E964 - Love Island USA w/ TJ and Jaden, Monica Garcia Returns, The Valley, Golden Bach & Kristen Engaged

Summary

The Viall Files: Episode E964 Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Viall Files
• Host: Nick Viall
• Episode Title: Love Island USA w/ TJ and Jaden, Monica Garcia Returns, The Valley, Golden Bach & Kristen Engaged
• Release Date: July 10, 2025

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1. Welcome and Introduction

The episode kicks off with host Nick Viall introducing a lineup of guests to discuss the latest happenings in reality television, focusing primarily on Love Island USA, The Valley, and updates from former reality star Monica Garcia.

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2. Monica Garcia's Return and Personal Journey [00:36 - 05:49]

Monica Garcia, formerly of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, joins the show to share her personal experiences since exiting the reality scene. She opens up about enduring a miscarriage and the subsequent backlash, expressing gratitude for her rainbow baby.

• Monica Garcia [03:02]: "Going through the miscarriage was harder than going through the show because everyone said that I was lying about it. It was the hardest time of my life... now we have our little rainbow baby, and she's amazing."

Monica discusses the emotional turmoil she faced, the challenges of public skepticism, and her current happiness with her three-month-old daughter. She also touches on her new home purchase and remodeling journey, highlighting positive developments in her life.

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3. Love Island USA Season Analysis [05:49 - 25:52]

The conversation shifts to Love Island USA, where Monica and content creator Christina Coca delve into the current season's dynamics. They critique the season's overproduction, suggesting that the show lacks the genuine connections that made previous seasons captivating.

• Nick Viall [16:10]: "They do have dynamic characters. My point is, producers would love a cast that America loves... but sometimes producers are forced to produce in situations they don't want to."

Monica expresses frustration over the voting system and the perceived manipulation by producers, questioning the authenticity of contestant interactions. Christina adds that the current season feels more like "Friendship Island," lacking the intense romantic developments viewers expect.

• Monica Garcia [12:40]: "I agree with Jax, Taylor, and some of the things I've heard about. The whole Britney thing, it's really deep and... it's just so."

The duo also discusses the impact of social media and audience expectations on the show's production, emphasizing the challenges reality TV stars face in maintaining authentic relationships amidst scripted environments.

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4. Christina Coca's Insights on Reality TV [13:05 - 53:58]

Christina Coca, a popular content creator and avid Love Island fan, shares her perspectives on the show's evolution. She praises certain contestants like Ace and Amaya Papaya, while criticizing others for sabotaging genuine connections.

• Christina Coca [19:31]: "It's like, I think Amaya's like, oh, Ace and Shelley. It was crazy."

Christina highlights how polls and audience feedback influence contestant behavior, leading to strategic alliances and conflicts. She also discusses the baby challenge and its role in fostering authentic relationships, praising moments that bring levity to the show.

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5. Special Guests: Love Island Stars TJ and Jaden [56:30 - 86:26]

The episode welcomes TJ Palma and Jaden Hario, stars from Love Island USA, who provide firsthand accounts of their experiences in the villa. They discuss the psychological pressures of the show, navigating relationships under constant surveillance, and the intense fan interactions post-show.

• Jaden Hario [57:37]: "I didn't expect after the villa to be this intense or overwhelming."

TJ and Jaden delve into their post-show lives, managing social media presence, and maintaining relationships formed during the competition. They emphasize the importance of setting boundaries and the emotional toll of sudden fame.

• TJ Palma [74:08]: "I feel like a lot of this season has been like splitting the most strong connections up, which is weird a little."

Their insights shed light on the challenges reality TV participants face, including public scrutiny and the difficulty of sustaining meaningful connections outside the controlled environment of the show.

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6. The Valley and Golden Bachelor Controversies [87:57 - End]

The discussion transitions to The Valley, another reality show grappling with increasing drama and darker themes. Nick addresses the Golden Bachelor's recent controversies, including allegations from his ex-wife about his behavior and the ensuing public backlash.

• Nick Viall [88:44]: "His ex-wife has recently come forward... why does he owe her a million dollars? What did he do wrong?"

The hosts critique the casting choices and production decisions, questioning the ethical implications of featuring individuals with contentious pasts. They express concern over the portrayal of sensitive issues like sexual assault, emphasizing the need for responsible storytelling in reality TV.

• Christina Coca [110:43]: "Janet's comments on the boat were just horrific."

The conversation also touches on the broader issues of cancel culture and the relentless nature of online criticism, urging reality TV shows to consider the mental well-being of their cast members.

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7. Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Segments

In wrapping up, Nick congratulates Kristen doty and her fiancé Luke on their engagement, celebrating personal milestones amidst the ongoing reality TV dramas. He also teases upcoming episodes, including a "Going Deeper" segment featuring Kaya, a victim of Harvey Weinstein, highlighting the podcast's commitment to addressing serious and empowering topics alongside entertainment news.

• Nick Viall [117:33]: "We have to make sure people can have healthy dialogues around reality TV..."

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Notable Quotes:

• Monica Garcia [03:02]: "Going through the miscarriage was harder than going through the show because everyone said that I was lying about it..."

• Nick Viall [16:10]: "They do have dynamic characters... but sometimes producers are forced to produce in situations they don't want to."

• Christina Coca [19:31]: "It's like Amaya's like, oh, Ace and Shelley. It was crazy."

• Jaden Hario [57:37]: "I didn't expect after the villa to be this intense or overwhelming."

• TJ Palma [74:08]: "I feel like a lot of this season has been like splitting the most strong connections up, which is weird a little."

• Nick Viall [88:44]: "His ex-wife has recently come forward... why does he owe her a million dollars?"

• Christina Coca [110:43]: "Janet's comments on the boat were just horrific."

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Conclusion

Episode E964 of The Viall Files offers an in-depth exploration of current reality TV landscapes, blending personal stories with critical analyses of popular shows like Love Island USA, The Valley, and Golden Bachelor. Hosts Nick Viall, Monica Garcia, and Christina Coca engage with reality stars TJ and Jaden, providing listeners with a comprehensive view of the intricate dynamics and personal challenges within the reality TV world. The episode balances entertainment with heartfelt discussions, making it a valuable listen for fans and newcomers alike.

Transcript

[Nick]

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[Monica Garcia]

You're crazy.

[Nick]

What's going on, everybody? Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Vile Files Reality recap edition. I'm your host, Nick, and boy do we have a great show lined up for you. So much drama with Love Island.

[Christina Coca]

So it's just nonstop.

[Nick]

They were leaving babies next to stoves.

[Christina Coca]

No. Yeah. That was crazy.

[Jaden]

That was on the counter ready to roll off.

[Nick]

I know. So, so much to get into. We have a great lineup of guests this episode, starting with Monica Garcia who is going to be joining us momentarily. I feel like she needs no introduction, but she's formerly of the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City with her unceremonious exit unceremoniously exiting proofs, receipts, timelines, whatever, she's iconic. We are excited to catch up with her. She's also a big Love island fan. So we're talk some Love island with Monica and just see what she's been up to. Also, Christina Coca is with us. She is hilarious on the gram and TikTok. She's a content creator that we have been enjoying her content creating takes. So anyway, she's going to be joining us also shortly to talk some Love Island. I think she's also into the Valley as well. We'll be breaking down the dark dark valley later this episode. But also after Monica and Christina, we have TJ and Jaden from Live island together to answer. Let's answer all your burning questions. How is TJ feeling about Iris, you know, basically being maybe the most in love couple with her. And Pepe, how's he doing? Just Jaden's experience. Her thoughts on the rest of the cast. We get into a lot with them and that is up later this episode. But right now it's time to bring on your girl, Monica Garcia. Welcome to the show. Welcome back. Yay. Yay.

[Monica Garcia]

I'm so excited to be here, you guys. This is like full circle moment for me.

[Nick]

We still have that burn book that we made for you up in the. Up in the studio.

[Monica Garcia]

Oh, my gosh, that effin burn book.

[Nick]

How have you been? I mean, obviously, last time we saw you in person, you were on the show, you made an announcement and obviously, sadly, you know, shortly thereafter, you made another announcement, which our heart goes out to you, but like, time has passed and you announced another amazing miracle. How's everything going?

[Jaden]

So good.

[Monica Garcia]

It's honestly that was probably going through the miscarriage, you guys, was harder than going through the show because everyone said that I was lying about it. So to go through such a huge loss and then to have the entire world just completely come for you, like, you're disgusting for lying about something. It was the hardest time of my life, which is a lot considering everything I went through with the show. But now we have our little rainbow baby, and she's amazing and, you know, everything works out how it's supposed to in the end, and we can't imagine not having her. So, yeah, it's been great.

[Christina Coca]

We've been very open about our losses. Do you feel like your rainbow baby is the same baby that you miscarried with and she just wasn't ready yet?

[Monica Garcia]

Okay.

[Christina Coca]

Or do you think they're two separate babies?

[Monica Garcia]

So I. I have theory. I have theories both way. This is like, actually such an interesting topic. I actually think that I have something where I can't carry boys. And every time I have miscarried, believe that it's a boy. Like, for whatever reason, my body is rejecting.

[Nick]

Is that a instinctual feeling or is something.

[Monica Garcia]

It's actually. I think it's instinctual too, but there's actually a real thing where you're. For whatever reason, your body rejects those chromosomes or doesn't accept them or whatever. But you guys, like, for real, it. It honestly was the hardest time of my life. So having my little rainbow baby, you know, I think she was always meant to be.

[Nick]

However.

[Monica Garcia]

You look sweet.

[Christina Coca]

I'm so happy for you. How old is she today?

[Monica Garcia]

She's three months.

[Jaden]

Oh, my gosh.

[Christina Coca]

Is she a good baby?

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah, she's probably my best baby. She has been the best baby that.

[Nick]

I don't let the other kids hear this.

[Christina Coca]

You're in newborn bliss.

[TJ]

I know.

[Monica Garcia]

No, actually, they know. They're.

[Nick]

She's so good.

[Monica Garcia]

She's.

[Christina Coca]

So are they helping you with her?

[Monica Garcia]

I have the best little helpers. They're just like little mommies. They, like, pack their own little diaper bags for her, like, to bring with them. It's really cute. It's really cute. Yeah, it's the most Utah thing I've done, you know, because I have a 20 year old and a 3 month old, so.

[Nick]

So, I mean, obviously, I'm sure that's kept you very busy. So glad to see you where you're at right now. And yeah, I hate to hear, obviously we certainly relate to that experience and you know, it's heartbreaking, but so happy for you and your rainbow baby. So exciting.

[TJ]

Thank you.

[Nick]

What else have you been. What else have you been up to?

[Monica Garcia]

So I. We bought a house graduation and it's Kurt. Thank you so much. It's currently being remodeled so we're in the process of just building a dream home and all the things and it's just, you know, it's amazing what can come from the worst season of your life.

[Nick]

Maybe you're probably not even thinking about this, but do you think we'll ever see you on TV again? Again?

[Monica Garcia]

I don't know. I don't know. I mean, never say never, right? Never say never. As far as housewives, like Salt Lake City, I don't know. I don't think I would come back unless. And that's not me because we all know I would have no problem coming back and facing that situation. But unless a couple people left, they've dug their heels in the sand. Yeah, that's unfortunate. Which honestly, it's reality tv, like show the reality of it and I think it's, you know, I think that a caste should never have control over a cast.

[Nick]

Would you want to go on Traders?

[Monica Garcia]

I love to go on Traders.

[Nick]

They would be welcoming. Like, do you think the people who.

[Monica Garcia]

I mean, if they had Tom Sandoval.

[Nick]

I don't know, like, I don't know. His relationship with the network is like. Are you cool with like, Shed Media?

[Monica Garcia]

Oh, I, I, okay. My relationship with Bravo and Shed and the network and production is amazing. They were incredible. We've had no issues. They're amazing. They've been so supportive. It's truly the cast and not all of the cast.

[Nick]

I'm glad you cleared that up because I feel like a lot of people have a bunch of different, like, thoughts and theories about, you know.

[Christina Coca]

Have you ever met Brittany?

[Monica Garcia]

Brittany Bateman? No. No. She's Heather's friend though, right?

[Nick]

Yeah, she's. Yeah, yeah, she's great. She's.

