Podcast Summary: Smosh Mouth S1: #4 - We Don’t Agree On Michael Jackson
Episode Details:
- Title: We Don’t Agree On Michael Jackson
- Hosts: Ian Hecox, Keith Leak Jr., Noah Grossman
- Release Date: March 13, 2019
In this engaging episode of Smosh Mouth, hosts Ian Hecox, Keith Leak Jr., and Noah Grossman delve into a heated discussion surrounding the controversial legacy of pop icon Michael Jackson. The conversation weaves through personal anecdotes, societal issues, and the complexities of fandom, offering listeners a mix of humor, introspection, and candid opinions.
1. Opening Remarks and Light-Hearted Banter (00:30 - 05:35)
The episode kicks off with the trio engaging in playful exchanges about tap dancing, setting a relaxed and humorous tone. Early discussions touch on their personal backgrounds and relationships, establishing a comfortable rapport among the hosts.
Notable Quote:
- Keith Leak Jr. (00:34): "Michael Jackson was open for his love for children. But this is the thing. When there's a 10-year investigation on you from the FBI, they find no evidence whatsoever. It's just hard for me to believe that it's actually accurate."
2. Experiences with Church and Cultural Insights (05:35 - 17:36)
Keith shares his experience of taking Noah to a black church, highlighting the differences between black and white church communities. The conversation explores the impact of diverse religious environments on personal beliefs and cultural identity.
Notable Quotes:
- Noah Grossman (03:30): "It was the best experience of my life."
- Keith Leak Jr. (05:06): "I learned the most teachings and, like, beliefs that I have from the white church, believe it or not."
3. Delving into Michael Jackson Allegations (17:36 - 41:22)
The heart of the episode centers on the allegations against Michael Jackson. The hosts discuss the legitimacy of the claims, the role of FBI investigations, and the challenges of separating an artist's personal life from their professional legacy.
Key Points:
- FBI Investigations: Keith questions the thoroughness and outcomes of the FBI's decade-long investigation, expressing skepticism about the absence of evidence.
- Personal Beliefs: Ian and Keith share their struggles with reconciling Michael Jackson's contributions to music with the allegations of misconduct.
- Fandom Influence: The hosts critique how fandoms can overshadow critical thinking, making it difficult to objectively assess an artist's character and actions.
Notable Quotes:
- Keith Leak Jr. (19:12): "I don't want to make people feel that their voice isn't being heard."
- Noah Grossman (18:45): "Pedophiles go everywhere."
4. Comparison with R. Kelly and Broader Issues (41:22 - 53:28)
The discussion transitions to comparisons with other controversial figures like R. Kelly, addressing how different industries and societal systems handle allegations of misconduct. The hosts also touch on broader societal problems, including financial crises and infrastructure issues.
Key Points:
- R. Kelly Allegations: Keith and Noah discuss R. Kelly's legal troubles, questioning the consistency and efficacy of law enforcement in high-profile cases.
- Societal Critiques: The conversation broadens to include critiques of financial systems, public transportation inefficiencies in Los Angeles, and environmental concerns like water safety.
Notable Quotes:
- Noah Grossman (25:28): "How do you overload a plane?"
- Keith Leak Jr. (54:27): "You don't go to church. You ain't never been to church, have you?"
5. Personal Anecdotes and Driving Mishaps (53:28 - 72:00)
The hosts share personal stories about driving accidents, interactions with law enforcement, and the frustrations of car ownership. These anecdotes add a relatable and humorous layer to the episode, showcasing the hosts' camaraderie and ability to find humor in challenging situations.
Key Points:
- Accidents: Noah recounts a car accident involving Keith, highlighting issues with distracted driving and the stress of dealing with police.
- Car Ownership: The conversation critiques the financial burdens of owning a car in Los Angeles, advocating for alternative transportation methods.
- Public Transportation: The hosts discuss the historical dismantling of LA's tram system and the resultant dependence on cars, expressing a desire for improved public transit solutions.
Notable Quotes:
- Noah Grossman (60:53): "We get half a mile before I have to get."
- Keith Leak Jr. (55:28): "My solution is Uber and that is public transportation."
6. Financial Discussions: 401k and Investments (72:00 - 78:19)
Noah and Keith delve into personal financial strategies, discussing the importance of saving for retirement through 401k accounts. They share insights on investing, the challenges of financial planning, and the impact of economic downturns on personal finances.
Key Points:
- 401k Importance: Emphasizing the long-term benefits of investing early, Noah shares his experience with 401k investments and the potential growth over decades.
- Financial Struggles: The hosts candidly discuss their financial setbacks, including car purchases and loan misunderstandings with their families.
- Investment Advice: Ian and Keith offer practical advice on mutual funds and low-risk investments, encouraging listeners to take control of their financial futures.
Notable Quotes:
- Noah Grossman (68:48): "Start your 401k right now. That $5 will probably be like 12,000."
- Keith Leak Jr. (75:22): "Watch Jacob's music videos. And there's evidence for the FBI, but there's also evidence of modern hip hop."
7. Final Thoughts on Fandom and Accountability (78:19 - 79:23)
In the closing segment, the hosts reflect on the nature of fandom and the importance of holding public figures accountable, regardless of their contributions to the entertainment industry. They emphasize the need for objective judgment and the dangers of idolizing without critical assessment.
Key Points:
- Fandom Accountability: Ian expresses a desire for fans to judge their idols fairly, acknowledging that unconditional support can sometimes blind people to the flaws of their favorite artists.
- Balanced Perspective: The hosts advocate for a balanced view that recognizes both the positive and negative aspects of influential figures like Michael Jackson and R. Kelly.
Notable Quotes:
- Ian Hecox (76:35): "Bottom line, feel free to idolize musicians, but don't give them a free break on anything."
- Keith Leak Jr. (78:42): "Forensic files. I'm gonna go back to it. But when it comes down to it, I will watch it eventually."
Conclusion: This episode of Smosh Mouth navigates the complex and often contentious discussions surrounding Michael Jackson's legacy, intertwining it with personal stories and broader societal critiques. The hosts maintain a balance between humor and serious discourse, inviting listeners to reflect on the challenges of reconciling admiration with accountability.
Final Notable Quote:
- Ian Hecox (78:19): "Feel free to idolize musicians, but don't give them a free break on anything. I think that's what we think. That's what we learned today."
For those interested in nuanced discussions that blend personal insights with cultural commentary, this episode offers a compelling listen.