The Carpool with Kelly and Lizz: Episode Summary - "CHIN THE BOTTLE"

Release Date: January 28, 2025

1. Welcome and Weekend Highlights ([02:03] - [05:42])

In the opening segment of this episode, Kelly and Liz reconnect after a busy weekend. Kelly shares her disappointment about Liz missing a trip to New Orleans, highlighting the excitement of their son, Tyler, who looks forward to conferences and networking opportunities.

Notable Quote:

Liz ([02:10]): "Tyler was so excited. Tyler. That's like Tyler's favorite thing that we go to. He just likes a conference and he was so excited to walk around. Just like, talk to people. Like, it's Tyler's dream."

2. Memorable Wedding Highlights ([05:42] - [08:08])

Kelly recounts attending a wedding where the couple introduced a unique and engaging tradition. Instead of the typical standing ovation, guests were given T-shirts to throw into the crowd, creating a lively and interactive atmosphere reminiscent of a sports event.

Notable Quote:

Kelly ([05:57]): "They had T shirts that they threw into the crowd. Like, at a sports game. And they said, like, I came to this wedding and I like, I was this, like, this lousy T shirt or something. Like, that's what the T shirt said. But it was hilarious."

3. Introducing the "Car of the Year" Initiative ([08:08] - [17:50])

Kelly and Liz delve into their new initiative to select the "Car of the Year" tailored for millennial moms. They emphasize the importance of providing unbiased reviews to help their audience make informed decisions without wading through lengthy content.

Key Points:

• Criteria Development: The duo meticulously crafted criteria focusing on redesigned or significantly refreshed models available for testing.
• Selection Process: Unlike traditional comparisons, they grade each car individually based on comfort, convenience, and safety, ensuring a fair evaluation.
• Voting Mechanism: Engaging their audience, they've opened up voting to participants, aiming to amplify mothers' voices in the automotive industry.

Notable Quote:

Liz ([11:06]): "We can’t say, like, what's the best mom car of the year? Because then we would be comparing all the cars. So, like, you had to narrow it down to, like, who had the best redesign and refresh of the year."

4. Finalists and Voting Encouragement ([15:38] - [17:50])

The hosts reveal the ten finalists for the "Car of the Year" and encourage listeners to participate in the voting process on their website, thecarmom.com. They highlight the diversity of the finalists, which includes a mix of electric vehicles, luxury cars, SUVs, and minivans, aiming to cater to various family needs.

Finalists:

• 2024 GMC Acadia
• 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe
• 24 Kia EV9
• 24 Lexus GX24
• Toyota Land Cruiser
• 24 Chevy Traverse
• 25 Volkswagen Buzz
• 25 Honda Odyssey
• 25 QX Infinity QX80
• 25 Kia Carnival Hybrid

Notable Quote:

Liz ([16:28]): "We have a really good, diverse list of. We've got two EVs on there, which feels good. We have two luxury cars. We have some five. We have a five-passenger car, three minivans."

5. Industry News: Ford's Strategic Shifts ([26:00] - [35:44])

Kelly and Liz discuss significant changes in the automotive industry, focusing on Ford's decision to discontinue models like the Escape and Edge to boost production of more affordable trims for existing models. They express concerns about Ford's limited SUV lineup and the implications for family-oriented vehicles.

Key Points:

• Ford's Model Discontinuation: The Escape crossover and Edge are set to be discontinued by the end of the year.
• Impact on SUV Lineup: With the removal of these models, Ford's SUV offerings become more limited, potentially affecting families seeking reliable and spacious vehicles.
• Jeep's Strategy: Transitioning to luxury with the introduction of the Wagoneer S, Jeep aims to capture a new market segment focused on luxury and electric vehicles.

Notable Quote:

Liz ([33:30]): "They are getting rid of the Escape. The Escape in total at the end of this year. They got rid of the Edge, they got rid of the Flex. It's like, can they just..."

6. Advice Segment: Navigating Auto Shows ([26:25] - [31:02])

Responding to a listener's question, Kelly and Liz offer insights into attending auto shows. They note the declining grandeur of these events post-COVID and advise potential attendees to prepare by researching which models will be present. They suggest alternative experiences like VIP socials for a more relaxed and informative visit.

Notable Quote:

Liz ([26:25]): "In my honest opinion, auto shows are not what, what they once were... They've kind of really gone downhill."

7. Quick Dinner Tips: Simplifying Wraps ([41:58] - [43:49])

Transitioning from automotive discussions, the hosts provide practical dinner solutions, specifically focusing on making wraps easier by utilizing pre-packaged bagged salads. This approach minimizes preparation time while still delivering a nutritious and customizable meal.

Notable Quote:

Kelly ([43:02]): "If you want a Southwest wrap? Go buy a Southwest Bag salad. Do you want a Caesar wrap? Go buy a Caesar salad."

8. Entertainment Chat: Children's Shows and Nostalgia ([43:49] - [48:56])

Kelly and Liz reminisce about beloved children's shows, discussing the newly released remake of "The Magic School Bus" and expressing their thoughts on other popular programs like "Arthur" and "Bluey." They share personal anecdotes about their children's viewing preferences and the subtle messages embedded within these shows.

Notable Quote:

Liz ([44:10]): "The reason I had a decent week was because I had a spray tan. I just think it's always important to know you're one spray tan away from liking all the clothes in your closet."

9. Conclusion and Sign-Off ([48:56] - [49:31])

Wrapping up the episode, Kelly and Liz reflect on the discussions and encourage listeners to engage with their content. They express excitement for future episodes and projects, maintaining their friendly and relatable rapport.

Closing Quote:

Kelly ([49:25]): "Thank you so much for listening to the Carpool Podcast, and we'll talk to you next time."

Final Thoughts:

"Chin the Bottle" offers a balanced mix of automotive expertise, personal anecdotes, and everyday parenting tips. Kelly and Liz effectively intertwine professional insights with relatable conversations, making the episode both informative and entertaining for listeners navigating the complexities of family life and car ownership.

For more detailed discussions and to participate in the "Car of the Year" voting, visit thecarmom.com.