Podcast Summary: The Broski Report with Brittany Broski - Episode 88: "Left My Gallbladder in Italy"

Host: Brittany Broski
Production: Audioboom Studios
Release Date: March 26, 2025

1. A Sudden Medical Emergency Abroad [00:40 - 40:11]

In this deeply personal episode, Brittany Broski recounts her harrowing experience of undergoing gallbladder surgery while on a family vacation in Italy. The episode begins with Brittany expressing the overwhelming changes she faced in just two weeks:

Brittany (00:45): "You're looking at a woman that is one less organ than now I was two weeks ago."

Travel and Onset of Illness: Brittany describes the enchanting journey her family took, starting in Paris aboard the Orient Express to Verona, Italy. The nostalgic allure of the vintage train and the beauty of Verona set the stage for what was supposed to be a magical trip.

Brittany (02:30): "One of the most magical experiences ever. It is an overnight train, and you literally wake up in the Swiss Alps."

However, tranquility was short-lived as Brittany began experiencing severe abdominal pain and continuous vomiting, initially dismissing it as food poisoning from adventurous eating.

Medical Diagnosis and Decision-Making: After enduring intense pain and persistent nausea, Brittany sought medical attention. Despite her initial reluctance, doctors diagnosed her with acute cholangitis caused by a perforated gallbladder—a life-threatening condition.

Brittany (15:20): "I have a thumbs up. And then he comes over and he goes, you made the absolute right decision."

Faced with the possibility of her condition worsening mid-flight, Brittany decided to undergo emergency laparoscopic surgery in Rome. She details the seamless yet intimidating process, highlighting the exceptional care she received from the Italian medical team.

Post-Surgery Recovery: Post-operation, Brittany discusses the challenges of recovery, including managing a drainage tube and adhering to a strict diet to support her liver and overall healing. She expresses immense gratitude for her family's support and the medical professionals who ensured her safe recuperation.

Brittany (35:45): "I have to give myself these weird, which I guess is normal after any surgery, these weird anti-blood coagulant shots... but I don't want blood clots, bro."

2. Embracing Creativity: The Harry Styles Cover Project [40:46 - 65:07]

Transitioning from her medical ordeal, Brittany shifts focus to her passion project—a reimagined cover of Harry Styles' "Adore You." This segment delves into her creative journey and the collaborative efforts behind the project.

Creative Process and Collaboration: Brittany shares insights into the five-year-long process of perfecting her cover, emphasizing the artistic growth and technical skills she developed along the way.

Brittany (42:10): "It's been five years from when this process started to finding the sound, honing the sound and perfecting... how to get into the mindset of writing and co-producing."

Personal Connection to Music: Her deep-rooted love for music and the arts shines through as she discusses the importance of creative expression and its impact on both the artist and the audience.

Brittany (45:30): "Art is for the artist as much as it is for an audience... it's magic."

Reception and Future Plans: Brittany expresses her elation at the positive reception of her cover, acknowledging both the support and criticism it has garnered. She hints at future musical endeavors, promising more exciting projects on the horizon.

Brittany (49:50): "It's been better than I ever hoped because I tried to keep my expectations realistic and temper my reaction to a release."

3. Delving into the Roman Empire and Classical Literature [65:07 - 64:37]

In an unexpected yet intellectually stimulating segment, Brittany explores her fascination with the Roman Empire, inspired by content creator Frederick Atkinson. This discussion intertwines her recent travels with her love for classical mythology and literature.

Influence of Frederick Atkinson: Brittany credits Frederick Atkinson for igniting her interest in Greek and Roman mythology through his engaging and accessible content.

Brittany (50:20): "Frederick Atkinson... he does it in a way that's digestible. He puts pictures up on the screen so I can look at them, and he tells it like a story."

Reflections on the Roman Empire: She offers a critical perspective on the Roman Empire, contemplating its architectural marvels juxtaposed with its oppressive societal structures. Brittany muses on the Empire's potential for a utopian society overshadowed by its imperialistic and homogenizing tendencies.

Brittany (55:10): "When I think of the Roman Empire, I think, what a tragic waste of potential. That's what I think."

Literary Pursuits: Brittany discusses her current reading list, including "Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller and other mythologically inspired novels. Her enthusiasm for blending classical themes with modern storytelling is palpable.

Brittany (58:35): "Song of Achilles... it's incredible. It's so beautiful."

4. Personal Favorites and Culinary Adventures

Towards the end of the episode, Brittany shares personal anecdotes and light-hearted content, including her newfound obsession with "charcuterie nachos."

Culinary Experimentation: Brittany provides a detailed recipe for her version of charcuterie nachos, blending savory and spicy flavors to create a unique snack.

Brittany (62:15): "Low fat, salt and vinegar chips, pepperoni... a drizzle of hot honey. Go ahead and make that in your kitchen tonight."

Final Thoughts and Teasers: Concluding the episode, Brittany teases upcoming content and encourages listeners to check out her merchandise, highlighting her genuine appreciation for her audience's support.

Brittany (64:50): "I love and appreciate y'all more than you will ever know... I will see y'all next week."

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience Amid Adversity: Brittany's candid recounting of her medical emergency underscores her resilience and the importance of swift medical intervention.

• Passion for Creativity: Her dedication to her music project exemplifies her commitment to artistic expression and continuous personal growth.

• Intellectual Curiosity: Brittany's exploration of the Roman Empire and classical literature highlights her intellectual pursuits and desire to engage with complex historical and mythological themes.

• Relatable Content: By sharing personal stories and preferences, Brittany fosters a strong connection with her audience, making her content both engaging and relatable.

Notable Quotes:

• On Medical Emergency:

  "This was different, okay? I start puking, and it does not stop." [02:15]

• On Creative Process:

  "Art is for the artist as much as it is for an audience... it's magic." [45:30]

• On the Roman Empire:

  "When I think of the Roman Empire, I think, what a tragic waste of potential." [55:10]

• On Culinary Obsession:

  "Go ahead and make that in your kitchen tonight... the most delicious bullshit you've ever had in your fucking life." [62:15]

Conclusion:

Episode 88 of The Broski Report with Brittany Broski offers a compelling blend of personal storytelling, creative insights, and intellectual discourse. From a life-altering medical experience to deep dives into classical history and artistic endeavors, Brittany provides a multifaceted narrative that resonates with a diverse audience. Her authenticity and willingness to share both struggles and passions make this episode a standout installment in the series.