Podcast Summary: The Toast – Episode: "Thankful Self-Aware Cogs" (Tuesday, November 26th, 2024)

Hosted by Dear Media's Jackie & Claudia Oshry, "The Toast" delivers a delightful blend of humor, insightful discussions, and engaging stories. In this episode titled "Thankful Self-Aware Cogs," recorded and released on November 26, 2024, Jackie and Claudia delve into a variety of topics ranging from holiday preparations to pop culture controversies. Below is a detailed summary capturing all key points, discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

1. Wrapping Up the Workweek

The episode kicks off with Claudia expressing her relief that the workweek is over, contrasting it with Jackie's ongoing workload.

• Claudia (B): "Happy Tuesday. That feels like a Friday. Cause we're fucking celebrating, bitch." [00:03]

Jackie responds humorously, acknowledging the team's decision to take Wednesday off before Thanksgiving, thanking a colleague named Jackson Claude for the foresight.

• Jackie (A): "We had the foresight to take off the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Thank you to Jackson Claude who made that decision." [00:30]

2. Upcoming Patreon Episode: Thanksgiving Edition

Jackie announces a special Patreon episode focusing on Thanksgiving, encouraging listeners to subscribe for exclusive content.

• Jackie (A): "Claudia and I recorded a Patreon episode that features the fast five stories you need for the Thanksgiving dinner table." [01:11]

Claudia adds that the episode includes non-divisive topics suitable for diverse family gatherings, enhancing the holiday experience.

• Claudia (B): "It's a really fun episode... what are we thankful for this season. It was a very beautiful way to tie up." [01:11]

3. Business Ventures and Studio Space Challenges

The hosts discuss their ongoing search for affordable studio spaces amidst construction challenges and financial concerns.

• Claudia (B): "The studio I had found was half the price, but the lease was crazily unfavorable. We decided to hold out for a better option." [02:17]

Jackie empathizes, highlighting Claudia's preference for staying put despite wanting to move.

• Jackie (A): "A part of you is happy because you love staying where you are." [03:24]

They recount Claudia's recent struggles with finding suitable studio space and Ben's car troubles, adding a light-hearted tone to the discussion.

• Claudia (B): "Ben has three flat tires and keeps using the car aggressively. It’s nonstop!" [04:25]

4. Spritz Society’s Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale

Claudia promotes Spritz Society's significant holiday sale, detailing new product launches and discount codes.

• Claudia (B): "Use code TOAST30 for 30% off sitewide. We've launched new 12-ounce cans in flavors like Peach Pickle." [05:14]

Jackie humorously suggests a competing society name, showcasing their playful dynamic.

• Jackie (A): "We should start the Turt Society." [06:30]

5. Addressing Criticism: Ariana Grande and 'Wicked'

A substantial portion of the episode centers on previous criticism regarding Ariana Grande's role preferences in the musical "Wicked." Jackie defends their initial comments, providing context and citing Grande's interviews.

• Jackie (A): "She stated on the Zach Sang show that her dream is to be in 'Wicked,' specifically Elphaba." [08:04]

Claudia acknowledges the mixed reactions and clarifies their stance, emphasizing that Grande is happy with either role.

• Claudia (B): "She would do either, but she leads with Elphaba." [08:54]

They discuss a conversation with a listener named Saatchi, who felt misrepresented, leading to tension and Saatchi leaving the chat.

• Claudia (B): "She left the chat because we didn’t categorize her correctly. She wanted to be Elphaba." [10:07]

6. 'Vanderpump Rules' Bar Closure and Scandal Impact

Jackie and Claudia analyze the recent closure of Schwartz and Sandy's bar, owned by "Vanderpump Rules" stars Tom Sandoval and Tom Schwartz, attributing it to ongoing scandals.

• Claudia (B): "Seeing Tom Sandoval fail is emotionally complex because it impacts many innocent investors." [21:02]

Jackie adds that the scandal led to a rapid downfall, highlighting mismanagement and the consequences of personal actions on business ventures.

• Jackie (A): "The scandal caused a boycott, leading to the bar's quick closure." [23:01]

They express sympathy for small business employees affected by the closure, despite their personal feelings towards Sandoval.

7. Celebrating Dodie’s Pregnancy

The hosts share joyful news about Dodie, who announced her pregnancy and engagement, anticipating updates in the second season of "The Valley."

• Jackie (A): "Dodie is pregnant and now engaged to Luke." [24:01]

Claudia expresses happiness for Dodie, highlighting ongoing developments in her personal life.

