Podcast Summary: The Toast – "Maturdity & BSC" | Friday, May 16th, 2025
Introduction
The episode of The Toast titled "Maturdity & BSC" marks a significant milestone as Claudia Oshry prepares to embark on her maternity leave. Joining Claudia for this final episode before her hiatus is Ben Soffer, stepping in as the co-host in the absence of Jackie Oshry. The hosts dive into a lively discussion covering a range of topics from pregnancy challenges to media critiques and sports commentary, all infused with their characteristic humor and camaraderie.
Pregnancy and Personal Insights
Claudia opens the conversation by acknowledging the end of a chapter as she prepares for motherhood, highlighting the duality of endings and new beginnings. Ben lends his support, commending Claudia for managing the podcast during her pregnancy.
- Claudia Oshry [01:11]: "I'm a hero. I'm an amazing business person and media mogul. And I agree with everything you said."
- Ben Soffer [01:33]: "Everything that's wrong in this world on Blake Lively. So maybe, like, Lively is a serial killer."
The discussion delves into the physical challenges of pregnancy, such as back pain and heartburn, with Claudia expressing empathy towards those enduring these issues regularly outside of pregnancy.
- Claudia Oshry [03:51]: "I have just to say, like, they're using Taylor Swift to get people to care about this story. But in actuality, it has nothing to do with Taylor Swift."
- Ben Soffer [02:04]: "Do you think it makes me go get stretched?"
Sports: Focus on the New York Knicks
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the New York Knicks' performance and their chances in the ongoing series. Ben shares an anecdote about attending a Knicks game in Cleveland, emphasizing the team's potential to win the championship.
- Ben Soffer [07:19]: "This is the best chance the Knicks have of winning a championship in my lifetime."
- Claudia Oshry [10:10]: "What, like grown men will spend on a 90 minute game."
The hosts discuss key players, including Jalen Brunson, whom Ben predicts will have a standout performance, and express optimism about the Knicks' prospects.
- Ben Soffer [57:04]: "I'm telling you, like, I really don't want for anything. #bsc."
Media and Celebrity Gossip
Claudia and Ben engage in a critique of how media sensationalizes stories by associating unrelated celebrities, particularly focusing on Taylor Swift and conspiracy theories surrounding a serial killer in New England.
- Claudia Oshry [23:05]: "It's kind of crazy, though, because he's, like, a short king."
- Ben Soffer [24:03]: "This is the problem with the news."
They also touch upon the Sean "Diddy" Combs trial and its implications for other celebrities like Justin Bieber, exploring public perceptions and media narratives.
- Claudia Oshry [30:19]: "Justin Bieber is not a victim of his former friend Sean Diddy Combs."
Personal Stories and Light-hearted Banter
The hosts share personal anecdotes, including Claudia's experience moving a heavy bar to prepare their home for the baby, highlighting Ben's dedication and physical efforts.
- Claudia Oshry [37:12]: "We just couldn't find a place for it, so Ben decided to do this completely on his own."
- Ben Soffer [38:10]: "I almost fully died with this final project."
Their banter extends to playful jabs and affectionate remarks, showcasing their strong rapport.
- Claudia Oshry [55:30]: "Our entire pregnancy. But from the moment I found out I'm pregnant, let me tell you, this man has not let me cook my own meal, lifted a finger."
"Queenie and Weenie of the Week" Segment
In the final segment of the show, Claudia and Ben award each other the titles of "Queenie" and "Weenie of the Week." Ben nominates Starbucks as his Weenie for their exceptional mobile ordering system and consistent quality, while Claudia selects HBO Max for its ongoing rebranding efforts.
- Ben Soffer [49:26]: "My Weenie of the week is Starbucks."
- Claudia Oshry [52:07]: "My winning of the week is HBO Max."
Claudia highlights Ben's newfound appreciation for Dunkin' Donuts over Starbucks, adding a humorous twist to their friendly competition.
- Claudia Oshry [51:35]: "Real New Yorkers drink Dunkin', because you walk in there, there's a cop."
Conclusion and Farewell
As the episode winds down, Claudia expresses her gratitude towards Ben and the listeners, emphasizing the support she's received throughout her pregnancy. Ben reciprocates the heartfelt sentiments, commending Claudia's efforts and dedication.
- Claudia Oshry [55:54]: "I love you so much."
- Ben Soffer [55:36]: "I love you."
Claudia announces her upcoming maternity leave, assuring listeners of continued content through Patreon and her sister Jackie. The episode concludes with warm farewells and well-wishes for Claudia's journey into motherhood.
Notable Quotes:
- Claudia Oshry [12:43]: "Today's episode is brought to you by Skims, which is partly because I am wearing Skims maternity pants."
- Ben Soffer [04:20]: "Ben is going to be a father of a son. Bhbh."
- Claudia Oshry [37:12]: "We didn’t need to have time."
- Ben Soffer [58:26]: "Jalen Brunson is going to have 40 points and the Knicks are gonna win."
Final Thoughts
In this episode, Claudia and Ben navigate through a blend of personal experiences, sports enthusiasm, and media skepticism with their trademark humor and sincerity. As Claudia steps away for maternity leave, Ben provides a seamless transition, ensuring that fans of The Toast remain engaged and entertained. The episode serves as both a heartfelt farewell and a comprehensive roundup of current events, maintaining the podcast's commitment to delivering engaging and relatable content.