In this conversation, Jess and Lindz review the memoir 'Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing' by Matthew Perry. They discuss the chaotic and narcissistic nature of the book, as well as the adult content and language throughout. They also explore the attempt at humor and the glamorization of substance abuse.

The conversation concludes with a reflection on the starting age of the author and a quote that highlights his callous approach to drugs and alcohol. In this part of the conversation, the principal themes that emerge are violence and scariness, the return to the book review, the tabs and themes identified, the theme of Batman, the prologue and beyond, childhood trauma and addiction, the near-death experience, the lack of coping skills, the feeling of abandonment, the importance of being funny, disappointment and escaping, and the lack of connection and existential crises. In this part of the conversation, the hosts discuss various themes and chapters of Matthew Perry's book.

They explore the chaotic nature of the writing and the interludes that interrupt the chapters. They also delve into the graphic and crass descriptions in the book and the significance of certain elements like Groundhog Day.

The hosts discuss the theme of fame and how it did not fulfill Perry. They also touch on the lack of amends and the religious moment Perry experiences.

Overall, the conversation highlights the complex themes and chapters of the book. In this final part of the conversation, the hosts discuss Matthew Perry's dissociation from the help offered to him and the lack of closure in his book. They share memorable quotes and give their rating and final thoughts on the book. They also have a discussion about the possibility of Matthew Perry being subject to a conservatorship. The conversation ends with reflections on Matthew Perry's career and an announcement of the next book they will be reading.

Takeaways

• The interludes in the book interrupt the flow and can be confusing for readers.
• The graphic and crass descriptions in the book can be off-putting.
• Fame did not fulfill Matthew Perry and he struggled with addiction throughout his life.
• The lack of true amends in Perry's journey hindered his progress.
• Perry had a religious moment and found peace with God. Matthew Perry's dissociation from the help offered to him is evident in his book.
• The lack of closure in the book leaves many questions unanswered.
• The hosts share memorable quotes from the book.
• They give the book a rating of two stars.
• The possibility of Matthew Perry being subject to a conservatorship is discussed.
• Reflections on Matthew Perry's career are shared.
• The next book to be read is announced.

In this episode, Jess & Lindz introduce their podcast & dive into their first book review of Britney Spears' autobiography, 'The Woman in Me.' They discuss their personal interest in Britney Spears and the effect of fame on people. They share their favorite quotes from the book, give it a star rating,  discuss the recommended reader age, and their overall positive or negative takeaway. Within the construct of Britney's life and career, the themes of storytelling, shame, the relentless schedule, the desire for family, the impact of fame and isolation, the trauma of the conservatorship, the return to creativity, the quest for love, the mystery of Project Rose, and the glimmers of hope and strength are discussed. 

Takeaways

• Britney's memoir is not a scandalous tell-all, but rather a reflection on her life and experiences
• Britney's innocence and desire for love and fun were overshadowed by the negativity and judgment she faced
• The concept of an unreliable narrator is present in Britney's memoir, as her perspective and memories shape the story
• Scarcity and shame were used as marketing tactics in Britney's career, leading to a sense of abandonment and isolation
• Britney's relationship with Justin Timberlake and the outing of personal information had a significant impact on her perception and self-image
• The Diane Sawyer interview showcased Britney's strength and resilience in the face of unfair criticism and scrutiny. The power of storytelling can be used to make information more widely available, but it also comes with the responsibility to treat others with kindness and respect
• The relentless schedule and performance expectations placed on Britney Spears took a toll on her mental and physical well-being
• The Vegas tour and the Onyx Hotel tour showcased a different side of Britney's performance style, which was met with mixed reactions
• The desire for family and stability led Britney to make choices that may not have been the best for her, but were driven by her longing for a sense of home
• The conservatorship had a profound impact on Britney's life, stifling her creativity and autonomy, and causing emotional turmoil
• The journey towards freedom and self-discovery is a complex and ongoing process for Britney, as she navigates the challenges of fame and isolation
• The glimmers of hope and strength that Britney experiences serve as a reminder of her resilience and determination to reclaim her life and career 
• The Free Britney movement was not just about her conservatorship, but also about her disappearance and confinement
• Britney has a deep bond with her fans and appreciates their support and love
• Britney found strength and hope in her journey, manifesting an end to her conservatorship and fighting for her freedom

Chapters

00:00 Introduction & Welcome
02:20 Autobiography Genre & Question of the Day
03:14 New Year's Eve Fireworks Mishap
04:40 Trip to Babyland General Hospital
10:41 Autobiography Review: Britney Spears - The Woman In Me
34:08 Favorite Quotes from the Book
39:08 Star Rating & Recommended Age
47:32 Positive or Negative Overall Takeaway
52:34 Language & Content
01:10:23 Childhood in Kentwood
01:17:08 Criticism & Embarrassment, Shame & Scarcity
01:25:36 Justin Timberlake and Outing
01:38:27 Relationship w Kevin Federline
01:43:03 Diane Sawyer Interview
01:48:41 The Vegas Tour & the Onyx Hotel Tour
01:56:13 The Blackout Album & Creative Control
02:09:08 The Shaved Head Incident & Emotional Turmoil
02:11:17 The Return to Creativity & the Push for Freedom
02:19:19 The Quest for Love & Self-Discovery
02:25:01 The Awakening & Desire for Change
02:29:14 The Glimmers of Hope & Finding Strength
02:

In this episode, Jess and Lindz introduce themselves and their podcast. They discuss their long-standing friendship and their shared love for podcasts where they feel like they know the hosts. They talk about their different approaches to work and the challenges of managing expectations. They also explore the concept of truth and the importance of kindness in their interactions with others. Overall, they set the stage for future episodes where they will discuss books and share their thoughts and insights. In this conversation, Jess and Lindz discuss the concept of embracing the many versions of ourselves and being authentic in different situations. They share personal experiences and reflect on the moments that solidified their friendship. They also discuss the awkwardness of gift-giving and setting boundaries in friendships. The conversation touches on the importance of being selective in sharing personal stories and the value of content podcasts. Overall, the conversation highlights the complexities of friendship and the importance of being true to oneself.

Takeaways

• Building a strong foundation of friendship and shared experiences is important in a podcast partnership.
• Approaches to work can vary, with some people enjoying the process and finding fulfillment in productivity, while others may prioritize balance and meaning.
• Managing expectations and being open to change and growth are essential in personal and professional development.
• Truth can be subjective, and balancing honesty with kindness is important in maintaining relationships.
• Unsolicited advice may not always be well-received, and considering the impact of our words on others is crucial. Embrace the different versions of yourself and choose which one to lean into in different situations.
• True friendship is built on trust, understanding, and acceptance.
• Setting boundaries and being selective in sharing personal stories is important for maintaining healthy relationships.
• Content podcasts can provide entertainment, education, and a sense of connection.

Chapters

00:00 Introducing Ourselves and the Podcast Universe
03:00 Getting to Know Each Other
06:00 Jess's Conflicting Feelings About Podcasting
11:00 Lindz's Journey as an Entrepreneur
15:00 The Value of Work and the Burden of Expectations
19:00 Jess's Perspective on Work and Quitting
22:00 Preparing for the Podcast and Managing Expectations
27:00 Different Approaches to Reading and Preparation
29:00 Navigating Truth and Expectations
36:00 Being True to Ourselves and Balancing Kindness and Truth
49:00 Unsolicited Advice and the Importance of Kindness
50:14 Embracing the Many Versions of Ourselves
51:34 Being Authentic in Different Situations
52:28 The Perception of Likability
53:18 The Moment of Friendship
54:26 The Tank Top Incident
54:44 Recognizing True Friendship
56:39 Supporting Each Other in Difficult Times
57:39 Sharing Personal Experiences
58:01 The Loss of a Child
59:28 Choosing What to Share with Others
01:00:21 The Moment of True Friendship
01:02:00 Fear of Rejection
01:03:20 The Concept of Best Friends
01:04:16 The Awkwardness of Gift-Giving
01:06:22 Navigating CrossFit and Friendship
01:10:23 Setting Boundaries and Off-Limits Topics
01:12:25 Being Authentic and Selective in Sharing
01:17:06 Using a Rubric for Book Reviews
01:21:05 The Value of Content Podcasts
01:24:25 Studying for the Final