[Monica Garcia]

You guys have met her?

[Christina Coca]

Never met her, but we, you know, we've seen her content on TikTok. We watched her last season, but she just, I, I asked because her, you know, her and Jared broke up again and I just was wondering if you had any opinion on that?

[Monica Garcia]

I don't fucking know. I. Honestly, that whole situation is so wild to me. I don't understand. I don't understand it. It's so. It's so bizarre. I don't. I mean, I. Look, I'm not going to start beef with any of her.

[Nick]

We're not trying to get you in trouble either. We're just, you know.

[Monica Garcia]

No, honestly, she. She said that she would love to get together and talk with me because her first season was extremely traumatic for her and she feels like I would be able to relate to that maybe.

[Nick]

For sure. So. Yeah.

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah.

[Nick]

Well, I would. Can you. Can you post about it? Like, if you guys get tea or coffee, the fans would get a hoosh. You know, just giving her a little, like.

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah, the fans would love it.

[Nick]

And Heather gave, you know, caption like, Newbie, you know, teaching her new. You know, giving her. Yeah, giving her the playbook. Yeah, that's your caption.

[Monica Garcia]

I mean, we have a little bit in common since she was secretly recording them. Right.

[Christina Coca]

There you go. Yeah.

[Nick]

So you admit it. No, I'm just kidding.

[Monica Garcia]

No, I. I admit to recording Jazz. Yes. I've never denied that, though.

[Nick]

Yeah, I know. You are a big Love island fan. What are you watching? Anything else? What else is keeping your time preoccupied?

[Monica Garcia]

So have you guys ever seen Ginny in Georgia?

[Nick]

Oh, my God, yes. Absolutely. We had the star. Yeah.

[Monica Garcia]

Because the new season just came out.

[TJ]

Yeah.

[Monica Garcia]

It's so good. That has.

[Christina Coca]

It's like the most watched show I've been living with, like, crazy numbers.

[Nick]

No, insane numbers. Like billions of people are watching.

[Christina Coca]

Billions and billions of people.

[Monica Garcia]

It's insane. I actually, ironically, haven't watched Secret Lives of Mormon Wives the second season. I know it's a sin because I live here, but maybe.

[Nick]

Does it. Does it too close to home?

[Monica Garcia]

No, I just. Honestly, I think maybe. Maybe it does.

[Christina Coca]

I don't know.

[Monica Garcia]

I liked the first season. I really did. So. But I need to watch the second. Did you guys.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah, Nick hosted the reunion.

[Monica Garcia]

Was it good?

[Christina Coca]

Really good.

[TJ]

Oh, my God.

[Monica Garcia]

That's right, Nick.

[Nick]

It was great. Yeah. Now this feels like a setup to talk about the reunion. It was great. You know, those women are amazing. They're. They're professionals and great tv and I was honored to.

[Christina Coca]

They give, give, give, you know, be.

[Nick]

A part of that reunion. So that was great.

[Monica Garcia]

Their phenomenon is insane, and I am totally here for that. Like, I think it's incredible. They've just dominated. I can't.

[Nick]

I know. You haven't watched season two but do you have a favorite of what you know about them?

[Monica Garcia]

I know Layla. I knew Layla before, so I love Layla. I love her. I love her very much. And then Jesse and I follow each other on social media. She's always been really sweet, but I don't know them. I don't know them. I don't know any of them personally. What do you guys think? Because I will tell you, Housewives is having record low numbers, right? So what do you think is the difference?

[Nick]

Are you talking about when you say record low, you mean just like, across the franchise in general, you think they're, like, all struggling?

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah, I mean, did you see Miami's numbers or do you know any of their numbers?

[Nick]

Yeah, like, not. Not. Not popping, you know?

[Monica Garcia]

No, but then you have secret lives, and they're streaming, like, billions.

[Nick]

Well, listen, I. I think maybe it's just like a different demographic, and I think you are seeing the Mormon housewife women a little bit more. It's. It seems more like Bravo seems to like. And we've talked about this with the Valley, right? The Valley is a collection of people with young kids and things like that, but it's more about, like, these just toxic interpersonal relationships where it's just like, it's always kind of dark. And the Mormon housewives, those women give drama, and they are amazing at just being honest and vulnerable. But there. There are friendships, and they. They are at least trying to be like, high character people, and then they have highs and lows, and there is, like, you know, still, like, meaningful relationships, and there's vulnerability with some things that they've all been through. And I think it's just more360 where, like, it doesn'. Like, we've been watching the Valley all season, and we talk about it later in the episode, but it's just like, every episode, it's just like, just these toxic behaviors. And like, you know, this episode, you have Janet accusing Danny of sexual assault and using language that, like, a lot of people are like, oh, my God. Having an issue with, you know, and it's just like. And then you have Jack's tail. It's just. It's dark. And. And I think the Mormon housewives, it's. It's a brighter, you know, there. There's a. There's fun elements to it still. You're still having a good time. You know, like with Love island, every once in a while they throw in a silly challenge where you're just laughing and, like, you have to be still, like, otherwise you're just like, man, I Think there's a little bit of that. I think it's just a little too much yelling and screaming and like going low all the time with these relationships.

[Monica Garcia]

That's actually so. I agree with that 100%. It's so true. And I do agree with Jax, Taylor and some of the things I've heard about. I haven't watched it, but the whole Britney of it all is just. That's really, really deep. That's.

[Nick]

It's just all dark stuff and it's.

[Monica Garcia]

Just like, you know, see, even talking about it brings us down.

[Nick]

There you go. So we should. We. Should we get into some Love Island?

[Monica Garcia]

Yes.

[Nick]

Well, before we do, let's bring on Christina. We again, big fan. She's a content creator. You might. You probably recognize her on Instagram or Tick Tock, but she is talking about all your favorite reality TV shows and she's going to talk with us and talk some Love Island. So bring on Christina.

[TJ]

Hi.

[Christina Coca]

Hi. Wait, do we need to.

[Nick]

Not tell Christina that Monica would be here?

[Jaden]

No, I didn't. I kind of wanted to give a surprise.

[Nick]

Hello.

[TJ]

I'm glad it's a. I was concerned that it was going to be like, with a one franchise I didn't watch.

[Jaden]

She knew it was going to be someone from the Housewives.

[Nick]

Well, as long as you watch Housewives. I mean, Love island, rather, Monica is just on here. Like yourself as a fan of Love Island.

[Monica Garcia]

Yes.

[TJ]

I love that. I was wondering, like, is there just like a Love island fan Housewife who's coming or are we talking about.

[Nick]

Yeah, we went on Cameo and asked Monica to join us. I don't know when your birthday is, but go ahead. Monica. Happy birthday.

[Monica Garcia]

Happy birthday.

[Christina Coca]

We got that for you, Christina.

[Nick]

Christina, people have seen your content all over the Internet and certainly we have noticed it from time to time and are fans of what you're making. So we're excited to have you on and talk some Love island along obviously with. With Monica. And this is a question for both of you ladies before we really dive into the past couple episodes. Like, what are your just general feelings about this season? Who are some of your favorites? And then we'll kind of get into the nitty gritty in the past couple episodes.

[TJ]

Thank you for having me, by the way, and for the compliments of watching my content. I think that this season, because of season six, season seven started with a deficit like, it was coming from like, negative zero trying to work, you know. Negative zero, that's not a number. But, you know, it was starting, like, with something to Prove. And so I think that harmed it in terms of, like, comparisons and the viewers, like, being willing to engage with a new cast without comparing it. Like, I personally, I came for Ariana and then like, I stayed for the drama. So I've only seen season six and then this season, I'm not, I'm not like an OG Love Islander. And so, I mean, I can see why season six was so incredible because it just. I feel like the friendships and the relationships were really genuine. And it's not that there aren't any on this season. I think it's just, it's taking a lot longer. I think they're hyper aware of what their pers. You know, what the perception of them is going to be to the point where it's disrupting maybe what they would like naturally do. But I'm. Listen, it's like it's been a roller coaster. Like the two episodes, I'll be like screaming and mad and then I'll be laughing and crying in the next one. So it's.

[Nick]

I will say for all of our critiques of this season and in questions about, like, why didn't we get movie night or things like that, it hasn't been hard to keep up. And I have been invested in this season, whether I've been like, annoyed or just. But like, they do have dynamic characters. So I don't know, maybe like, to your point, Christina, maybe it was never going to live up to the, you know, what season six was, which was like, really exciting. But like these, you know, ultimately you had these. The three meaningful relationships that are still going strong and like, you know, despite us watching it for the drama and all that stuff, like, it is nice to see people make authentic connections that you want to root for. Monica, just generally speaking, like, what. What are you. How are you feeling about this? You seem like you have been a Love Island OG fan for a while. So how you feeling about this season? Okay.

[Monica Garcia]

And I have to apologize because I lost my voice a little bit over the Gibson.

[Aaron]

Sexy.

[Christina Coca]

Sexy rasp.

[Monica Garcia]

People normally hate my voice, so maybe this is. Yeah, I kind of. I look, I feel like there's this whole underlying thing of you're only as good as your last season. And I think that when you are comparing to the previous season, I mean, the same thing happens in the Housewives world when they have a knockout of the park season. It's like, oh, crap, what are, what's, what's the next season going to be like? And you're holding it to that same standard, which obviously you Cannot hold it to season six. I mean, season six. Season six was the best season I think that they've had. I honestly believe that. I think the cast was perfect. Ariana coming in brought in so many people. It shook up everything. I do think that this season has been, you know, like Christina said, a roller coaster. I think, you know, there was a scene where they were like, the switch up is crazy. And I'm like, the biggest switch up was us turning against the women and then rooting for like Ace and stuff. I mean, this season has been a complete, I don't know, like a fever dream. It's a chaotic mess. And when you really think about it, we're all like so addicted to it. And it's crazy to watch because half the stuff that they do we would never, never ask people to do, like put this in your mouth and then spit it in his mouth and what.

[TJ]

The heck are we watching?

[Monica Garcia]

But we're all like obsessed with it. It's crazy. I think that there is a lot to be said for this cast maybe coming in and feeling the pressure from the previous season. And, you know, I only say that from kind of that perspective of, oh, crap, we have a big, big, big shoes to fill here with season six.

[Nick]

And it's just they were never probably not going to be too self aware about that.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah, it does feel like they're all kind of like, and I'm excited to ask ask, you know, Jaden and TJ this later but like, it does feel like all of the bombshells that come in who like haven't been there the whole time and you have been watching and on Tick Tock and reading what the fans say, it feels like they kind of come in and like give everyone the down low and it's like they tell everyone like, oh, this is what's going viral. Everyone's calling Amaya. Amaya Papaya. Yes, we're calling like Nickelandria. Nickelandria. And I feel like they're kind of letting the originals in on what everyone's thinking.

[Nick]

I think you nailed it last they not, you know, and I'm curious what they say, but I'm guessing they will either avoid the question or just kind of like suggesting. But what does happen and I'm curious, you know, is that like there's going to be like some kind of lower level producer that's like their handler who like kind of like gives them the tea off record and does like don't tell anyone, but eventually everyone, you know what I'm saying? So they all Kind of know. But from an official policy standpoint, like, I bet the policy is, like, they're not supposed to, like, share.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah.

[Nick]

But, like, how are these people knowing about Amaya Papaya or Nickelandria or, like, just some of the things that the Internet is talking about? It's. I don't know.

[TJ]

Well, when the. When the bombshells are awaiting their. Their arrival, I know that they're able to, like, watch the episodes, but I. I'm not sure that they have access to their social. I don't know. Like, I remember seeing a video of Iris finding out that she was going and she was packing in her apartment. And I was trying on season, like, last season, there were people, there were bombshells who were like, no, we were in. I was, like, sitting there isolated in Fiji in a hotel room for four weeks.

[Nick]

It's a mix of both. One thing I've learned about, you know. You know, I. I'm curious what you think always when it comes to talking, like, production in this world, Monica. But, like, also, the love competition shows do move a little bit different than the, like, you know, episodic with, like, a repeating cast, because, like, relationships are more meaningful when you have people coming back with seasons. And, like, you know, when you have one season, it could just be like, you know, these people come and go. But I think it's a mixed bag, right? You're gonna hear stories of people who have sat in hotel rooms for weeks, and then you're gonna hear. You're gonna hear people who, like, literally flew in. I think Vanna said, like, she flew in, like, 24 hours. Because, again, like, I think the show really wants to, like, they don't want to be that committal like they are. They are trying to give us what we want. So it's a mix.

