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My Biggest Fear & Buying Stim Toys

By Brittany Broski

In this episode of The Broski Report with Brittany Broski, Brittany shares details of her highly anticipated interview for the House of the Dragon premiere and offers an inside look at her unique interests and fears. She discusses her love for the Westeros franchise, relaxing Italian summer-inspired routines, and an unconventional obsession with massage videos.

Brittany also reveals her puzzling phobia of massive objects like redwood trees, delving into her intense dread of such colossal structures. The episode explores her newfound fascination with stamp collecting and her indulgence in pop culture trends like taba squishies. Join Brittany as she unveils a glimpse into her peculiar passions and deep-seated apprehensions.

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My Biggest Fear & Buying Stim Toys

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My Biggest Fear & Buying Stim Toys

1-Page Summary

Brittany's Westeros Interview for the House of the Dragon Premiere

Brittany Broski is excited for the House of the Dragon premiere, where she'll conduct an interview focused on "Team Green" while displaying her Westeros fandom with green dragon nail art. Her long-running passion for the series spans back to college, where she decorated apartments with second-hand Westeros-themed furniture and accessories.

Brittany's "Rich Girl, Italian Summer" Nighttime Routine

Inspired by a TikTok video, Brittany adopted a relaxing nighttime routine with the vibe of a "rich girl, Italian summer." She plays the Spotify playlist "Aperol Spritz," lights candles, and cozies up watching Mamma Mia—finding the ritual unexpectedly effective for unwinding.

Brittany's Obsession with Massage ASMR Videos

Brittany can't get enough of massage videos from Lisa Nail and Spa in Ho Chi Minh City. She's entranced by their multi-step techniques like heated pads and stomach massages. Brittany desperately wants to visit in person; she even jokes about working the front desk.

Brittany and "Taba Squishies"

Despite initial embarrassment, Brittany embraces "taba squishies"—silicone stress-relief toys. She details community debates around proper handling but is an avid collector herself, spending $90 on dinner plate-sized squishies and eagerly awaiting restocks.

Brittany's Interest in Stamp Collecting

Videos piqued Brittany's curiosity about stamp collecting's history, rare stamps' value (like the $9.48M British Guiana), and its potential as a lucrative hobby. Though acknowledging her niche interests, she considers starting her own collection.

Brittany's Fear of Massive Objects like Redwood Trees

The colossal scale of redwood trees and other giant natural and man-made structures instills in Brittany a visceral phobia and dread she struggles to overcome rationally. Describing her "genuine hate" and urge to "freak out," she reveals an intense sub-mechanophobia.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • "Team Green" in the context of House of the Dragon is a term used to describe a specific faction or group within the show or its production. It could be a reference to a particular family or group of characters associated with the color green, or it might signify a thematic element related to nature, growth, or specific storylines within the House of the Dragon series. The exact meaning would depend on the specific context within the show or the interview being conducted.
  • Westeros-themed furniture and accessories are items inspired by the fictional world of Westeros from the "Game of Thrones" series. These pieces often feature designs, symbols, or motifs associated with the show, such as house sigils, maps of the Seven Kingdoms, or medieval-style furniture. Fans of the series may decorate their living spaces with these items to showcase their love for the fantasy world created by George R.R. Martin. The trend of incorporating Westeros-themed decor became popular among enthusiasts of the "Game of Thrones" series.
  • "Taba squishies" are silicone stress-relief toys that have gained popularity. Community debates often revolve around the proper handling and care of these squishies to maintain their quality and longevity. People discuss topics like cleaning methods, storage techniques, and how to prevent damage to these collectible items. These debates can help enthusiasts learn best practices for enjoying and preserving their taba squishies.
  • Stamp collecting, also known as philately, is a hobby that involves collecting and studying postage stamps. Rare stamps can hold significant value due to factors like historical significance, printing errors, or limited quantities. The British Guiana 1c Magenta stamp is one of the most famous and valuable stamps in the world, fetching $9.48 million at auction in 2014 due to its rarity and unique history. Stamp collecting has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century, with enthusiasts worldwide engaging in this hobby for enjoyment, historical preservation, and investment purposes.
  • Sub-mechanophobia is a fear or discomfort related to large man-made or natural structures, particularly when submerged in water. Individuals with this phobia may experience anxiety or dread when confronted with massive objects like ships, planes, or underwater machinery. This fear can stem from the unknown or the perceived danger associated with these imposing structures. It often manifests as a deep-seated aversion or unease towards encountering such objects in aquatic environments.

