Podcast Summary: So True with Caleb Hearon – Episode: Trixie Mattel Returns

In this engaging and heartfelt episode of "So True with Caleb Hearon," host Caleb Hearon welcomes the beloved gay comedian and drag icon, Trixie Mattel. The episode delves deep into Trixie's recent hiatus from drag, her experiences during this break, and her triumphant return to the stage. Throughout the conversation, Caleb and Trixie explore themes of mental health, personal growth, political activism, artistic expression, and the intricate dynamics of maintaining a public persona.

1. Taking a Hiatus: Personal Struggles and Mental Health

Timestamp: 05:00 – 12:20

Trixie begins by candidly discussing her decision to take a three-month hiatus from drag. The break was a necessary step to address her mental health and prevent burnout from her demanding performance schedule. She shares the profound impact this period had on her, including significant weight loss and emotional distress.

Trixie Mattel ([12:07]): "I've never been so thin and unhappy in my life."

Caleb empathizes with Trixie's struggles, highlighting the pressures that come with being in the public eye and constantly performing.

2. Activities During the Hiatus: Reconnecting with Self

Timestamp: 14:00 – 24:00

During her time away from drag, Trixie engaged in various activities aimed at rejuvenating her spirit and reconnecting with herself. These included:

• Cooking: Utilizing Green Chef services, Trixie honed her culinary skills, preparing meals with fresh ingredients from her garden.

  Trixie Mattel ([02:12]): "I cooked breakfast this morning. I made gorgeous eggs and potatoes, you know, a fresh rosemary from the garden."

• Gardening: She tended to her garden in Los Angeles, embracing a homesteading lifestyle.

  Trixie Mattel ([02:22]): "In the pit yard in the yard. I'm homesteading in Los Angeles."

• Creative Pursuits: Trixie played the guitar, practiced watercolor painting, and enjoyed long walks and bike rides.

  Trixie Mattel ([16:00]): "I play my guitar and sing all the time again. Getting ready for some DJ dates coming up and just not overworking."

• Social Activities: She dabbled in playing pool, leading to amusing anecdotes about competing against strangers in pool halls.

  Trixie Mattel ([25:36]): "I was in Milwaukee playing and I played against this, like, straight guy, and he was in front of his girlfriend..."

• Horse Racing Experience: Trixie attended horse races in Keeneland, Kentucky, providing a cultural contrast to her Los Angeles life and offering insights into the world of horse racing and the associated MAGA culture.

  Trixie Mattel ([16:00]): "I went to the horse races in Keeneland. It was really nice."

3. Returning to Drag: Embracing Authenticity

Timestamp: 24:00 – 35:00

After her hiatus, Trixie expresses a renewed dedication to the drag art form. She reflects on the dangers of feeling like her drag persona was becoming a mere imitation devoid of genuine emotion.

Trixie Mattel ([52:50]): "It was sick to sit down here in a wig and not enjoy it."

Caleb highlights Trixie's transformation, noting her shift from feeling like a product to embracing her authentic self in her performances.

4. Political Engagement: Voting in Drag

Timestamp: 20:00 – 24:00

A significant portion of the conversation centers around Trixie's decision to vote in drag during her trip to Wisconsin. This act symbolizes a blend of her personal identity with her political activism.

Trixie Mattel ([24:39]): "I'm gonna go vote."

Trixie recounts the challenges and cultural nuances of voting in drag, emphasizing the importance of participation in the democratic process.

5. Acting and "English Teacher": Exploring New Arenas

Timestamp: 28:49 – 30:00

Trixie discusses her role in FX’s new show "English Teacher," collaborating with fellow drag queen Brian on the series. She delves into the complexities of acting versus performing in drag, sharing insights into character development and the subtleties of television acting.

Trixie Mattel ([28:49]): "I got to play... in 'English Teacher.' It's so funny."

6. Mental Health and Self-Reflection: Prioritizing Well-being

Timestamp: 52:50 – 53:00

Both Caleb and Trixie reflect on the importance of mental health and self-care. Trixie emphasizes her journey toward valuing her well-being over the pressures of performance.

Trixie Mattel ([52:50]): "It was sick to sit down here in a wig and not enjoy it."

Caleb supports this sentiment, reinforcing the message that taking care of oneself is paramount.

7. Contemporary Art: Opinions on Jeff Koons and Banksy

Timestamp: 60:00 – 63:50

The conversation takes a brief detour into the realm of contemporary art. Both hosts share their candid opinions on prominent artists like Jeff Koons and Banksy.

Trixie Mattel ([60:10]): "I have almost no connection to the world of visual arts. I didn't enjoy art classes in high school."

Caleb Hearon ([62:56]): "I don't like his stuff. He makes me mad."

They discuss the subjective nature of art appreciation and personal tastes, highlighting their differing perspectives.

8. Parenting and Relationships: Aspirations and Realities

Timestamp: 45:00 – 48:50

Trixie and Caleb delve into discussions about the desire to have children, the realities of adoption, and the complexities of familial relationships.

Trixie Mattel ([45:26]): "I really want kids."

Caleb Hearon ([50:03]): "If my mom was like, I want to go on tour and watch every one of your shows, that would be my nightmare."

They explore the challenges of balancing personal aspirations with societal and familial expectations.

9. Current Projects and Future Plans: Music and Fundraisers

Timestamp: 71:32 – 71:50

Towards the episode's end, Trixie shares her excitement about upcoming projects, including DJing for a fundraiser in San Diego and collaborating with Cyndi Lauper. She also discusses her renewed passion for music production, highlighting her experimental approach to creating new sounds.

Trixie Mattel ([36:03]): "I'm writing a bunch of new music. I'm getting more into musical production."

Caleb echoes support for these endeavors, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one's passions.

10. Final Reflections: The Essence of Connection

Timestamp: 70:03 – 71:58

In their closing remarks, both hosts underscore the fleeting nature of life and the paramount importance of authentic human connections. Trixie advocates for valuing relationships over material possessions, while Caleb emphasizes the joy of genuine interaction.

Trixie Mattel ([70:16]): "People are here and gone... Make time for people. Your mom, call your brother you don't talk to."

Caleb Hearon ([71:12]): "You and I having fun today is the reason we're here. These people are watching not because of the incredible quality microphones and lighting, but because you and I are connecting."

They leave listeners with a poignant reminder to cherish relationships and prioritize meaningful interactions.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mental Health Struggles:

  Trixie Mattel ([12:07]): "I've never been so thin and unhappy in my life."

• Voting in Drag:

  Trixie Mattel ([24:39]): "I'm gonna go vote."

• Authenticity in Performances:

  Trixie Mattel ([52:50]): "It was sick to sit down here in a wig and not enjoy it."

• Valuing Connections:

  Trixie Mattel ([70:16]): "People are here and gone... Make time for people."

  Caleb Hearon ([71:12]): "You and I having fun today is the reason we're here."

Conclusion

"So True with Caleb Hearon" featuring Trixie Mattel offers a profound exploration of the artist's journey through personal struggles, mental health challenges, and the quest for authenticity in the demanding world of drag. Through candid conversations and heartfelt reflections, Caleb and Trixie provide listeners with an intimate glimpse into the complexities of balancing a public persona with personal well-being. The episode serves as an inspiring reminder of the importance of self-care, genuine connections, and staying true to one's passions.