[Monica Garcia]

I agree with you, Nick. I think it's kind of, like, ever flowing. I think that, you know, people have. Is it scripted? Is it real? Either way, it is happening in real time. And so they have to change and go with what's happening. And so that might direct their decision making to somewhere where they didn't think it would be before. Like, okay, crap, let's do this. Let's bring Vanna and let's do this. Where maybe they weren't thinking that before. I think that some decisions are made, like, on the fly.

[TJ]

I think also the, like, oh, the switch up is crazy thing. Like, after that, America most genuine best boyfriend material. Like, that was a. That confused me as a viewer because the vote was, like, your favorite Islander guy and girl. But. But the things that they were telling them on that episode were polls that were like, put up like the day before or something. And so I was like, I didn't pick. What are these? Like, I didn't. I mean, I just vote when there's like a vote. I don't really do all the polls. And so anyway, that's a separate thought, but I think that clearly they were like, oh, like Amaya's like, oh, Ace and Shelley.

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah.

[Christina Coca]

Oh, aces, Aces. Switch up with Amaya when he realized, oh, fuck, America loves this bitch was crazy.

[Nick]

Exactly.

[TJ]

And thank. But honestly, thank God because since then, like, like, it's been so much more fun and a lot of people have been. Have been like, trying to say, like, oh, my God, like, the energy is so much lighter since Sierra left. I'm like, that. To me, I think that's just a coincidence. I think.

[Nick]

Yeah, that's projecting. Yeah.

[TJ]

Like, even that game, that, like, American Warrior game that they had them play that one night had, like, no point. I think it was just like, these people need.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah, we don't need any more mess or tea. Like, we don't need, like, sneakiness. Like, let's just go.

[Nick]

Well, it is kind of weird. And the bigger question I had again, Monica, always want to hear perspective. But again, a big a general criticism or note from fans over the season and even from US business or questioning at least is producer involvement, is this. Is this season being overproduced, et cetera, et cetera. I think that sometimes that's easy to criticize or even a scapegoat. I will say, just like, knowing how this stuff works, I think we have to take into consider. Right? Like, what's one of the big gripes of this season? And that is like, oh, once a couple couples up or connections are made, they get us. They're just killed. They're. They're assassinated. Right? But last night, that was on America. You know what I'm saying? Like, say what you want about producers involvement. America got to pick their favorite couple. And we're like, I don't. We don't care if they're in love. Like, that they are by far the most genuine connections. Whether what. Regardless of you think about Clark and Taylor, like, they like each other. It's obvious. You see it like, he likes her so much that was willing to piss off everyone in the villa. And we were like, you know what?

[Jaden]

Fuck you and America.

[TJ]

But I think that's why he got that. Like, I think we were all just mad.

[Nick]

Totally. But I think we have to. But like, my point is, is like, as fans and produce, like, producers would love a cast that like America loves. And they're organically, like, not self editing and not overly self conscious and not trying to like, write their own story. And I think sometimes producers are forced to produce in situations they don't want to produce. And I, I think it's not as clear to tell which is which. Right? Like, I think sometimes they have to produce even, like, they're like, man, this Ace guy is like, honestly, he's. He's stopping people from like, everyone's listening to Ace, right? Like in a bachelor house. If, like, for example, a little bts. If like in week three, there was someone being like, man, pointing out all the cameras and pointing out producers and being like, this is all they get that person sent home. Because it's just kind of toxic for the, like the experiment that everyone signed up for. And it is an experiment. And sometime there are people in, in this experiment that kind of like taint the experiment. And I think that's where producers sometimes have to do stuff that like, we don't like. But I actually think it's to the benefit of the show.

[Monica Garcia]

So that was my question. Do you guys actually think that when there's votes or polls or whatever and then they relate, reveal the answers, do you think those were the real answers or do you think there's some behind the scenes?

[Christina Coca]

I don't think so. I feel like there's no fucking way that TJ was like the least voted man out of Zach and Elon. And after we had Zach like come out of Maya at the stand on business challenge, how is TJ on the chopping block?

[Nick]

How is, how is Clark on the bottom of every pole, not in the bottom three?

[Christina Coca]

She's bursting.

[Monica Garcia]

That's what that is exactly what I said. I'm like, how was she number 10 and every single freaking thing and then she's not even in the bottom. I said the same exact thing.

[TJ]

I'm like, there was the poll that we took, then we watched the business challenge and then the, at the most, least whatever thing that was the results from the poll before the stand on business. Then our next vote after that was for your. Well, actually, no. The vote that I thought we were gonna get was our favorite girl and guy. That's what we voted for also. That was in the like, best, worst, whatever, or most least. Then the vote was for our favorite couple. And the thing that's frustrating me about these votes, and correct me, I might not be right. But I think I am. But. But what's frustrating me about the votes is I'm. I'm voting for my favorite and they never. I know why they're not revealing the frame. The favorite because it'll. I think that would change the dynamics a lot more than saying just like, whoever got the least amount of votes, like, I want to know. I want to know who's the top.

[Monica Garcia]

Christina, who is your favorite?

[TJ]

Nick. They can never make me hate you. I love him. I just do. I can't help it. I'm sorry.

[Nick]

Thank you.

[TJ]

But Amaya. Amaya. Amaya deserves to win.

[Christina Coca]

She does.

[TJ]

She's. She is just. I've, like, not fantasized. That's a weird word. I've, like, thought about. I've imagined the moment that she comes out and she gets her phone back and she sees. Yeah, like, the love everyone has for her. Like, I just. I, like, literally just thinking about it, like, I'm so excited for her.

[Christina Coca]

The fact that she's the only islander who went on this show and wasn't like, hey, can someone run my account to get me followers? She was just like, I just want to go on the show and find love. She's so genuine and she deserves the world.

[Danny]

She really is.

[Nick]

I feel like Nick is America's boy. It's like, you know, they're like, you know what? I don't know. I probably should have like him so much, but whatever. He's just so adorable and fun, and I just like, oh, my God, maybe he'll date.

[TJ]

I love. I was. I had a full. When I thought they. That he was leaving before they got in there in the G wagon and cliffhanger. Like, I. Before they went on, I posted a video of it. It's just audio. And then, like, a shot of my tv. But I really was, like, deranged.

[Nick]

Losing. I was. Oh, my God. I mean, even me, like, I'm a hypocrite because it's just like, I'm criticizing all of us for, like, not giving a. About, like, I guess, being like, yeah, it's gonna. Clark and Taylor should go home. Because when it was down to Nick and Nickelandria, I was like, I'm not ready for them to leave. Like, I didn't know. I was like, not yet. I don't know why. Because, like, like, I'm generally like, I'm not. I'm not Team Nickelandrea. I. I don't really believe it's sincerity. I think they're great friends. I think there's a Lot of mutual respect. I like. I like them both as individuals, but I'm just not. Who knows? Could be wrong.

[TJ]

Well, also, they haven't, like, they had that steamy soul ti kiss then. Now they're like, they've chosen each other as a couple. Why aren't they making out? I would like to watch, especially now.

[Nick]

There's a drastic. There's a draft. Drastic shift the past episode, and it's really given, like, back in, like, Bachelor in Paradise early days where, like, you know, everyone's again, it's like a smorgasbord at first. There's a lot of swapping, a lot of love triangles. And then, like, on Bachelor in Paradise, they would actually Chris Harrison come in, and all of a sudden, like, now it's time to get serious. And, like, now it's time to really ask yourselves, can you see a future with this person? And blah, blah, blah. And everyone just goes from, like, just kind of casually dating to be, like, playing house and, like, acting like they're an engaged couple. And it's really giving with this cast the past couple episodes, while we didn't get to see it that, like, the show was like, all right, guys. It's like, because everyone's just like, we're in love. Everyone is this, like, coupled up. It's all about the relationships. Like, you know, the whole baby challenge. It's really. It's really giving that.

[Monica Garcia]

Do you guys think that Nick should have left when Sierra left?

[Nick]

No.

[Jaden]

Okay, so actually, Zach from the cast just posted alive, and he said something interesting about, like, a little BTS of what they were told. He said that when Sierra left, the producers kind of, like, gathered them all together and said, unfortunately, Sierra has broken some of the policies of our guidelines. She'll no longer be here in the villa, and that's the only information we can give you guys. And he said, like, if you need to speak to somebody, speak to them, whatever. And then he said that, like, Nick took it pretty hard, but then Zach kind of said, at the end of the day, as much as you want to feel sorry for somebody, if, you know they got removed from a show for saying something offensive, you can't really feel sorry for them until you know what it is.

[Nick]

Yeah, it makes sense.

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah.

[Nick]

Do you guys really believe that Nick was that in the Sierra in the first place?

[Aaron]

No, his.

[TJ]

His demeanor is so different around Alandria. Like, I do believe he was into Sierra, but, like, I remember at some point being like, I wish we were seeing more of them as a couple, because I Feel like they're cool together. But every time we did, their conversations were like, I was obsessed with hippos. Have you ever like, yes.

[Nick]

No, but like Shrek one or two like.

[TJ]

And he just. Yeah, he seemed bored because they hooked up. Just at least compared to now. Compared to now. I mean he is like, he just.

[Christina Coca]

Seems so now he's ready to have deep conversations. You know, he wants to talk childhood trauma.

[Nick]

Yeah, but that's what I'm saying though. And like not to take any away anything away from the nickelandrea stands. I think it's more about the fact that like Sierra, Nick hooked up and then Nick immediately turned into the guy who is this, like, I don't know, do I like her? I'm not sure, you know, like, I don't know, she's cool and whatever. And so every conversation he's having with Sierra, he's trying to keep it surface level. He, you know, he's playing the whole like, well, I don't want her to like accuse me of leading her on. And like, you know when the guy starts just like him becoming more and more distant and with Alandria like it's his girl, there's no pressure. He's like, you know, there's. He's like, I don't care. Let's. Let's go deep. I'm not worried, you know, because Alandria is like so like, like, do we get an apartment right away when we get out of the villa? Like, am I, I'm. Am I moving? Are you? Yeah. Are you moving? And he's just like, totally. Yeah. It's just like so like what's your favorite animal? Like, you know, like, he's like, I.

[TJ]

Want to visit out this. I think he's been to like 40 something countries or something. He's like, I really want to come go visit Alabama.

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah.

[Nick]

You hated Al.

[TJ]

Is that where she even lives?

[Jaden]

He also talks about wanting to adopt kids.

[Nick]

Kids.

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah.

[Christina Coca]

Which he did.

[Aaron]

He told with the mamacita.

[Monica Garcia]

He was like.

[Aaron]

He was a sperm donor.

[Nick]

No. For his guys. Do you.

[Danny]

Right?

[Nick]

Yeah. Do you remember the baby challenge? And Nick goes to first question to Alandria. So do you think he could be a single mother? The like, what?

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah, that was wild.

[Aaron]

I think he meant that as in, I've thought about being a single.

[Nick]

Are you. Where are you going, Nick? Like, are you.

[Christina Coca]

He's like, I know we just had these babies, but do you think being a single mom that was.

[Nick]

Do you think you could be a.

[Christina Coca]

Great dad for your man? Pick up for your man, Christina.

[TJ]

Such good tv.

[Danny]

He's awesome.

[TJ]

That was such good tv.

[Monica Garcia]

I loved the baby challenge. I thought it was.

[Jaden]

It was so funny.

[Monica Garcia]

I thought it was hilarious.

[TJ]

I could just not have loved anything more. Like, I really. I'm obsessed with it.

[Monica Garcia]

Did you guys feel about, like, the Huda and Chris?

[Christina Coca]

It was really. The whole challenge, I felt, was really endearing. It was, like, you know, very sweet to see all of them, like, you know, kind of take it serious and all the men, like, kind of wearing the babies and whatever. That was cute. Someone definitely needed to tell Huda that that baby was fake because her getting so pissed off at Chris for, like, you're ripping the shirt off of her head.

[TJ]

I don't like that color.

[Nick]

You know, like, Chris and Huda reminded me.

[Christina Coca]

She went to set her down on the bench, and she's like. She can't hold her head up. She's, like, holding the. She's like. I was just sitting with her over here.

[Monica Garcia]

You can tell he was, like, totally emasculated in that moment. And, like, something, like, in the whole, like.

[Christina Coca]

Shut up.

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah.

[TJ]

I'm curious what y' all think about Tuesday night's episode? Because Huda did that thing that she does where she has a conversation, and then when she tells somebody else about the conversation, it is the opposite of what the conversation was like. Remember when she had the date, the water slide date with Jeremiah, and they're talking about moving in together, and he's like, well, and then she comes back to the villa and is like, yeah. He says he wants to, like, live together, and they're like, really? And so last night or on Tuesday night, she's talking to Chris and. And she goes, are you tired? And he says, no, I'm just mellow. And she's like, what's wrong? What's wrong? I'm just mellow. I'm just mellow. Blah, blah, blah, blah. Like, even if him saying I'm just mellow is clearly, like, a lie, he.

[Christina Coca]

Like, you hate me.

[TJ]

Does not want to be with this person. But she goes back to the girls in the makeup room and is like, he is exhausted. Oh, my God. He said he was so tired. That challenge wore him out. He's so tired. I'm like, he. He literally said no when you asked him if he was tired.

[Monica Garcia]

I mean, he was clearly upset about, like, the. The whole kissing thing. And then the whole challenge, she was kind of, like, on his ass about it.

[Christina Coca]

What is Yalls take on her, like, not wanting to show any affection in front of the islanders. But as soon as the lights go off, she's like, I gotta control myself. Can you say that when you clapped.

[Monica Garcia]

Your ass on your head.

[Christina Coca]

When you reverse cowgirled on Ace, you literally.

[TJ]

You sat on Ace's face like three days.

[Christina Coca]

He ate your.

[TJ]

Like, what are you talking about? Respectfully, like, what? What? It just doesn't. I'm sorry.

[Monica Garcia]

Like, just.

[TJ]

She's just coming up with stuff. Like, she.

[Monica Garcia]

No, that's so weird. I don't understand it. Especially because she was like, all over Jeremiah.

[Christina Coca]

Exactly.

[Nick]

Maybe she suffers from short term memory loss. Like, you know, it's just one. It's like momento, you know, it's just like, today's a new day, whatever. But like, generally, yeah, you know, because. Because Huda, generally, they can tell. Like, women we've talked to a lot of, she's one of the nicer ones. Like, without, you know, people we've interviewed.

[TJ]

I didn't feel myself on laughing, but.

[Nick]

Like, yeah, like, it's like all of a sudden Huda just like gets like, locked in and we'll be like, what is she like when she's like, if I were ugly, would it be different? Excuse me.

[TJ]

Yeah, that was crazy.

[Christina Coca]

And honestly, Chris is like such a. A good, kind, mature man. The way he's able to handle her.

[TJ]

Chris just wants to go to Space Jam.

[Christina Coca]

He does. He wants to play in 2k.

[Monica Garcia]

I would be pissed, though, if I was him, I'd be pissed. I'd be like, why the hell aren't you kissing me in public? Like, that's so weird.

[Christina Coca]

And it makes sense, him being like, I feel like she's embarrassed of me. Like, I don't really understand. It's like, yeah, as soon as the lights go off and him being like, you want to have sex with me? Like, as soon as the lights. It's not even like, yes. Oh, when the lights go off, you want to just like, hold hands and kiss a couple times. It's like you're going from 0 to 100 as soon as lights go off. And it's not. It's like people are four feet away from you, like, trying to sleep.

[Nick]

I don't think it's that deep for Huda. I think it's like this subconscious. Like, I think she lacks control in a lot of aspects of her life. And, like, this is one of the. She does. Like, we've, we've all done it in relationships where you just, like, you test that person and you see and like, instead of just like communicating, it's like what's frustrating about Nick and Huda is like, they actually like, they do try to communicate how they feel, right? They, they will talk about Nick and I'm sorry, Chris and Huda, I was like, like, they do try to communicate their feelings and frustrations, but instead of just like talking about it being like, you know, I just, they're just like, don't tell me to shut up. You know, they're like, now they're at like, well, if you're going to set about like, they're just matching each other's energy, you know. So like, you know, Huda comes at Chris and now it's like, like his response is more about like, I gotta stand up for myself. I can't let someone speak to me this way. And it just like, it's more and more like, Jesus.

[Christina Coca]

Then also when they had that chat, like after the weird, like random basketball game and they all came back and he was like, okay, I'm finally ready to like talk to Huda. And he sits her down and he like is trying to explain like where he's coming from. And then she's like, he's like, oh, I'll kiss you right now or something. And she was like, I'm gonna throw up. Oh my God, I'm gonna throw up. I'm like, this poor guy.

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah, that was like, what the hell?

[Nick]

That was.

[Monica Garcia]

She's like, I'm gonna throw up.

[Nick]

Yeah.

[Christina Coca]

I'm like, this poor guy just is trying to be so sweet and nurturing to you and you will not allow it.

[TJ]

I'm curious if any of you guys think that his like dreaming of playing basketball last. Yeah, I don't know if that was.

[Nick]

He made that up.

[TJ]

If that was like a. Hey, just.

[Nick]

I play basketball.

[TJ]

Like, we're not actually gonna date. So there's like a couple theories.

[Christina Coca]

When she's like planning their future, she's like, I see you, you know, outside of this. And every chance he gets, he's like, I'm going to play ball overseas. Like, I'm getting the.

[TJ]

Out of here. I'm gone six to nine months.

[Christina Coca]

He's literally I'm gone every day of the year. I can't.

[Monica Garcia]

He like throws in the long distance thing. Any chance he could get. He's like, long distance, Long distance, Long distance.

[TJ]

One of the comments I got was like, soft launching unemployment is wild or something like that. Like he's trying to be like, hey, I'm available to play. Like if that was his.

[Jaden]

Hey, you know what?

[Monica Garcia]

In the unemployment line, we're all.

[Aaron]

Honestly, like, Czechoslovakia would. Like, their basketball team would do numbers if someone from Love island was on it.

[Christina Coca]

Honestly, whether he's good or not, he might get another.

[Nick]

Yeah, this. This is a great marketing in a little stunt cast. Even if he. Yeah, I was. Were you all as bummed as Nelly and I were when, like. Like, I didn't need the. The. The Bro Chat to let them, like, you know, prove that there's no toxic masculinity in this group. I wanted the girls to, like, show up in the bleachers and kind of a little bit toxic, like, either get the ick from their man or, like, can I get turned on that Pepe's this, like, shooting J's. Like, I wanted. I wanted that, and I. I didn't need what we got.

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah.

[TJ]

Last night was the first time I.

[Christina Coca]

Was like, hold on.

[TJ]

We've been watching for five minutes. How are we 30 minutes in? What do you mean?

[Nick]

It.

[TJ]

We're halfway through this episode. It just was like. It just felt like, like, nothing. Nothing. What was that? Why are we. I just. I started playing basketball by Bow Wow, like, in the background, all the women.

[Christina Coca]

Just, like, be sitting back. It's like, we didn't want to give them any, like, activity. I don't give him a spot.

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah, that.

[Jaden]

Last year, they do it on UK all the time, too. It's like, the girls will get something at the villa, like a spa or, you know, something else.

[Christina Coca]

I will say, Taylor asking Clark to be exclusive. That was cute. Like, all of the guys doing the.

[Monica Garcia]

Cheer, that was so cute.

[Nick]

You knew they were going home then. It was very much giving, like, bachelor, like, I'm falling in love with you. And it's like, all right, well, I guess I realized I definitely can't fall in love with you now. Because now hearing you say that is, like, definitely make. It's cleared, you know? Now. Now. I was confused before. Now I'm not confused. You gotta go show.

[TJ]

My thing is, like, instead of them playing basketball, I would have loved to watch them trying to practice that thing. That was so cute. It was so funny. Like, I let. Let us see them, like, goofing around and, like, falling over, and they're like, how do I make the R shape or just something.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah, I agree.

[Monica Garcia]

Because, like, when they came out and they actually performed it, they nailed that. And I'm like, like, whoa. How long did they practice it? They did not miss a beat. They were on punch.

[Aaron]

The boys should have been the cheerleaders doing that routine, and the girls should have been playing basketball that's what I wanted to say.

[Nick]

Did you.

[TJ]

There was a, like, split second in the back, like, where after the cheer, somebody, like, they were carrying Taylor in the air, and, like, he was, like, horizontal, like, being carried. Like, I just. I would have much rather seen more of that, but I don't know.

[Christina Coca]

I don't think we saw some exclusive, so maybe we just spell Clark. Nick's like, C, L, A, R, K. It's like, you don't know how to spell her name.

[Jaden]

Let's just knock off the E because there's not enough of us.

[Nick]

That's all right. You didn't know that Sierra spelled her name with a C until after they hooked up.

[Monica Garcia]

That's true.

[Aaron]

But you know what? He knows how to spell Alandria.

[Christina Coca]

It's like how Nick spelled Amaya's name with a J instead of a Y. I was like. I mean, I guess.

[Jaden]

Wait, what?

[Nick]

That's because everyone's babe to Nick.

[TJ]

No, Zach did that. Not Nick. You guys keep bringing my.

[Jaden]

Christina's defending her boyfriend.

[Christina Coca]

I just like, when they were like.

[Monica Garcia]

How are we gonna make an R? And I'm like. Because I was sitting. I was sitting on my couch, and I'm like, how are they gonna make an R?

[Christina Coca]

I wasn't thinking. They were doing it with their arms. I was like, oh, this is a full body. Yeah. Like, legs are L, arms are the top of the L is what I was.

[TJ]

But you also could have just like. But, like, a lowercase might have been easier.

[Christina Coca]

Cute. It was cute.

[TJ]

I wasn't there. I couldn't have helped.

[Nick]

Not them making sure that Alandria was, like, the center shot. Like, literally, as if she was presiding over their wedding.

[Monica Garcia]

I know. That was so shady.

[TJ]

When Clark was packing, like, she's sitting on the floor with her suitcase.

[Christina Coca]

Oh, Andrew's checking herself out in the mirror.

[TJ]

Literally. She's, like, fixing her cleavage.

[Nick]

Yeah.

[TJ]

She really knew it.

[Monica Garcia]

She's just like.

[TJ]

Yeah.

[Christina Coca]

Also, but Alandra is an Auburn fan, which. Shout out to Auburn. That was, like, a cool. That was a cool moment. Nick tried to talk football with her, and she was like, anyways, we'll circle back.

[Monica Garcia]

I feel like it's getting better now that Ace isn't. You can tell that they were like, okay, Ace, you need to take a seat back.

[Christina Coca]

You needed a piece of homework.

[Monica Garcia]

Stop trying to control the whole villa.

[TJ]

Yeah, it's fun. Like, four days before it's over. Like, yeah. I feel like I'm just starting to, like, really? We're getting into it, and. But at the Same time. You know, that's just because it went by fast. Like I was watching every night. And like you said earlier, Nick, like, if this was not hard for me to keep up with, like, no, me neither. I'm ready. I'm ready.

[Nick]

Every night when we got people say, saying, bite them, baby. Yeah.

[Christina Coca]

Eat that kitty. Eat that kitty in the hideaway.

[TJ]

Eat that kitty.

[Nick]

To shave my.

[Christina Coca]

I have to shave my ass.

[Nick]

Crap.

[Christina Coca]

Kitty in the hide.

[Monica Garcia]

She went on her journey twice.

[Nick]

Twice.

[Christina Coca]

Bite them, baby. Was crazy.

[Monica Garcia]

That was, that was so.

[Nick]

Was awesome.

[Monica Garcia]

I'm over here nursing and I'm like.

[TJ]

It sounded like she said, I like that baby, but that was like a love island and self imposed. That was like a caption they decided to put.

[Nick]

Yeah. In case it wasn't clear, that's what they said. Subtitles. Yeah.