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My Biggest Fear & Buying Stim Toys

Brittany's upcoming House of the House of the Dragon interview

Brittany is getting ready for an exciting event that combines her personal passion with a professional opportunity.

Brittany is being interviewed about Team Green for the House of the Dragon premiere

Brittany shares that she is not only going to the "House of the Dragon" premiere but also has the unique chance to conduct an interview about Team Green as part of the coverage for the event. She has prepared for this special occasion by getting her nails done in a theme matching House of the Dragon—specifically, a green dragon design to symbolize her engagement with the material and the Team Green she will be reviewing.

Westeros-themed decor in personal spaces

Brittany's passion for the world of Westeros isn't new. Her enthusiasm for this fantasy realm stretches back to her college days and her first apartment. Those spaces were decorated with a Westeros theme, with the limited budget of a college student: she used hand-me-down furniture and complemented it with Etsy posters of Westeros in a Walmart snap frame, capturing the spirit of the series.

The furniture in her themed spaces included not just any hand-me-downs but pieces with pers ...

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Brittany's upcoming House of the House of the Dragon interview

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • In the context of the text, "Westeros-themed decor in personal spaces" refers to how Brittany decorated her living spaces with items inspired by the fictional world of Westeros from the "Game of Thrones" series. This included using furniture, posters, and other decorations that reflected the aesthetic and themes of Westeros in her home. Brittany's passion for Westeros led her to create a personalized environment that paid homage to the fantasy realm she enjoyed.
  • Brittany's Mimi and Pawpaw are her grandparents. They have a special place in her life, as she mentions having furniture from them in her themed spaces. The furniture from her grandparents adds a personal touch to her decor, connecting her past with her present interests.
  • Brittany's enduring engagement with the series "House of the Dragon" showcases her long-standing dedication ...

Counterarguments

  • While Brittany's dedication to the theme is commendable, it could be argued that focusing too much on one interest might limit exposure to other cultural experiences and perspectives.
  • The decision to get nails done specifically for the event, while a fun way to express fandom, might be seen as an unnecessary expense, especially if it's a one-time event.
  • Decorating a personal space with a singular theme, such as Westeros, might not appeal to everyone and could be perceived as lacking variety or adaptability to other styles and interests.
  • Using hand-me-down furniture and budget-friendly decor is resourceful, but it might not always create the desired aesthetic or comfort level for some individuals.
  • The emphasis on personal history through furniture might not resonate with everyone, as some people prefer to create their own history with new items.
  • Professional engagement with ...

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My Biggest Fear & Buying Stim Toys

Brittany's newfound nighttime relaxation routine

Brittany describes the positive impact of a nighttime routine she adopted, which focuses on the aesthetic of a "rich girl, Italian summer."

Brittany was inspired by a TikTok video promoting a "rich girl, Italian summer" nighttime routine

Brittany came across a TikTok video that suggested an indulgent nighttime routine under the themed concept of a "rich girl, Italian summer." This routine captures an aspirational lifestyle and promotes relaxation, which Brittany found highly appealing. She was so inspired that she altered her usual nighttime habits to embrace this new ritual.

To set the mood for her evenings, Brittany turned to a Spotify playlist called Aperol Spritz, containing music that embodies the laid-back luxury vibe of an Italian summer. The playlist likely features tunes that fit within or are similar to Bossa Nova, a genre of music developed in Brazil during the late 1950s and early 1960s known for its mellow and rhythmic blend of samba and jazz.

Brittany immersed herself in the experience by not only listening to music but also engaging in a series of calming activities. She mentions lighting a candle, which also likely contributed to creating an ambient, aromatic environment that enhanced her overall relaxation.

Completing the routine, Brittany slipped into bed to watch "Mamma Mia," a comfort movie with which she i ...

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Brittany's newfound nighttime relaxation routine

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • "Mamma Mia" is a 2008 jukebox musical rom com film based on the songs of ABBA. It follows a young bride-to-be navigating the mystery of her father's identity. The movie feat ...

