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Medina
This is an iHeart podcast. Guaranteed Human.
Joe
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Serena
I consider myself to be a pretty good gift giver. I've got my list.
Joe
Checked it twice, probably three times. She takes the holidays very seriously.
Serena
I can't help it. You know. I love finding the perfect gifts. And Walmart has all all the top brands. Nespresso, Sonos, Nintendo, Nintendo at Walmart.
Joe
Who knew?
Serena
I know. And more.
Joe
Get all the brands everyone loves at Walmart. Head to Walmart.com or download the Walmart app to get all your gifts this season.
Medina
I'm Carolyn.
Serena
I have metastatic breast cancer.
Medina
I was concerned after my diagnosis. Cascali gives me more life for living.
Serena
Since I've been prescribed, I've seen a daughter get married. I now have a grandchild and another.
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Serena
Hey, everyone.
Joe
Welcome back to Bachelor Happy Hour. I'm Joe.
Serena
And I'm Serena.
Joe
And we are here today with a newly bachelor couple, Medina and Aaron. Welcome to Bachelor Happy Hour. Medina, you have been on this podcast for a little bit. Like, you came on for like a. I think like a short segment. Correct.
Serena
A tell all segment, I believe.
Medina
Yeah, yeah.
Joe
And Aaron, have you ever been on this podcast?
Serena
We did a full episode with Aaron.
Joe
Oh, cut that way back in the day. You know what?
Serena
Honestly, they're all blurring together. I've interviewed so many Bachelor people.
Joe
Yeah, well, I mean, I remember you from charity season, Aaron, because you were a big personality and you were off the show on the show. You came back on charity season, right?
Aaron
Yeah. To flight to Fiji.
Joe
Yeah, yeah, I remember that. And so we won't. We'll. We won't talk about that, actually.
Serena
Why not?
Joe
We could. We could. Okay.
Serena
We were honestly surprised to find out you guys were dating because I just didn't see that one coming at all. I mean, you guys had no crossover on the show. Usually I feel like you see like, a TikTok here or like, a group photo of, like, a bunch of bachelor people. Like, this one came out of left field for me. So let's take it back to how you guys first met. Whichever one of you wants to start.
Aaron
We've practiced this, Medina, a few times. We've had good practice. You want to go ahead and start us off?
Medina
Well, I actually shamelessly dmed him when he was on Trinity season, like, when he got announced, and I was like, hope you don't make it far, which is so cringy and cliche. And then we were just kind of like, dming very Casually back and forth, like over the years, technically.
Serena
Wait, so that would have been before you were even on the show?
Medina
Yeah. Okay, so when I enter, when I did the interview for Joey season, I mean, I don't know if, like, we don't really know necessarily who it is sometimes. And I actually specifically, like, I did mention Aaron, but I was open obviously to Joey. And so that was kind of serendipitous, if you will, looking at us now.
Joe
But so wait, Aaron, did you respond to the initial dm? Because at the time, you know, you were popping off on the show, it.
Aaron
Was just funny because, like, there's like a ton of DMs obviously from, you know, week by week. And then she pops up and I'm like, oh, wow, who's this? But, you know, obviously I was just like, all right, you know, take it easy, blah, blah. Obviously went to paradise. And then she got announced and I was like, wait, who is this person? I got to pay close attention. So I tuned into her season and watched her.
Serena
Okay, wait, this is such an interesting timeline. So you see him on Charity season, you DM him. Aaron responds, there's like a little back and forth. He goes on paradise, obviously, but he's.
Joe
Like, leave me alone, I'm going on Paradise. I need another shot at this.
Serena
Okay, yeah, but, you know, fair. He's like, all right, I'm going back looking for love. Like, this probably isn't going to go anywhere. You met someone on that season of paradise. So I'm assuming the DMs were sealed shut for quite a while. And then you end up being single and all of a sudden Medina's on your screen. Were you like, this is the girl that was in my DMs. What the heck is going on here? And like, you're single. Are you waiting to see if she's single? What are you feeling?
Aaron
Yeah, that's, that's good too because I kind of wanted to see her character and you know who this person was. I was obviously impressed, but I didn't think anything was going to come from it. Like, I knew she lived in Charlotte, I'm in San Diego. So it was kind of like a far fetched thing. And I think the most we did was we changed our DM background to like this boba tea.
Medina
By accident.
Aaron
By accident. By accident. But that's the only, like real interaction we had was our background changing on the DMs.
Serena
Okay, I feel like this is nice too because in a way, Medina, you kind of learned a lot about Aaron when You're watching him on charity season and on Paradise. Did you feel like this kind of balanced it out now that he had the chance to learn a little bit about you while you were on the show?
Medina
Well, let me correct myself. I didn't actually really watch his, any of his seasons. I don't really watch the Bachelor. I saw his picture announced and I was like, gotcha.
Serena
Okay. Okay.
Joe
Yeah. Wait, so you don't watch the show, but then you're, you're, you're paying attention to the guys that get announced.
Serena
But that's kind of fair. It's like, really?
Joe
I mean, I mean, I believe you.
Serena
Okay, so let's jump forward now. You're both off the show. How do you reconnect?
Aaron
Yeah, so, I mean, we were just kind of going back and forth on DMs, doing fire emojis on our stories and things like that. It wasn't really anything, you know, provocative or flirty. We were just like kind of, you know, supporting each other from a distance. Like I said, I thought she was pretty level headed and mature on her season. So I was like, okay, like, this is a good person, like, you know, to talk to every once once in a while. Still didn't expect anything. But it was up until New York Fashion Week. Medina.
Serena
This, this New York fashion week, like 2025.
Medina
Yeah, well, I was supposed to go to. Because he was in San Diego swim week, I was supposed to go to San Diego, San Diego swim week. And I wound up not going last minute. And I remember I was like, we were texting a little because I was like, I didn't know anyone in San Diego and I was like flirting with him a little bit. I feel like I was like, oh, like, let's do something. And he was like, so dry with me. I was like, all right, whatever.
Joe
So really, really, really. Were you not receptive to the flirtiness?
Aaron
Yeah, I mean, I was kind of stone faced. I was like, this is, nothing's going to come from that. You know, when you meet different people from Bachelor Nation and it's just like a hangout type thing, I was just like, all right, it's going to be like that.
Serena
Okay, okay.
Medina
And I honestly, at this point too, I wasn't really thinking too much about it either. But then at New York Fashion Week, we, like met up for lunch with like, it was like a group of us and I really wasn't thinking anything too, too much. But then like, you know when you, like, meet someone and this is going to sound so corny, but it's Just the truth. And you just, like, instantly, like, have, like, chemistry or connection with them.
Serena
Yeah.
Medina
And, like, he gave such a good hug when I walked in, and I hate talking like this because I feel like I'm a bad bitch. And then when I'm with him, I'm like. Like a little girl, kind of. But we, like, hugged, and I remember, like, sitting at the table.
Joe
Yeah. Real bad. All you got to do is hug you.
Serena
No, it's good. I love the concept of, like, falling into your feminine. When you're with someone that you feel.
Joe
Safe with and you like falling into your feminine. I've never heard that.
Serena
Yeah, it's a thing like how, like, you know, girls sink more into, like, their feminine energy when they feel like they're safe and comfortable.
Joe
I like that line. I never heard it.
Serena
Oh, okay. Add it to your repertoire.
Medina
Yeah, yeah, yeah. It's a flex. I feel like, right?
Serena
I think so.
Medina
Yeah. I'm like. Again, I'm, like, flirting with him. He's, like, sitting next to me. I like, oh, like your shoes. I really like your shoes. And he looks at me, he goes, yeah, give me a minute. I'll think of something to compliment you on.
Serena
I'm like, oh.
Aaron
That sounds terrible. I mean, I think I was. I think I was pretty nervous. Like, I was actually speechless. I bought that. I was speechless. But, yeah.
Serena
How did lunch come to be? And who else is there?
Aaron
So, yeah, I met this. Met this guy. He was a fan of Bachelor Nation. He was up in New York and invited me to lunch. I met him in San Diego previously. So we. He found this place called Dagtie, and I was like, okay, cool, let's do that. We had a whole itinerary for the weekend. And I was like, okay, like, let's see if Medina wants to join. She had a friend. So they both came, and I was talking to Medina all the way up into the point where she walked into the restaurant, and I. I just remember being nervous. Just, like, you know, what's gonna happen with this today? Like, I kind of want to see what's going on, but at the same time, not really. So, yeah, it was up until that point where I was like, I don't know what's gonna happen with this.
Serena
Well, that's fair. I mean, you guys don't know each other yet. You've been kind of, like, flirting a little on DMs, but you might meet each other and be like, like, there's nothing here.
Aaron
I mean, we had a boba tea background on Instagram. Like, there's something there. It something there even though it was an accident.
Serena
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Serena
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Serena
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Serena
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Serena
It'S gotta be tied let's Talk About Sex actually, let's talk about pregnancy prevention. There are a lot of birth control options out there. You might have even tried a bunch. Have you heard of Nexplanon etnogestrel implant? 68 milligram radiopaque. It's a prescription birth control for the prevention of pregnancy in women. When thinking about the right birth control for you, learn about your options. You may not want to take one daily or have one that goes in your uterus. Nexplanon is the birth control implant that goes in your arm. Don't use Nexplanon if you're pregnant or maybe pregnant, have or had blood clots or certain cancers, have liver disease, liver tumor or unexplained vaginal bleeding. Once the implant is placed, you and your doctor should feel for it. If at any time you can't feel the implant, contact your doctor right away and use a non hormonal birth control method such as condoms. Removal of the implant may be difficult or impossible if it isn't where it should be. While uncommon ectopic pregnancy, pregnancy that occurs outside the womb can occur which can cause serious internal bleeding, infertility and even death. Death. You are likely to experience changes to your period. Ovarian cysts may occur and usually disappear. Nexplanon may raise the chance of serious blood clots which can cause heart attack, stroke or death, especially if you smoke or have other risk factors. Nexplanon doesn't protect against HIV or STDs. Talk to your doctor, visit nexplanon.com or call 1-877-467-5266 for more information. There are so many options out there, so it's important to talk to your doctor and find the right birth control for you. Ask for yourself. Ask for next planon okay, so question Are you one of those people that starts your holiday shopping in like July?
Joe
July? I mean. No, never. Like I like to shop. Actually, I like to shop on Christmas Eve because I find it to be a little more Festive.
Serena
But you like to start decorating right after Halloween.
Joe
No, after Thanksgiving. Okay, that's different. That's different. Halloween? No, not Halloween.
Serena
You know, I consider myself to be a pretty good gift giver. I've got my list and I've checked.
Joe
It twice, probably three times. She takes the holidays very seriously.
Serena
I can't help it. You know, I love finding the perfect gifts for everyone. And Walmart has all the top brands. Nespresso, Sonos, Nintendo.
Joe
Nintendo at Walmart. Who knew?
Serena
I know. And more. All of your shopping in one place.
Joe
How much more shopping? Oh boy.
Serena
Just saying. Get all the brands everyone loves at Walmart. Head to Walmart.com or download the Walmart app to get all your gifts this season.
Joe
Okay, listen, if you're even thinking about a vacation, I've got four words for you. Virgin Voyages. Caribbean Cruises. Because these cruises, they are totally next level. Honestly, you should book one right now to top line it. Beautiful destinations, best food at sea, and luxury that will make you wonder why you ever tolerated buffets and screaming children. You heard that, right. It's kid free. And just thinking about that is relaxing. We're talking about amazing destinations like Grand Cayman, Jamaica and Puerto Rico. Virgin even has its own private beach club in Bimini. I mean, come on. Then there's the food. There are so many different options. All of them are quite literally multi award winning. And with over a thousand bucks of luxury inclusions, the value is ridiculous. Wi Fi, soda, 20 plus legit restaurants, group workouts and entertainment. No surprise charges, no nickel and diming. Just good times. They've got DJs, theme parties, live music. Something's always going on. And when you're ready to relax, your cabin is your sanctuary. Ocean views, private terrace, signature red hammock. Go check it out@virginvoyages.com or hit up your travel advisor. You deserve this. Picture this. You're out with friends, laughing, living in the moment. And then cravings hit. Suddenly you're stepping outside, missing the fun, or reaching for something that keeps you stuck in the same cycle. Jones gets it. Quitting shouldn't mean disappearing or feeling punished. Jones offers a judgment free science backed alternative. No smoke, no vapor, no clouds. Just a discreet mint that helps you ride out cravings without breaking the vibe. And here's the cool part. Cravings only last about 60 seconds. Jones helps you through that minute with support that actually works. Their app connects you with thousands of others, tracks your progress and even makes quitting feel like a team effort. Add in their NRT mints and quit rates jump to 50 to 60%. Starting is easy. Take the Jones Quiz to find your perfect mint strength. Pop one when cravings hit and let it dissolve slowly. Then watch your streaks grow. In the app, it's Quitting Made positive. If you're ready to take a step toward quitting or even just a safer nicotine option, check out Quit with Jones. Visit quitwithjones.com happyhour to take the free quiz and use Code Happy hour to get $10 off your personalized quitting journey. That's quitwithjones.com happyhour taking back control starts now. Thanks to Quit With Jones for sponsoring this episode. Just a heads up, the mints contain nicotine, which is an addictive chemical. Jones is FDA approved and available for those that are 18 and older.
Serena
Okay, so Medina, how did you feel like the lunch went after you left? What are you saying to your girlfriend?
Medina
Oh, I mean, like, we, because we went after lunch, we went to get drinks somewhere and like, we went to the bathroom. So, like, before I even left, I was like, oh my God. Like, I like, I like him. And like, just like more. Even more background, which, like, makes it, like, weird, is like, I just. Well, actually, never mind. I'm not going to say that, but.
Joe
No, no, no, no, no. What? You got to say it now.
Serena
Well, I like, you don't have to.
Joe
You don't have to if you're uncomfortable.
Medina
Yeah, well, it's not anything crazy. I mean, we were like, flirting back and forth, but I think also to like, there were moments where him and I were maybe like, in relationships or like, dating other people and stuff. So I had just kind of gotten out of a relationship. So I was like, very much, like, not even, like, looking for that. So I think, like, that just, like, shows like, how much, like, I feel like our energy was, like, so, like, aligned. And I don't think he was necessarily looking for it. Like, obviously we were flirting a little bit, but I wasn't necessarily going in with the mindset of, like, oh, like, I'm going to date this person. But more just like, yeah, let's meet up with someone else from Bachelor Nation. So, yeah, totally.
Serena
That makes sense. I feel like that's so common. Like, oh, I'm in the city and I know this person that was on the show and we follow each other, like, shared experience. Let's grab lunch, you know, let's connect.
Joe
So when did it. So when did it turn into, like, you guys were both casual casual and now it's like we're were boyfriend girlfriend.
Aaron
Well, I would say probably almost an hour after that lunch. I mean, I know we weren't official yet, babe, but an hour after that lunch, we were going to go to Sephora because she lost her lip gloss and she can't go. She can't go anywhere without it. So we find a Sephora, kind of by lunch. But on our way to Sephora, we're making a TikTok together. So it's like the one when you pick someone up with one arm and then you flip them around. You know, some people have done that.
Serena
Yes, I've seen it.
Aaron
Yeah. So our friends are filming behind us, and I think we've probably done it 12 times. Just picking her up and tossing around with her hand in the air. Like, I was like, what's going on here? I just met this person, but I already had the feeling of, you know, I want to see more of her. Obviously. She's like, I need a little bit more. I need to see a little bit more before I just start diving into this. But I knew at that point that I was going to be pursuing her.
Joe
Were there any other bachelor alums a part of this lunch?
Aaron
No, no, no. Yeah, I saw Grant earlier, like, that weekend, but there was no one, like, there.
Joe
Okay, nice.
Serena
So you have lunch, drinks, Sephora. The day goes on.
Joe
Aaron's fallen for you.
Serena
Aaron is all in Medina. Are you like, oh, wow, I feel a spark with this guy too, or where are you at?
Medina
Yeah, no, I definitely was like, I think maybe I didn't finish my story. I have a. I have a knack for doing that. Not finishing my thought. But I was. I was telling my friend in the bathroom, I was like, actually like. Like feel something or whatever. I don't know how I worded it. And she had to go because her husband was picking her up. So I went back to. We went to. Back to the hotel. And I also, at this point, I couldn't vibe him. I didn't know if he was, like, interested in me or not. And I'm like, I want to hang out with him more. But I'm also like, I don't want to, like, act like, desperate or anything. So I go back to my hotel room and I remember texting him. I can't remember something, like, like a sad face or something because, like, I wanted to see him again. And then, yeah, we just wind up going because I had an event that night and I asked him if he wanted to come with me. And so we went to the event that night and, yeah, rest is history.
Serena
And then it was just like, chat, chat, chat. Did we make out? What happened?
Aaron
Well, I mean, the funny thing is, like, yeah, we went to the event and stuff. And then after that, we went directly to Omakase in New York, and my friend that was there for lunch, he set this up for dinner. So I invited her, obviously. And, yeah, I mean, honestly, it kind of got awkward. And I'll tell the real story, babe, but the friend was, like, looking at us like, oh, my gosh, you guys have so much chemistry. And then, you know, the more he drank and the more the drink started flowing, he just started going, make out. Make out. We all want this. I was like, whoa. Like, this is. This is.
Commercial Voice
I was like, I.
Joe
Trust me.
Medina
Me too.
Joe
This friend. This friend thought he was a producer on the Bachelor.
Aaron
Yeah. I was like, you can't feed us drinks and, you know, ask how we're feeling.
Serena
We're like, you're like, I'm down, but we're in the middle of Omakaze. Like, I need a second.
Joe
I don't need you watching.
Aaron
You have four more plates to go. I. I'm trying to see what the last plate's going to be like. I'm not trying to kiss anyone yet.
Serena
We got three more plates to go. I'm dead.
Joe
Okay, so you guys, how long hit. Okay, so New York Fashion Week was what, September?
Medina
Yeah.
Serena
So we're looking at almost three, four months together now, I'm assuming. Like, and correct me if I'm wrong, it sounds like since then, you guys have basically been locked in dating each other. Was it pretty smooth? Like, it just kind of. You organically fell into a relationship.
Aaron
There was no talking stage, let's say that.
Serena
Yeah.
Medina
Which we love. Like, that's something I really admire about him. Like, I feel like we're in this. I think we're getting better with it, but just, like, this idea of, like, a nonchalant man is, like, so unappealing. And I remember, like, because he came to visit in Charlotte maybe a month later, a little less than a month later, and we went out to sushi. And I wasn't expecting him to, like, ask me to be his girlfriend, like, have, like, a big sushi roll in my mouth. Like, do not look cute. I'm chewing. He's going on this, like, long monologue about, like, how much, like, he appreciates me and all these sweet things, and I'm like, oh, my God, chew faster. So, yeah, it was just, like, really natural, and it was, like, nice for, you know, someone to be, like, so sure of you.
Joe
Yeah. So how are you guys doing? You guys are doing long distance. Medina, you're in Charlotte, and Aaron, you're in San Diego. How's that working out? Long distance? Long distance is tough.
Aaron
It is, it is. How's it. How's it going, Sweet pea?
Serena
How far is the flight? Just for my Canadian geographical, it's probably.
Joe
Like three and a half, right?
Aaron
Yeah, close. Closer to four for me with the wind from the west. Yeah, we can call it four and a four and a half.
Serena
Yeah, I know. That always gets me whenever we go to LA from New York, it's like six hours there, four and a half back.
Medina
Yeah, yeah, it's a. It's a long flight. I mean. Yeah. I mean, long distance isn't ideal, but, I mean, we get to ironically see each other, like, way, like, pretty frequently considering how far away we are from each other. But I'm not gonna lie, I hate it.
Joe
So how many times. So, like. So how many times a month are you able to see each other?
Aaron
Two to three at least, at this point, I mean. Yeah, we just.
Joe
Yeah, that's not bad.
Aaron
Yeah, we're really making it work.
Serena
Okay, so what's the game plan, then?
Joe
Is there a game plan?
Aaron
Well, the game plan is we're waiting on insurance to approve, like, this hip conjoined surgery so she can never leave my side. So our hips will be. Our hips will be joined. We're waiting on the approval, but. But no, no, no, we're. We won't be long distance for too. Too long. You want to tell them?
Medina
No, I mean, I. We definitely have talked about me moving to San Diego soon.
Aaron
What do you.
Joe
What do you do for work?
Medina
I own a therapy practice, but most of it's virtual, so I can work from anywhere. Yeah.
Serena
Okay, Nice. Do you like San Diego? Have you been. Did you ever see yourself living there before you started dating Aaron?
Medina
Yeah. So the irony of all of this.
Commercial Voice
Is.
Medina
I knew I was gonna move after this year from Charlotte was just kind of, like, exhausted on me. So I had no, like, issue with, like, talking about this with him. And San Diego actually was one of the places on my list. And I also have just a knack for, like, getting up and moving to random places where I know no one. So it's. I mean, obviously I'd be moving, you know, a big chunk to be with him, but, you know, I have the utmost faith that heaven forbid, it doesn't work out like, I would. It would be fine, you know?
Serena
Yeah.
Medina
So I. Because I try to. I want to be mindful that, you know, part of it is for me and also for us.
Serena
Yeah, but that's kind of a nice place to be in when you're like, well, I was already kind of thinking of moving. This kind of aligns with the plan I already had. You like, the idea of San Diego, like, it definitely makes this long distance period probably feel a lot easier. You're not having to try to decide if you want to leave where you already live.
Joe
I mean, it's also the, the best weather in the country.
Serena
People that live in San Diego freaking love it. Like, I've never met. There's a lot of bachelor people out there, obviously, and we have some good friends that live out there from the show and they are all like, it's the best place to live ever.
Medina
Yeah, it's cute. Like when I would go to, when I go to visit, I feel like he's like trying to show me around and do like, remind me all of all these, like, cool things about San Diego. And I'm like, babe, it's San Diego. Like, you don't have to sell me on it. Like, it's not like, sells itself.
Aaron
All I gotta do is show you the weather forecast.
Serena
My new obsession is this romance story I read about a cowboy who wants to start a family with a city girl. She's not ready for that yet, but that doesn't mean she's not ready to roll around in the hay. She has Nexplanon etonorgestrel implant 68 milligram radiopaque to prevent pregnancy. Nexplanon is a non daily prescription birth control for women that goes in your arm. It lasts for three years and can be removed by your doctor at any time. If your plans change, nexplanon must be removed by the end of the third year. Don't use nexplanon if you're pregnant or maybe pregnant, have or had blood clots or certain cancers, have liver disease, liver tumor, or unexplained vaginal bleeding. Once the implant is placed, you and your doctor should feel for it. If at any time you can't feel the implant, contact your doctor right away and use a non hormonal birth control method such as condoms. Removal of the implant may be difficult or impossible if it isn't where it should be. While uncommon ectopic pregnancy, pregnancy that occurs outside the womb can occur, which can cause serious internal bleeding, infertility, and even death. You are likely to experience changes to your period. Ovarian cysts may occur and usually disappear. Nexplanon may raise the chance of serious blood clots, which can cause heart attack, stroke or death, especially if you smoke or have other risk factors. Nexplanon doesn't protect against HIV or STDs with less than one pregnancy per 100 women who use Nexplanon for one year. And Nexplanon is over 99% effective. No matter the fantasy, talk to your doctor, call 1-877-467-5266 or visit nexplanon.com for more information. Ask your doctor about nexplanon. Okay, so question. Are you one of those people that starts your holiday shopping in like, July?
Joe
July? I mean, no, never. Like, I. I like to shop. Actually, I like to shop on Christmas Eve because I find it to be a little more festive.
Serena
But you, like start decorating right after Halloween?
Joe
No, after Thanksgiving. Okay, that's different. That's different. Halloween? No, not Halloween.
Serena
You know, I consider myself to be a pretty good gift giver. I've got my list and I've checked.
Joe
It twice, probably three times. She takes the holidays very seriously.
Serena
I can't help it. You know, I love finding the perfect gifts for everyone. And Walmart has all the top brands. Nespresso, Sonos, Nintendo.
Joe
Nintendo at Walmart. Who knew?
Serena
I know. And more. All of your shopping in one place.
Joe
How much more shopping? Oh boy.
Serena
Just saying. Get all the brands everyone loves at Walmart. Head to Walmart.com or download the Walmart app to get all your gifts this season.
Joe
Okay, listen, if you're even thinking about a vacation, I've got four words for you. Virgin voyages, Caribbean Cruises. Because these cruises, they are totally next level. Honestly, you should book one right now to top line it. Beautiful destinations, best food at sea, and luxury that will make you wonder why you ever tolerated buffets and screaming children. You heard that, right. It's kid free. And just thinking about that is relaxing. We're talking about amazing destinations like Grand Cayman, Jamaica and Puerto Rico. Virgin even has its own private beach club in Bimini. I mean, come on. Then there's the food. There are so many different options. All of them are quite literally multi award winning. And with over a thousand bucks of luxury inclusions, the value is ridiculous. Wi Fi, soda, 20 plus legit restaurants, group workouts and entertainment. No surprise charges, no nickel and diming, just good times. They've got DJs, theme parties, live music. Something's always going on. And when you're ready to relax, your cabin is your sanctuary. Ocean views, private terrace, signature red hammock. Go check it out@virginvoyages.com or hit up your travel advisor. You deserve this. Picture this. You're out with friends, laughing, living in the moment, and then cravings hit. Suddenly you're stepping outside, missing the fun, or reaching for something that keeps you stuck in the same cycle. Jones gets it Quitting shouldn't mean disappearing or feeling punished. Jones offers a judgment free science backed alternative. No smoke, no vapor, no clouds. Just a discreet mint that helps you ride out cravings without breaking the vibe. And here's the cool part. Cravings only last about 60 seconds. Jones helps you through that minute with support that actually works. Their app connects you with thousands of others, tracks your progress, and even makes quitting feel like a team effort. Add in their NRT mints and quit rates jump to 50 to 60%. Starting is easy. Take the Jones quiz to find your perfect mint strength. Pop one when cravings hit and let it dissolve slowly. Then watch your streaks grow. In the app, it's quitting made positive. If you're ready to take a step toward quitting or even just a safer nicotine option, check out Quit with Jones. Visit quitwithjones.com Happy Hour to take the free quiz and use Code Happy hour to get $10 off your personalized quitting journey. That's quitwithjones.com happyhour taking back control starts now. Thanks to Quit with Jones for sponsoring this episode. Just a heads up, the mints contain nicotine, which is an addictive chemical. Jones is FDA approved and available for Those that are 18 and older. Who doesn't dream of a bra you won't want to rip off when you get home? If you're after more cleavage, more comfort, or both, Adormi has you covered. They obsess over fit so you don't have to. The bra I ordered was true to size right out of the box. Soft, breathable fabric, smooth under tees, secure straps. No digging. I just love the elevated details.
Commercial Voice
Pretty lace, clean lines, even little bows.
Joe
That still feel wearable all day. You know, I just always feel like I'm ready. I feel sexy and cute in them. And if I meet the right guy.
Serena
He'S going to really love seeing those bows.
Joe
And there's a silhouette for every moment. Everyday lift that defies gravity, shapewear that actually flatters, and bold pieces that feel just as good as they look. Adormi offers tons of sizes with new, thoughtfully designed bras, panties, lingerie, shapewear, sleepwear and swimwear to choose from each month. Elevate your underwear Drawer with high quality sets that won't break the bank. And with style starting as low as $24.95, you can feel confident even if you're on a budget. Head to adoreme.com now to shop styles from comfortable to sexy in over 67 sizes. Aaron, are you from, are you from San Diego?
Serena
No.
Joe
No.
Aaron
I was a military brat growing up, so I'm from everywhere, but I grew up in Houston and I went to school in New Orleans.
Joe
You went to Tulane, right?
Aaron
Roll, wave. Roll, wave.
Joe
Yeah, I remember that.
Aaron
Yeah.
Joe
But I didn't remember you were on the podcast, but I remember where you at school.
Serena
I remember our podcast with Aaron so well.
Joe
I do not. I do not in my parents backyard.
Serena
Doing in the cabana in the middle of summer. But okay, so that's exciting. We're really happy for you guys. This is your first holiday season together. What are the plans for that?
Aaron
Yeah, I know that's next week. I mean, we've, we've, we've been seeing each other the past month. So like through Thanksgiving we spent time. So we did like our own thing for once instead of like spending it with our family. So we had a nice dinner on Thanksgiving. That was nice. But for Christmas, I'll be going to Houston next week, but I'm going right to Albany. Albany is. Am I saying it right? Upstate New York to see Medina and meet her mom and her little, her dog Tonka. So I'll see them in person for the first time.
Serena
That'll be your first time meeting her family and.
Aaron
Yeah, in person. We FaceTimed briefly a couple times, so it's nice. We got our nails done and she was like, oh, I get to see you guys. That was pretty much it. So still got to get the impression off.
Serena
Have you met any of Aaron's family yet?
Medina
Just via FaceTime.
Serena
Okay, gotcha.
Joe
FaceTime. So awkward, isn't it? Like meeting a family for the first time on FaceTime. You're just like, this is tough. But I guess it's easy. It's easier because you could because then like the phone call ends, right?
Serena
You know, because you can't hang up on people in real life.
Joe
Well, in real life, you're, you're, you're, you're actually in the moment and if things start going away, like, you're just.
Serena
There's something nice about a five to ten minute FaceTime. Hi, nice to meet you.
Joe
Yeah, like the FaceTime can't. It can only get so bad.
Serena
It's low stakes. It's low stakes. Yeah.
Aaron
You don't have to sit around the house and wait for, you know, someone be. All right, well, we're gonna go down. Yeah, right. Well, my dad, we were here facetiming his. He was so close to the camera. I was more concerned about his eyesight. I was like, just, you'll see her in person soon, but just back away from the camera a little bit.
Joe
Yeah, my dad does this. My dad FaceTimes. It's literally. It's like, right here. It's like he's just screaming into the phone, okay, what. Any. Are you guys, like, who's your bachelor crew? Anyone you hang out with? Or is it kind of just like.
Serena
Yeah, who did you, like, call from Bachelor Nation to tell them that you guys were dating? What was the response? Also.
Medina
You want to go Aaron?
Aaron
Yeah. No, I mean, people know that, you know, I hang with Aaron Clancy. He's one of my best friends. We're all in a group chat with, like, James Bondle and people like that. So they all knew when I went to Charlotte, I could post on my close friends. I was, like, kissing Medina's hand, and they were like, oh, this is, like, legit. And I was like, yeah, like, I'm back in Charlotte, obviously, so things are going well. But, you know, just. I would say those are the only two from Bachelor Nation initially. Well, obviously, everyone started to learn pretty quickly, of course.
Serena
Medina, what about you?
Medina
I mean, I don't. I. I'm gonna be honest. I don't. Like, I'm not in touch with a lot of people from Bachelor Nation. I mean, obviously, like, Jess and Sandra, actually, she was. I don't know if any. Yeah, Sandra. I'm, like, pretty close with her, but other than that, like, not too much.
Joe
And then any. For next year? Any. Any trips. Anything planned together, or is it just kind of like, we're gonna do our best to get you to San Diego type of thing?
Aaron
A little bit of both. We're going to Columbia next month.
Joe
Oh, that's fun.
Aaron
Yeah, one of my friends wedding. So we'll be out there for. For a good bit.
Joe
And what part of Columbia?
Aaron
Where's the Cartagena?
Joe
Okay. Yeah, A friend of mine was just out there.
Serena
I was gonna say, have you. Are you familiar with that area? Are you familiar with Colombia? Have you been?
Joe
I've never been, but I know, I know. I've heard of Cartagena, and then there's Cali, and I know a bunch about Columbia.
Serena
Okay.
Joe
Medellin. Yeah, yeah. Cocaine capital.
Aaron
Exactly, exactly. People are. No. People don't sleep There. But I'm just glad that she's coming now because, you know, they have the jokes like, oh, a single guy going to Colombia, he comes back with some kind of relationship, things like that. So this. This makes it a little bit easier for trust. And obviously I want her there with me, too, so we're going to enjoy that.
Serena
How has that been with the long distance.
Aaron
The trust?
Serena
Yeah.
Medina
It'S interesting because I was. We talk about this kind of regularly. Like, I think it's crazy that I trust him more than. And, you know, the last person I dated, like, lived, like, five minutes away. And I think he's just, like, so good at communicating. And like, even just like, the thing he said right now, like, that wasn't anything that I, like, came up with. He's just, like, thinking proactively and being really mindful about all those things. And he's, like, really in tune. Like, he's so cute. He'll track, like, with my cycle to, like, recognize, like, when I might be a little more sensitive or, like, if I need more compliments. And so, yeah, it's just interesting because he's so far away, but I, like, trust him so much. So it's like, I'm glad we're not working through any of that. It's like, the biggest issue we have is distance, and that'll eventually be done with, so that's good.
Joe
I think, like, communication is, like, 90% of it. Like, it's. That's, like, the biggest thing.
Serena
Well, and if you can tackle that while doing long distance, it's going to be that much easier, hopefully when you're in person together and it doesn't matter.
Joe
Where someone lives, because if they want to cheat, they're going to cheat.
Medina
You know, that is true, actually, so. Oh, shoot.
Serena
I had a question.
Commercial Voice
Oh.
Serena
My question was going to be, when you eventually move to San Diego, Medina, are you guys going to find a new place together? Are you going to move into Aaron's place?
Medina
Yeah, I think we talked about finding a new place together, so that'll be fun. Like, looking at apartments. He was like, I'll FaceTime you and stuff. Like, so I think that'll be fun. And he said that he'll let me decorate. So let's have this on recording.
Serena
I mean, your background is super cute. If you did that. I don't know why he wouldn't let you decorate. Yeah.
Joe
Like, I mean, is your. What's your place look like, Aaron? Is it just like, I'm a single guy and this is.
Aaron
This is which.
Joe
No judgment. Like, that's how my place was. I still, I was still taking things out of like, brown boxes and I had moved in like.
Serena
Yeah, Joe had one bedside table. What? Like, like, not one pillow, but like four plates.
Aaron
Okay. Yeah, no, I mean, it's definitely evolved throughout the years. It's not, you know, where it would be with my interior decorator here, but it's more of like a, like a 30 year old, like tech kind of apartment. Nothing too special. I got. I got a big cat hanging up on my wall too. That's why I commented on I love big cats, but this is like my downstairs workspace, so I'm down here taking a call.
Joe
Nice.
Serena
Nice.
Aaron
Yeah.
Joe
All right. Well, this was a lot of fun. We're really happy for you guys. Thank you for coming on to Bachelor Happy Hour.
Medina
Thank you.
Aaron
Appreciate you guys. Good to see you again.
Joe
And to all our listeners, make sure you download and subscribe to the podcast.
Serena
We'll have new and exclusive interviews for you every single week. Thanks for listening. Bye. My new obsession is this romance story I read about a cowboy who wants to start a family with a city girl. She's not ready for that yet, but that doesn't mean she's not ready to roll around in the hay. She has Nexplanon etonorgestrel implant 68mg radiopaque to prevent pregnancy. Nexplanon is a non daily prescription birth control for women that goes in your arm. It lasts for three years and can be removed by your doctor at any time. If your plans change, Nexplanon must be removed by the end of the third year. Don't use nexplanon if you're pregnant or maybe pregnant, have or had blood clots or certain cancers, have liver disease, liver tumor or unexplained vaginal bleeding. Once the implant is placed, you and your doctor should feel for it. If at any time you can't feel the implant, contact your doctor right away and use a non hormonal birth control method such as condoms. Removal of the implant may be difficult or impossible if it isn't where it should be. While uncommon ectopic pregnancy, pregnancy that occurs outside the womb can occur which can cause serious internal bleeding, infertility and even death. You are likely to experience experience changes to your period. Ovarian cysts may occur and usually disappear. Nexplanon may raise the chance of serious blood clots which can cause heart attacks, stroke or death, especially if you smoke or have other risk factors. Nexplanon doesn't protect against HIV or STDs. With less than one pregnancy per 100 women who use Nexplanon for one year, Nexplanon is over 99% effective. No matter the fantasy, talk to your doctor. Call 1-877-467-5266 or visit nexplanon.com for more information. Ask your doctor about Nexplanon.
Joe
Ever been at a pharmacy counter and your mind goes blank when the pharmacist asks any questions? That's why you need to listen to beyond the Script from CVS Pharmacy and iHeartMedia starting January 14th. Hosted by Dr. Jake Goodman, each episode features real conversations with CVS pharmacists, the health experts you see most, breaking down the questions you wish you'd asked from which meds may not mix well to what vaccines you need before a big trip. They'll bust myths, decode trends, and share practical advice you can actually use. Listen to beyond the script on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Serena
I consider myself to be a pretty good gift giver. I've got my list.