[Christina Coca]

Also who's ever writing those subtitles? They gotta get better.

[Nick]

Do you think there's any way when, when Chris was like, hey, we. We basically had sex and he said I folded. Yeah. Did it almost sound like he said the F word and they just dubbed and folded or am I crazy?

[Monica Garcia]

Had to replay that.

[Christina Coca]

I thought he said I her three times.

[TJ]

I'm like, really?

[Monica Garcia]

Here?

[Christina Coca]

Yes.

[Monica Garcia]

Because I didn't think he said folding. I was just like, what did he say? What were they saying?

[Nick]

Yeah, but like, Brian knew exactly what Chris meant when he said I. I folded. And I'm not sure why I would. I wouldn't immediately be like, oh, you guys had sex. Maybe, maybe.

[Christina Coca]

I don't know.

[TJ]

That's. I, I, that's what I like, immediately understood that he was alluding to.

[Nick]

We don't want to start.

[TJ]

But I don't.

[Monica Garcia]

No, sir.

[TJ]

Well, speaking. Speaking of audio conspiracies, y' all had to have seen it there. It's like you can hear Sierra screaming, don't do this. And I'm like, okay, first of all, there's no you. You actually don't know who it is. You don't know where it's from.

[Monica Garcia]

You have no idea. Yeah.

[TJ]

Like. And you're trying to make it just sounds like Amaya being like, yeah, like, who know who? What are you talking. People are like, there's proof. There's proof.

[Christina Coca]

They act like she's like being drugged by her feet being, don't do this.

[TJ]

It's a 27 minutes and 30 seconds. Like, no. Okay, you can hear it. I'm like, you can. People are like, you can hear it.

[Nick]

Go.

[TJ]

Listen. I'm like, I have.

[Nick]

I can't hear it. I mean, listen, this Always happens when a show's number one. But the. The breaking down screenshots and insert. You know, it's just like it is a TV show. Yes. It's edited. Yes. We lose context sometimes. Yeah. But, like, it's. They're not. Yeah.

[Monica Garcia]

Do you guys. And this is kind of like a serious question, but I have been dying to ask you guys this. Do you think that it's a reality show and that they should actually play the reality of that show and that they should have shown. How did they find out what exactly happened in the villa? How were people reacting? What was Nick's reaction? Like, do you guys think, like. Like, hello, we're watching a reality TV show. Like, show the reality of what's happening. Like, they don't have to. They don't have to break down, but, like, show. Like, it was like nothing happened. Sierra's gone.

[Christina Coca]

I don't think they would because production is the one who, like, told the islanders. And then it would be like they would be opening up themselves for people to be like, you didn't handle that right. You didn't tell them the truth. You didn't say this. You said that that's not what happened. And so I think they would be, like, protecting themselves by not. Not showing what they tell.

[Nick]

Also, I think that just makes it a different show. That's more like the Truman show when you just have, like, a live stream and they. You see everything. Like, we know it's edited, so it's just like, not the show. And I just think this. The audience is so toxic. It's just like, I. I think they do have to try to protect these people in ways that, like, I don't think it just to go offline and come back with. With, you know, fans and haters and people like, you know, they're. There are fans trying to get, you know, Nick have his nursing license taken away because they're just not a fan.

[Christina Coca]

Like, people are trying to call CPS on Hooda.

[Nick]

It's crazy, right? And just like, you know, it's a younger audience, so you, you know, like, you know, with younger audiences, there's a little bit more, you know, reactiveness online and things like that. So I just think. Yeah, I think it would be tough to do, especially if you're not doing it, you know, especially if the odd, you know, if the cast doesn't. Wasn't. You didn't sign up for that. Like, you. You can't just pick and choose, like, where it's just like, well, now we're gonna be Righteous. And show you everything because, you know.

[Christina Coca]

On their off day, they like, go to a hotel, you know, like on Saturdays they go to. I'm pretty sure it's Saturday because that's like the only day they don't.

[TJ]

They're. They like, get to go to the beach.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah, they, like, are off. They're like, not miked. They're like off days. So it's like if we.

[TJ]

They're not allowed to talk about the show or anything though. They're like, there's like crew members, like, with them when they're demiked being like, don't say it. Don't talk about that.

[Monica Garcia]

Oh, they do that on. They do that on Housewives too. Like, if there's something going on and we're not filming, but we're all in, like, it's like, don't, don't.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah, save it.

[Monica Garcia]

You know, like, don't talk to each other.

[Nick]

But also with various topics, right? Like depending on if, if you bring it up, then you got to talk about it. And if you talk about it, then the entire Internet is critiquing everything they're saying, you know, and again, these people have been offline, away from their families, away from their support system. Truly, like, don't. Don't know what day it is. Don't know what time of day it is. Like, that's just like they're truly being, you know, tested in an unfamiliar environment. They signed up for it, they agreed to it, they consented to it, but it's still like a crazy environment. And I do think this cast needs to be protected in that level and to make that at a center of conversation and then have the entire Internet nitpick and critique, you know, what they meant. When again, so much can be taken out of context because they don't have the time to show everyone's three minute feelings on whatever topic they want to discuss. And I think with that they, you know, like, cast deserves a level of protection.

[TJ]

I think also in, like, knowing that there's going to be people who watch past seasons, like in the future, like, if, if you're not participating live in this moment and let's say, like, somebody just decides to go and binge Love island. Like, they don't know. So if they, if they knew, if they were like, point, you know, pointing out the specific reasons of what somebody did wrong to leave the villa, then that could like restart the whole thing over again. Like, if you're not participating with the. When it's like a movement, then I can see where they Wouldn't want to, like, re. Bring it up in future. I don't know. I mean, I don't know. It's interesting just because the. This whole, like, you know, should they show the reality versus. Should they? Well, I was going to compare it to the Valley, but it's completely different. Like, I mean, just, like, with the method of thinking of, like, well, this is what's real and this is what we're showing. Like, I. Yeah, yeah, yeah. That's a separate. That's like a separate rant that I'm sure we could go on. And. Nick, I know you hate Jax as much as I do.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah.

[TJ]

But it is. It is totally different. I mean, they're like the Love Island. I mean, the fact that they don't even tell them the time of day, like, that is psychologically, like, crazy.

[Nick]

Yeah, it's. Yeah. So I just. I think we have to try to, like, have that perspective and. Yeah.

[Christina Coca]

Anyways, I have to say, poor Hannah, She's. This whole time while he was with Pepe was with Grayson, she was like, oh, my God, he's obsessed with me. He still love me. Like, he's coming back for me. And then he gets covered up with.

[Monica Garcia]

Iris, but she's back.

[TJ]

She's back with Charlie now, or she's able to.

[Nick]

It takes a good six months for the dust to settle with these shows and people to start moving how they would move without. Without, like, feeling, like, what they think the audience thinks they should do.

[Monica Garcia]

Yep, yep, exactly.

[TJ]

DJ Post. There was like a TikTok or something he posted that was like, damn, I can't even go to Target anymore. And it was like there was like some sign in the background that said just, like, unrelated to Love Island. It was like some auto thing. And he was like, damn, this has.

[Nick]

Been a ton of fun, ladies. We gotta let you go, but let's. Let's do it again with both you. So much fun. Christina, can you let my audience know where they can follow you?

[Monica Garcia]

Yes.

[TJ]

So I'm Christina Coca. That's how you say it. C O, C, C, A. So my Instagram is Coca Makoca. It's my last name. Twice with Ma in the middle and TikTok's Coca. Coca.

[Nick]

Great. And Monica. I feel like people don't need to know where to find you, but just in case.

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah, it's just Monica Nikki Garc on Instagram.

[Nick]

Well, I appreciate you ladies for joining us. Up next, TJ and Jaden join us together to answer all your burning questions about what is going down in the Villa, how does TJ feel about Iris moving on so quickly and then just their general thoughts about their experience and the rest of the cast that is up next.

[Christina Coca]

Bye.

[Nick]

All.

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[Nick]

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[Christina Coca]

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[Nick]

A L l tj and Jaden, welcome to the show. We're so excited to have you both. Thanks for taking the time.

[Kristen]

Thank you for having us.

[Nick]

So I've just had curiosity where you guys are back stateside. Tj, where are you calling from? I don't need your exact location. Like, the people are crazy out there.

[Kristen]

I'm currently in New York with my family and then I'm headed tomorrow.

[Nick]

How about you, Jaden?

[Danny]

I'm in Seattle right now, also heading to la.

[Nick]

Okay. All right. Well, it's obviously been a crazy run for both of you lot. So much to get into. But, like, just how are you guys feeling? You know, just kind of mentally, physically, obviously. It's such a whirlwind to get out of this show and obviously I'm always reminded that fan has shown for fanatics. The fans are definitely fanatic about you guys in this show. I don't know if you guys fully were prepared for what it's like to come out of the villa, but, like, how are you guys doing mentally, you know, emotionally? What's it like?

[Kristen]

I'm. I'm honestly all right. I'm super overwhelmed. But I think coming out of the villa, I thought that there was going to be a lot of hate towards me, and it was kind of the opposite. And I'm still getting a lot of love, so just super grateful, to be honest.

[Danny]

It's definitely been super overwhelming, but in a good way. And I feel like I'm just really grateful to see all of the positive feedback that I've got and that makes me really happy. But I feel like my time was kind of short and Sweet. So I did not expect after the villa to be this intense or overwhelming.

[Nick]

What's been the most intense part?

[Danny]

Maybe just the social media presence. I was not good at social media before for this at all. I wasn't very good at social media, so I feel a little bit more pressured to try and be.

[Nick]

Well, if I can give you any advice, both of you, I mean, the Internet is the matrix. It's like, it's not real. You should post and dash. Like, just don't. Don't sit on. Don't sit on it. Who gives a what people say? Just keep them talking.

[Christina Coca]

I will say it was a great song choice you chose for your photo dump. To tj.

[Kristen]

Oh, Jesus.

[Nick]

No. The man. Well, speaking of that, tj, I am curious what your thoughts are because obviously America really enjoyed watching you and Iris form this connection. It really seemed like, you know, this season, like having a connection was the kiss of death. It's like, oh, I think I'm feeling feelings, and then, boom, you get assassinated. I think we're all a little surprised to see, you know, Iris was devastated. She was crying. She seemed really heartbroken. She was like, I don't know. I'm gonna move on. I just. Maybe I should just. Oh, Pepe, any, like, are you of the mindset that it's like, hey, listen, it's the show. It is what it is, or are you a little. You know, I. Obviously, I know you have a ton of respect for Iris, but are you. Are you a little caught off guard by how. How fast she seems to be forming this connection with people? Pepe?

[Kristen]

Yeah, definitely. You know, I want to act all cool and like, it's not affecting me at all, but I would be lying if I was acting that way. I think watching the episode last night definitely, like, broke my heart and, you know, it was real for me. And, you know, I didn't care about the prize money or anything. She was the prize for me. And, you know, it sucks seeing them too. It was like two of my best friends, so it was like a double win me. But I see the other side as, you know, it's both of their experience. And I didn't want her to leave with me. And, you know, I'm glad she found someone that makes her happy and that's all I could ask for. And I just hope it's genuine and. But, yeah, I'd be lying if I said it wasn't.

[Nick]

Yeah, it's gotta. It's gotta be tough. You know, I'm sure you try to put yourself in her shoes. Like, what would you do if the roles were reversed?

[Kristen]

Yeah, it's definitely a tough situation. So, you know, nothing against them whatsoever. Like, it is a super tough situation. They're locked in this place. No contact to the outside world. Whether it's Pepe or another person, they're right in front of them. I'm no longer connected with her whatsoever. So I think it's just, you know, Love Island's built for that and I can't hate on it. I believe everything happens for a reason. And, you know, if she's happy, I'm happy and I support her.

[Nick]

Yeah. Cause it seemed like you and Pepe kind of had a nice heart to heart, like right before the whole voting off. And, and, and Pepe spoke to your and Iris's connection, like, you guys have something real. And then he didn't vote to keep you and then kind of swooped in.

