

Gavel Gavel
Thomas Smith
Gavel Gavel is the podcast that takes you inside the courtroom! Comedian Thomas Smith asks questions and cracks jokes while real legal experts with actual trial experience provide unique analysis.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 13, 2025 • 1h 1min
Lively v. Baldoni 45 - FINE. If I Can't Sexually Harass While Making a Movie Then I Don't Even Want to DO IT
Blake Lively's behind-the-scenes demands for a film production spark intriguing discussions about creative control and safety. The hosts analyze her calls for an A-list producer, the use of stunt doubles for sensitive scenes, and provisions for young actors. They dive into the complexities of contract negotiations and perceived power dynamics, highlighting how women's contributions can be misinterpreted. Lively's editing involvement and the responses to her demands reveal a deeper layer of the filmmaking process, blending artistry with advocacy.

10 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 56min
Lively v. Baldoni 44 - Can I Get Your Autograph on This Nudity Rider
The hosts dive into the intriguing controversy over an unsigned nudity rider and its implications. They dissect a birth video dispute, highlighting privacy violations and uninvited trailer intrusions. Discussions on the definition of 'intimate' filming spark debate, while the analysis of timeline errors undermines allegations against Lively. The hosts also explore crucial employer obligations regarding harassment claims and the implications of sarcasm as retaliation. Packed with legal insights, this conversation navigates the murky waters of consent and contract nuances.

9 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 1h 4min
Lively v. Baldoni 43 - But the Intimacy Coordinator Said You Have to Make Out With Me Right Now
Thomas and Lydia dive into the controversy surrounding Wayfair v. Lively, focusing on the chaos of intimacy coordination on set. They unpack crucial points from Lively's complaint, including alleged graphic scenes added without consent. The duo critiques Baldoni's claims about meetings with the intimacy coordinator and the validity of his notes. Tensions rise as they explore the dynamics of consent and the implications of personal disclosures on set. Expect intriguing insights on boundaries and the intricate dance of performance and respect.

5 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 49min
Lively v. Baldoni 42 - That's One Hot Matcha
Dive into the quirky legal drama where Justin Baldoni finds himself challenged by Blake Lively’s relentless demands. The hosts dissect Baldoni's hesitant stance on edits and the mysterious 17-point list from Lively’s team. They tackle the controversial presence of an intimacy coordinator and the improvised nature of intimate scenes. Conflicting accounts unravel the tension behind the birthing scene, sparking debates about privacy and accountability. Grab your popcorn for this lively courtroom showdown!

7 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 54min
Lively v. Baldoni 41 - Calling Yourself a "Ball Buster" Is as Bad as Sexually Harassing Someone When You Think About It
The hosts dive into the tensions on set, spotlighting a revealing text thread about producer frustrations. They tackle inconsistencies in timelines and evidence, contemplating the impact of messages on claims between Lively and Baldoni. A playful yet contentious debate arises around a text calling Lively a 'ball buster,' linking it to harassment discussions. They also critique mentions of breastfeeding on set, questioning their relevance. Lastly, they explore how creative stakes affect a lead actress's role, exposing the failures of production leadership.

9 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 47min
Lively v. Baldoni 40 - No, You See, When He Said He Wanted Her to Collaborate, He Meant... Not That
The hosts dive into the messy legal battle of Wayfarer v. Lively, dissecting everything from ambiguous text messages to daily script changes. They explore the mixed signals in pre-production communications and evaluate the fat-shaming allegations surrounding a trainer. The tension escalates with Ryan Reynolds' fiery confrontation with Baldoni and a curious examination of a controversial lift scene. With playful banter and sharp analysis, they challenge the narrative around collaboration versus hostility.

Sep 27, 2025 • 1h 1min
Lively v. Baldoni 39 - Hey Blake... [7 minutes of narcissistic man noises and vocal fry]
We are so, so sorry. We have to do this. It's time to listen to and break down Justin Baldoni's nearly 7-minute voice memo to Blake Lively. BUT! We have some great analysis, clock investigation, and commentary on some curious reactions from when this was released. This episode is like the vegetables you need to eat before getting dessert... Well, if those vegetables had salmonella, e-coli and several other kinds of infectious bacteria. But then after your vegetables, and a long hospital stay, you can have the dessert of more Wayfarer v. Lively complaint!

10 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 53min
Lively v. Baldoni 38 - Khaleesi and Her Dragons
The discussion kicks off with whimsical insights into the world of judges and their chambers. The hosts tackle the notorious 'dragons text' while navigating past legal controversies. They delve into the ethical dilemmas surrounding a lawsuit over a film adaptation, exploring the complexities between filmmakers and authors. Emotions impact creative collaboration, leading to tensions during production. Celebrity dynamics reveal the pressures within the entertainment industry, emphasizing the need for authenticity and respect amidst the chaos. A reflective moment hints at deeper analyses to come.

10 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 1h 3min
Lively v. Baldoni 37 - The Most Bull Shit of Bull Shits
Dive into the chaotic world of legal battles, where professionalism clashes with courtroom antics. Discover the absurdity behind the timing of lawsuits and the frustrations of serving legal papers, especially amid crises. Listen as the hosts share amusing anecdotes about uncooperative opposing counsel and the challenges of navigating legal timelines. They also dissect a high-profile celebrity case, questioning credibility while adding a playful twist to dramatic courtroom dynamics. Expect humor, ethics, and a wild ride through the intricacies of litigation!

9 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 48min
Lively v. Baldoni 36 - The Apology That Could Have Prevented ALLLL of This
Dive into the tangled web of celebrity branding as the podcast unveils the fallout from a controversial alcohol promotion. The hosts dissect the missed opportunity for an apology that could have changed everything. Explore the chaotic world of social media backlash and the gender dynamics in alcohol marketing. With humor, they highlight the dramatic downfall of an erratic public relations figure, while addressing serious ethical questions surrounding privacy and information manipulation in the industry. It's a captivating look at accountability and public perception.


