Therapuss with Jake Shane - Session 69: Ashton Earle
Release Date: April 26, 2025

1. Welcome and Introduction [00:10 - 01:38]

Jake Shane opens the episode with enthusiasm, introducing his guest, Ashton Earle, who is not only a close friend but also a rising star admired by Jake. He shares heartfelt sentiments about their friendship and preview of the episode's content.

Notable Quote:
"I have some of my most fun nights and some of my most fun weekends with her. She is truly just so wonderful and so kind and so humble."
— Jake Shane [00:10]

2. Coachella Recap and Festival Experiences [01:39 - 06:16]

Jake and Ashton delve into their recent experience at Coachella, discussing the challenges of attending during extreme heat and their favorite performances. Ashton shares her preference for nighttime festival outings to avoid the daytime heat, while Jake expresses his anxiety about after-parties, revealing his more reserved nature compared to friends like Alex and Braxton.

Notable Quotes:
"We filmed it literally the Monday getting back from Coachella, so we were dead."
— Jake Shane [00:10]

"This year was really bad. It was like 100 degrees."
— Ashton Earle [02:10]

"When I'm with you and, like, Alex and co., like, Alex just marches her way to the front and, like, figures it out, but I can't do that."
— Jake Shane [03:36]

3. Friendship Dynamics and Shared Experiences [06:17 - 14:00]

The conversation shifts to reminiscing about their shared adventures across various states and events, including Aspen, Miami, and Art Basel. Jake expresses his admiration for friends like Braxton, who effortlessly manage social situations, contrasting with his own struggles with anxiety in such settings. They discuss their upcoming plans, including potential moves to New York and London, highlighting their close bond and mutual support.

Notable Quotes:
"We have definitely had more. I have like half of our intel right now."
— Ashton Earle [04:37]

"She gets fine."
— Jake Shane [05:09]

"We were traveling together. There's so many things I didn't ask you because I wanted to save for the podcast."
— Jake Shane [04:21]

4. Career Aspirations and Future Plans [14:01 - 24:00]

Jake and Ashton discuss their career trajectories and future aspirations. Ashton is preparing to graduate from Tulane and plans to move to New York, potentially followed by a European grad trip. Jake shares his excitement about expanding his comedic endeavors alongside his darker projects, referencing shows like "Black Mirror" and "Veep."

Notable Quotes:
"I think you have to do that."
— Jake Shane [10:20]

"I'm super, super devastated. I think I'm going to maybe watch the new Black Mirror, but I also think I'm going to watch Veep."
— Jake Shane [00:10]

5. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Personal Struggles [24:00 - 35:00]

Ashton opens up about her experience being featured in Vogue during her senior year, discussing her battle with imposter syndrome despite her growing recognition. She reflects on how her social media presence has evolved and the emotional impact of newfound fame, including a deep sense of insecurity that permeates various aspects of her life.

Notable Quotes:
"I have really bad imposter syndrome with, like, everything."
— Ashton Earle [15:28]

"I'm just a normal girl. I promise."
— Ashton Earle [17:03]

6. Music Discussions and Emotional Connections [35:01 - 44:00]

The duo engages in a lively discussion about their favorite artists and how music has been a coping mechanism during tough times. They highlight standout performances from artists like Billy, Lord, and Phoebe Bridgers, sharing personal anecdotes about how certain songs resonate deeply with their emotional experiences.

Notable Quotes:
"I've heard this song a million times, and I've, like, sang it a million times. But for some reason this summer, it just, like, hit so hard."
— Ashton Earle [24:32]

"Billy's like, my number one all time."
— Ashton Earle [23:41]

7. Relationship Advice and Long-Distance Challenges [44:00 - 55:25]

Jake and Ashton tackle various relationship dilemmas, including dealing with friends who pursue shared crushes, managing long-distance relationships, and overcoming heartbreak. They offer empathetic yet candid advice, emphasizing the importance of communication and self-awareness in navigating complex emotional landscapes.

Notable Quotes:
"You're trying to beat someone because you're not secure."
— Jake Shane [44:56]

"If you really, really, like, care about each other and like, you genuinely don't care about, like, other people, I think it's worth it, or at least worth trying."
— Ashton Earle [52:26]

8. Personal Development and Authenticity [55:26 - 57:00]

The conversation touches on personal growth, the importance of authenticity, and the struggles of maintaining one's true self amidst external pressures. They discuss the role of social media content, such as "Day in the Life" vlogs, in building confidence and connecting with their audience.

Notable Quotes:
"I don't think that's all insecurity."
— Jake Shane [44:11]

"I started doing them like yours are. You've paved the way."
— Ashton Earle [57:07]

9. Closing Thoughts and Reflections [57:01 - 57:43]

Jake and Ashton wrap up the session by reflecting on their discussions, expressing mutual support and admiration. They hint at future collaborations and continue to reinforce the strength of their friendship.

Notable Quotes:
"I'm proud of us too."
— Jake Shane [56:34]

"I love you too."
— Ashton Earle [57:43]

Key Takeaways:

• Deep Friendship: The episode underscores the profound bond between Jake and Ashton, highlighting mutual support and shared experiences.

• Personal Growth: Both hosts discuss their personal challenges, particularly with anxiety and imposter syndrome, offering insights into their journeys towards self-acceptance.

• Career and Aspirations: They explore their professional paths, balancing creative pursuits with personal life transitions, such as graduation and relocation.

• Emotional Resilience Through Music: Music serves as a therapeutic tool for both, helping them navigate emotional upheavals and personal milestones.

• Navigating Relationships: The conversation provides relatable advice on managing friendships, romantic relationships, and the complexities of long-distance love.

Notable Quotes Summary:

• Jake Shane on Anxiety:
  "I can't be adventurous and go out alone. Bad things happen."
  — Jake Shane [03:36]

• Ashton Earle on Imposter Syndrome:
  "I have really bad imposter syndrome with, like, everything."
  — Ashton Earle [15:28]

• Jake Shane on Friendship:
  "We were still able to do this. I'm proud of us."
  — Jake Shane [56:34]

• Ashton Earle on Relationships:
  "Do you want the friend I'm giving you?"
  — Ashton Earle [48:03]

Conclusion

Session 69 of Therapuss with Jake Shane offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of Jake and Ashton, blending humor with deep, reflective conversations. Their candid discussions on friendship, personal struggles, and aspirations provide listeners with both entertainment and meaningful insights, reinforcing the show's unique blend of tongue-in-cheek therapy and genuine introspection.