[Kristen]

Yeah, I, I think his vote surprised me the most. I mean, I don't know if you guys saw my reaction when he walked by me, but I was super happy that he was walking up to me and then he said, I'm sorry, and my head kind of just dropped. And that was shocking because he was like, like, you know, my older brother in there. And, you know, I don't, I have two younger brothers. I don't have older brother. And he was just like my guy. So it sucks. But I also understand, like, he's in there for himself and I just hope, like at that time in his head, he thought voting for Taylor was the right decision. And that's at the end of the day, that's all.

[Nick]

Did he say, did he. Did you get any context or say why? After the vote? I know you had a quick 30 minutes to say all your goodbyes, but do you, did you get any insight into why he made that call for Tyler Taylor?

[Kristen]

Not exactly. Like, you know, everyone's super upset when someone leaves and it's always just like, you know, I'm so sorry. Like, you know, I didn't want it to be this way. It's a tough choice and you kind of have to be okay with that. You know, half of me wants to be like, why the hell did you vote for him? But, you know, the other half is like, I completely understand because it was tough for, you know, Jaden Austin, Andrina Grayson, and, you know, the rest of us leaving. So, you know, I didn't get a complete answer, but, you know, what are.

[Christina Coca]

You going to do, Jaden? You being obviously the most recent person to enter the Villa via Casa Amore. Had you been in Fiji the whole time, or had you just recently gone for Casa?

[TJ]

No, I.

[Danny]

That was actually my second time going to Fiji. I went in the beginning, and then I went home, and then I came back for Kasa. So, yeah, back and forth.

[Christina Coca]

It's a lot of flying.

[Nick]

Get those miles. Wow. Why?

[Christina Coca]

What happened the first go around?

[Danny]

I don't know. I think I was really nervous about going on the show in general. I feel like the whole experience is super out of my comfort zone.

[TJ]

So.

[Danny]

I feel like it was the best decision to bring me in with a group of girls. I feel like. Like, I wouldn't have had it any other way. Now that. That's how it happened.

[Christina Coca]

That makes sense.

[Nick]

Yeah.

[Christina Coca]

Did you obviously, like, watch the show as it's airing? I. I think I've been told that, like, you're supposed to. So that way you kind of know who you want to go in there for. Is that right? I think some people have kind of been under the impression that maybe the newer bombshells or people from CASA, like, kind of came in and was like, hey, this is what America's thinking. Because it feel, you know, like amaya, papaya. Like, that's something that us as America called her. And then they started calling her that in the villa, like, nicolandria is what we referred to them as. And then, like, they started referring to themselves as. So it was like, is that kind of something that when y' all go in, you're like, oh, my God, we have to tell y', all, like, what's been going viral? Who's the most loved? Is any of that told?

[Danny]

No, we.

[TJ]

No.

[Danny]

I mean, we have a mic on 24 hours a day, basically. So, no, we're not supposed to talk about anything that's going on the outside to anybody.

[Nick]

Okay. Jaden, can we go back to when casa was still going on? When you initially paired up with Austin, which was a big moment at the time when we all thought Nick was getting sent home, or I don't know if anyone really believed it, but for a moment, it seemed like Nick was going home home. And a lot of the fans clocked what seemed to be when they got up and to kind of comfort Nick that Ace kind of looked at you and kind of gave you the. What the fuck was that? Did. Did. Did that happen? And did you notice Ace making you try to feel a certain way? And were any of your tears in that moment of feeling bad have anything to do with.

[Danny]

With Ace, you know, in that very moment? I was so overwhelmed and crying. I did not notice him make that comment in that moment. But I did definitely feel some type of maybe animosity or just. He was. He was definitely upset and I felt like it was directed at me. He did not say anything specifically to me that was negative. And, and we did have a conversation after the fact before going to sleep that night. And he did come to me and apologize. So I do feel like those negative feelings were real or I don't know why he was apologizing.

[Nick]

I mean, the apology at least seems sincere because, I mean, it makes sense. I mean, Nick's his boy and he was sad to. To see him go. And, and, you know, if he has the right to feel a certain way about it and if you felt like he came at you a little strong, I'm glad he at least apologized.

[Danny]

I agree. It did feel sincere. It made me feel a lot better.

[Christina Coca]

TJ we had Vanna on. She seemed a little bummed that her response to you picking Iris wasn't aired. I guess she maybe had some opinions of Yalls time together. Did any of that that she said hurt your feelings?

[Kristen]

It didn't hurt my feelings. I felt like we kind of knew that. We both knew that. I think that initially when I first spoke to her, everything was all good. We hit it off. And then just like, as the days went on, we just didn't really get along at all. We're just two different people. And by the last conversation we had before that night, I think it was that day. We just both knew that this probably wasn't going anywhere. And I didn't specifically say I'm going to choose Iris at the recoupling if she walks up to me. But, you know, I feel like she. She probably guessed that. And I think that last conversation with her really put into my mind like, where I was at with who I wanted to be with. But yeah, we were just too.

[Christina Coca]

I think she said you don't like to laugh.

[Kristen]

Yeah, you know, I think it was just, you know, virus being away.

[Nick]

I was defending you. I was like, well, if you're not funny, you know me.

[Kristen]

No, but I mean, she's great. We just had different senses of humor. And I'm pretty serious when it comes to like, like, I guess, emotions and like relationships. And she was like kind of joking around and stuff. And you know, again, we're just two different people, but she's great and I'm happy that, you know, we spent some time together, but it just didn't end up working out.

[Nick]

Jaden You. You. You got sent home, which sucked. But it seemed like at the time, you know, you and Austin left the villa holding hands. And I, you know, watching you, too, I. I see why you. You guys got together. You seem both kind of like you have these goofy personalities and senses of humor. Neither of you seem like you guys take, you know, I mean, this is a compliment life, like, too seriously, and I. I saw the chemistry between the two of you, but obviously, like, being in that world is such a mind, and, like, it doesn't even seem like reality. And, like, once you can get on the plane and go home, a lot can change. Change. From your perspective, is you and Austin a thing? Is. Are you guys still talking, or. Or is it kind of like, you know, I don't know.

[Danny]

I would say it's still a thing. We're still talking. We had such a good time in the villa. I don't think we wanted to stop now. But we do live on, like, completely opposite ends of the country. We couldn't be further apart. So I think time will tell. I will see him this week, and we're excited to get together.

[Nick]

What was it about that relationship that excited you the most? Most.

[Danny]

I feel like it was so easy, like, from our first conversation. It feels like I had known him for a very long time, and we. We were always upset. We couldn't keep talking at the end of the day. Like, we just wanted to. We just couldn't get enough of each other. So I feel like it was. It was just really easy and a good time.

[Nick]

Tj I'm curious back to. To you and Iris. I'm curious, like, your mindset, right? Because this is your first time doing this experience. You don't know what to expect. None of you know what to. You know, you don't know what you signed up for, so to speak. But from your perspective, are you gonna be, like, watching how things unfold or. Or is it just more like, are you willing to pursue something with Iris regardless of what you see unfold? Short of Iris and Pepe being like, we're in love, which I. You know, and there's not much of the show left. I don't know how much more the connected they could be to each other than you two were. Like, what is your mindset? Are you kind of. Have you been turned off by the possibility of something with Iris altogether?

[Kristen]

So, again, it definitely hurts, but I have to remind myself, like, not everything is shown, and, you know, things may look a certain way or a certain way. So that's always in the back of my mind, I think the best thing when she comes out is just for me and, me and her to have a conversation and just, just like get the straight up facts and then make my decision then. But I would be lying if, you know, I said that didn't, you know, turn me off or, like, make me not want to pursue things with her. It's definitely a tough position, like, watching that. But, you know, at the end of the day, not everything is shown and I'm just trying to look at everything in the positive and everything makes a.

[Nick]

Lot of sense and you seem like you have a, a good outlook on it. I am curious if it's, if it's not too much or not too hurtful for you, but I am curious. Like, you guys seem to make a strong conn. Connection, but from your perspective, forgetting about her and Pepe for, for the, for now, like, what were some of the conversations that you guys had? Regardless if we got to see it or didn't get to see it, that really made you feel like there was some real potential with Iris?

[Kristen]

Yeah, I, I feel like from the day I met her, I told her, like, I love the way that she carries herself, how mature she is, the advice she gives to other girls in the villa, and that she was super unproblematic. And I'm like, the same way. I hate drama, I hate all that shit. And we just connected on a vibe that, like, I didn't connect with anybody else. Even, like some of the guys, like, I know a lot wasn't shown. I didn't watch every episode, but we would be just chilling all day. We would, like, fudgeing, throw grapes in each other's mouth from across the villa. It was just like we would have fun together. And it was like the cameras weren't there and I was just super comfortable, comfortable with her. But, you know, it was real to me and hopefully it was super genuine to her as well. And that's all I could, you know, really ask for. But she's a great person all around and I never really felt that way with someone. Obviously, like, the situation that we were in, stranded, like, just with these people had to do with that. But I think I would have felt the same way on the outside.

[Christina Coca]

Jaden, obviously Grayson is your girl. What was your reaction to finding out that Huda wrote the note about Pepe that got her so upset?

[Danny]

Oh, my goodness, I was so sad to hear that.

[Nick]

That.

[Danny]

Because I feel like Huda and I had a really good relationship. So when we were told that on After Sun, I was honestly shocked. She didn't seem too shocked. But I do know Huda and like, I feel like she probably, you know, it looked as though she regretted it and I'm sure she did. And I feel like when that was read aloud, I think she regretted it in that moment and that's why she didn't speak up. I think she was embarrassed and if she could go back, I don't think she would.

[Nick]

So much has been like the, the phrase girls girl has really peaked this season of Love island and it's certainly not the first time we've heard it. It's. It seems to be an overused term. I am curious, Jaden, like, what. What do you think of that saying and what do you think that means to you? And do you feel like especially in the villa, that is something that, that the women there sincerely something they believe in or is it more like this kind of performative thing that you say just like, hey, just so you know, I'm a girl's girl, you know, not even thinking about what that means or like what actions would represent being a girl's girl.

[Danny]

Honestly, before going on the show, I feel like girls who typically say they're a girls girl, most of the time I feel like it's more odd and maybe you're not not because otherwise why.

[TJ]

Do you need to say it right?

[Danny]

I definitely think a girl's girl is just having loyalty with your friends, with your girls and being communicative with them and letting them know how you feel all the time and just being super transparent. I feel like that's the most important part. But yeah, I think most of the girls in there are girls girls. Like, I do think that we all do our best to be respectful of each other's relationships, but I do think that term sometimes, sometimes is used maybe.

[TJ]

A little too loosely.

[Christina Coca]

Do you feel like Ciara choosing Taylor over Iris kind of made that girl's girl a little less possible for Sierra?

[Danny]

I mean, they were very close. Iris and Sierra.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah, it was like her dream. Like what, Rupple or something?

[Monica Garcia]

Yeah.

[Danny]

I think we were all surprised when she stood behind Taylor, as were we. And I was curious. I. I mean, I didn't know how many people were standing behind each of us. Was she like the tiebreaker?

[Christina Coca]

I don't know if she would have gone with Audrina.

[Nick]

She could have saved Audrina. I don't at that point. She couldn't have saved tj. Sorry, tj.

[Christina Coca]

That would have felt good.

[Nick]

I'm curious. This question for Both you and I, as someone who knows what it's like to be in the world, like, I wasn't on Love island and years ago I was a part of the Bachelor franchise. But similar in the sense that you guys are isolated from the world. World. You're thrown into what is essentially a very carefully crafted social experiment. And, you know, I'm. I'm trying to explain to the audience often, like, what it's like to be in that atmosphere. So for one, like, to just give all of you a little bit of grace because it's terrifying, right? And why it's very much like everyone resorts to, like, high school behavior and things like that. And I don't even mean this in a bad way, but I'm curious what you think of this. Is that, like, I off, you know, I feel like a lot of. Of the friendship making early on, I think eventually people start connecting with people and making friendships. But, like, a lot of the perceived friendships early on are just people trying to, like, not be alone, right? Because it's so terrifying to walk in there and not have your emotional support system, not access. Have access to any friends. You're just by yourself and you just don't want to feel alone. And do you feel like being a part of the villa and just observing your peers? Do you feel like some people faked friendships more than others, even if it was for the reasons of, like, just not wanting to feel isolated, be alone. And I feel that that's why, like, Amaya's really stood out to people or even Austin at times. Because I felt like Amaya and Austin were a few of the people who would, like, truly say what they think, regardless if they thought it was a popular decision. And I feel like that's very rare in these atmospheres because it is so terrifying to not be part of the group or the majority in these types of shows. I was just curious what you guys think about all that.

