Assume It Will Be Brilliant: Recent Episodes
Assume It Will Be Brillant
Join Nomsa and Portia as they explore the Shondaland multiverse...and pretty much every other network and television streaming service to discuss how the stories being told on our screens relate to life, love, pop culture, current affairs, social justice and everything in between. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode we discuss the highly anticipated Season 3 of Netflix’s mega hit show, Bridgerton. As stans we love talking about Shondaland creations and this 3rd installment of Julia Quinn’s book series which focuses of the love story between Colin Bridgerton and Lady Whistledown herself, Penelope Featherington, is no different. We cover the friendships, the romance, the comedic moments, and of course the dynamics of power and privilege in this world especially for women. We also discuss the influence the secret columnist wields in the Ton and what giving that up for love would mean. We also touch on the building love stories and side characters we also love. This one’s a fun one.
We hope you enjoy!
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
In this episode we dive deep into the dark and twisty world of the Netflix hit show Baby Reindeer. The show, which is written by and stars Richard Gaad, is a fictionalisation of a real time in his life when he was being harassed and stalked by an unstable woman while he was pursuing his dream of becoming a standup comedian. We discuss the intriguing story and outstanding performances by Gaad and Jessica Gunning, amongst others and also touch on some of the heavy topics this show covers including power dynamics, the infamous casting couch and sexuality. The show is not a light watch, and neither is our discussion but it is an important one and we hope you’ll journey with us on this one.
CW: Mentions of sexual assault, grooming, harassment and mental illness.
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
This week we discuss the stunning wonder that is FX and Hulu original, Shogun. This mega hit series is a historical fiction drama, based on a book of the same name and follows an English sailor, John Blackthorne as he crash lands himself in a deadly game of thrones where members of Japan’s royal council seek the ultimate position as leader and plot specifically to end the influence of the strongest amongst them, Lord Toranaga aka, Shogun. We discuss our favorite scenes, the themes of loyalty even unto death, service, and our favourite characters. There’s simply is not enough time to cover this delight but we try.
We hope you enjoy!
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
We could not let a season a go without a dose of a reality tv dating show so we’re back with a episode discussing the Netflix hit, The Ultimatum South Africa. There’s so much to unpack so had to make sure our reality tv correspondent, Dona, joined us as we got into it. We cover our thoughts on the flavour & authenticity the South African cast brought to a show that was getting tired & all the dynamics at play in this twisted couples’ swap. We also ask some burning questions like… Why did Khanya bring that man on here when she clearly didn’t like him? How long had Ruth & Isaac really been together? At what point did Courtney & Aiden realize they’d an error coming & when will Nolla stop lying? That and so much more. We hope you enjoy!Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
In this episode we delve deep into the political saga of the world ruled by the formidable and incomparable Kate Winslet in HBO’s The Regime. We follow a year in the life of Chancellor Elena Vernham in her authoritarian rule over an unnamed central European country as she becomes more paranoid and unhinged and begins to seek counsel from a violent and disgraced soldier known as “the butcher”. There’s lots to discuss from the side effects of fascism, populism and elitism to the dynamics of power in a world dependent on the favour of the western world. Mainly, we’re trying to understand why the critics and the audience seemingly did not take to this clever, funny and poignant political satire especially when Kate Winslet does everything so damn well. We’ll just call it… misunderstood. Listen as we unpack.Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
In this episode we enter our sci-fi era as we discuss two recently released Sci-Fi shows, the space thriller Constellation (AppleTV) & the promised alien invasion hit, 3 Body Problem (Netflix). We explore the different themes in each, our “non-sciency” understanding of both, which admittedly is limited, and more importantly our views on whether they succeeded in achieving their goal of producing really good and compelling television. It may be new territory for the pod as we begin this journey of science fiction and some of our views may be controversial (based on the audience reviews we’ve seen) but what can we say? We’ve got high standards. We also give our recommendations of other sci-fi shows for your viewing pleasure. Stick around for our 3min review of the smash hit film, Dune Part II. Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
In this episode we discuss the documentary The Program: Cons, Cults, and Kidnapping (Netflix) in which protagonist and documentarian, Katherine Kubler, traces her own and others' journey of healing through enduring, living through, and eventually exposing the corrupt and abused 'troubled teen' industry. We reflect on the documentary and the experiences of the children who when to these programs and ask ourselves what the treatment of children in our society tells us about ourselves. It's heavy material and for us it provoked one of the richest and reflective conversations we've had on this podcast. We hope you'll feel the same when you listen. CW: Mentions of emotional, pscychological, and sexual abuse. Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
This week we cover Prime Video's reimagining of the 2005 hit comedy/action film Mr & Mrs Smith starring Donald Glover and Maya Erskine. This time the spies-turned-married-couple plot line comes to us as a sleek and simmering slow burn romantic dramedy thats lighter on the spy action of it all and heavy on the tension and relational dynamics where awkward comedic moments get to shine. We discuss our favorite scenes, the all important element of chemistry, and the behind the scenes writing and acting choices that might have lead to different kind of show.
We hope you enjoy!
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
We are back for another season and can't wait to get into our favorite emotional support TV shows (and we are throwing in some movies too this season!) for 2024!This week, in keeping with tradition, we catch you up on what we've been up to and how've we've grown since the end of season 3 and immediately get into what shows we've been watching (Shōgun , Silo, Slow Horses, Top Boy and the Power Universe) and the shows we plan to cover this season (HBO's The Regime, Mr & Mrs Smith, Ava Duvernay's Origin)....there’s also an great pep talk based on Ty Dolla $ign that worth listening to!Enjoy! Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Hello AWIBBers!
We are (almost) back with Season 4 which we are so excited about - but for now please enjoy our reality TV offering for 2024 with special guest Dona! In this episode we discuss all the shenanigans and shenanidont's that took place on Love Is Blind Season 6 - we hope you enjoy!
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
This week, for our season 3 finale, we decided to cover a show that we - like everyone else - can't stop thinking and talking about: FX's Emmy nominated, critically acclaimed hit show The Bear (also streaming on Hulu and Disney+). With two seasons out, it is obvious that this is not a fluke and that those behind the page and the lens have worked hard to tell this story about family (both blood and chosen), hard work, and grief with intention and precision. The performances - which include one of the most enviable lists of guest stars we've seen in a while (Olivia Coleman! Sarah Paulson!) - are stellar, the (food) cinematography mouth watering and creative, and the writing grounded yet deeply moving and as close to real feeling as it gets - even in those 7 minute monologues. Colour us impressed and ready for the next season!
We hope you enjoyed listening with us this year and we'll be back!
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
This week, we rewind through our season and re-evaluate some of our initial hot takes on shows such as as Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (Netlflix) and Insecure (HBO). We also emphasize just how deeply manufactured the reality tv show industrial complex is such that we should be careful to rely on even our own interpretation of events. Finally, we get excited about the show we are going to discuss in our podcast season finale next week!
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
TRIGGER & CONTENT WARNING This episode includes discussions of sexual harassment & assault of women and children in religious spaces.
This week we’re back in our documentary era and there’s lots to learn. We’re taking a look at the religious institutions that captured the hearts and minds of millions as we discuss the documentaries Shiny Happy People (Prime Video) & The Secrets of Hillsong (FX). Shiny Happy People follows the meteoric rise of the fundamentalist conservative Duggar family and their impact in popular culture and politics, as well as their formation in the quasi religious structure of the IBLP (Institute in Basic Life Principles) which has negatively impacted many people who have since left with countless stories of sexual, physical, and financial abuse. The Secrets of Hillsong follows the rise & fall of Hillsong Church in the USA & marginally in Australia following countless scandals involving financial & sexual impropriety, and the abuse of power by its leaders. We also touch on the similarities of these docs with one of favourite movies of 2022, Women Talking. We discuss the harmful effects of unchecked power and the ways in which cultures that demand purity and complete submission to ‘authority’ in a strict hierarchical culture, all but guarantees conditions conducive to the abuse of its weakest members. This one is illuminating.
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Welcome to our late-season hiatus, where per tradition, we interrupt your regularly scheduled television commentary to bring you a little more of us. This week we are once again catching up and checking in on where we are in our lives and reflecting specifically on the nature of relationships - the work to takes to nurture and grow into them, the challenge of transitioning out of them, and how tricky it can be to find balance and have appropriate expectations. Among other things, we cover how strange it is that when we fall in love we see conflict as a relationship killer when in fact its exactly what we should expect, and the crucial nature of repair. Ultimately, we conclude that life is 🥴 😵💫 but we can practice holding compassion for ourselves and others, giving grace, and surrendering to the multiplicity of all that is within and around us (which is not to say you can’t also be a “number 1 hater” like Nomsa or a “number 1 avoidant” like Portia. We hope you enjoy!
Our recommendations: Book - What My Bones Know: A Memoir of Healing from Complex Trauma by Stephanie Foo Video - Ester Perel on holding polarity in couples
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
In this week's episode we look back at the Royal Saga that captured the world media's attention, especially in the UK, but also globally in the early post-pandemic years.
As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex fled England to eventually settle in California, the public was made aware of Harry's life long battle with the British tabloid media and the couple's journey as they tried to get out from under the pressure it was placing on Meghan's experience as a woman - and specifically a black woman - entering the institution of the monarchy. Our education started with the release of a prime-time bombshell interview with Oprah, was followed by a 6 part documentary series Harry & Megan (Netflix), and capped off by the now fastest selling non-fiction book of all time Spare by Prince Harry (& J. R. Moehringer).
We talk about the parts of the book and the docs that surprised and elicited empathy for their position, as well the ethical questions we need to ask ourselves about how we consume 'celebrity gossip' and what our values really are if we are complicit in the dehumanization of others (even if they are rich, famous, and privileged). Finally, we discuss the rhetoric and narratives that were used with respect to race and the history of colonialism and how Prince Harry was playing the role of the rebel, not the revolutionary.
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
CW: Discussion of domestic abuse/violence
🌈 Happy Pride Month everyone! 🌈 From us and also from Netflix who gifted us with their first official queer reality tv dating show -The Ultimatum: Queer Love. What a journey! There was so much to discuss so we invited our dear friend and now official reality tv correspondent, Dona, back. We cover everything from the ups and downs, twists and turns, and ping-ponging that was the Mal/Yoly/Xander/Vanessa quadrangle, to Sam’s steady integrity juxtaposed with Aussie’s readiness to flee. Towards the end, we consider the reunion episode and what the situation between Tiff and Mildred helped to show us about the ways in which the pressure placed on queer people to prove their ‘goodness’ in order to avoid societal violence, can lead to a lack of discussion and action to address issues like lateral and domestic violence within marginalized communities.
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
This week we cover the ‘trials and tribulations’ of the Roy family in HBO’s brilliantly executed, four season hit show, Succession. We do the hard but rewarding work of trying to decide who our favorite narcissist is (if you haven’t already, check out Dr. Ramani’s season 4 episode recaps on Youtube!) and share our thoughts about why you can't run a family like a corporation and expect a good outcome. We are definitely going miss these dysfunctional characters, their painfully cringey and emotionally distorted bids for love, and every absurd shenanigan they got into. Cheers 🥂 Jesse Armstrong and Co. because wow what a show! We hope you enjoy!
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
In this week's episode we cover the 19th season of the show this podcast got it's name from Grey's Anatomy (ABC). We ask the important questions like why is Amelia going nowhere slowly? Do Lucas and Simone have believable chemistry? Are Owen and Teddy ever gonna be without conflict? - assuming Teddy lives of course; and why did it take so long for Bailey to get her flowers?. A lot is going on but we rate season 19 as good enough to keep us Grey’s die hards ready to tune in next season. We hope you enjoy the episode, let us know what you think!
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpod Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
In this week's episode we discuss the recent hit show Beef (Netflix) with special guest, Dona. We discuss the show’s unique exploration of Asian American culture through the experience of the characters embroiled in an escalating 'beef' initiated after a road range accident. We discuss the funny and not so funny elements of the show and laugh out loud at its most outrageous parts. Buckle up, this one is a wild & fun ride. We hope love it as much as we do.Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantpodMusic: Humblux- S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
This week we're "rooting for everybody Black!" as the great Issa Rae once said. We talk about her Iconic, one-of-a-kind, groundbreaking show Insecure (HBO). Not only did this show mark the beginning of a renaissance in Black Television, it was also hella funny, filled with storylines that the black community had long needed to witness on the screen, and repped hard for South L.A. both in music and in fashion! This was such a pleasure for us to record and we hope that you catch those vibes too when you listen!Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliantMusic: Humblux- S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
As Shondaland Stans we are back this week with a full run down on Shonda's latest offering - Bridgerton prequel Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (Netlflix). The show depicts a love story for the ages based on the real life royal couple Queen Charlotte (born Sophia Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz of Germany) and King George III that the creators note “is not a history lesson" but "fiction inspired by fact.” In this episode, relatively heated debate abounds as we discuss how the show depicts loving through mental illness, racial politics amongst the elite, and the status and strategies of women navigating marriage in this fictional Regency era. We had fun watching this beautifully made show and even more talking about it. Let us know what you think!
Instagram: @assumeitwillbebrilliant
Music: Humblux
- S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
This week we close our discussion of season 4 of Love is Blind (Netflix) with a specific focus on the hot mess express that was the Reunion finale.
We skip right over the fact that it failed at it's promise to be the first reunion broadcast 'live' and get right into the all the missed opportunities and disappointing lines of questioning we had endure at the hands of hosts, Nick and Vanessa Lachey. Are we really gonna let Kwame get away his well rehearsed (but there's a lot left unsaid) apology?; Why is Irina the only mean girl catching heat when Micah is also sitting right next to her?; Did we just witness the live (but not really) gaslighting of Paul?; That's ALL you have to say to Jackie while you cruelly dump on Marshall again!?; Vanessa why are you trying to get everyone pregnant? .... We ask all these important questions and more as we contemplate whether the commitment to fairytale premise of the show gets in the way of making this show in a way that is both entertaining and ethical in its care and treatment of the participants.
Music:
Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
This week we finally discuss our all time favorite legal drama The Good Fight (Paramount+) whose sixth and final season aired last November. A spinoff of the long running legal/political Drama The Good Wife (CBS), the show follows Diane Lockhart (played by the wonderful Christine Baranski) as she transitions into working for a prestigious and Black owned law firm alongside her friend and colleague Liz Reddick (played by the glorious Aurdra McDonald). We discuss the ways in which this overtly political show defied and pushed the boundaries of genre, and with great creativity, used its extremely current storylines and plots to make incisive, sometimes controversial, but always appropriately complex social commentary - including on realities as big and thorny as the rise in white supremacy. In this episode we make the bold claim "If TV could save lives, The Good Fight would" - we love this show that much and we hope you enjoy the episode.
Music:
Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
This episode is all about our favorite/not-so-favourite Antiheroes. We discuss two shows, You (Netflix) and Tell Me Lies (Hulu), and focus in particular on their two toxic male protagonists… one an aspiring lawyer, the other an established serial killer, both narcissists. We size up these two men and their journey to becoming even more diabolical as time progresses and discuss why we are or aren’t rooting for the antiheroes. Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
Portia & Nomsa are back for season 3! In this episode we welcome the listeners back too and catch-up you up on what we've been up to since the end of season 2 and what we are looking forward to and hoping for in this new year. We then immediately get into what shows we are currently watching (You, Last of Us, Shrinking, Physical 100, Survivor...and as always Grey's Anatomy ) or waiting to watch (Yellowjackets, Succession, Ted Lasso). There’s also an interesting discussion on what we would & wouldn’t do to stop the apocalypse… perhaps the world needs other heroes for that one. Please note we have a new publication. Please find our new episodes out every THURSDAY going forward!Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
This is our gift for the holidays! We really tried to stay quiet until regular programming resumed but just couldn't because season 3 of Love is Blind (Netflix) is wild! For this special episode we are joined by our lovely friend and guest, Mabz! We recorded this before being disappointed by SK so unfortunately we couldn't dive into that, but we hope you enjoy this pre-season bonus episode. Time stamps:Overview + Alex & Brennan (0 - 19 mins)SK & Raven + Nancy & Bartise (19-44 mins)Cole & Zanab (44-1:03 mins)Matt & Colleen(1:04-end)Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens- Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
It's the final episode of season 2 of AIWBB!
It is always bittersweet to say goodbye but we are at least doing so with a heavy emphasis on the 'sweet' because we close out this season with an in depth discussion of one of the best family drama's of the last decade - This is Us (NBC). We discuss the excellent, detailed, time travelling, and deeply but not overly sentimental storytelling that made the show so popular, as well as all the delft and honest ways in which issues like race and adoption (as well as their intersection) were handled. Whether you're an R&B (Randall & Beth) or KaToby (Kate & Toby) stan, or maybe you were just in it for Jack's Zaddy vibes, and definitely if you tuned in for your weekly cry whenever the show was airing, then this is the episode for you.
Thank you for sticking with us this season! As always, we hope you enjoy!
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens
- Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode, we are bringing you some fun and funny as we are joined by a special guest - Maureen, but you can call her 'Mo', to dish about the trials and tribulations of dating. We share some grand gestures we've enjoyed, and tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth about some of the worst dates we've been on. All of us are the victims and the villains in this one (though some more than others though). Mo recommends an old British show we should all watch called My Mad Fat Diary (E4). For a real treat, stick around to the end to hear Mo's story about the 'book thief' and why you shouldn't let anyone try to colonize your book shelf. Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
On this week’s episode we’re catching up and checking in on where we are in our lives and reflecting on what it really means to live our own lives while having grace for ourselves and for the people around us. We also tell you what we've been watching lately -or thinking about watching - rand recommend some shows for your viewing pleasure. For TV shows we discuss: The Summer I Turned Pretty (Prime Video), The Boys (Prime Video), Obi-Wan (Disney+), Ms Marvel (Disney+), Conversations with Friends (Hulu), and The Time Traveller's Wife (HBO) in TV shows. For movies and documentaries, we talk about the J.Lo documentary Halftime (Netflix), George Carlin's American Dream (HBO Max), Hustle (Netflix), The Man From Toronto (Netflix), Turning Red (Disney+), and Bao (Disney+).
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens
- Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this week’s episodes, we discuss the Netflix documentary series Keep Sweet: Pray & Obey about the polygamous (or Plural Marriage as they would call it) Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), which Wikipedia refers to as "a radical offshoot of mainstream Mormonism" and its current leader Warren S. Jeffs. We discuss the function of fear and power in high control groups and how women and children are subjugated and objectified within these groups while also being necessary to sustain them. Trigger Warning: references are made to underage and marital rape. It's a heavy discussion but it's an important. We encourage you to listen to the end and be inspired by the words of 16th Century Poet Aemelia Lanyer, who was the first woman to assert herself as a professional poet. Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
This week we’re discussing the social utility of dark teen shows by looking at shows like Euphoria (HBO), 13 Reasons Why (Netflix), Cruel Summer (Hulu), The WildS (Prime Video )and the movie The Fallout (HBO Max) to name a few. Is there a purpose in the depiction of heavy subject matter as it relates to teens or do these shows take it too far? Listen as we share our thoughts with our special guest, Daeyna. We hope you enjoy!
Music:
Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode, we stop procrastinating and finally cover the goings on at Grey Sloan Memorial over the last few months. We deep dive and get into all things season 18, the good, the bad, and the deeply frustrating - Why are Teddy and Owen on the lam!?! and didn’t we decide to stop with the fever dream sequences!? . We give you our rating and hope you’ll share yours with us! As always, please enjoy!
Music:
Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
This episode is all about the female powerhouses at the centre of contemporary prestige television and all the different types of feminist storytelling across a whole lot of streaming services. We start off by covering Roar (an anthology series on Apple TV) and discuss it's visually impressive and folkloric take on issues related to womanhood, and close off with a discussion about The First Lady (political drama streaming on Showtime), Gaslit (political thriller streaming on Starz), and Russian Doll (on Netflix),. Other notable mentions we give a shout out to are Candy(on Hulu) and Shining Girls (on Apple TV). As always, we hope you enjoy!
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
NSFW content warning! In this episode we have a special guest, Betty, who wants everyone to know that she is more than just 'the p***s girl' because that is what this episode is all about. Where has the mysterious D been hidden all our TV lives long and why does it feel like there is an unequal and exploitative nature in visual storytelling as it pertains to the female body? We take a look at the TV show Minx that is currently streaming on HBO Max and phew!! strap in (or on?)! because this one is a fun, funny and unexpectedly deep and philosophical discussion about all of our bodies, our disconnection from them, the taboos/shame around and upon them, and what our reconnection to them could mean for our collective liberation. As always, enjoy! Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode we take a little break from the fictional lives on TV and get into our real lives. We discuss some of the challenges and obstacles that life has thrown at us and share how we’ve laughed, learned and grown along the way. Everyone loves a good comeback and that’s what this one’s all about. We started from the rock bottom and now we’re here! With great gratitude we share this with you and we hope you enjoy!
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this week’s episode we dive deep into the world of reality TV dating shows both past and present. We look at the blueprint laid down by the Bachelor - Bachelorette franchise and get into the weeds of Nick and Vanessa Lachey’s little Netflix dating show empire which consists of the popular shows ‘Love is Blind’ and ‘The Ultimatum’. If you wanna hear about ‘producer speak’, ‘the villain edit’ and all the questionable ethics of putting your heart on the line for the general consumption of all our prying eyes, this one is for you. Enjoy!
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens
- Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this week’s episode we’re chatting about 3 shows that are about 3 so-called “unicorns” which took the world and Silicon Valley by storm. We examine the rise and fall of the WeWork, Theranos and Uber founders through Apple TV’s WeCrashed, Hulu’s The Dropout, and Showtime’s Super Pumped as it becomes apparent that no matter we’ve been told in recent times, unicorns still do not exist. Strap in, because it’s a bumpy road to unveiling the hard truth about founding new businesses and managing the people that are used and the story that is told in the effort to grow them. We hope you enjoy!
Music: Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens - Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
This week’s episode explores the lies of the now infamous Love Scammer, Simon Leviev, also know as the Tinder Swindler. We look at the effects of his lies through the eyes of the 3 women he swindled as depicted in the hit Netflix documentary. We ask questions about the elevation of scammers in the current era, including in the strange saga of The Bad Vegan, restauranteur Sarma Melngailis, and discuss 'Love' and how the pursuit of it or the drive to keep it can cause many of us to stop asking questions and to believe the plainly unbelievable. We conclude that Love is One Hell of a Drug. As always, we hope you enjoy!
Music:
Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens
- Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode we navigate the wild world created by the one and only Anna Delvey as depicted in the Netflix and Shondaland show 'Inventing Anna' starring Ozark's Julia Garner as the now famous faux German Heiress who hustled her way through New York's elite circles almost snagging 40 million dollars in funding to create a next level Soho House. We draw parallels between her story and that of the now notorious Elizabeth Holmes who spun her tale of a non-existent revolution in blood testing throughout the valley know as Silicon. Billy Mcfarlane of Fyre Fest fame also comes into play as we dissect how the nature of business and venture capital lays the foundation for such scams, and the skin you're in helps open the doors for those scams to scale in unimaginable ways. As always, we hope you enjoy!
Music:
Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens
- Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode we’re talking about all things Bridgerton season 2! We explore the different love stories, character arcs and behind the story elements of the show, as well as the complex world space it occupies and what's worthy of both criticism and praise about it all. Let's just say it’s A Very Bridgerton Affair! We hope you love it.
Music:
Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens
- Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
Hello! Hello! Hello!
We are officially back for another season of Assume it will be Brilliant!
In this episode, we take you through our plans for season 2 and what you have to look forward to. We also share our thoughts on some of our favorite TV shows that we've consumed over the past couple of months. We hope you enjoy!
Music:
Humblux - S.H.E. Cali Greens
- Artillery (Extended Clip) 8, 14, and 18
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
It's the end of season one of Assume it will be Brilliant!
In this episode, first, Nomsa and Portia share their thoughts on season 18 of Grey's so far, as well as season one of this very podcast. Then, they are joined by special Guest, Michele, to get into all our favourite and not so favourite wild finales at Grey Sloan Memorial including: Addison's arrival, the dearly departed Denny Duquette and George O'Malley, and both the tragic shooting and plane crash.
Thank you for being with us this season, we can't wait to be back in 2022, and we hope you'll join us again!
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode, which can only be described as chaotic good, delightful if you will, Nomsa and Portia discuss The Lost Ones:
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The lost shows (Off the Map, The Catch, Still Star Crossed, For the People) [2:00-24:50]
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The lost characters of Grey's Anatomy (where is Nico? what happened to Nurse Eli? did they really disappear Dr Murphy twice? [24:55 - 34:22]
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Bridgerton ...Dearest listener, we do sincerely hope you enjoy... [34:28- end]
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode, Nomsa and Portia continue on with the Leading Ladies of Shondaland. From Private Practice, we cover Addison's journey from guilt and desperation to surrender and Naomi's growth into self-acceptance. Then we dive into the big, bad, and badass world's of none other than How to Get Away with Murder's Annelise Keating and Scandal's Olivia Pope. As always, enjoy! Music: Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode, Nomsa and Portia shift gear from shady men to leading ladies. For Bailey, Christina and Meredith their journey's have been long, winding, complex, devastating, healing, and triumphant. Meredith processed childhood trauma, Bailey let go of control and let love in, and Christina Yang will always be the messiest most exquisite example of having yourself, losing yourself and fighting like hell to find and hold onto yourself again. As always, we hope you enjoy!
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode, Nomsa and Portia discuss some of Shonda's shady men from Grey’s, Scandal, How to get away with murder, and private practice. We're talking: the straight up villains (Papa pope and Cyrus ), the sociopaths (Frank and Hucks), the all-women-are-disposable-except-my-special-women guy (Mark), those who've evolved from toxicity (Alex and Connor), those who'll probably always get a pass for their bad behaviour (Derek and Fitz), and those whom we actually truly love for not being any of the above (Ben, Linc, and David Rosen). As always we hope you enjoy!
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode, Portia and Nomsa get into it: What do you do if you and your partner don't share the same thoughts about having children (looking at you Owen) or how many (ahem, Linc)?, or maybe your partner thinks their job is more important than yours (Dr. Derek 'I got a call from the President!' Shepard)?, or you find out the person you were dating is part of the reason your best friend is a widow ("oopsie!" says Victoria Hughes)? Portia and Nomsa examine all these scenarios and more while contemplating the journey and hard work of becoming self aware enough to effectively avoid being in dealbreaker situations, and ultimately, the utmost importance of communication! We hope you enjoy!
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode we continue our friendship discussion and cover the lover/friends and friends/mentors at Grey Sloan Memorial. Callie and Mark take the top prize, we are mad at Owen the lover but praise him as Owen the mentor, while we lament Izzie's turn as George's girl but deeply appreciate their friendship. We hope you enjoy!
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
At top of today’s episode we share our first impressions on the premiere episode of Grey’s Anatomy Season 18 (0:00- 12:50). We then move on to Part one of our Friendship Series in which we discuss our own personal journeys with building and maintaining friendships, followed by a chat about all the different friendships that make up the foundation of Grey’s Anatomy.
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode, we take a bit of a detour while we recover from the first episode of the new season of Grey’s with a Pop Culture Interlude. We’re cover the latest on Britney Spears following the recently released documentaries from Netflix ("Britney vs Spears") and The NY Times ("Controlling Britney Spears"), the R Kelly conviction in NY State, and dive into some behind the scenes scoop from the recently released book by Lynette Rice (Editor at Large for Entertainment Weekly) “How to Save a Life: The Inside Story of Grey’s Anatomy” and more!
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In anticipation of the Season 18 premiere of Grey's Anatomy this week (Thursday, September 30th), Nomsa and Portia discuss the best and worst storylines so far and what they hope to see in the new season. Addison Montgomery to OR one please!
We hope you enjoy, and please rate, review and subscribe if you listen on Apple podcasts!
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode Nomsa and Portia discuss the best, worst, and classic crossover moments in Shonda's medical, firefighting, legal and crisis management universe. From Addison's move to LA, Andrew De Luca's untimely stabbing on Station 19, and the Supreme Court Slay conducted by none other than Annelise Keating with a strong assist from THE Olivia Pope, we cover it all! FYI, here is a run down of all the key crossover episodes we covered:
Scandal/HTGAWM - Best Shondaland Crossover
Discussion: 2:43- 31:53 S7E12 S/ S4E13 HTGAWM (Supreme Court Hearing)
Grey’s/ Station 19 - Worst Crossover
Discussion: 32:00 - 45:55 S17E11 GA/ S4/6 S19 (Andrew De Luca Stabbing)
Grey’s/ Private Practice
Discussion: 46:00 to End S3E22-23 of GA (Addison goes to LA for the first time) S5E14-15 of GA (Addison’s brother Archer needs surgery in Seattle) S3E11 of PP & S6E11 GA (Mark goes to LA with Sloan) S4E13 of GA (Addison comes to Seattle Grace Hospital - Best episode!) S3E3 of PP (Bailey goes over to LA with patient) S7E18 of GA(Musical Episode - listen to episode 3! - Addison comes Seattle after Callie’s accident when Mark calls her) S7E3 of GA (Amelia comes to Seattle) + 8E15 (Amelia come to Seattle) S8E13 of GA (If/Then- Meredith’s alternate reality dream)
P.S Please forgive the little sounds here and there, sound editing was tricky this week
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode Nomsa & Portia get into the nitty gritty of the different approaches and quality of storytelling that Grey's has taken when it comes to issues of social justice. With no final answers or judgments, we discuss how difficult it is to get this kind of storytelling telling right and reflect on the episodes and storylines in which the approach taken has felt true to the lived experiences of marginalized communities and when it has felt a little contrived and preachy. This is probably our favorite episode to date, so we hope you enjoy!
CW: Mentions of sexual assault & R. Kelly
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode Noma and Portia take deep dive into some the most memorable Grey's music moments, and share their own music journeys in life and in the show (shout out to MTV in the 90's!). A show about the music of Grey's would not be complete without a thorough dissection of the famous Musical Episode (S7 E18 'Song Beneath the Song) and we get into in all: the drama, the songs, the vocals, and remember nurse Eli!? This is a fun one friends - enjoy!
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode Nomsa and Portia get a little personal and vulnerable as they look back at the changes, big and small, that have shaped who they are. They also take a trip down the Grey’s Anatomy memory lane and discuss the great flashback episodes from seasons 3, 6, 16 & 17, and the changes that have shaped some of our Grey’s faves. Spoilers included!
Music:
Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support
In this episode, we get to know a little bit about our Hosts, Nomsa & Portia, the journey they plan to go on with this podcast, and a whole lot about their Grey’s Anatomy faves! #podcast #shondaland #greysanatomy #station19 #scandal #privatepractice #htgawm #bridgerton #applepodcasts #spotify #newpodcast #greys #forthepeople #thecatch Music: Bonkers Beat Club / Dancing with the Devil / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com Glove Box / Boogying With Bae / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com G Curtis / If You Come with Me Tonight (Instrumental Version) / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/assume-it-will-be-brillant/support