Episode Summary: Smosh Mouth #71 - "Would We Have Been Friends?"

In Episode #71 of Smosh Mouth, released on November 18, 2024, hosts Shayne Topp, Amanda Lehan-Canto, and Ian Hecox engage in a lively and nostalgic conversation, reflecting on their journey with Smosh as it celebrates its 19th anniversary. The episode delves into their perspectives on reality TV phenomena, the evolution of internet culture, personal growth, and musings on whether their teenage selves would have formed friendships had they attended high school together.

1. Reflections on "Love Is Blind" Reunion

The episode opens with a candid discussion about the recent reunion of the reality show "Love Is Blind." The hosts express mixed feelings, critiquing the show's handling of conflicts and the dynamics between contestants.

• Shayne Topp shares his antipathy towards the show, stating, "I hate that show," and elaborates on how the reunion failed to address deeper issues effectively. (04:14)

• Amanda Lehan-Canto highlights specific moments that showcased contestants' intense emotions, particularly noting Vanessa Lachey's demeanor: "Vanessa seemed really mad." (04:46)

• Ian Hecox appreciates the structured format of the reunion, commending host Andy for keeping discussions on track: "The host, Andy, actually, like, holds." (07:08)

The conversation underscores their frustration with the show's inability to foster genuine resolution among participants, leading to a broader critique of reality TV's impact on personal narratives.

2. Smosh Turns 19: A Journey Through the Years

Celebrating 19 years, the hosts reminisce about Smosh's humble beginnings and its growth into a prominent name in online entertainment.

• Ian Hecox reflects on starting Smosh at 17, emphasizing the organic nature of their initial content creation: "We were just out of high school and... making videos was just fun." (09:09)

• Shayne Topp shares nostalgia for early technology, recalling how they filmed with a basic webcam: "We had to shoot everything within like a 3ft radius from the computer at the beginning." (09:26)

• Amanda Lehan-Canto adds personal anecdotes about the creative challenges faced during Smosh's early days, highlighting their resourcefulness in producing content with limited resources. (10:01)

The hosts discuss pivotal moments, such as joining the YouTube Partnership Program, which marked Smosh as one of the first channels to monetize content, solidifying their place in the digital landscape.

3. Nostalgia for Early Internet and Technology

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to nostalgic reflections on the early days of the internet, gaming, and digital culture.

• Ian Hecox reminisces about playing Doom, a seminal video game, and its cultural impact: "Checks created like a mod to Doom and made it like a kid's version of Doom." (11:23)

• Shayne Topp discusses the challenges of recreating early sketches with outdated technology: "It would be so much harder now. 'Cause it's hard to just get that." (10:20)

• Amanda Lehan-Canto fondly remembers the transition from a Discman to an iPod Nano, underscoring the rapid advancements in personal tech: "I was like, this is sick." (17:44)

The conversation delves into the evolution of content creation tools, the shift from platforms like MySpace to YouTube, and the impact of viral phenomena such as "Numa Numa" and "Star Wars Kid."

4. Teenage Experiences: "Would We Have Been Friends?"

The central theme of the episode revolves around whether the hosts would have formed friendships had they attended high school together. This segment is rich with personal stories and humorous exchanges.

• Shayne Topp poses the titular question, exploring the differences in their teenage personalities and interests: "Do you think people looked at what I was doing as a possibility?" (25:04)

• Amanda Lehan-Canto shares her vibrant high school life, contrasting it with her siblings' experiences: "I was wild, man... I was figuring out my life." (25:39)

• Ian Hecox discusses his focus on content creation over traditional social activities, questioning the compatibility of their different social circles: "I don't think we would have been in the same group." (25:10)

Their dialogue touches on themes of identity, social dynamics, and the unique paths that led to the formation of their enduring partnership in Smosh.

5. Challenges and Triumphs in Smosh's Evolution

As Smosh approaches two decades, the hosts reflect on both the triumphant and tumultuous moments that have shaped the channel.

• Ian Hecox highlights the success of initiatives like Smosh Summer Games, which fostered community and collaboration among creators: "Summer Games was originally created because Smosh games and the other parts of Smosh didn't really interact very much." (53:01)

• Shayne Topp recounts the chaos and creativity behind large-scale projects, such as Smosh: The Movie, and the challenges of maintaining content quality: "It was so wild because that was in my first, like, month or two." (54:13)

• Amanda Lehan-Canto discusses the emotional toll of departures and lineup changes, particularly Anthony leaving, which tested the group's resilience: "Anthony leaving... was kind of a nightmare." (56:42)

The hosts emphasize the importance of adaptability and teamwork in navigating the evolving landscape of online entertainment.

6. Looking Forward: The Future of Smosh

Concluding the episode, the hosts express optimism and determination as they set their sights on the next milestone: Smosh's 20th anniversary.

• Shayne Topp urges fans to support Smosh to ensure its longevity: "We gotta make sure Smosh doesn't go under again." (67:07)

• Amanda Lehan-Canto emphasizes the collective effort required to sustain the channel: "We're gonna make it." (67:08)

• Ian Hecox reaffirms his confidence in Smosh's ability to endure: "Smosh will make it." (67:16)

Their closing remarks reinforce the strong bond among the hosts and their commitment to continuing Smosh's legacy in the digital age.

Notable Quotes

• Shayne Topp on the challenges of the "Love Is Blind" reunion: "And when you leave and I... go, nothing." (03:29)

• Amanda Lehan-Canto on early content creation: "We had to shoot everything within like a 3ft radius from the computer." (09:26)

• Ian Hecox on Smosh's initial growth: "Summer Games was originally created because Smosh games and the other parts of Smosh didn't really interact very much." (53:01)

• Shayne Topp on teenage relationships: "I didn't have a girlfriend until I was in my 20s." (32:07)

• Amanda Lehan-Canto on high school dynamics: "I'm wild, man... I was figuring out my life." (25:39)

Conclusion

Episode #71 of Smosh Mouth offers a heartfelt and humorous exploration of Smosh's enduring presence in the online entertainment sphere. Through personal anecdotes and reflective discussions, Shayne, Amanda, and Ian provide listeners with an intimate glimpse into their collective experiences, triumphs, and the unwavering camaraderie that has fueled Smosh's success for nearly two decades. As they contemplate the future, their commitment to evolving and connecting with their audience remains steadfast, promising even more engaging content in the years to come.