Podcast Summary: Smosh Mouth - S1: #32 - Do We Believe In Past Lives? with Jacksfilms

Release Date: September 25, 2019

In this engaging episode of Smosh Mouth, hosts Shayne Topp (Short) and Amanda Lehan-Canto (Tall), along with their guest Jack Douglas from Jacksfilms, delve into a variety of topics ranging from personal anecdotes and relationships to the intriguing concept of past lives. The conversation is enriched with humor, heartfelt stories, and insightful discussions, making it a captivating listen for both regular followers and newcomers alike.

1. Introduction and Personal Connections

The episode kicks off with Jack Douglas (JD) reflecting on how he and the hosts met through YouTube parodies, emphasizing the serendipitous nature of their friendship.

JD (00:22):
"We met via fucking YouTube. Like, if I didn't make this stupid parody video, we never would have met."

Olivia Sway (OS) playfully suggests the possibility of past life connections, setting the tone for deeper discussions later on.

OS (00:29):
"Maybe you knew her in a past life."

2. Jack’s Personal Journey and Marriage Story

A significant portion of the conversation centers around Jack’s relationship with his wife, Aaron. He shares the romantic story of how they met, rekindled their Facebook friendship, and eventually married at the very place they first met.

JD (12:24):
"We met at a bar in Philly one cold night in December...we were Facebook friends for years."

Ryan Higa (RH) highlights the almost predestined nature of their meeting, adding depth to Jack’s romantic narrative.

RH (18:05):
"Maybe you knew your wife. Maybe she was, like, your best friend in your past life."

JD (17:05):
"I proposed to her at the Irish pub where we first met."

The heartfelt exchange underscores the theme of destiny and connections beyond our current lives.

3. Exploring Past Lives and Reincarnation

Olivia Sway (OS) introduces the topic of past lives through her discussion of the book "Many Lives, Many Masters." She explains the concept of past life regression and how it has helped her understand deeper emotional traumas.

OS (18:15):
"It's about past life regression and all that stuff...she has such bad anxiety...she starts speaking from a voice from another life that she's lived."

JD (21:03): expresses intrigue and openness to the theory, appreciating the perspective it offers on personal growth and relationships.

OS (22:26):
"The masters are these, like, spirits that, like, talk to you after you pass away... it's all about becoming better."

The discussion delves into how past lives might influence our present relationships and personal development, adding a mystical layer to the episode's narrative.

4. Bachelor/Bachelorette Party Stories

The hosts share amusing and insightful tales about bachelor and bachelorette parties, touching on different preferences and humorous mishaps.

JD (29:20):
"We are going to the exotic land of Columbus, Ohio...we're not hitting up like the strip clubs or anything."

RH (32:54):
"Don't order strippers past midnight, guys."

OS (34:15):
"I'd love to be listening to some cool music, drinking shots of 1942, and just jump on beds."

These stories highlight the diversity in party planning and the importance of aligning activities with personal preferences and comfort levels.

5. Music Preferences and Improv Classes

The conversation shifts to the hosts’ musical tastes and experiences with improv comedy, emphasizing the role of music and improvisation in their lives.

JD (35:00):
"One of my all time favorite songs, Semi Charmed Life by Third Eye Blind..."

OS (46:26): discusses her involvement in improv classes at the Groundlings, relating it to well-known comedians like Will Ferrell.

RH (56:01):
"I recommend everybody take [improv] not just to be a comedian, but it's so helpful for just like, life."

JD (57:30):
"Improv is about feeding the situation."

This segment underscores the value of creativity and spontaneity, both in entertainment and personal growth.

6. State of YouTube Comedy

JD (58:43): and the hosts critique the current landscape of YouTube comedy, longing for the clever sketch formats of the past while acknowledging the rise of sensational and viral content.

JD (58:46):
"I feel like there's this huge absence of, like, sketch Comedy Today on YouTube."

RH (60:17):
"I think he found a format where he sort of built himself a box that he can play in."

They commend creators like Gus Johnson and Eric of Comment Etiquette for maintaining quality and consistency in sketch comedy, contrasting them with the more outrageous trending content.

7. Smosh Merchandise and Live Shows

The hosts enthusiastically discuss the latest Smosh merchandise collaboration with Slush Cult, highlighting new merchandise items like hoodies, socks, and pins.

RH (74:38):
"What do you miss about the old YouTube?"
JD (58:43):
"Clever sketches used to be king on YouTube..."

They also promote upcoming live events, particularly Jack’s new project "Yesterday I Asked You" (YAI), detailing its interactive format and future tour plans.

JD (62:00):
"If it does well, then we take it on the road."

RH (76:22):
"Check out his channel right now. And also, if you're 21 and up, get those tickies."

This segment emphasizes the community and interactive spirit of the Smosh brand, encouraging fans to engage both online and in-person.

8. Concluding Thoughts and Final Interactions

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on their discussions, express mutual appreciation, and share light-hearted banter about their personal lives and projects.

JD (76:43):
"Thank you. John as well. From one John to another, thank you."

OS (77:00):
"It's been so lovely chatting with the two of you."

RH (77:05):
"Thank you so much for coming on."

The friendly and warm conclusion reinforces the strong camaraderie between the hosts and Jack, leaving listeners with a sense of connection and anticipation for future episodes.

Notable Quotes

• JD (00:22):
  "We met via fucking YouTube. Like, if I didn't make this stupid parody video, we never would have met."

• JD (17:05):
  "I proposed to her at the Irish pub where we first met."

• OS (18:15):
  "This is real. And she starts getting better."

• RH (60:17):
  "I think he found a format where he sort of built himself a box that he can play in."

• RH (76:22):
  "Check out his channel right now. And also, if you're 21 and up, get those tickies."

Key Takeaways

• Destined Connections: The episode highlights how seemingly random events can lead to meaningful relationships, suggesting a possible influence of past lives.

• Exploration of Past Lives: Through Olivia’s insights, listeners are introduced to the concept of past lives and reincarnation, sparking curiosity about their own histories.

• Value of Improv: The discussion underscores the importance of improvisational skills, not just for performers but for everyday interactions.

• Evolving YouTube Landscape: A nostalgic look back at the golden era of YouTube comedy contrasts with current trends, advocating for the preservation of clever and engaging content.

• Community and Engagement: Emphasis on live interactions and merchandise showcases the vibrant and supportive Smosh community.

This episode of Smosh Mouth masterfully blends humor, personal stories, and thought-provoking topics, offering a rich and entertaining experience for all listeners.