Podcast Summary: Smosh Mouth – S1: #21 - Being A Woman In The Smosh Boys Club
Hosts:
- Ian Hecox
- Courtney Miller
- Sarah Whittle
Release Date: July 10, 2019
1. Navigating Social Dynamics and Personal Experiences
Sarah Whittle's Weekend Adventure (02:04 - 20:31)
The episode kicks off with Sarah sharing a vivid recount of her tumultuous weekend. She narrates a typical Saturday where she and her sister Carrie planned a relaxed evening watching Iron Giant. However, their plans take an unexpected turn when they are approached by a stranger at a liquor store who invites them to a nearby party.
Sarah Whittle (03:02): "Don't go to strangers' houses or go anywhere that a stranger tells you to go."
Initially intrigued, Sarah and Carrie decide to check out the party, leading them to a spacious house with a pool. While enjoying the festivities, including spicy margaritas and a friendly atmosphere, things take an uncomfortable turn during a casual game of basketball.
Sarah Whittle (10:37): "He grabs my hand and puts it on his boner."
Feeling uneasy, they quickly exit the situation, prioritizing their safety over curiosity. Sarah emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and recognizing inappropriate behavior.
Sarah Whittle (14:30): "Don't grab a girl's hand and force her to touch your peen. That's super inappropriate."
2. Earthquakes and Personal Safety
Experiencing Natural Disasters (24:00 - 33:38)
The conversation shifts to the topic of earthquakes, a pressing concern for the hosts. Ian shares his firsthand experience of feeling earthquakes while living in Los Angeles, highlighting the unpredictability and fear associated with such natural disasters.
Ian Hecox (25:04): "Earthquakes are really, really frightening."
Sarah discusses her experience during a significant earthquake while watching Spider-Man in a movie theater, comparing it to the immersive experience of a 4D seat.
Sarah Whittle (24:57): "It was the climactic part of Spider-Man, and I was like, 'Whoa, whoa.'"
The hosts delve into the importance of emergency preparedness, discussing the confusion around safety protocols and the need for clear guidelines during earthquakes.
Courtney Miller (32:05): "The most important part is just to protect your noggin."
3. Challenges in the Entertainment Industry
Ian's Journey and Shifting Dreams (51:25 - 57:09)
Ian opens up about his struggles in the entertainment industry, particularly the difficulties of auditioning and the often subjective nature of casting. He shares his pivotal moment during a Blue's Clues audition, where despite his preparation and enthusiasm, he didn’t land the role. This experience led him to reevaluate his career aspirations.
Ian Hecox (53:56): "I just was like, this just isn't for me."
Transitioning from acting to producing, Ian found fulfillment in his role at Smosh, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's career with personal strengths and passions.
Ian Hecox (57:10): "It's about adjusting to the changing course... more at peace now."
4. Gender Dynamics and Representation in Smosh
Breaking the Boys' Club (62:00 - 68:03)
A significant portion of the discussion centers on the gender dynamics within Smosh. Courtney highlights the traditionally male-dominated nature of sketch comedy and the efforts to incorporate more diverse voices and perspectives.
Courtney Miller (63:44): "Sketch comedy is so fucking white. It's ridiculous."
Sarah and Courtney discuss the evolution of Smosh’s content to be more inclusive, ensuring that comedy isn't reliant on exploitative portrayals but rather embraces varied experiences and backgrounds.
Sarah Whittle (64:27): "Having different voices adds to a more well-rounded voice."
They also touch upon the shift in marketing strategies, moving away from gendered and stereotypical approaches to more authentic and respectful representations.
Ian Hecox (67:53): "Pregnancy's at like 30 million views, dude."
5. Embracing Change and Personal Growth
Adapting to New Roles and Inspirations (74:00 - 75:57)
As the podcast nears its end, the hosts reflect on personal growth and the importance of evolving within their roles at Smosh. Courtney announces an upcoming live podcast at Vidcon, signaling ongoing growth and engagement with their audience.
Courtney Miller (75:35): "We're going to be doing a live podcast at Vidcon."
Ian expresses gratitude towards his colleagues, particularly Courtney and Sarah, for their inspiration and support, underscoring the collaborative spirit that fuels Smosh’s success.
Ian Hecox (62:09): "You guys really inspire me to be better as a person, better comedically."
Notable Quotes:
- Sarah Whittle (10:37): "He grabs my hand and puts it on his boner."
- Ian Hecox (25:04): "Earthquakes are really, really frightening."
- Courtney Miller (32:05): "The most important part is just to protect your noggin."
- Ian Hecox (53:56): "I just was like, this just isn't for me."
- Courtney Miller (63:44): "Sketch comedy is so fucking white. It's ridiculous."
- Ian Hecox (67:53): "Pregnancy's at like 30 million views, dude."
- Ian Hecox (62:09): "You guys really inspire me to be better as a person, better comedically."
Conclusion
In this episode of Smosh Mouth, the hosts delve deep into personal anecdotes, the challenges of the entertainment industry, and the ongoing efforts to foster a more inclusive and representative comedic environment within Smosh. Through candid conversations and shared experiences, Ian, Courtney, and Sarah highlight the importance of adapting to change, supporting one another, and embracing diverse perspectives to create meaningful and relatable content.