Counterarguments

  • The routine may not be financially or practically accessible to everyone, as it emulates a "rich girl" lifestyle.
  • The effectiveness of the routine could be subjective and may not work for everyone, as relaxation techniques can vary widely among individuals.
  • The association of relaxation with a "rich girl, Italian summer" could perpetuate stereotypes or create unrealistic expectations for what relaxation should look like.
  • The use of digital devices before bed, such as watching "Mamma Mia," could potentially disrupt sleep patterns for some people, contrary to the intended relaxation effect.
  • The routine might be seen as a temporary escape rather than addressing the root causes of stress or anxiety that hinder relaxation.
  • The idea of adopting a themed routine from social media may lead to a cycle of constantly changing habits in search of the perfect relaxation tech ...

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My Biggest Fear & Buying Stim Toys

Brittany's fascination with massage ASMR videos

Brittany Broski shares her newfound passion for online videos from a unique salon in Ho Chi Minh City that specializes in elaborate massage treatments.

Brittany has become obsessed with watching videos from a specific salon in Ho Chi Minh City that offers elaborate, multi-step massage treatments

Brittany Broski is completely captivated by the elaborate and soothing massage videos produced by Lisa Nail and Spa in Ho Chi Minh City. She stumbles upon their content regularly and can't seem to get enough, spending time scrolling through their videos after her initial viewing. The salon, which has become a source of online fascination for Brittany, is known for its unique therapies and attentive care.

The salon uses unique techniques, like weighted and heated pads on the feet and stomach, that Brittany finds incredibly soothing

Brittany is particularly enthralled with Lisa Nail and Spa's distinctive massage techniques, which include using weighted and heated pads on the feet and stomach—details that she believes contribute significantly to the relaxation she experiences vicariously through the videos. In her spirited descriptions, Brittany outlines the comprehensive nature of the treatments at the salon, extending from scalp massages to face washes and full-body massages.

Brittany desperately wants to visit the salon in a person and even jokingly offers to work the front desk

Brittany's adoration for the salon goes beyond simply watching the videos; she expresses a burning desire to visit ...

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Brittany's fascination with massage ASMR videos

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • ASMR videos are online content designed to trigger a relaxing, tingling sensation known as Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR). These videos often feature soothing sounds or visuals that aim to induce a sense of calm and well-being in viewers. ASMR enthusiasts find these videos helpful for relaxation and stress relief. Brittany's fascination with massage ASMR videos stems from her enjoyment of the unique and elaborate techniques showcased in these videos.
  • Lisa Nail and Spa is a salon located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, known for its unique and elaborate massage treatments. The salon offers a variety of services, including specialized therapies like using weighted and heated pads during massages. It has gained online popularity for its soothing and comprehensive treatments, attracting viewers like Brittany Broski who find the videos captivating.
  • Weighted and heated pads are tools used in massage therapy to enhance relaxation and comfort. The weighted pads provide gentle pressure, promoting a sense of security and calmness during the massage. Heated pads help to relax muscles, increase blood flow, and alleviate tension, ...

Counterarguments

  • While Brittany Broski finds the massage ASMR videos soothing, not everyone may share the same sentiment; some individuals might find these videos uninteresting or even anxiety-inducing.
  • The fascination with a salon in Ho Chi Minh City could be seen as a romanticization of a distant culture's practices, potentially overlooking the value of local massage therapists and salons.
  • The desire to visit the salon in person, while enthusiastic, may not acknowledge the practicalities and environmental impact of international travel for the sake of a massage.
  • Brittany's joke about working at the front desk, although made in good humor, might trivialize the actual ...

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My Biggest Fear & Buying Stim Toys

Brittany's interest in and recent purchases of "taba squishies"

Brittany opens up about her newfound interest in "taba squishies," a type of stress-relieving fidget toy made from silicone and rubber. Despite feeling a bit embarrassed, her enthusiasm for this community is undeniable.

Taba squishies are a type of fidget toy made of silicone and rubber that are meant to relieve stress and provide a calming, sensory experience

Brittany, at 27 years old, finds joy in "taba squishies," also referred to as mochi squishies because of their soft, sticky qualities. She describes the squishies to her audio listeners as big, solidified slime-like toys that retain their shape when squished and typically come in a sealable bag with trinkets inside. Emphasizing that they are just for squishing, she likens them to "stem" toys and notes their close relation to "kawaii" Japanese crafts. Brittany discusses the sensation of squishing them, indicating their stress relief benefits and how they differ from other squishies by appearing almost liquid when pressed.

There is some controversy and debate within the taba squishy community about the proper way to handle and play with the toys

Brittany touches on the controversies in the "taba squishies" community, including debates on how the squishies should be played with – whether in or out of their packages. Some users insist that removing them can lead to them getting dirty and messy, while others, who want to feel the squishies directly in their hands, have faced criticism in online comments. Even the creators advise against taking them out of the packaging. Brittany reveals her frustration when people don't handle the toys correctly and alludes to the "tea and drama" in the community related to the consistency of the squishies, noting that people often get upset when the toys aren't as soft as advertised.

Brittaly also highlights that sometimes the clarity of "clear Aqua Water Tabasquishy" creations leads to disconcerting warnings that the squishies are not bodily discharge.

Brittany jokes about her significant engagement with the "taba squishies" world, which includes actively participating in live sessions to such an extent ...

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Brittany's interest in and recent purchases of "taba squishies"

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Taba squishies are stress-relieving fidget toys made of silicone and rubber, known for their soft, sticky texture. They are designed to provide a calming sensory experience through squishing. These toys come in various shapes and sizes, often resembling solidified slime and retaining their form when squeezed.
  • The controversies within the taba squishy community revolve around debates on how the squishies should be handled, whether in or out of their packaging. Some users argue that removing them can lead to dirtiness, while others prefer direct contact for a better sensory experience. There are differing opinions on the ideal consistency of the squishies, with some users expressing disappointment if the toys are not as soft as expected. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the clarity of certain squishy designs, leading to misunderstandings and warnings about their appearance.
  • Brittany's role as a moderator in the squishy community means she helps manage and maintain order in online discussions and transactions related to squishies. Moderators often ensure that community guidelines are followed, resolve conflicts, and facilitate a positive environment for members. Brittany's active participation and dedication in the community led her to take on this role, indicating her commitment to fostering ...

Counterarguments

  • While taba squishies are designed for stress relief, some individuals may not find them effective and might prefer other methods of stress management.
  • The association of taba squishies with "stem" toys could be misleading, as "stem" usually refers to educational toys related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, which may not be the case with these squishies.
  • The debate on whether to play with taba squishies in or out of their packaging could be seen as a minor issue compared to the environmental impact of the packaging itself.
  • The advice from creators to keep taba squishies in their packaging might be challenged by those who prioritize the tactile experience over the longevity of the toy.
  • The concern about clear Aqua Water Tabasquishies being mistaken for bodily discharge may be overemphasized and not a widespread issue.
  • Brittany's significant purchases and involvement in the taba squishy community could be critiqued from a consumerism perspective, questioning the necessity and value of accumulating many toys.
  • The role of a moderator in a squishy-selling account could be seen as a co ...

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My Biggest Fear & Buying Stim Toys

Brittany's exploration of stamp collecting as a hobby

Brittany delves into the world of philately, discovering the rich history, notable rarities, and the unexpected financial prospects stamps could offer.

Brittany was fascinated to learn about the history and value of rare stamps, including the most expensive stamp ever sold

Brittany uncovered a new dimension of history and artistry through YouTube videos on stamp collecting, an activity which could turn into a lucrative endeavor.

Stamp collecting can be a lucrative hobby due to the rarity and collectability of certain stamps, especially those with errors or unique designs

Eager to learn more, Brittany explains how the prepayment method revolutionized the postal system, swapping the burden of costs from the recipient to the sender of mails. She dives into the collectability of stamps that started in the 1700s, emphasizing the value of those kept in pristine condition. Brittany examined the case of an 1857-61 1C Franklin stamp, which can be valued up to $27,500, indicative of the financial potential within this hobby.

As Brittany explored further, she became fascinated with stamps exhibiting errors or unique designs. For example, she was intrigued by the 1859 Sicilian error of color, which due to its rare misprint and scarcity, fetched a staggering $3.83 million in a 1993 sale. Similarly, the British Guiana one-cent magenta astonished her, having appreciated from a modest six shillings in 1874 to a mind-boggling $9.48 million at auction in 2014.

Brittany wonders if she should start her own stamp collection, though she acknowledges her tendency to be drawn to more niche, odd hobbies

Despite conside ...

