Summary of "Episode 7: Meghan Did Not Have Martha Over" – The Podcast by Adam Rippon

In Episode 7 of The Podcast by Adam Rippon, released on March 13, 2025, host Adam Rippon delves into a variety of personal topics, ranging from his creative process to lifestyle changes and opinions on contemporary figures. The episode is structured around several key themes, each enriched with Adam's characteristic humor and candidness.

1. Addressing Overuse of Sound Effects

Timestamp: [00:00]

Adam opens the episode with an unorthodox apology concerning his frequent use of sound effects in previous episodes. He acknowledges that he may have "been going a bit overboard with the sound effects" and expresses his intent to moderate their usage moving forward. Despite the overuse, Adam humorously remarks, “I am not sorry, but I do apologize” ([00:00]).

He reflects on his decision to download "maybe 200 different bell sounds and ding noises," recognizing feedback from listeners. Adam vows to use sound effects more judiciously as “transitional noises to go from one subject to the next,” ensuring they enhance rather than detract from the content ([02:45]).

2. Embarking on Meal Prepping

Timestamp: [05:30]

Transitioning from audio aesthetics to personal development, Adam shares his newfound commitment to meal prepping—a practice he previously considered "intense" and "crazy." He details his process of preparing breakfast, lunch, and dinner for an entire week and storing them in bulk deli cups sourced from Restaurant Depot. This endeavor led him to purchase 900 deli cups, emphasizing the scale of his commitment ([05:30]).

Adam highlights the positive impact of meal prepping on his daily routine and overall well-being: “It has completely changed the game for me. I will be doing this absolutely all the time” ([06:15]). He candidly discusses his past eating habits, including intermittent fasting, and contrasts them with his current structured meal plans, noting improved energy levels and reduced brain fog ([07:50]).

3. Brief Commentary on Mel Robbins

Timestamp: [15:00]

In a swift segue, Adam remarks on Mel Robbins, stating, “I just don’t. It’s not for me” ([15:00]). This brief mention underscores his selective approach to influential figures and content, though he does not delve deeply into his reasons.

4. Critique and Defense of Meghan Markle’s Netflix Show

Timestamp: [16:00]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing Meghan Markle’s new Netflix show, with Adam addressing the polarized reactions it has received. He notes that many viewers have been harshly critical of Meghan's endeavors, particularly her name change and lifestyle portrayals.

Adam challenges the negativity directed at Meghan, asserting, “People who are so viscerally against Megan are weird” ([16:30]). He defends Meghan's decision to adopt the Sussex surname, arguing that it’s a personal and practical choice, especially considering her unique family background. Adam also addresses critiques of Meghan's perceived theatrics and lifestyle, likening her actions to relatable, everyday behaviors: “Megan is doing crafts like all of us. The only difference is that she has much, much, much more money than all of us” ([20:10]).

He passionately counters specific criticisms, such as Meghan correcting Mindy Kaling on her name and wearing Zara despite significant wealth, by emphasizing Meghan's authenticity and relatability. Adam encourages listeners to be more accepting and less judgmental, suggesting that Meghan’s actions are simply expressions of her personality and circumstances ([23:45]).

5. Revisiting Sound Effects and Listener Feedback

Timestamp: [25:00]

Returning to the earlier theme, Adam reiterates his commitment to reducing the use of sound effects after reflecting on constructive criticism from listeners. He admits his initial defensiveness but recognizes the validity of the feedback: “Maybe they're right. So I want you to know I'm stubborn, but I'm also open to growth” ([25:30]).

This segment underscores Adam's willingness to evolve based on audience input, blending self-awareness with his signature humor.

6. In-Depth Discussion on Skincare Routine

Timestamp: [28:00]

Transitioning into a detailed exposition on personal care, Adam offers an extensive overview of his skincare regimen. He begins by addressing a voicemail query about his notably smooth skin, attributing his complexion to consistent use of red light therapy and a minimalist skincare routine ([28:00]).

Adam breaks down his daily routine:

• Morning Routine:

  • Face Wash: Utilizes CeraVe, a dermatologist-recommended cleanser.
  • Toner: Applies rose water toner to dampen the face.
  • Serum: Uses snail mucin from Cosrx, emphasizing its affordability and effectiveness when purchased in bulk from Costco.
  • Sunscreen: Strongly advocates for Korean sunscreens like Beauty of Joseon over American alternatives, citing superior formulation and texture ([30:15]).
  • Moisturizer: Employs light moisturizers and occasionally applies Vaseline to lock in moisture, addressing both hydration and ashy skin concerns with humor and practicality ([33:40]).

• Night Routine:

  • Oil Cleanser: Recommends Korean oil cleansers available at Costco for their efficacy and price.
  • Face Wash: Reuses CeraVe to remove day’s impurities.
  • Active Treatments: Applies tretinoin, a prescription retinoid essential for skin cell turnover and anti-aging, stressing its importance alongside daily sunscreen use.
  • Chemical Peels: Integrates Dr. Dennis Gross chemical peel pads post-shaving to combat razor burn and ingrown hairs, highlighting their significant role in maintaining skin health ([38:20]).

Adam critiques the cosmetic industry’s marketing tactics, dismissing the superiority claims of high-end products. He humorously equates expensive face washes to basic hand soaps, insisting that effectiveness is comparable regardless of price: “A face wash is a face wash, right? It’s like hand soap” ([35:00]).

Furthermore, he emphasizes the non-negotiable nature of sunscreen in his routine, warning against the dangers of UV exposure and melanoma. Adam contrasts the outdated formulations of American sunscreens with the more advanced and user-friendly options from Asia, advocating for a shift in consumer preferences towards better-protected skincare ([40:00]).

7. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Timestamp: [45:00]

As the episode draws to a close, Adam reflects on the topics discussed, reiterating the importance of sunscreen and consistent skincare practices. He hints at future changes to the podcast's branding, humorously contemplating a name change to "Intrusive Thoughts" but decides to hold off until he completes ten episodes ([45:30]).

Adam concludes by thanking his listeners, encouraging them to leave five-star reviews, and reminds them of the podcast’s contact details for voicemails. His final advice circles back to skincare, reinforcing the critical role of sunscreen: “Wear your sunscreen because the UV rays, they're coming and it's like I said, it's serious” ([46:50]).

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• “I do realize that I have been overboard with them when I realized I had downloaded, I don't know, maybe 200 different bell sounds and ding noises.” — Adam Rippon ([00:00])

• “It has completely changed the game for me. I will be doing this absolutely all the time.” — Adam Rippon ([06:15])

• “People who are so viscerally against Megan are weird.” — Adam Rippon ([16:30])

• “I just don’t. It’s not for me.” — Adam Rippon ([15:00])

• “A face wash is a face wash, right? It’s like hand soap.” — Adam Rippon ([35:00])

• “The sunscreen is not negotiable.” — Adam Rippon ([40:00])

• “Wear your sunscreen because the UV rays, they're coming and it's like I said, it's serious.” — Adam Rippon ([46:50])

Conclusion

Episode 7 of The Podcast by Adam Rippon offers listeners an engaging blend of personal anecdotes, lifestyle advice, and candid opinions. Adam's discussion spans from his commitment to improving podcast quality and personal health habits to his defense of Meghan Markle amidst public scrutiny. The episode is a testament to his ability to intertwine humor with substantive content, providing both entertainment and valuable insights for his audience.