Podcast Summary: Smosh Reads Reddit Stories Episode: The REAL Kitchen Nightmares | Reading Reddit Stories
Release Date: May 17, 2025
Host: Smosh (Shayne Topp)
Guests: Chance and Tommy

Introduction

In the episode titled "The REAL Kitchen Nightmares | Reading Reddit Stories", Smosh delves into the chaotic and often humorous world of the service industry. Hosted by Shayne Topp, joined by guests Chance and Tommy, the trio explores a variety of dramatic and outrageous tales submitted by Reddit users. These stories highlight the challenges faced by servers, the unpredictable nature of customer interactions, and the personal dynamics within the hospitality sector.

Section 1: The Dine and Dash Saga

Summary:
The episode kicks off with Shane recounting a harrowing experience from the subreddit Tales from your server. A server describes being assigned a particularly difficult table consisting of a husband, wife, and their newborn baby. From the outset, the husband is demanding—ordering an extensive menu and multiple drinks with aggressive specificity. Despite the hostess's heads-up about his finickiness, the situation escalates when the wife requests drink replacements, leading to confusion and frustration.

Notable Quotes:

• Shane [02:22]: "He proceeded to order around $130 worth of appetizers, entrees, dessert, and got three different drinks for himself all in one go."
• Tommy [04:28]: "A dine and dash after tormenting someone."

Discussion:
The hosts discuss the financial and emotional toll such incidents take on servers, especially when establishments have tip-out policies that further diminish their earnings. Tommy highlights the unfairness of dine and dashes, remarking, "You have to know you're a monster." The conversation also touches on the broader implications of unskilled labor being labeled as "low," emphasizing that every job requires skill and dedication.

Section 2: The Underage Alcohol Incident

Summary:
Another gripping story involves a server who discovers that a customer has served alcoholic beverages to her underage daughter. Upon confronting the situation, the server politely denies the underage girl the drink, offering a non-alcoholic alternative instead. This act of responsibility, however, earns the server a scathing note on the tip line, branding her negatively for enforcing the establishment's policies.

Notable Quotes:

• Shane [14:55]: "I just can't imagine trying to do something illegal and then being mad when I don't let your child drink alcohol."
• Tommy [16:12]: "You're hurting the server and not the restaurant."

Discussion:
Shane expresses empathy for the server, stating, "It's so mean." The hosts delve into the complexities of tipping systems, where servers sometimes bear the brunt of customers' negative behaviors through shared tip-outs. They also discuss state laws regarding minors consuming alcohol, clarifying that in most cases, establishments must adhere strictly to age verification to maintain their liquor licenses.

Section 3: Relationship Turmoil Over Job Respect

Summary:
A particularly intense segment features a Reddit user seeking advice on a strained friendship. The user describes how his friend, despite possessing a computer science degree, refuses to take a server job offered numerous times. The friend perceives serving as a "low" profession, leading to hurtful remarks and a deep rift in their relationship. The situation escalates as the friend imposes unreasonable conditions for accepting the job, such as immediate managerial status and living arrangements that infringe upon personal boundaries.

Notable Quotes:

• Shane [20:36]: "I didn't want to say something nasty or get into an argument with him, so I only told him he was being very offensive."
• Tommy [24:13]: "She has to know you can't be made manager if you don't even know the names of their dishes or how to serve a coffee."

Updates:
The story evolves as the user continues to struggle with his friend's entitlement and refusal to accept help. Despite several attempts to reconcile and offer support, the relationship deteriorates further, leading to family conflict and significant emotional distress for the user.

Notable Quotes from Updates:

• Shane [33:55]: "He obviously had given this some thought. I was dumbfounded."
• Tommy [38:42]: "He's an ass."

Discussion:
The hosts empathize with the user, criticizing the friend's excessive pride and lack of humility. Tommy points out that "You have to take what you can get and go and do it," highlighting the necessity of accepting jobs irrespective of perceived social status, especially when facing financial hardships. Shane underscores the importance of valuing all professions, stating, "All jobs require skills. Except for podcast host." The conversation concludes with a unanimous agreement that the friendship may be irreparable due to the friend's intransigence.

Section 4: Snitching on a Co-worker for Spitting on Food

Summary:
Shane narrates a disturbing account from another Reddit user who reported a co-worker, Tanya, for spitting on a customer's food after a sauce spill. The incident occurred during a particularly busy shift, leading Tanya to express her frustrations by contaminating the customer's meal. Reporting this behavior resulted in backlash against the protagonist, with coworkers branding him as a "snitch," and discovering a toxic work environment where unethical behaviors persist without accountability.

Notable Quotes:

• Shane [41:40]: "That is so bad."
• Tommy [43:27]: "She snitches there."

Discussion:
The hosts condemn Tanya's behavior unequivocally, emphasizing that such actions are unacceptable in any setting. They debate the repercussions of reporting unethical conduct, especially in environments where loyalty to coworkers overshadows professional integrity. Tommy remarks, "100%," supporting the notion that the protagonist acted rightly by reporting the incident. Shane adds, "She should not still have a job," reinforcing the need for strict consequences in such scenarios.

Section 5: A Heartwarming Encounter with a Generous Customer

Summary:
Concluding on a positive note, the hosts share a feel-good story of a customer who, adorned in a vibrant Hawaiian shirt, not only generously tips but also pays for multiple tables anonymously. This act of kindness leaves a lasting impression on the server, highlighting the potential for positive interactions amidst the often challenging service industry landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• Shane [73:15]: "I just can't believe the words that come out of people's mouths."
• Unknown Guest [75:06]: "Who's paying for my bill?"

Discussion:
The conversation shifts to celebrate the existence of such benevolent customers. Shayne and Tommy express admiration for the customer's generosity, with Tommy recalling similar positive experiences with celebrities like Molly Shannon. This segment serves as a reminder of the good that exists within the service industry, balancing out the previous grim narratives.

Conclusion

In "The REAL Kitchen Nightmares | Reading Reddit Stories", Smosh provides an unfiltered look into the tumultuous lives of servers and the unpredictable interactions they encounter. From dealing with demanding diners and unethical coworkers to navigating personal relationships strained by professional respect, the episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the service industry's highs and lows. The episode concludes with a beacon of positivity, underscoring the importance of kindness and generosity in creating memorable customer experiences.

Notable Quotes Recap:

• Shane [02:22]: "He proceeded to order around $130 worth of appetizers, entrees, dessert, and got three different drinks for himself all in one go."
• Tommy [04:28]: "A dine and dash after tormenting someone."
• Shane [14:55]: "I just can't imagine trying to do something illegal and then being mad when I don't let your child drink alcohol."
• Tommy [16:12]: "You're hurting the server and not the restaurant."
• Shane [20:36]: "I didn't want to say something nasty or get into an argument with him, so I only told him he was being very offensive."
• Tommy [24:13]: "She has to know you can't be made manager if you don't even know the names of their dishes or how to serve a coffee."
• Shane [33:55]: "He obviously had given this some thought. I was dumbfounded."
• Tommy [38:42]: "He's an ass."
• Shane [41:40]: "That is so bad."
• Tommy [43:27]: "She snitches there."
• Shane [73:15]: "I just can't believe the words that come out of people's mouths."
• Unknown Guest [75:06]: "Who's paying for my bill?"

Hosts' Final Remarks:

Shayne and Tommy wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners who work in the service industry to share their own horror stories and memorable positive experiences. They emphasize the importance of balancing negative encounters with the heartwarming moments that make the job fulfilling.

Listeners are invited to share their own stories and suggest future themes and subreddits for Smosh to explore in upcoming episodes.