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Brittany's exploration of stamp collecting as a hobby

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Philately is the study and collection of postage stamps and postal history. It involves the appreciation of stamps and other related philatelic items. The term "philately" was coined in 1864 by Georges Herpin, replacing earlier terms like "timbromania." Philately gained popularity in the mid-19th century after the introduction of postage stamps in 1840.
  • Stamp collecting can offer financial prospects through the potential appreciation in value of rare and collectible stamps over time. Certain stamps, especially those with errors or unique designs, can become highly sought after by collectors, leading to significant increases in their market value. The financial aspect of stamp collecting is often influenced by factors such as rarity, condition, historical significance, and demand within the philatelic community. Stamp collectors may find enjoyment in the hobby not only for its historical and artistic value but also for the possibility of owning stamps that could potentially provide a return on investment in the future.
  • The prepayment method in the postal system involves senders paying for postage before sending mail, shifting the cost burden from recipients to senders. This system revolutionized mail services by ensuring that postage fees were settled in advance, streamlining the mailing process. Prepayment methods allowed for more efficient mail delivery and helped standardize postal services across regions. It also reduced the likelihood of mail being refused due to unpaid postage, enhancing the reliability of postal systems.
  • The 1857-61 1C Franklin stamp is a famous United States postage stamp featuring a portrait of Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. It is part of the series known as the "1851-57 Issues" or the "First Issue" stamps. The stamp was issu ...

Counterarguments

  • While stamp collecting can be lucrative, it is often a long-term investment and may not yield immediate financial returns.
  • The value of stamps is highly dependent on market demand, which can fluctuate, making it a less reliable investment than other options.
  • The rarity and condition of a stamp are critical to its value, but finding and verifying such stamps can be challenging and requires expertise.
  • The revolution of the postal system with prepayment is significant, but it is just one aspect of the complex history of global communication and trade.
  • The high values of certain stamps, such as the 1857-61 1C Franklin stamp, are exceptional cases and not representative of the average stamp's value.
  • The stories of stamps like the 1859 Sicilian error of color and the British Guiana one-cent magenta are extraordinary, but they may give a skewed perception of the ease of finding such rarities.
  • Starting a stamp collection with the expectation of financial gain might lead to disappointment if the collected stamps do not appreciate as expected.
  • The n ...

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My Biggest Fear & Buying Stim Toys

Brittany's Fear and Discomfort with the Size of Redwood Trees

Brittany grapples with an intense phobia sparked by the colossal stature of redwood trees, as well as a broader fear of large structures.

Brittany experiences a strong, irrational fear and dread when confronted with the massive size of redwood trees

Confronted with images or videos of redwood forests, Brittany experiences an overwhelming sense of dread. This fear is irrational but deeply felt—a phobia commonly associated with the oppressive enormity of certain natural or man-made objects.

Despite the levity in a family joke about the indestructibility of redwood turds, her discomfort is real. While discussing the resistance of redwood trees to rot and insects due to their tannin content, Brittany recognizes the juxtaposition between admiring their resilience and feeling profoundly unsettled by their immense size.

She questions the potential for using such sturdy wood in construction but is more impressively consumed by her own visceral reaction to the trees' enormity. Brittany admits to not only being afraid of natural giant structures like redwood trees but also of large man-made objects, such as skyscrapers and big anchor chains. She even touches on her fear of massive objects submerged underwater ...

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Brittany's Fear and Discomfort with the Size of Redwood Trees

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Phobias related to the oppressive enormity of objects, whether natural like redwood trees or man-made like skyscrapers, are known as megalophobia. This fear stems from the overwhelming size and scale of these objects, triggering intense anxiety and discomfort in individuals. Megalophobia can manifest in various forms, impacting how individuals interact with and perceive large structures or natural features. It is a specific type of phobia that can significantly affect daily life and activities for those who experience it.
  • Tannins are natural compounds found in redwood trees that act as a defense mechanism against rot and insects. These compounds make the wood less appealing to pests and fungi, contributing to the tree's durability. Tannins also give redwood its characteristic color and help protect the tree from environmental stressors. The presence of tannins in redwood plays a significant role in its resistance to decay and insect damage.
  • Sub-mechanophobia is a fear of large man-made objects submerged underwater. This fear can be triggered by encountering sunken ships, submerged machinery, or other massive structures beneath the water's surface. Individuals with sub-mechanophobia may experience intense anxiety, discomfort, or panic when faced with these submerged objects. This fear often stems from the eerie and imposing presence of these un ...

Counterarguments

...

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