Stavvy's World: Episode #105 - Blair Socci

Release Date: December 2, 2024

Hosts:

• Stavros Halkias
• Blair Socci
• Eldest (Guest/Co-host)

1. Introduction and Guest Welcome ([01:02] - [03:11])

Stavros Halkias opens the episode by welcoming listeners to "Stavvy's World" and introduces the guest, Blair Socci, hailing from Southern California's scenic shores. He humorously reminisces about their first meeting, highlighting that Blair was the first friend he made in New York with no prior connections.

Stavros Halkias ([01:30]): "You may have been the first person who I did not know at all. Like the first friend I made with no pre-existing connections to New York whatsoever."

Blair Socci responds with excitement, noting how their meeting feels like it was back in 2017, emphasizing the long-standing friendship they've built since their initial encounter at the New York Comedy Club.

Blair Socci ([01:25]): "I know this feels like 2017."

2. Early Experiences in New York ([03:11] - [05:30])

The conversation shifts to Stavros sharing his tumultuous early days in New York. He recounts living in a sublet plagued by bedbugs and toxic roommates struggling with amphetamine addiction. This period was fraught with discomfort and misconceptions, as Stavros initially mistook bedbug bites for mosquito bites from open mics.

Stavros Halkias ([02:30]): "In hindsight, they were just the most toxic couple of all time. They were both addicted to amphetamines and just never left the apartment."

Blair empathizes with the struggles of enduring such an environment, reflecting on how it left lasting impressions.

Blair Socci ([03:42]): "But once you have an experience like that..."

3. Overcoming Challenges and Moving Forward ([05:30] - [09:33])

Stavros shares his relief at having been free from bedbugs for nine years, detailing his persistent fears and attempts to eliminate them by replacing his metal bed.

Stavros Halkias ([03:42]): "But I did freak out. There were multiple times where I would just come home and be like, I've got bedbugs and throw everything away."

Transitioning to broader topics, Blair introduces the idea of spirituality versus self-care. She discusses her journey through COVID lockdowns in LA, leading her to embrace mindfulness and personal wellness practices like breathwork and sauna sessions. Stavros humorously touches on his dabbling in self-care, equating his sauna time with a form of spiritual connection.

Stavros Halkias ([10:50]): "Exercise, eating. Right. Some sauna. I'm a sauna guy, but I get that spiritual deal."

Blair delves into her cultural background, revealing her Italian-swedish heritage and the complex dynamics with her parents regarding religion and spirituality.

Blair Socci ([14:00]): "My dad grew up in New Jersey and then his dad got transferred when he was 18 and to Orange County."

4. Personal Lives and Relationships ([09:33] - [22:00])

The discussion shifts to Blair's athletic past, highlighting her time as a volleyball player at UCLA and her transition into comedy and writing. She shares anecdotes about her competitive nature growing up with older brothers and her experiences in sports, including humorous and embarrassing moments.

Blair Socci ([34:29]): "I was like a jock when I came out of the womb. Yeah, just like a full knee head."

Stavros contrasts his own athletic endeavors, discussing his brief stints in various sports and his challenges in high school basketball tryouts. Their banter reveals a camaraderie built on shared experiences and mutual teasing.

Stavros Halkias ([51:05]): "You're the Face of Baltimore sports."

The conversation deepens as Blair talks about her aspirations to be a novelist and her unexpected foray into comedy during grad school. Stavros adds a promotional plug for his movie, "Let's Start a Cult," intertwining it seamlessly into their dialogue.

Stavros Halkias ([50:31]): "Speaking of acting, I guess I should plug 'Let's Start a Cult,' I believe, is out in theaters right now and coming to VOD soon."

5. Family Dynamics and Cultural Influences ([22:00] - [43:30])

Blair and Stavros explore their familial relationships, delving into their parents' cultural backgrounds and the impact on their upbringing. Blair discusses her parents' Italian and Swedish heritage, highlighting her father's indifferent attitude towards religion and her mother's subtle belief in God.

Blair Socci ([13:35]): "Only, like, culturally. Like, the hardcore Italian thing."

