Podcast Summary: Smosh Mouth Episode #87 - "Bob The Drag Queen Loves Zendaya"

Release Date: March 31, 2025
Host(s): Shayne Topp (Shane), Amanda Lehan-Canto (Amanda), Courtney

1. Welcoming the Special Guest: Bob the Drag Queen

The episode kicks off with hosts Shayne ("Shane") and Amanda introducing their special guest, Bob the Drag Queen (Bob). Courtney also joins the conversation, setting the stage for an engaging discussion.

• Amanda [00:03]: "We have a very special guest with us today, Bob the Drag Queen."

2. Bob’s Experience at a Recent Event Featuring Weird Al Yankovic

Bob shares anecdotes from a recent event he attended, highlighting his admiration for Weird Al Yankovic.

• Bob [01:24]: "It was like Cress. Whitestrips white. Sure."

He describes the event as "the whitest night of my life," emphasizing the predominantly white lineup, including artists like Weird Al and Rufus Wainwright.

• Bob [01:57]: "He was actually really, really cool about it."

Bob recounts how he and Melissa Villasenor managed to secure a picture with Weird Al, praising Al's approachable nature.

3. Reality TV Ventures and Insights from "The Traitors"

The conversation shifts to Bob's extensive experience with reality TV shows, particularly his participation in The Traitors.

• Bob [05:19]: "I've been on several reality TV shows... I've been on RuPaul's Drag Race, and I competed on The Traitors."

He discusses strategies and perceptions from the show, addressing online rumors about his performance.

• Bob [06:15]: "People online who said that I was, quote, unquote, the worst trader of all time."

Bob expresses pride in his gameplay and how his exit was one of the most viewed episodes of The Traitors.

4. Exploring Bob’s Creative Endeavors: Writing and Music

A significant portion of the episode delves into Bob’s literary and musical projects, particularly his book and its audiobook version.

a. The Book: "Weird Voice"

Bob discusses the genesis of his book, initially approached to write a memoir but opting instead to create a historical fiction narrative centered around Harriet Tubman.

• Bob [27:07]: "I do love historical fiction. I had just finished reading The Good Lord Bird by James McBride..."

He outlines the book’s premise, where Harriet Tubman is resurrected to navigate modern challenges, including producing a hip-hop album.

• Bob [33:28]: "I wrote the book to mimic what I imagined a journey to freedom on the Underground Railroad would be like."

b. The Audiobook Experience

Bob shares his emotional journey of recording the audiobook, highlighting the inclusion of original songs that enhance the storytelling.

• Bob [31:02]: "I finished the audiobook, it had been five years... the last chapter might be inaudible. I was crying..."

He emphasizes the personal significance and emotional depth involved in bringing the book to life through narration and music.

5. Deep Dive into Historical Narratives and Creative Vision

Bob passionately discusses Harriet Tubman’s legacy, her strategic brilliance, and her portrayal in his book.

• Bob [36:50]: "Harriet Tubman is America's first black superhero... she had precognition."

He provides a detailed account of Tubman’s daring missions and her role in the Combahee River Raid, showcasing her as a fearless leader.

• Bob [38:35]: "Abraham Lincoln was not an abolitionist. He wanted to punish the South by taking away their free labor."

His portrayal of historical figures like Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass offers a nuanced perspective, challenging common perceptions.

• Bob [52:14]: "Abraham Lincoln wanted to punish the south... remove free labor, actually he might think to get rid of black people."

6. Future Projects and Creative Ambitions

Bob hints at future literary projects, including sequels and entirely new narratives that continue to blend historical elements with contemporary themes.

• Bob [62:03]: "The next book is called Jesus Christ for President."

He briefly outlines the plot, infusing humor and satire into his imaginative storytelling.

7. Quick Fire Round: Getting Personal with Bob

Towards the episode’s conclusion, hosts engage Bob in a Quick Fire Questions segment, adding a light-hearted and personal touch.

• Shane [66:05]: "Name three adjectives that describe a margarita."

  Bob: "Zesty. Tangy. Boozy."

• Amanda [66:35]: "Can animatronics be sexy?"

  Bob: "100% for sure."

• Shane [67:02]: "Do you eat cereal?"

  Bob: "I do like cereal. My favorite cereal is Apple Jacks."

• Amanda [67:12]: "Submissive or breeding?"

  Bob: "I'm submissive."

8. Closing Remarks and Promotion

Bob wraps up the episode by promoting his book and audiobook, providing links for listeners to purchase or access signed copies.

• Bob [68:45]: "If you guys want to get my book, you can go to readthedragqueen.com."

He underscores the uniqueness of his audiobook, featuring his own narration and original songs.

• Bob [69:02]: "The songs will cut in, like, just. They’re not at the end. They’re put into the appropriate place."

Notable Quotes

• Bob on Weird Al Yankovic [02:34]: "Who has more Grammys out of these artists?... Weird Al has five Grammys."

• Bob on Harriet Tubman’s Leadership [36:00]: "If you take a step back, that would be the last step you ever take."

• Bob on Writing the Book [27:07]: "I do love historical fiction... I write jokes, I podcast, and then I go home and I go to sleep."

• Bob on Fearless Leadership [36:54]: "She had a dance with the devil and mama got the upper hand."

Insights and Conclusions

In this episode, Bob the Drag Queen offers a multifaceted glimpse into his life beyond drag performance, highlighting his literary talents and deep engagement with historical narratives. His passion for Harriet Tubman and dedication to portraying her legacy with both reverence and creative imagination underscores his commitment to blending education with entertainment. The hosts effectively navigate through serious discussions and lighthearted segments, ensuring a well-rounded and captivating episode.

Listeners gain insight into Bob’s creative process, his perspectives on historical figures, and his endeavors in writing and music. The Quick Fire Questions segment adds a personal flavor, humanizing Bob and strengthening the connection between him and the audience.

Overall, this episode serves as an inspiring testament to Bob the Drag Queen's versatility and dedication to using his platform for storytelling and education, all while maintaining his signature humor and charisma.