• Claudia (B): "I'm really happy for her. It feels like 'The Valley' is progressing." [24:03]

8. 'Defying Gravity' Interview with Tracy E. Gilchrist

Jackie and Claudia discuss a recent interview with journalist Tracy E. Gilchrist about the concept of "holding space" and its impact on queer individuals.

• Tracy E. Gilchrist: "Holding space is being physically, emotionally, and mentally present with someone or something." [28:15]

They explore the significance of song lyrics resonating differently for individuals based on personal experiences and identities.

• Claudia (B): "Holding space means paying attention and resonating with something on a deeper level." [28:44]

9. Word of the Year: 'Rizzler' and Others

The hosts delve into the Merriam-Webster Word of the Year, "Rizzler," discussing its relevance and usage in contemporary language.

• Jackie (A): "Rizzler was an underrated word, and it's great it's being recognized." [31:40]

They exchange playful banter about their personal words of the year, reflecting their personalities and the podcast's light-hearted nature.

• Claudia (B): "My word of the year is emblematic." [33:46]
• Jackie (A): "Mine is nefarious." [33:46]

10. Hugh Grant's Public Response to Scandal

A discussion unfolds around Hugh Grant's public response to allegations made by Luann, analyzing his approach and its reception.

• Claudia (B): "I hate him." [34:18]

Jackie critiques Grant's attempt to cast doubt on Luann's recollection, expressing disappointment over his involvement.

• Jackie (A): "I wish he just shut his mouth. This doesn't reflect well on him." [34:54]

Claudia supports Jackie’s stance, emphasizing the unnecessary nature of Grant’s public statements.

• Claudia (B): "I wish he stayed the hell out of this." [37:18]

11. Glenn Powell's Lookalike Contest

The hosts cover Glenn Powell's unique promotional event where lookalike winners earn cameos in his upcoming film, celebrating his charm and fan engagement.

• Claudia (B): "The winner, Maxwell Bronstein, looked just like him and won a cameo in his next film." [50:32]

They express admiration for Powell, noting his positive influence and the creativity of his contest.

• Jackie (A): "Glenn Powell is so handsome and talented. This was a sweet gesture." [50:24]

12. Dear Toasters: Listener Advice Segment

In the "Dear Toasters" segment, Jackie and Claudia address listener-submitted questions, offering advice with their characteristic humor and empathy.

1. Listener Question 1: Inappropriate Text Message After a Date

   • Question: "I went on a first date and received a text saying, 'She lives in a studio. She's not as tubby as I thought.' How do I appropriately ruin this man's life?" [54:23]

   • Claudia (B): "You should respond with honesty and observation without being overtly mean." [55:07]

   • Jackie (A): "Acknowledge the oddity of the comment and move on." [55:31]

2. Listener Question 2: Husband Involving His Mother During an Argument

   • Question: "During an argument, my husband called his mother to relay my grievances. Was this a breach of trust?" [57:14]

   • Claudia (B): "It's a significant breach of trust as he bypassed direct communication." [57:43]

   • Jackie (A): "He needs to understand his role as a mediator and take responsibility." [58:16]

3. Listener Question 3: Navigating Overaffectionate In-Laws

   • Question: "My husband's family is overly affectionate, leading to uncomfortable situations. Am I being dramatic?" [59:29]

   • Claudia (B): "It's perfectly valid to feel uncomfortable. Establish boundaries and communicate your feelings." [61:04]

   • Jackie (A): "Laugh about it with friends and focus on what you can control within your household." [62:34]

13. Closing Gratitude and Teasers

As the episode nears its end, Jackie and Claudia express heartfelt gratitude towards their listeners, families, and the armed forces. They tease upcoming content and reflect on their experiences, reinforcing the podcast's community-centric ethos.

• Claudia (B): "We are so thankful for all our listeners and the support you've shown us." [63:33]

• Jackie (A): "We love you a whole lot. Thank you for being part of our journey." [64:39]

Notable Quotes from the Episode:

• "It's about being present and resonating on a cellular level." — Tracy E. Gilchrist, discussing "holding space." [28:15]

• "If you're smart, you would know the answers on Jeopardy about the Suez Canal." — Claudia (B), during a light-hearted segment. [32:02]

• "We are self-aware cogs, occasionally disrupting the machine." — Claudia (B), reflecting on their influence and awareness. [51:22]

Conclusion:

In this episode of "The Toast," Jackie and Claudia navigate through a spectrum of topics with their trademark wit and sincerity. From addressing listener concerns and dissecting pop culture controversies to celebrating personal milestones and sharing business challenges, they offer a comprehensive and engaging listening experience. Their ability to intertwine humor with meaningful dialogue ensures that both regular listeners and newcomers find value and entertainment in each episode.