Podcast Episode Summary: Smosh Mouth S2: #81 - Our Worst Try Not To Laugh Moments
Release Date: September 23, 2020
Introduction
In episode #81 of "Smosh Mouth," hosts Shayne Topp (Shane), Amanda Lehan-Canto (Damien), and a rotating Smosh friend delve into their most challenging and memorable "Try Not To Laugh" moments. This episode offers an insightful and humorous exploration of their experiences, mishaps, and the dynamics that make their comedy segments both entertaining and unpredictable.
Early "Try Not To Laugh" Experiences
The discussion begins with Shane reminiscing about his first "Try Not To Laugh" segment with Olivia, highlighting the unpredictable nature of their comedic endeavors.
- Shane Madej [00:00]: "I was in that first Try not to Laugh with the Gang with Olivia. I don't know how she comes up with the things she comes up with, because they're beyond just weird."
Ian shares his attempt to incorporate the singing Big Mouth Billy Bass into a live segment, which unexpectedly took a dark turn.
- Ian Hecox [00:28]: "I had a plan to do the singing big mouth Billy Bass, and now he's gonna do World War II. And everyone was like, oh, I think."
Damien reflects on their tendency to be self-critical, emphasizing the importance of supporting each other's efforts.
- Damien Haas [00:35]: "We also have a tendency to be hard on ourselves."
Impact of COVID-19 on Performances
Shane opens up about how the COVID-19 pandemic affected his birthday celebrations and overall outlook on life.
- Shane Madej [01:29]: "Cream, which is very topical for this podcast, which is coming out. What is this? October 50th?"
- Shane Madej [01:38]: "It was a chill birthday. I had a Covid birthday."
The hosts discuss the prolonged nature of the pandemic and its implications on their personal and professional lives.
- Shane Madej [02:07]: "Is this just life from now on?"
- Ian Hecox [02:09]: "I saw some article that was like. That was like, this is just the beginning of the Pandemics for, like, this new future that we live in."
Shane shares his frustration with the ongoing situation, balancing personal challenges with empathy for others.
- Shane Madej [02:53]: "I'm just like, I'm just like. I'm just like, fuck this virus, man."
Internet Behavior and Conspiracy Theories
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to dissecting the impact of social media algorithms on the proliferation of conspiracy theories.
Damien critiques how algorithms amplify extreme viewpoints, making it difficult to address the root causes of misinformation.
- Damien Haas [09:59]: "It's the same thing I've seen with like people likening Covid spread rate to 5G towers."
Ian references the documentary "The Social Dilemma" to underscore how social media platforms contribute to societal divisions.
- Ian Hecox [10:24]: "I have a call in to Spectrum Internet about my jaw."
Shane comments on the polarization within the U.S., highlighting the split between those who trust experts and those who reject authoritative guidance.
- Shane Madej [06:32]: "Yeah, it's definitely been split. I feel like this has split. We see two different types of Americans."
Challenges in Comedy and Content Creation
The hosts delve into the difficulties of crafting successful comedic bits, sharing instances where their jokes didn’t land as intended.
Ian recounts his experience with the Big Mouth Billy Bass segment that went off-script, leading to unexpected audience reactions.
- Ian Hecox [19:52]: "He sings about World War II. And everyone was like, oh."
Shane discusses moments where their planned jokes failed to elicit laughter, highlighting the unpredictability of live performances.
- Shane Madej [23:05]: "I'm trying to think of a bit that went the wrong way."
Damien emphasizes the value of embracing failure in comedy, viewing it as a pathway to improvement.
- Damien Haas [24:34]: "Failure is part of it. It's fun, you know."
Podcast Production Insights and Audience Engagement
The conversation shifts to the intricacies of podcast production, including the importance of editing and timing to enhance comedic delivery.
- Ian Hecox [31:38]: "A little twinge of editing certainly helps things along."
The hosts address listener questions, such as the transition from using water to harmonicas in their segments, discussing safety measures during the pandemic.
- Shane Madej [32:07]: "We're trying to be as safe as possible."
They brainstorm alternative props to harmonicas, showcasing their collaborative and improvisational spirit.
- Damien Haas [34:32]: "Can we combine your ideas? Milk harmonica."
Improv and Warm-Up Techniques
Delving into their creative process, the hosts share their favorite improv games and warm-up routines that prepare them for "Try Not To Laugh" segments.
Damien introduces "Five Things," a game that stimulates quick thinking and creativity.
- Damien Haas [47:34]: "Five Things is basically like everybody has their own different rhythm."
Shane and Ian discuss the significance of being present and connected with fellow performers to enhance improvisational comedy.
- Shane Madej [45:03]: "And also it's supposed to connect you because you can be the funniest person in the world if you're not on the same page and connecting with your other performers."
Highlighting Olivia's Unique Humor
A dedicated segment explores Olivia's distinctive comedic style, characterized by unexpected and surreal humor that keeps both the audience and her co-hosts guessing.
- Shane Madej [51:19]: "Olivia is like that all the time. I’m like, there’s connections there. But I’m like, where did you come up with this?"
Damien praises Olivia's ability to create a shared humorous experience by making others uncertain about what to expect.
- Damien Haas [53:23]: "Making them uncomfortable. [...] you're in her world now and she's not going to stick to the 32nd time limit."
Shane admires her focus amidst chaos, noting her mastery in delivering jokes that are both confusing and hilarious.
- Shane Madej [55:28]: "Focused chaos."
Conclusion and Announcements
As the episode wraps up, the hosts share updates about their podcast's presence on Twitch, encouraging listeners to engage with their live streams and various content offerings.
- Ian Hecox [64:13]: "We're recording every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. We got all sorts of fun stuff planned."
They humorously discuss fictional scenarios, maintaining the episode's lighthearted and chaotic tone until the very end.
- Shane Madej [57:02]: "This is a chaotic episode."
Final Thoughts
Episode #81 of "Smosh Mouth" offers a candid and entertaining glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of creating comedic content. Through personal anecdotes, insightful discussions, and genuine camaraderie, Shane, Damien, and their guests provide listeners with an engaging exploration of what it takes to keep the laughter rolling—even when things don’t go as planned.
Notable Quotes:
- Shane Madej [00:00]: "I don't know how she comes up with the things she comes up with, because they're beyond just weird."
- Ian Hecox [19:52]: "He sings about World War II. And everyone was like, oh."
- Damien Haas [24:34]: "Failure is part of it. It's fun, you know."
- Shane Madej [51:19]: "Olivia is like that all the time. I’m like, there’s connections there. But I’m like, where did you come up with this?"
This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and humorous exchanges from the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened.