Podcast Summary: Cheers! with Avery Woods – Episode: Secret Lives of Mormon Wives
Podcast Information:
- Title: CHEERS! with Avery Woods
- Host: Avery Woods
- Episode: Secret Lives of Mormon Wives
- Release Date: May 12, 2025
- Description: Sit down and enjoy a glass of wine with your host, Avery Woods, as she deep dives into all things life with her weekly guest.
Introduction and Guest Welcome
In this engaging episode titled "Secret Lives of Mormon Wives," host Avery Woods welcomes three stars from Hulu’s hit show, "Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" — Michaela, Macy, and Jen. Avery expresses her enthusiasm for the group, highlighting their unique positions as pregnant, independent women who defy traditional Mormon roles by being the primary breadwinners in their families.
Avery Woods [03:00]: "You guys are all so busy and your careers are skyrocketing and you're having more kids. So how are we doing?"
Understanding Mormonism and Common Misconceptions
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around dispelling common misconceptions about the Mormon (LDS) church. The guests emphasize that polygamy is a widespread misunderstanding, clarifying that they are not involved in such practices.
Macy [20:20]: "I always used to say in the beginning when we first started the show, I'm like, we're not polygamous."
Jen adds that the recent scandals have further confused outsiders about the true nature of Mormon practices.
Jen [20:44]: "And then the scandal came out and then everybody was really confused, like, oh."
They discuss how their upbringing in different regions (California vs. Utah) influenced their perceptions and experiences within the church, noting the diverse backgrounds they bring to the show.
Reality TV Dynamics and Filming Season Two
Avery delves into the dynamics of filming season two, especially with the introduction of a new cast member, Miranda. The guests share their initial reservations and the ensuing drama related to Miranda’s involvement.
Michaela [12:29]: "No, we're all good with Miranda."
The conversation touches on how Miranda’s return was perceived within the group, particularly concerning clout and personal intentions. Michaela and Macy express their concerns about Miranda joining due to the existing bonds and the group's efforts since the show's inception.
Macy [14:13]: "I think Miranda, she's a very nice person in general. Like, you can't, like, really not like her."
They also discuss the challenges of candidly sharing their lives on camera, balancing authenticity with privacy, and managing public scrutiny.
Personal Challenges and Triumphs
The guests open up about their personal struggles, including health issues, pregnancy, and mental health. Jen shares her journey through intense therapy to salvage her marriage amidst the pressures of reality TV fame.
Jen [27:04]: "We really have never been, like, happier than right now."
Michaela discusses her healing process, emphasizing the positive impact of her pregnancy on her autoimmune condition.
Michaela [24:11]: "This is honestly the most healing I've gotten in three years."
Macy reveals her ongoing battle with toxic relationships, particularly her strained relationship with Dakota, and how it affects her emotional well-being.
Macy [41:31]: "He's the one in the baton. So I'm trying to think of timeline because obviously the show ended..."
Relationships and Family Dynamics
The episode delves into the complexities of their marriages, especially concerning traditional gender roles in the Mormon community. Jen explains the challenges her husband faced stepping back from medical school to support their family and her career.
Jen [37:33]: "He expected that from me. When we had committed to med school, it was never, like, my plan to start doing, influencing, or working, but it naturally just happened..."
Macy shares her perspective on maintaining healthy relationships and the importance of mutual support, especially when navigating public life and personal challenges.
Macy [43:54]: "I have a thing with toxic men. The girls know that and they call me the dick hater in the group."
Projects and Future Plans
Each guest discusses their upcoming projects and aspirations. Macy is excited about her memoir set to launch in October, aiming for the New York Times bestsellers list. Michaela and Jen talk about their plans for natural births and ongoing health journeys.
Macy [32:08]: "I have a memoir coming out in October."
They also touch on their professional endeavors, including Macy's business "Baby Mama," and how filming the show intertwines with their personal lives.
Balancing Public and Private Lives
The conversation highlights the tension between sharing personal stories on a reality TV platform and maintaining privacy. The guests discuss how therapy and personal growth are portrayed on the show, striving for authenticity while protecting sensitive aspects of their lives.
Jen [35:11]: "I love that I share too much."
Michaela reflects on the necessity of oversharing as a coping mechanism, which sometimes leads to regrets about what gets aired.
Michaela [35:23]: "I almost overshare because I don't have that boundary of like, what's appropriate."
Conclusion and Upcoming Season Highlights
As the episode wraps up, Avery Woods expresses her support and excitement for the guests' future endeavors. She encourages listeners to watch the upcoming season, which is set to release in seven days from the episode's date.
Avery Woods [57:10]: "So everyone go to Countdown and where can everyone find you guys on socials?"
The guests share their social media handles and express gratitude for the platform to share their stories.
Michaela [57:37]: "Michaela Matthews Views on TikTok and Instagram, it's Michaela." Jen [57:27]: "I'm Jennifer L. Affleck."
Avery concludes with heartfelt well-wishes, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections and the strength found in vulnerability.
Avery Woods [57:49]: "Cheers, guys. Cheers. Pacifico is a Mexican lager..."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Avery Woods [03:00]: "You guys are all so busy and your careers are skyrocketing and you're having more kids. So how are we doing?"
- Macy [20:20]: "I always used to say in the beginning when we first started the show, I'm like, we're not polygamous."
- Jen [27:04]: "We really have never been, like, happier than right now."
- Michaela [24:11]: "This is honestly the most healing I've gotten in three years."
- Macy [43:54]: "I have a thing with toxic men. The girls know that and they call me the dick hater in the group."
Social Media and Further Engagement
Listeners are encouraged to follow the guests on their respective social media platforms for more personal insights and updates on their lives and projects.
- Jen: Jennifer L. Affleck on TikTok and Instagram
- Michaela: Michaela Matthews Views on TikTok and Instagram
- Macy: Social Media Handles
Conclusion: This episode of "Cheers! with Avery Woods" provides an intimate look into the lives of Michaela, Macy, and Jen as they navigate their identities as Mormon wives, pregnant mothers, and public figures. Through honest conversations, they address misconceptions about their faith, the challenges of reality TV exposure, and their personal growth journeys. The episode is a blend of candid storytelling, heartfelt insights, and supportive camaraderie, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the "Secret Lives of Mormon Wives."