Podcast Summary: Something Wrong With The Podcast – Episode SWWP #3
Title: Relapsing To The Weeknd (Dry January) & Falling Planes
Host: Julian Delgado
Guest: Joe Budden
Release Date: February 4, 2025
Introduction: Julian's Dry January Journey and The Weeknd's Influence
At the outset of Episode SWWP #3, Julian Delgado candidly shares his experiences with Dry January, juxtaposing his personal journey with the influence of The Weeknd's latest album. Initially intending to discuss health and wellness, Julian finds himself overwhelmed by emotions triggered by the album's release. He confesses, “I just want to throw it all away, get a fucking bottle of tequila and just, like, go into a fucking drug den and just, like, relapse hard right now because it sounds so much to this album” (01:10).
Julian reflects on his addictive personality coupled with strong willpower, acknowledging the precarious balance it creates. He explains, “I have a relatively addictive personality, and I also have pretty strong willpower. Two very dangerous things to toggle as a human being” (03:15).
Personal Reflections: Overcoming Addiction and Embracing Wellness
Julian delves deeper into his commitment to Dry January, highlighting the physical and mental transformations he experienced. He notes significant improvements in his health, weight loss, and mental clarity, stating, “I started losing weight, good weight… I was losing like stomach, gut weight, which was awesome because for my modeling gigs I do a lot of the fit modeling” (05:00).
He discusses the challenges of maintaining sobriety, including resisting social pressures at events like the Madison Square Garden games. Julian shares his strategies for coping, such as substituting his favorite drinks with non-alcoholic alternatives: “I've been so busy with this stuff. The only thing I missed from drink, I went to the Madison Square Garden twice during this month” (09:32).
In-Depth Analysis: The Weeknd's SWWP #3 Album
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to dissecting The Weeknd's album SWWP #3. Julian expresses his appreciation for the album's quality, though he admits that the initial tracks didn't resonate as much: “The intro is great. The Weeknd doesn't miss on an intro. Love the intro. This is where he lost me, though” (16:45).
He praises specific songs that align with his personal struggles, such as “Hurry Up Tomorrow” and “Enjoy the Show,” drawing parallels between the lyrics and his own experiences with addiction and depression. Julian reflects, “When I was in Chicago, first year of teaching, deep depression was miserable with my work… I was going for it on the weekends with drugs, alcohol, all that stuff” (22:34).
Julian emphasizes the authenticity of The Weeknd's lyrics, noting how they mirror the tortured artist archetype: “This thought. I just want to die when I'm at my fucking peak… That's exactly what I'm saying” (28:57). He appreciates the cyclical nature of the album, comparing it to his own ongoing battle with addiction and self-improvement.
Guest Segment: Joe Budden on Cultural Issues and Current Events
In the latter half of the episode, Joe Budden joins Julian to discuss pressing cultural and societal issues. The conversation shifts to alarming airplane crashes occurring due to under-staffed air traffic control systems. Joe raises concerns: “People losing jobs in the factory on the plane… we're seeing two planes fall out of the sky and crash in major cities” (38:46).
The discussion evolves into a critique of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, particularly in critical roles like pilots. Joe asserts, “DEI is the culprit. It very well may have been, but I don't know that's even worth debating at this point” (43:57). Together, they debate the efficacy and timing of DEI programs, questioning whether they address systemic issues early enough.
The conversation also touches on Elon Musk's influence in political systems and the potential conflicts of interest arising from business leaders holding governmental positions. Joe comments, “If this does become a situation where our tax dollars actually start to get funneled towards things that benefit society for the better, that would be great. I'm skeptical that's going to happen” (52:40).
Interactive Segment: Voicemails and Comedic Relief
The episode features humorous and satirical voicemail interactions, where Julian and Joe respond to listeners' questions with exaggerated advice. For instance, a caller named Javon seeks guidance on convincing a friend to get tested for STDs. The response, laden with comedic exaggeration, highlights the show's irreverent tone:
- Julian: “He just refuses to go to the doctor. What advice would you have to try and nudge your friend towards getting tested?” (55:47)
- Joe: “Invite your friend to get drinks… have him eat a jalapeño and then touch his...” (58:23)
Another caller from New Mexico inquires about navigating work potlucks, leading to a playful yet absurd recommendation to quit one’s job to avoid participating:
- Caller: “How do you get out of potlucks or what would you bring?” (64:25)
- Joe: “Just quit. Cut your losses, call it a career quit” (67:57)
These segments provide comedic relief and showcase the hosts' ability to blend serious discussions with lighthearted banter.
Conclusion: Embracing Change and Future Endeavors
As the episode wraps up, Julian announces his plans to engage more with his audience through live streams, emphasizing a shift in how he connects with listeners: “I will be doing a bunch of live streams. If you would like to be there when they are happening, please subscribe” (74:31).
He thanks Joe Budden for his participation and reflects on the episode’s blend of personal narrative, cultural critique, and comedic elements, reinforcing the podcast's unique approach to discussing intrusive thoughts and societal issues.
Notable Quotes:
-
Julian on Addiction and Willpower:
“I have a relatively addictive personality, and I also have pretty strong willpower. Two very dangerous things to toggle as a human being.” ([03:15]) -
Julian on The Weeknd’s Authenticity:
“This is the thing that they need from me.” ([28:57]) -
Joe on Air Traffic Control Shortages:
“Technology can't solve these problems… it's just a human shortage issue.” ([38:46]) -
Joe on DEI Critique:
“DEI is the culprit. It very well may have been, but I don't know that's even worth debating at this point.” ([43:57]) -
Julian on Future Content:
“When I'm live, I'll just sometimes just do it and kick it for as long as I can.” ([74:31])
Timecodes Reference:
- 01:10 – Julian's impulse to relapse upon hearing the album
- 03:15 – Julian's reflection on addictive personality and willpower
- 05:00 – Physical and mental health improvements
- 09:32 – Coping strategies at Madison Square Garden
- 16:45 – Initial thoughts on The Weeknd's album
- 22:34 – Connection between album lyrics and personal struggles
- 28:57 – Authenticity in The Weeknd's music
- 38:46 – Discussion on airplane crashes and staffing
- 43:57 – DEI initiatives in critical roles
- 52:40 – Elon Musk’s political influence
- 55:47 – Voicemail from Javon about STD testing
- 64:25 – Voicemail about work potlucks
- 67:57 – Advice on handling Valentine's gifts
- 74:31 – Announcement of live streams
This episode of Something Wrong With The Podcast masterfully intertwines Julian Delgado's personal journey with broader societal critiques, all while maintaining a humorous and engaging tone. Listeners are treated to an honest exploration of addiction and wellness, a thoughtful analysis of The Weeknd's music, insightful discussions on critical cultural issues with guest Joe Budden, and lighthearted interactions through voicemails. Whether you're a regular listener or tuning in for the first time, Episode SWWP #3 offers a rich and multifaceted listening experience.