Joe
Checked it twice, probably three times. She takes the holidays very seriously.
Serena
I can't help it, you know. I love finding the perfect gifts and Walmart has all the top brands. Nespresso, Sonos, Nintendo Nintendo at Walmart.
Joe
Who knew?
Serena
I know. And more.
Joe
Get all the brands everyone loves at Walmart. Head to Walmart or download the Walmart app to get all your gifts this season.
Medina
This is an iHeart podcast. Guaranteed Human.
Date: December 19, 2025
Hosts: Joe Amabile & Serena Pitt
Guests: Madina Alam & Aaron Bryant
This episode of Bachelor Happy Hour brings a joyful surprise to Bachelor Nation: newly minted couple Madina Alam and Aaron Bryant share their love story with Joe and Serena. With humor, candor, and vulnerability, the pair reveal how their relationship blossomed—despite never appearing on the same show—and talk long-distance romance, future plans, and behind-the-scenes Bachelor connections.
“I was like: hope you don’t make it far, which is so cringy and cliche.” (04:54, Medina)
Aaron recalls getting lots of DMs during his season but did notice Madina’s:
“She pops up and I’m like, oh, wow, who’s this?... obviously I was just like, all right, you know, take it easy, blah, blah. Obviously went to Paradise.” (05:49, Aaron)
Both describe an indirect “watching from afar” energy, with Aaron admitting he watched Madina’s season to “pay close attention.”
Clarification:
Medina says she didn’t actually watch Aaron's TV journey in detail:
“I didn’t actually really watch any of his seasons. I don’t really watch The Bachelor. I saw his picture announced and I was like, gotcha.” (07:37, Medina)
Flirty-yet-distant DMs remained the norm until both found themselves in NYC for Fashion Week.
First real-life meeting: A lunch with mutual friends.
Madina: “He gave such a good hug when I walked in, and I hate talking like this because I feel like I’m a bad bitch. And then when I’m with him, I’m like... like a little girl, kind of.” (09:32, Medina)
Chemistry was instant. Medina describes falling into her “feminine,”
“I love the concept of, like, falling into your feminine. When you’re with someone...” (09:50, Serena)
Madina, post-lunch: “We went to the bathroom...before I even left, I was like, Oh, my God. Like, I like him.” (17:43)
Both admit they were not looking for anything serious—Medina had just gotten out of a relationship, and expectations were low.
Joe asks when it turned serious:
Aaron: “Almost an hour after that lunch...I knew at that point that I was going to be pursuing her.” (19:08)
The TikTok Moment: They made a TikTok together on their way to Sephora right after lunch, heightening the playful energy.
The day included lunch, drinks, a playful TikTok, and ended up with dinner where friends egged them on to “make out”—“Make out! Make out! We all want this.” (21:35, Aaron recounting the friend’s antics.)
“There was no talking stage, let’s say that.” (22:58, Aaron) “It was just like, really natural...it was, like, nice for, you know, someone to be, like, so sure of you.” (23:02, Medina)
Current homes: Madina in Charlotte, Aaron in San Diego.
Visits: See each other 2–3 times per month (“we’re really making it work”).
Future plans:
“We definitely have talked about me moving to San Diego soon.” (25:24, Medina)
Medina owns a remote therapy practice, so relocation is easy.
She was already planning to move and liked San Diego’s vibe:
“I had no issue talking about this with him. San Diego actually was one of the places on my list.” (25:51, Medina)
Thanksgiving spent together—skipped family obligations for their own dinner.
Aaron will head to Albany, NY for Christmas to meet Medina’s family (and her dog Tonka) in person for the first time.
“We FaceTimed briefly a couple times...Still got to get the impression off.” (35:12, Aaron)
Medina’s met Aaron’s family through video calls; both laugh about the awkwardness of FaceTime introductions.
“I trust him more than...the last person I dated, who lived five minutes away. I think he’s just so good at communicating.” (38:50, Medina) “He’ll track, like, with my cycle to recognize when I might be a little more sensitive, or if I need more compliments.” (39:08)
On falling in love quickly:
Aaron: “I knew at that point I was going to be pursuing her.” (19:38)
On female energy and safety:
Serena: “I love the concept of falling into your feminine—when you feel safe and comfortable.” (09:50)
On practicality:
Medina: “I have the utmost faith that, heaven forbid, it doesn’t work out, like, I would. It would be fine, you know?” (25:51)
On trust & relationships:
Medina: “It’s interesting because he’s so far away, but I trust him so much. So, it’s like, I’m glad we’re not working through any of that. The biggest issue we have is distance, and that’ll eventually be done with...” (38:50)
On decorating the future home:
Medina (playful): “Let’s have this [decorating the apartment] on recording.” (40:10)
The entire episode is playful, romantic, honest, and very “Bachelor Happy Hour”—bursting with banter, laughter, and a little teasing. Both Madina and Aaron are refreshingly down to earth and self-aware about the TV dating world, with the hosts keeping things light but heartfelt.
If you missed the episode, this is a wholesome, behind-the-scenes glimpse into how two people from Bachelor Nation—who never overlapped on TV—organically and unexpectedly found genuine connection. It’s a rom-com-worthy story with the honesty and awkwardness of real life, and proof that in Bachelor Nation, love appears when you least expect it.