Podcast Summary: CBT & NKOTB (w/ Jillian Bell)
Staying Alive with Jon Gabrus & Adam Pally
Hosted by SmartLess Media
Release Date: June 5, 2025
I. Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:00 - 04:03)
Jon Gabrus and Adam Pally kick off the episode with their trademark humor, introducing their guest, Jillian Bell. They share light-hearted banter about their experiences and the excitement of interviewing Jillian, one of their favorite and most talented guests.
Notable Quote:
Jon Gabrus [04:03]: "We have Jillian Bell today, which is a thrill. Probably one of our most talented guests."
II. Navigating the Entertainment Industry (04:03 - 16:38)
The conversation delves into the challenges of being an actor, particularly the awkwardness of being unrecognized on set. Jillian shares anecdotes about attending screenings where she's mistaken for background talent, highlighting the sometimes dehumanizing aspects of the industry.
Notable Quotes:
Jillian Bell [04:11]: "I had to do. We were doing a screening for the movie, Rough Night there. And I went in and I was like, I'm here for the screening. I'm in the cast."
Adam Pally [06:19]: "They think I'm a grip just because of my look."
III. The Reality of Running and Physical Wellness (16:38 - 38:29)
Jillian and the hosts discuss their ventures into fitness, including running marathons and swimming. They share personal struggles and triumphs, emphasizing the mental and physical benefits of staying active. Jillian touches upon her role in directing and how it intersects with her wellness journey.
Notable Quotes:
Jillian Bell [35:20]: "I did love running while I was training for it. Like, I was like, okay, I hated it at first and then I figured it out."
Adam Pally [25:02]: "Keep shortening your life."
IV. Mental Health and Coping Mechanisms (38:29 - 55:05)
A significant portion of the discussion centers around mental health. Jillian opens up about her experiences with anxiety and depression, particularly following a medical procedure. The trio explores strategies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to manage negative thoughts and foster resilience.
Notable Quotes:
Jillian Bell [40:30]: "I had to have a fibroid removed from my uterus... It messed me up."
Jillian Bell [51:00]: "Cognitive behavioral therapy is another thing. I just started, and that might help you a lot."
Adam Pally [56:02]: "Sometimes when something bad happens, if I say to myself, thank you for this opportunity."
V. Jillian Bell's Creative Ventures and Projects (55:05 - 73:53)
Jillian discusses her directing endeavors, including her first film Summer of 69. She details the creative process, challenges faced, and the joy of bringing her vision to life. The hosts express admiration for her talent and dedication, highlighting her multifaceted role in the entertainment industry.
Notable Quotes:
Jillian Bell [65:25]: "I was just trying to help."
Jillian Bell [67:21]: "The movie is coming out May 9th and it's gonna be on Hulu."
Adam Pally [68:25]: "But I was just like, I never could have pictured it."
VI. Balancing Personal Life and Professional Demands (73:53 - 77:23)
The trio reflects on maintaining mental wellness amidst busy schedules. They discuss the importance of hobbies, self-care, and honest conversations about personal struggles. Jillian emphasizes the value of authenticity and vulnerability in fostering genuine connections.
Notable Quotes:
Jillian Bell [74:21]: "You just got to watch out for the shopping carts that are randomly in."
Jillian Bell [54:35]: "Like, depression, anxiety is a disability. It's something you just have to live with every day."
Adam Pally [74:30]: "You’re more than a credit score."
VII. Closing Thoughts and Future Projects (77:23 - 78:04)
As the episode wraps up, Jon and Adam express their gratitude to Jillian for her openness and insightful contributions. They tease upcoming projects and encourage listeners to engage with Jillian's film, Summer of 69, set to release on Hulu.
Notable Quotes:
Jillian Bell [75:02]: "I hope people laughed and had real moments, but more laughs than real moments."
Adam Pally [75:06]: "We try not to be prescriptive because we don't do any of this stuff."
VIII. Reflections on Mental Health and Creativity (54:00 - 60:00)
Continuing their deep dive into mental health, the hosts and Jillian discuss the interplay between creativity and mental well-being. They explore how creative outlets can both alleviate and sometimes exacerbate mental health challenges, advocating for a balanced approach.
Notable Quotes:
Jillian Bell [55:47]: "You could hit someone. You could, like, Right?"
Adam Pally [57:14]: "Sometimes when something bad happens, if I say to myself, thank you for this opportunity."
IX. Navigating Personal Challenges and Growth (60:00 - 73:53)
The conversation shifts to personal growth and overcoming challenges. Jillian shares her journey of managing anxiety related to driving and the impact of a car accident on her mental health. The hosts relate by sharing their own experiences, emphasizing the importance of support systems and proactive coping strategies.
Notable Quotes:
Jillian Bell [61:05]: "I was like, I really want to make this kind of a coming of age story about two different aged women."
John Gabrus [63:31]: "She's still not driving."
X. Final Reflections and Episodes Wrap-Up (73:53 - End)
In their final moments, the hosts and Jillian reflect on the importance of honesty in discussing mental health. They highlight the therapeutic benefits of sharing personal stories and encourage listeners to seek help when needed. The episode concludes with light-hearted banter, reinforcing the podcast's blend of humor and genuine conversation.
Notable Quotes:
Jillian Bell [75:49]: "Depression, anxiety is a disability. It's something you just have to live with every day."
John Gabrus [75:02]: "She also the first time I ever saw her was... I can't believe I'm laughing at this."
Key Takeaways:
- Honesty About Mental Health: Open conversations about anxiety and depression can foster understanding and support.
- Balancing Wellness and Creativity: Engaging in creative projects and physical activities can aid in mental well-being.
- Navigating the Entertainment Industry: Being an actor comes with unique challenges, including misidentification and high demands.
- Personal Growth: Overcoming personal fears, such as driving anxiety, is achievable with the right strategies and support.
Additional Resources:
- Jillian Bell's Film: Summer of 69 is set to release on Hulu on May 9th, 2025.
- Mental Health Support: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, consider reaching out to a professional for help.
Thank you for reading this summary of Staying Alive with Jon Gabrus & Adam Pally featuring Jillian Bell. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ for more insightful and entertaining episodes.