Podcast Summary: The Podcast by Adam Rippon

Episode: Episode 2: Lip Flips and Lip Flops
Release Date: February 6, 2025
Host: Adam Rippon

1. Introduction and Personal Reflections

Adam Rippon opens the episode by sharing a heartfelt reflection on recent tragic news. He recounts traveling to Wichita, Kansas for the US Figure Skating National Championships, cherishing the time spent with friends. However, shortly after returning home, he learns about the devastating incident involving American Airlines Flight 5342, which tragically included skaters, coaches, and their families on board.

Adam Rippon [00:45]: "The day devastating news that there were skaters and coaches and their families on board. And my heart has been incredibly heavy."

Expressing his condolences, Adam directs listeners to a donation link in the episode description to support the affected families.

2. Rapid-Fire Grammy Commentary

Adam transitions to discussing the recent Grammy Awards, opting for a rapid-fire style rather than an in-depth analysis. He shares his candid and humorous observations about various artists and moments from the event.

a. Sabrina Carpenter

Adam admires Sabrina Carpenter's talent and likens her personable nature to that of a distant Polish cousin, despite not personally knowing her.

Adam Rippon [02:30]: "When I think of her, I think, well, that is my Polish cousin."

b. Beyoncé

He praises Beyoncé's win for Album of the Year, appreciating the acknowledgment after years of anticipation. Adam speculates that Beyoncé was genuinely surprised by her win.

Adam Rippon [04:15]: "I think they actually shocked her based on body language alone."

c. Benson Boone

Adam humorously questions Benson Boone's authenticity, suggesting he might be an AI creation due to certain performances.

Adam Rippon [05:45]: "There's something about the costume, the backflip. Something is fishy about that."

d. Charli XCX

Expressing excitement over Charli XCX's Grammy win, Adam connects her influence to political engagement, humorously referencing the 2020 election.

Adam Rippon [07:20]: "I think she single-handedly got millions of Americans excited to vote for Kamala Harris."

e. Cynthia Erivo and Chapel Roan

He compliments Cynthia Erivo's vocal prowess and notes her petite stature alongside Beyoncé. Adam also applauds Chapel Roan's Grammy win, appreciating her authenticity and passion.

Adam Rippon [09:50]: "Cynthia Erivo can sing very well. Yeah, she's not an amateur."

f. Lady Gaga's "Abracadabra"

Adam highlights Lady Gaga's new song, "Abracadabra," praising its impact and Gaga's clarity in addressing personal and national issues.

Adam Rippon [12:10]: "Abracadabra is absolutely gaga at her finest. This is the Gaga that I have been waiting, wishing, dreaming for."

3. Political Commentary

Adam delves into political discourse, providing his unfiltered opinions on RFK Jr.'s confirmation hearing and comparing him to other political figures.

a. RFK Jr.'s Confirmation Hearing

He criticizes RFK Jr.'s appearance and demeanor during his confirmation hearing for the head of Health and Human Services, expressing skepticism about his credibility.

Adam Rippon [14:30]: "He doesn't look well. He sounds like Jimmy Neutron got put in the microwave."

b. Comparison to Dr. Rachel Levine

Adam contrasts RFK Jr. with Dr. Rachel Levine, emphasizing professionalism and competence over appearance and personal history.

Adam Rippon [17:00]: "Who's your choice? I would choose the doctor."

c. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt

He comments on Caroline Levitt's appearance and age, humorously critiquing cosmetic trends like lip flips.

Adam Rippon [19:45]: "Lip flip... your lips do look bigger, but when you talk, you look like Jar Jar Binks."

4. Beauty Standards and Cosmetic Trends

Adam discusses contemporary beauty trends, particularly focusing on lip flips and their impact on appearance and public perception.

Adam Rippon [20:15]: "Honestly, a little filler would have been better than the lip flip."

He expresses concern over excessive cosmetic procedures, especially among younger individuals, and critiques the aesthetics they produce.

5. Listener Voicemail Segment

Adam introduces the segment where he listens to voicemails from listeners, starting with the very first one received.

a. Voicemail Content

A listener urges Adam to refrain from discussing personal romantic encounters in his podcast, suggesting that such content is overdone in similar shows.

Listener [13:05]: "Please, for God's sake, please don't tell us every single person you've ever slept with... Keep it classy."

b. Adam's Response

Adam humorously addresses the voicemail, expanding on the listener's point with his trademark candidness.

Adam Rippon [13:45]: "He's 6, 7. That should have come with a trigger warning."

He makes a satirical remark about Barron Trump, blending humor with social commentary.

Adam Rippon [14:30]: "His dad is a billionaire and his mom is a former porn star."

6. Commentary on Podcasting and Media Personalities

Adam offers his insights and critiques on various podcasters and media personalities, sharing his preferences and dislikes within the podcasting landscape.

a. Call Her Daddy and Halle Bechelter

He discusses the authenticity and storytelling styles of popular podcasts like "Call Her Daddy," mentioning Halle Bechelter's dramatic narratives.

Adam Rippon [16:00]: "Her biggest trick is that she'll say something crazy and then she'll go, should I not say that?"

b. Jake Shane

Adam praises Jake Shane for his humor and relatability, despite his sometimes "stupid" yet harmless content.

Adam Rippon [18:30]: "His videos are truly so stupid... but they're very funny and they're harmless."

c. Joe Rogan

He critiques Joe Rogan's influence and the repetitive nature of his podcast content, expressing concern over its impact on listeners.

Adam Rippon [21:00]: "Why are so many people living by his advice? They're completely influenced by this guy."

7. Reflections on Starting His Own Podcast

Adam shares his motivations and aspirations for "The Podcast by Adam Rippon," emphasizing his desire for authenticity and control over content without compromising for advertisements.

Adam Rippon [23:50]: "I wanted to be in control of what was happening... I didn't want to have to run ads that I didn't want to run."

He discusses his approach to podcasting, opting for a solo format initially to establish the show's unique voice before potentially introducing guests.

Adam Rippon [24:30]: "If at first the podcast doesn't make any money, that's fine because I think eventually it will, I start crying."

8. Conclusion and Farewell

Adam wraps up the episode by reiterating his gratitude towards his listeners and encouraging them to support the podcast through reviews and subscriptions.

Adam Rippon [25:00]: "Thank you so much for listening. Make sure that you give us a five-star review."

He provides contact information for listeners to leave voicemails, fostering a sense of community and engagement.

Adam Rippon [25:30]: "If you want to call and leave a voicemail, you can. The number is 310-909-7717."

Key Takeaways:

• Personal Resilience: Adam shares personal challenges and tragedies, showcasing his vulnerability and connection to the figure skating community.

• Candid Celebrity Commentary: The episode features unfiltered opinions on various celebrities and their performances, reflecting Adam's humorous and straightforward personality.

• Political and Social Critique: Adam doesn't shy away from discussing political figures and societal trends, offering his unique perspective on current events.

• Podcasting Philosophy: Emphasizing authenticity, Adam delineates his vision for the podcast, aiming for genuine content over commercial interests.

• Engagement with Listeners: Through voicemails and direct communication, Adam fosters an interactive relationship with his audience, inviting feedback and participation.

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of Episode 2: "Lip Flips and Lip Flops," highlighting Adam Rippon's blend of humor, candidness, and insightful commentary across various topics. Whether discussing the Grammys, political figures, or the podcasting landscape, Adam maintains an engaging and relatable tone aimed at his diverse audience.