Stavros shares insights into his own family's approach to religion, revealing a similar lack of adherence despite cultural expectations. Their conversation underscores the challenges of navigating cultural identities within family structures.

Stavros Halkias ([14:23]): "At a Greek coffee shop. It really is."

6. Adventures and Misadventures ([09:33] - [18:54])

The hosts reminisce about their travels and the mishaps they've encountered. Blair recounts a disastrous cruise to Corfu with her mother, plagued by lost luggage and food poisoning, while Stavros shares lighter travel anecdotes, including family vacations and cultural experiences in Greece.

Blair Socci ([18:06]): "like a woman in her 60s."

Stavros interjects with humorous takes on their adventures, blending personal stories with light-hearted commentary.

Stavros Halkias ([43:38]): "I had no money from before I left."

7. Modern Life and Personal Growth ([43:30] - [65:37])

Blair discusses modern challenges, including dealing with social media suspensions and the pitfalls of maintaining relationships in the digital age. She reflects on her journey towards self-improvement and mindfulness, balancing personal growth with her career in comedy.

Blair Socci ([14:00]): "We don't do."

Stavros offers philosophical insights, drawing parallels between personal experiences and broader societal norms. Their dialogue touches on themes of authenticity, self-awareness, and the complexities of modern relationships.

Stavros Halkias ([24:35]): "So you're the most laid back one of the family, would you say?"

8. Listener Call-In Segments ([57:07] - [112:02])

The latter half of the episode features Stavros and Blair addressing listener questions related to relationships, sobriety, and personal dilemmas.

Caller 1 ([57:07] - [63:44]): Seeks advice on navigating a new relationship where her partner disclosed past sexual relationships with his roommate. Stavros and Blair dissect the complexities of cohabiting relationships and the ethical implications of past actions, offering blunt and humorous advice.

Stavros Halkias ([62:02]): "That's where I think you fucked up, because you are fighting your nature as a jock."

Caller 2 ([66:08] - [75:14]): Discusses moving back in with parents due to financial strains and dealing with intrusive parental behavior. The hosts provide candid feedback on healthy boundaries and the importance of autonomy in adult relationships.

Blair Socci ([70:05]): "I think I should call into this podcast."

Caller 3 ([101:42] - [112:02]): Asks for guidance on maintaining a sober lifestyle while dating, fearing judgment for not drinking. Blair shares her strategies for balance, encouraging authenticity and setting clear expectations.

Blair Socci ([85:12]): "Make a list of 10 things you want to do and just do it."

Throughout these segments, Stavros and Blair blend humor with practical advice, maintaining an engaging and supportive atmosphere for listeners seeking relationship guidance.

9. Closing Remarks and Promotions ([115:43] - End)

As the episode concludes, Stavros and Blair wrap up their discussions with final thoughts and promotional plugs for upcoming content and partner brands. They reinforce the podcast's mission to help listeners navigate personal challenges with humor and camaraderie.

Stavros Halkias ([115:15]): "Check out Blair. Watch your special and, you know, see. Let's start a cult if it's near you."

The episode ends with comedic advertisements for various products, encapsulating the podcast's blend of entertainment and sponsorships.

Notable Quotes:

• Stavros Halkias ([01:30]): "You may have been the first person who I did not know at all. Like the first friend I made with no pre-existing connections to New York whatsoever."

• Blair Socci ([34:29]): "I was like a jock when I came out of the womb. Yeah, just like a full knee head."

• Stavros Halkias ([53:44]): "And it's like, if you're messed up looking and have a little dick, imagine how much charisma you'd have to cultivate."

• Blair Socci ([85:12]): "Make a list of 10 things you want to do and just do it."

• Stavros Halkias ([115:15]): "Let's start a cult if it's near you."

Conclusion

Episode #105 of "Stavvy's World" with Blair Socci offers a blend of personal anecdotes, philosophical musings, and practical advice wrapped in humor. The candid discussions about overcoming early challenges in New York, navigating cultural identities, and fostering healthy relationships provide valuable insights for listeners. The engaging call-in segments further enhance the episode's relatability, making it a memorable addition to the podcast series.