Podcast Summary: Totally Booked with Zibby – Episode Featuring Chelsea Handler

Episode Title: Chelsea Handler, I'LL HAVE WHAT SHE'S HAVING
Release Date: February 25, 2025
Host: Zibby Owens
Guest: Chelsea Handler

Introduction to Chelsea Handler

The episode kicks off with Zibby Owens introducing Chelsea Handler, a multifaceted personality renowned for her achievements as a comedian, television host, and six-time New York Times bestselling author. Chelsea's extensive career includes hosting the acclaimed show Chelsea Lately, authoring several bestsellers, launching a documentary series, and maintaining a strong presence in stand-up comedy. Her upcoming memoir, I'll Have What She's Having, is set to release on February 25, 2025.

Exploring I'll Have What She's Having

[02:20] Zibby Owens: "Tell listeners what this book is about please."

[02:25] Chelsea Handler: "I think this book is about infusing optimism in times of despair or unease while also serving as a reminder for women, especially to check in with ourselves and make sure that we are turning into the women that we wanted to become."

Chelsea delves into the core themes of her memoir, emphasizing the importance of optimism and self-reflection for women striving to become their best selves amidst societal challenges and personal adversities.

Manifestation and Personal Growth

[02:47] Zibby Owens: "I love that you manifested your whole life when you were younger. Like, this is it. This is who I want to be. Let's see how I can make this happen."

Chelsea reflects on her journey of self-manifestation, sharing how she consciously shaped her life goals and career aspirations from a young age. This proactive mindset is a recurring theme in her book, illustrating the power of intention in personal development.

Dealing with Criticism and Embracing Female Power

[03:00] Chelsea Handler: "I have no misgivings about how powerful women are. And we are in this situation right now because of that power and because of the threat that that serves up to people who can't deal with, you know, women being powerful."

Chelsea addresses the backlash against powerful women, asserting unwavering confidence in female strength and resilience. She emphasizes that societal challenges arising from female empowerment are merely temporary obstacles, reinforcing her optimistic outlook on the future of women's roles.

Meeting Jane Fonda: A Lesson in Humility and Self-Reflection

[03:43] Zibby Owens: "Speaking of powerful women, you, early in the book, have a meeting with Jane Fonda, who gives you some rather unsavory feedback about your behavior, which you take very well and actually use to reexamine yourself and change. Tell me about that and how you can take advice and not be defensive."

[04:03] Chelsea Handler:
"I learned in therapy that being defensive usually means you're wrong. If you're right, you don't have to defend yourself. When someone gives you feedback, all you can say is thank you."

In this segment, Chelsea recounts her encounter with Jane Fonda, where she received critical feedback. Instead of reacting defensively, Chelsea applied therapeutic lessons, embracing humility and using the feedback as an opportunity for personal growth. This story underscores the book's themes of self-awareness and constructive self-improvement.

Embracing Non-Traditional Roles and Mentorship

[05:59] Chelsea Handler:
"I want to impact the young people around me, to feel and instill in them the way that I feel about the world, which is anything is possible. To be of service to young people like Poopsie, Whoopsie, and Oopsie."

Chelsea discusses her role as a mentor and mentor-like figure to numerous children in her life, despite not having her own. She highlights the fulfillment and purpose she derives from supporting and inspiring young individuals, emphasizing the importance of community and mentorship in personal fulfillment.

Navigating Uncomfortable Situations with Grace

[08:26] Chelsea Handler:
"I had to take three edibles to ensure I didn't confront him about anything on his property."

Chelsea shares a humorous yet insightful anecdote about her visit to Kennebunkport, where she met former President George W. Bush. To manage the situation and remain composed, she used edibles as a coping mechanism, illustrating her ability to handle unexpected and potentially awkward encounters with grace and authenticity.

The Importance of Solitude and Self-Acceptance

[10:59] Chelsea Handler:
"Spending time alone allows you to discover who you are. My time in Whistler was the first period where I could do just what I wanted, leading to immense personal growth."

Chelsea reflects on her transformative experience in Whistler, Canada, where solitude and self-reflection led to profound personal insights and growth. She advocates for intentional alone time as a vital practice for self-awareness and emotional resilience.

Developing Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence

[13:06] Chelsea Handler:
"The gift of self-awareness is the best gift you can give yourself. It's important to be alone with uncomfortable feelings and not rush to have someone else fix them."

Emphasizing self-awareness, Chelsea discusses the importance of understanding how one is perceived and managing one's reactions. She encourages embracing uncomfortable emotions as a pathway to emotional intelligence and personal strength.

Writing as a Tool for Reflection and Connection

[15:57] Zibby Owens: "What do you get from writing books? Why do you keep writing books?"

[16:07] Chelsea Handler:
"Each book offers different insights. With I'll Have What She's Having, I aim to hit people at the right time with what I want to say, providing hope and positivity."

Chelsea explains her motivation for writing, highlighting how each book serves as a medium for reflection, connection, and timely messages to her audience. Her latest memoir aims to inspire and uplift, aligning with her broader mission of empowering women.

Advice for Aspiring Authors

[21:37] Chelsea Handler:
"Anyone can write a book. It's a matter of sitting down and writing. Creating something is two steps forward, three steps back, and then success."

Chelsea offers practical advice for aspiring authors, emphasizing perseverance and consistent effort. She demystifies the writing process, making it accessible and achievable for anyone with the determination to create.

Book Recommendations and Personal Favorites

[22:07] Chelsea Handler:
"I love The House of Mirth and The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah."

Chelsea shares her literary preferences, recommending timeless and engaging reads. She discusses how even books outside her usual interests captivated her attention, reflecting her diverse tastes and appreciation for compelling storytelling.

Future Endeavors and Closing Thoughts

[19:59] Chelsea Handler:
"I have another Netflix special coming out on March 25th and a European tour underway. I'm excited to share more soon."

In closing, Chelsea hints at her upcoming projects, including a new Netflix special and a European tour, maintaining an air of excitement and anticipation for her future endeavors. Her commitment to evolving and exploring new creative avenues is evident, promising fans continued inspiration and entertainment.

Conclusion

Zibby Owens wraps up the episode by commending Chelsea Handler for her insightful advice and unwavering advocacy for women. Chelsea's emphasis on authenticity, self-awareness, and empowerment resonates throughout the discussion, offering listeners valuable lessons in personal growth and resilience.

Notable Quotes:

• Chelsea Handler on Self-Awareness:
  "The gift of self-awareness is the best gift you can give yourself." [13:06]

• Chelsea Handler on Resilience:
  "We are in this situation right now because of our power, and we are not going anywhere. This is just another bump in the road." [03:00]

• Chelsea Handler on Writing:
  "Creating something is two steps forward, three steps back, and then success." [21:37]

Final Thoughts

This episode of Totally Booked with Zibby offers a deep dive into Chelsea Handler's latest memoir, I'll Have What She's Having, while exploring broader themes of empowerment, self-discovery, and resilience. Chelsea's candid storytelling and practical advice provide listeners with both inspiration and actionable insights, making this a must-listen for fans and aspiring authors alike.

Stay Connected:
For more episodes and literary insights, visit zibbymedia.com and follow Zibby Owens on Instagram @zibbyowens.