Detailed Summary of "Intrusive Thoughts" by Adam Rippon Episode: Internet Breaks and Exploding Baby Powder
Release Date: June 26, 2025

Introduction: Returning from a Trip

Adam Rippon kicks off the episode by sharing his immediate post-trip routine. He emphasizes the importance of unpacking his suitcase promptly to alleviate anxiety, contrasting his diligence with others who procrastinate.

Adam Rippon [00:00]: "I truly believe that the trip isn't over until that suitcase is unpacked, that there is not a trace of that trip anywhere to be found."

Unpacking Woes: The Baby Powder Explosion

As Adam delves into unpacking, he recounts an unexpected mishap with his toiletry bag—baby powder exploded upon opening, causing a chaotic mess. This incident serves as a metaphor for his intrusive thoughts disrupting his otherwise organized life.

Adam Rippon [12:45]: "I opened the bag and what do I see? Oh, I see baby powder everywhere. Everywhere."

Scent Layering: A Personal Grooming Ritual

Transitioning from the chaos of the baby powder incident, Adam introduces his passion for scent layering—a process of combining multiple scented products to create a unique fragrance profile. He details his meticulous shower routine, highlighting each step's significance in maintaining both cleanliness and personal scent.

Adam Rippon [25:30]: "Scent layering is that you take products that have heavy scents, and you just layer them on top of one another."

Shower Routine Breakdown

Adam provides an in-depth explanation of his shower routine, emphasizing his commitment to cleanliness and the techniques he employs to achieve it. From using an oil face cleanser to scrubbing his body with an African net sponge, he shares insights into his grooming habits.

Adam Rippon [35:10]: "The key to putting lotion on and not feeling gloppy gloopy is that when you are done taking a shower, you take your towel and you don't dry completely off."

Online Experiences: Cosmo Video Backlash

Shifting gears, Adam recounts his experiences with the internet, particularly focusing on a Cosmo magazine video he participated in. Initially a fun collaboration, the project turned sour when a misinterpreted comment led to significant backlash from Taylor Swift's fanbase.

Adam Rippon [55:20]: "I do think it was me representing my country to the best of my ability."

He opens up about receiving hostile comments, including graphic and personal attacks, which prompted him to take a break from social media.

Adam Rippon [1:15:50]: "I have to balance it, just like you can't touch someone's volleyball. That's just the way it is."

Impact of Online Criticism

Adam reflects on the profound impact of online negativity, sharing how it affected his mental health and perspectives on social media interactions. He emphasizes the difficulty of navigating public opinion and the importance of time in healing from such experiences.

Adam Rippon [1:30:00]: "If you ever go through something like this, just like let it. Especially if you didn't do anything wrong."

Advocating for Respect and Change

Towards the end of the episode, Adam voices his passion for social justice, particularly praising the resilience of Los Angeles citizens during recent protests. He ties this into his earlier discussions about personal integrity and standing up against adversity.

Adam Rippon [1:50:45]: "We can't accept this as a new normal. And another thing we can't accept is when baby powder gets kind of in the crooks and crevices of everything you own."

Key Takeaways and Conclusion

Adam concludes the episode by summarizing his key insights:

1. Immediate Action Reduces Anxiety: His prompt unpacking routine helps manage post-trip stress.
2. Personal Routines Reflect Inner Order: His detailed grooming routine symbolizes his need for control and cleanliness.
3. Navigating Online Backlash Requires Resilience: Negative online interactions can deeply affect one's mental well-being, but time and self-care are essential for recovery.
4. Advocating for Positive Change: Standing up against societal issues and promoting respect remains a central theme in his life.

Adam Rippon [2:05:30]: "There are two really completely different things. But, you know, I feel passionately about them both. And I will use my voice for both."

He invites listeners to engage through voicemails, fostering a sense of community and open dialogue.

Adam Rippon [2:10:15]: "If you would like to leave a voicemail, our number is 310-909-7117. Thank you for calling in if you already have. And if you haven't, don't be scared, right?"

Notable Quotes

• On Anxiety and Routine:
  "I truly believe that the trip isn't over until that suitcase is unpacked, that there is not a trace of that trip anywhere to be found." [00:00]

• On Baby Powder Mishap:
  "I opened the bag and what do I see? Oh, I see baby powder everywhere. Everywhere." [12:45]

• On Scent Layering:
  "Scent layering is that you take products that have heavy scents, and you just layer them on top of one another." [25:30]

• On Online Backlash:
  "If you ever go through something like this, just like let it. Especially if you didn't do anything wrong." [1:30:00]

• On Social Advocacy:
  "We can't accept this as a new normal. And another thing we can't accept is when baby powder gets kind of in the crooks and crevices of everything you own." [1:50:45]

Conclusion

In this episode of "Intrusive Thoughts," Adam Rippon takes listeners on a personal journey through his daily routines, unexpected challenges, and the turbulent landscape of online interactions. By intertwining his grooming habits with his experiences facing internet backlash, Adam offers a candid look into managing anxiety, maintaining personal integrity, and advocating for positive societal change. The episode not only entertains but also provides valuable insights into navigating the complexities of modern life.