[Kristen]

Well, one, I think Austin is a dog. He is the realest guy I've ever met. He didn't care if you liked him, didn't like him. And I have nothing bad to say about him. He spoke his mind. But I do understand that completely. I feel like when I came in the first few days, I was super quiet. Like, I didn't want to step on anybody's toes. I didn't want to say the wrong thing. And I was just trying to be friends with everyone. And eventually, like, I got out of that shell. But I, I definitely, I. I could see that I can't specifically Say, like, if I saw someone doing that or whatnot, but I feel like that's definitely something that I could see from people. Yeah. I don't know if Jaden, you've seen.

[Danny]

That, but I would agree with you that when I went in, I think I tried to be friends with everybody. And then I think through that process, you. You find people that you're obviously closer to and bond with stronger than others. And like, I don't know, some of those people were different from what I thought by watching the show before and then meeting everyone in person who was.

[Nick]

More different from your perception versus your reality. Well, I don't.

[Danny]

Hudda and I ended up sharing a closet for some time and I was like, terrified. I told Alandria, I was like, oh, no, no, I'm in Hudda's closet. Like, I took over her entire space and I was like. And as soon as I met her, I told her, I'm so sorry. I closet. Like, I was scared. I told her I was scared to be in your all up in your space. And she was the nicest human ever. She's so nice. She gave me 75 of that closet. And like, I feel like even Amaya was a little nervous about just because of the recoupling with Austin. And she also speaks her mind. So I was like, oh, no, I hope this isn't going to be a negative encounter. And it was nothing but positive, positive.

[Nick]

Were there any people who were less sweet than you anticipated?

[Danny]

Honestly, not really. All the girls are so, so nice. I think definitely, like, some were more welcoming than others, but I feel like all of them were sweet.

[Nick]

I'm just curious generally just how you guys see the rest of the season playing out. I think a lot of fans want to know, is Nickelandria the real deal or are these two people understanding the assignment?

[Kristen]

I don't know how I feel to be. To be completely honest. I know that when they were coupled up after getting kicked from Casa, I knew that Nick was super interested in pursuing things. My whole thing with why I'm a little iffy is because I feel like they tried and you know, they had that kiss and they both said, like, all right, like, there's nothing there. And now they're kind of trying it again. But I also see that now Sierra's not here, so maybe that helps. Helps to trying to be like, more open. So I'm like a little iffy. I don't know. But, you know, I'm not one in doubt.

[Christina Coca]

It's tough because it was like her, you know, their reasoning for like not continuing was like, oh, Taylor was in the back, back of my mind and Sierra was in the back of my mind. And like, you know, for both of them, it was like Sierra was her girl, Taylor was her connection.

[Nick]

And I mean, it's like, it's. It's like kissing my brother. So now I'm more like so. But like, still.

[Kristen]

No, I get it. I. I could see. I could see there being something there, but I also see how it could just be like a little facade. Just, you know, they tried it, you know, it didn't work. But now they're, you know, Taylor and Sierra are out of the picture.

[Nick]

So, yeah, both. I'm curious both your opinions, both as viewers, you know, watching it before you got on because you guys were, you know, Casa and Bombshells and then being in the Village. I think a lot of fans are just a little frustrated with this season and they've called it like Friendship Island. Nick and Sierra were the only closed off couple and now obviously that doesn't exist. Why do you feel like or do you have any read on why there's been a lack of like real meaningful connections like we got to see in season six and we have three relationships that are still going strong and it just hasn't happened for whatever reason this season. I'm curious if you guys have any perspective or opinion in on that.

[Danny]

I think a lot of this season has been like splitting the most strong connections up, which is weird a little, but I do like, even Hood and Jeremiah, they had some conflict in their relationship, but they were obviously very, yeah. Strong. They had a strong, strong couple and that. That ended. And then I feel like Hannah and Pepe had a strong, strong relationship that ended luckily Austin, I got to leave together. But. And we'll see what happens now. But same with Iris and tj. I feel like so many of the strongest connections have just been jumped.

[Christina Coca]

I mean, even before Hannah and Pepe, we had Hannah and Charlie and they ripped Charlie away from her.

[Danny]

Exactly. I don't know why that's been happening this season, but that's my personal opinion. I feel like with why it's kind of become like more Friendship Island.

[Nick]

Well, there is one strong connection that I feel like America has been very resistant to accept and that is Taylor and Clark. Say what you want, but like, they seem like they really like each other and Clark seems to have received a lot of. It seems like unfair criticism simply just because she's not Alandria. And while we love Alandria, I mean, Clark Seems like like a pretty swell person. I'm just curious, like, what's your read? You know, especially you, Jaden, who you were in casa with her. Do you feel like people need to start, you know, chilling out on Clark and. And. And opening up to the possibility of. Of seeing her positive qualities?

[Danny]

Absolutely. I love Clark. I would say her and I were maybe the close that was my closest friend in there. And from the moment Taylor and Clark had a conversation, like, you could just tell there's from across the villa. Like, they're laughing, kissing, touching. Like, they. Their smiles never go away when they're together. And they are always trying to find each other, even in moments when we're supposed to be a little separated, like, they are just inseparable. And I definitely see that relationship well beyond the villa. Like, they have a very, very undeniably strong connection.

[Nick]

Honestly, it wouldn't shock me if the most successful couple from this season is those. Those two. Yeah, honestly, I would agree. What is tj? I'm just curious, what is your read on? I think it's kind of died down a little bit, but. Well, first of all, is ACE510?

[Kristen]

You know, I don't have a tape measure, so I can't, like, put a number on it, but, you know, maybe not. You know, I don't want to put a number on his head.

[Nick]

How tall are you?

[Kristen]

I'm six foot.

[Nick]

All right.

[Christina Coca]

Are you five? 11?

[Kristen]

I've been getting that a lot, though.

[Nick]

I mean, I find Ace to be very funny, very charming. He's obviously a very dynamic individual. But did you feel like he was. He had almost had too much sway and control over, like, the villa and the people in it, or has that been overplayed a little bit?

[Kristen]

I definitely can see it. I feel like he does have a strong opinion. Everyone kind of, like, really hears him out, and I think that they always take that into account. But at the end of the day, everyone has their own decision. I feel. I feel like throughout my time, I kept asking the guys, like, hey, listen, like, we need a criteria, like when we vote people out, like, why are we voting them out? Is it because they're not exploring, or is it because they don't have a strong connection? Or is it because they have a strong connection, like, which one is it? And, like, I personally never got an answer because I was getting to the point, you know, with Iris, where it was super strong, and I'm like, I don't want to get voted out because I'm not exploring, even though I've Talked to every girl that there. So it was just. That was tough because there's never really an answer and it always changes. And I wish that was, like, something that everyone could mutually agree on, but it just never was. But getting back to Ace.

[Nick]

Sorry, guys. No, actually, I appreciate that explanation because, like, to me it's saying, like, that you didn't get an answer because one, maybe they didn't know or they didn't want to commit to anything and had more to do with, you know, saving their friends or a popularity contest and things like that. That.

[Kristen]

Yeah, yeah. I think it gets to a point where it's like, okay, we're coming towards the end of the show. Like, we need to start establishing strong connection. It's not always okay, you haven't explored the last week. Like, we're gonna kick you out. Like, I don't really understand that and resonate with that. So that's, like, where my opinion kind of differed because I feel like, you know, the rest of the guys, especially Ace Pepe, they. They were known for saying, hey, I want to explore until like the very last last day, week, you know, couple episodes. So that's kind of like where we differed.

[Nick]

But, yeah, I don't know.

[Christina Coca]

Tj, did you know when you were coming in for your bombshell entrance, did you know that it was going to be with Megan the Stallion or.

[Kristen]

I didn't know at first, but, like, you know, right before, obviously they told me, I did my, like, you know, walk out and stuff and she was there. But yeah, I think that was like one of the craziest bombshells walkouts possible.

[Nick]

Pretty cool.

[Kristen]

I'm just super.

[Christina Coca]

You got a story to tell your grandkids.

[Nick]

Well, I know you guys have to go. We appreciate your time. Thank you. TJ and Jaden, we really enjoyed watching you both. And good luck the rest of the way. Stay offline. Don't read the comments. Enjoy. Like, honestly enjoy this, man. It should be a lot of fun. But just like, post and dash, man. Like, don't, like, let the fans be fanatic and just none of that matters. Like, this is a crazy, crazy time. I hope you guys make the most of it. So best of luck the rest of the way. Jaden, I hope you and Austin, you know, good luck. Whatever, whatever it's supposed to be to.

[Christina Coca]

See all of your posts. Jaden, you have a lot of tick tocks. You got to catch up on. You got to get going quick.

[Nick]

Where can people follow you if they want to follow you guys?

[Kristen]

Oh, Jaden, Ashley D. I'M a TJ Palma on everything.

[Nick]

All right guys, thanks for your time. Good luck the rest of the way and we appreciate appreciate you.

[Danny]

Thank you so much.

[Nick]

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[Christina Coca]

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[Nick]

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[Christina Coca]

I know. I feel so bad.

[Nick]

Yeah.

[Christina Coca]

That was a being like just wait until my engagement episode. Just wait. It's like so sweet. I get engaged finally. And then it felt like it was completely trumped.

[Nick]

Well, that part was really sweet. It was the next episode where you're supposed to still be basking in her happiness.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah.

[Nick]

But before we do get to the valley, the golden bachelor is turning into a hot mess before we even get started.

[Monica Garcia]

Started.

[Nick]

His ex wife has recently come forward, or at least she was asked by the Daily Mail in a headline where like, you know, I guess it was they got divorced. He was ordered to pay a million dollars. Which I always sounds like you Know, a headline will get you. Because I guess in divorce, that's kind of what happens. But, you know, it's just like, why does he owe her a million dollars? What did he do wrong?

[Christina Coca]

And also, like, how long ago did they get divorced?

[Nick]

Like, what?

[Christina Coca]

Okay, so why in 2025 is she like, well, I guess if she was asked, how did the divorce go? But it's like, why?

[Nick]

True to his word, his ex, you know, his ex wife is a bit younger than him. So it. It tracks with his most recent controversial statements, which personally I have no issue with. But it's just like, not the show, you know?

[Christina Coca]

Yeah, yeah. Like, at all. All.

[Jaden]

You know what? Usually this stuff all comes out after the season, I feel like. And I just. I feel like if they haven't filmed it yet, why not?

[Nick]

I don't know.

[Christina Coca]

He did it to himself. He, like, thought. No, he. It's like, I don't know if he thought no one was going to listen to this obscure random football podcast or if he just was like, I don't care if this is what people hear, but either way, it's not like someone, like, dug up a restraining order on him, you know, it was like, no. So you showed your true colors before we even had to.

[Danny]

Exactly.

[Aaron]

I think he just underestimated Bachelor Nation.

[Jaden]

Well, that's the thing, is that the Internet is going. If we've learned anything in the last couple of months, the Internet is going to find your.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah.

[Jaden]

So in this, which is honestly found.

[Christina Coca]

It early, I saw someone. I wish I could remember the creator's name. I saw someone on TikTok do, like, a long breakdown of this. And it's honestly so true of, like, half now. We as like a society, we fall in love with characters. We build them up. We like Stan them, we make them ultra famous. We give. Get them all these followers. We, like, make fan edits of them. We come obsessed with them. And then it's like, when we've gotten to the peak of that, then people are like, oh, no. Well, now we need to tear them down, so let's go dig for anything we can possibly find. And dig and dig and dig and dig until we can find something that, like, it's giving jealousy. So they want some sort of control over, like, their career. And so it's like, of like canceling them, you know, because they're like, oh, they got here. Now I'm gonna be a part of canceling them.

[Nick]

But that's different than what's going on with. With Mel.

[Christina Coca]

No, I know. That's I was just saying, like, in general.

[Nick]

Yeah, no, it's like. I mean, like Love Island. I mean, we already talked about this. But I mean, it's.

