Podcast Summary: Episode 364 | Cousins

New Rory & MAL, hosted by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, dives deep into a variety of topics with fresh stories, laughs, and unfiltered opinions. In Episode 364, titled "Cousins," released on April 22, 2025, hosts Rory, Mal, and Damaris engage in vibrant discussions ranging from relationships and toxic masculinity to celebrity controversies and the complexities of modern relationships.

1. Opening Banter and Relationship Dynamics (00:00 - 03:03)

The episode kicks off with playful banter about using PayPal to manage shared expenses among friends, particularly focusing on splitting costs for shared items like mattress toppers and beanbag chairs.

• Rory [00:00]: "PayPal lets you pay all your pals like your graduation gifters. Who's paying for the mattress topper?"
• Mal [00:06]: "You mean the beanbag chair? Aren't we getting a mini fridge?"

This light-hearted conversation sets the stage for deeper discussions on interpersonal relationships and financial management within social circles.

2. Relationships, Age Differences, and Double Standards (03:03 - 57:18)

The hosts delve into the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on age differences and the associated societal perceptions.

• Damaris [05:54]: "Did you see the comparison? I think it's the first time of our generation that 420 and Easter fell on the same day."

The conversation evolves into examining the double standards in relationships, especially when it comes to older men dating significantly younger women versus older women dating younger men. They discuss public figures like Tracee Ellis Ross and LeBron James, analyzing societal reactions to their relationship choices.

• Damaris [57:07]: "That's why when you say stuff like that, boo, you gotta clarify because she could be talking about a... that's seven years younger than her."
• Mal [57:18]: "They usually say that they're taking advantage, that he's trying to take advantage of her for money."

The hosts express concerns over double standards, emphasizing that older men with younger partners often face stigmatization, whereas similar dynamics involving older women and younger men are either overlooked or treated differently.

3. Shannon Sharp Case and Celebrity Controversies (84:56 - 95:15)

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing the Shannon Sharp case, where allegations of inappropriate behavior and digital misconduct emerge.

• Damaris [85:00]: "There's so fucking mad list. In no way are we making fun of a case or anybody that has been anally raped or is accusing. Let the courts figure everything out."

The hosts analyze leaked text messages and public statements related to Shannon Sharp, critiquing the legal representation by Tony Busby and expressing skepticism about the validity of the accusations based on the available evidence.

• DJ Head [87:39]: "But so Tony Busby, once again behind some... We just have to wait and see."

They stress the importance of letting the judicial system process the allegations without public bias or premature judgments.

4. Modern Sex Culture: OnlyFans and Sexting (95:15 - 113:05)

Transitioning from high-profile cases, the conversation shifts to the evolving landscape of digital relationships, focusing on platforms like OnlyFans and the dynamics of sexting.

• Damaris [95:24]: "But if you're with your girlfriend, you just eat her and that's it."

The hosts debate the implications of monetized personal interactions on OnlyFans, discussing the authenticity of connections formed through such platforms and the challenges of maintaining genuine relationships in a digital age.

• Mal [100:08]: "I'm way ahead of you. I feel weird. I'm not doing that."

They explore the psychological and social impacts of digital intimacy, questioning whether platforms like OnlyFans facilitate healthy relationships or perpetuate superficial connections.

5. Celebrity Behavior and Public Perception (113:05 - 105:24)

Returning to celebrity behavior, the hosts discuss Kanye West's controversial statements and actions, particularly focusing on his alleged inappropriate behavior and its reception by the public.

• Damaris [114:46]: "But the world maybe not be so in bad shape after all."

They critique Kanye's public persona and his impact on his legacy, debating whether his actions are reflections of personal trauma or calculated attempts to maintain relevance.

• DJ Head [115:00]: "If anybody were a mutual friend of ours that knows Kevin Gates, please let him know that we would love to have him on the show."

The hosts emphasize the importance of separating the art from the artist, advocating for recognition of genuine talent despite personal controversies.

6. Ethical Considerations and Social Responsibility (115:30 - 118:00)

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts reflect on the ethical responsibilities of public figures and the media in shaping public perceptions.

• Damaris [117:30]: "And let the courts figure that out. We're not here to talk about that."

They advocate for restraint in public discourse, urging listeners to allow legal processes to unfold without sensationalism or biased narratives.

7. Closing Remarks and Reflections (118:00 - 120:00)

In the closing segments, the hosts share personal anecdotes and reflections on the topics discussed, reiterating their commitment to addressing sensitive issues with empathy and critical analysis.

• Damaris [119:50]: "But I just don't view you as like a sex object."

They wrap up the episode by emphasizing the importance of understanding and compassion in dealing with complex social and personal issues.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Damaris [00:32]: "Let your shoes do the talking. Designer Shoe Warehouse is packed with fresh styles that speak to your whole vibe without saying a word." (Advertisement segment)

• Mal [03:03]: "But that makes sense, though. I'm not hunting no live bunnies."

• DJ Head [05:14]: "I love what he's doing on. On the Batt. He's instigating. He's doing what he's supposed to do."

• Damaris [15:29]: "He's trying to come with the shout out.", followed by an advertisement script.

• Mal [22:30]: "The idea that vampires hate garlic has roots in folklore and symbolic associations more than any one book or movie."

• DJ Head [35:04]: "Not going to love every beat from every song. You're not. That's just impossible."

• Damaris [44:20]: "I believe in double standards, especially when they work in our benefit."

• DJ Head [75:44]: "Cause you broke your dark streak to, like, come out here and concern yourself with the opinions of the peasants."

• Damaris [85:48]: "This is a statement from his."

• Mal [100:08]: "I'm saying I've heard of situations where men have nutted."

• DJ Head [110:56]: "You could see a lion walking a restaurant you are at with a younger girl, you're gonna have something to say."

Conclusion

Episode 364 of New Rory & MAL offers a candid exploration of modern relationships, societal double standards, celebrity controversies, and the intricacies of digital intimacy. Through engaging dialogue and insightful commentary, the hosts encourage listeners to critically examine prevailing social norms and the impact of media on personal relationships. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in understanding the nuanced dynamics of contemporary social interactions and the influences shaping them.