Thoughts

Episode #66 of Smosh Mouth offers a blend of personal storytelling and comprehensive internet lore education. Through Amanda's journey to Greece and the subsequent "Internet School" segment, listeners are treated to both heartfelt experiences and insightful analyses of online phenomena. The inclusion of humorous interactions and candid reflections makes this episode a standout addition to the series, catering to both entertainment and informative desires.