[Christina Coca]

But it's not even just these two shows. Like, it's literally really. It's influencers. It's random.

[Danny]

Like, people, society at large.

[Christina Coca]

It's just. It's just what the society has started to do and it's, like, getting really icky.

[Nick]

Yeah, no, totally. But I just would have thought that, like, the. When they're casting their next Golden Bachelor, at least pick some guy who, like, gets along with his ex and not someone who's going to say, and I quote, well, good luck. I mean, it's going to be bad, but anyway, I don't want to be involved in the this.

[Christina Coca]

I'm sure from Mel's perspective, they're on great terms. I'm sure he was asked, like, how. How's your relationship with your exes? He was probably like, fine, good.

[Nick]

They couldn't make a call. They couldn't be like, yeah, I'm gonna take your word for it. But, like, can we just give her a ring and just be like, what if you're gonna be the Golden Bachelor and you have an ex wife and she's still alive? Right? Like, they love. They love a widow. But like, Mel. Mel isn't a widow. They should have called. They could have. Should have been like, listen, what do you think of Mel? Do you. Would you support him being the Golden Bachelor? That's an easy call to make. No.

[Jaden]

Yeah, like, for job interviews, you have to list references. And they got. They're gonna call your.

[Nick]

Yeah, you're right.

[Jaden]

They may not.

[Nick]

If you're gonna get this gig, you know, there's one person in America that you're gonna cast and they have a living ex wife. You gotta make that call.

[Michelle]

A lot of exes are gonna hype it up, though. Like, how many are gonna be like, yeah, like, he can be the bachelor again?

[Nick]

Again? I understand that most wouldn't like, yeah, I get it's hard to find, but this is the Golden Bachelor. This is your flagship show. Like, do your homework. Find the one guy who's ex wife. Who's who if. If you. Their ex wife's still alive and they're like, you know what? Couldn't work out. But I'm.

[Christina Coca]

I'm rooting for that. They don't exist.

[Nick]

They exist.

[Christina Coca]

No.

[Aaron]

Do you think he's not being recast? Because they already cast the women for him and they don't want to hold up production.

[Jaden]

Nobody's. Nobody was like, oh, I'm gonna sign up for the show because of Mel Owen twins.

[Christina Coca]

But they also probably now, like, I. I don't know if they're filming right now. I imagine. I don't know. But it's like, they definitely. If they didn't hear about the comments, like, he said them before they started filming. So, like, these women. If I'm these women, and I read this about this man that I'm about to go date, and then I, like, they're like, nope, sorry, you're stuck with them. I'm pissed. Like, I don't want to date you. I'm pulling out. I don't. Like, you know, I'm 64. You don't want anyone older than 60. Like, what am I doing here?

[Nick]

That's another thing. If they. If they wanted a Golden Bachelor who was open to dating women around his age, they picked a guy whose ex wife is 46.

[Aaron]

Do you think there could ever be a season of the Golden Bachelor like this where it really is just. You watch all the women dunk on him the entire season, and it's just about the friends who we made along.

[Christina Coca]

The way or not?

[Nick]

Yeah, it was called Juan Pablo season. Yeah, they did that once. It was really popular. You know, I don't know where.

[Christina Coca]

They hated him. They hated on him.

[Nick]

Oh, yeah. I mean, it was truly the. The show turned on him. He was just an ass to all the women. It was in. The show was like. It, like, they made him lean in. But if you're doing that and the second season of the Golden Bachelor, it's. Something's horribly wrong. This is supposed to be nostalgic. It's supposed to be sweet. You're supposed to cry, shy, wholesome. You're supposed to, like, this is supposed to give people in their golden years hope to find human connections.

[Christina Coca]

And he's honestly, like, playing into what I feel like is every older woman's insecurity of, like, oh, they just want someone younger. It's like, why would they want to date me? They'll just go younger. Like, I. I hear that from my mom all the time. And so it's like he's literally just feeding into that. And why have your Golden Bachelor do.

[Nick]

That, Mel, if that's. That's. That's fine. If that's what he wants. But why didn't they just pick? There's. There are men out there who.

[Christina Coca]

Who do want to date women in their age range. You know, they do exist.

[Jaden]

That's the thing about this show is that like the beauty of the golden franchise is how genuine it is and how like wholesome it is. And like these people aren't trying to be famous because like yeah, they, they.

[Nick]

They picked a guy with him going through a kind of a messy divorce.

[Christina Coca]

He's still going through it like that.

[Nick]

Well, no, I'm sorry, it was just.

[Jaden]

Like, like just 2024 is what you said. The end.

[Nick]

She didn't have to say it's going to be terrible. I want nothing to do with it. Good luck. I don't know.

[Christina Coca]

Honestly, I'd probably be petty and say that too. Like even if we had the bestest of relationship, I'd probably be like, ah, yeah.

[Nick]

Do they?

[Christina Coca]

Oh well, you know, like I feel like you really want to watch your ex husband go on and be like the. One of the most famous men for six months and he's dating all these women and he's on Good Morning America and the View and like really you to want, want to watch your ex husband do all that.

[Nick]

I just would have picked someone who like where she's moved on.

[Christina Coca]

It's not about. It's not about being not moved on. It's about being like, I don't know.

[Nick]

This quote sounds like she has a point of view, a reason to say it.

[Michelle]

Yeah, I don't think it would exist. I don't think there's an ex wife out there that would want their husband to become a national heartthrob.

[Jaden]

Well, I don't know. I, I think that it really matters about the relationship.

[Christina Coca]

I mean, I feel like it is probably goes both ways. Like I don't know if there's guys who would be like, oh hell yeah, let's put my ex wife up there.

[Nick]

It's less of a hell yeah. And it's more of a. Before the season even started filming, they got to her and they already got a juicy quote. Like she.

[Christina Coca]

I think it's just like every ex we've seen this play out. Every single ex, whether it was for years or months or weeks, they're always coming out. They're always, I guess something they're always pissed or bitter or petty.

[Nick]

I'm just more surprised that their golden bachelor has an ex wife wife who's 46 years old. So clearly what if he her over and she's like either. I'm just saying like they wanted to pick someone who wanted a date in their ang rage. It's becoming more of like how, how did. What did this guy do in the casting process? Who did he have, like, you know, like, why did they pick him? I've heard he's stiff in the media. Like, he's not. You know, Gary, for all his flaws, was very charismatic and, like, played the role well. Like, I haven't heard this guy.

[Christina Coca]

Has he been doing, like, press opportunities?

[Nick]

No, but I've heard he's a bit stiff, you know, and then he. The one press he did do, you know, he didn't have the.

[Christina Coca]

And no one at Bach.

[Jaden]

No.

[Christina Coca]

No one from Bachelor has said anything about this. Like, they've just not. No one's acknowledged it.

[Nick]

There were rumors that Mel was going to be replaced, but then Jesse Palmer, host of the Bachelor franchise, was asked about it, and he said, well, I'm going to. I'm. I'm definitely going to have to address these comments with. With Mel. So if the host is speaking on that, then that. That tells me that he's not getting it.

[Christina Coca]

He's not like, he's addressing them, like, during filming, because that feels like that's.

[Nick]

What we want to, like, focus our attention on.

[Christina Coca]

Like, it just feels like a little late in the game to be to Nick's point.

[Michelle]

You have a whole last season of Perfect Men on Jones season.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah.

[Michelle]

And we chose someone. Well, we chew. Yeah. But we chose someone that's literally fumbling the ball. Like, replace them.

[Jaden]

Well, if we were gonna pick somebody with an age. Age restriction, like, we could have gone for that other guy. Who, the French dude who was like, Pascal? Yeah, Pascal.

[Michelle]

He would have been drama, though.

[Nick]

But he.

[Jaden]

But the reason that we didn't go for Pascal was because he was, like, anti having women over a certain age, remember? And it's like, if we're gonna. If we're gonna cast someone who has that, like, let it be Pascal.

[Aaron]

Maybe Mel has dirt on some of the producers.

[Nick]

I don't know.

[Jaden]

What blackmail does Mel have?

[Nick]

Of nowhere.

[Michelle]

So I did think about that.

[Nick]

You know what? You know what they always say, like, on paper, he's great, but, like, on paper, Mel is definitely not great.

[Danny]

Wait, okay.

[Aaron]

What if Denise Richards, now ex husband, becomes our next golden Bachelor?

[Christina Coca]

Guys, this is so sad.

[Nick]

It's really giving.

[Aaron]

I know.

[Nick]

We did not get a chance to meet Aaron. Denise always spoke highly of him to us.

[Christina Coca]

You should text her and just be.

[Nick]

Like, I already did.

[Christina Coca]

Oh, my God. What you say?

[Nick]

I said we love you. I'm so sorry you're going through this and we're always here for you. Gave me a quick heart and I didn't want to pry anymore. She filed for divorce. He's going after her money.

[Aaron]

He also wants all of his power tools. He listed it twice. He wants both his cordless and electric tools.

[Nick]

He's trying to. Yeah, he's claiming that he, he spends a hundred thousand dollars a month. That and I assume that's him trying to fight for spousal support from Denise in the tune of $100,000 a month.

[Christina Coca]

It's so him saying he really wants to his tools is the most like performative thing I've ever seen.

[Nick]

Yeah.

[Christina Coca]

It's like I must have my tools. I'm a man and I have manly things I have to do. I know how to use and I don't want to have.

[Jaden]

Here's a list of all the tools that I have.

[Aaron]

Yeah. God, Denise Richards is just the sweetest soul.

[Christina Coca]

Also like no shade, but like they were living in these like town houses. How is he. How does he need over a hundred grand a month?

[Nick]

Definitely doesn't need it. But I'm. He's, he's.

[Christina Coca]

No, that's what I'm saying. Like how is he saying that? That's what his monthly expenses are when we've seen them living in this townhouse. He drives just like a truck.

[Nick]

I'm sure he had to itemize it in his, whatever his divorce papers. In fairness though, I do think Denise and the Wild things just got more interesting. He never really brought anything to the table.

[Jaden]

Have they started filming season two yet?

[Nick]

I don't know. But if they haven't, if they haven't picked it up yet, I, I would think now is.

[Christina Coca]

Would be the right time.

[Michelle]

It's supposed to be light hearted though. So it's like if you take a divorce routes, the valley all over again.

[Christina Coca]

But we've also had recently like Sammy getting on TikTok and claiming her sister is, you know, all of these horrible things. And it's like if they're, you know, it seems like that's just their life. So it's like what are they filming if not these things?

[Nick]

Denise, if you're out there, just know that we are hugging you and we love you. And I just like, I have so much love and respect for Denise. You know, I don't know her that well. From what I've gotten to know, she has a heart of gold. She's one of the more down to earth reality TV stars. And she's not like calling her reality TV star is selling her so short. She is a, she is a star. Like she. And I don't know, she's just such a sweetheart.

[Christina Coca]

She's an actress.

[Nick]

She deserves happiness.

[Christina Coca]

Not a reality star. How dare you?

[Nick]

She's a star, but who became a reality TV star and has always been gracious and humble. Humble in my experience. And I'm just sad to hear she's going through this. All right, let's get to the Valley. Well, again, congratulations to Kristen, Doty, and Luke. I. You know, I. We love them. Friends of ours. I just love to see, you know, Kristen's story in terms of everything she's gone through over the years, what we've watched on the show. And now they have their child, you know, that her. They. You know, they're now new parents, and we got to finally see their engagement. Solid engagement.

[Christina Coca]

No, it's the most Christian thing ever. Him being like, your ass looks great. She's like, what? Stop it. And he's like, turn around. She's like, no, no, hold on. What the.

[Jaden]

That. That was literally me. The day that Danny proposed to me, he, like, kept trying to get me to, like, get my nails done and, like, kept trying to, like, get me to get myself together. I was just being so annoying about it. I was like, why am I gonna get my nails done? Like. And then I went to pick this crazy color, and he was like, maybe you should just get, like, a light pink. And I was like, why. Why are you being. Why do you care so much about the color of my nails? And then, like, it came time to, like, do the proposal, and he's like, we're gonna go on a walk. And I was just like, it's 100 degrees outside. I don't want to go for a walk. What are you talking about?

[Christina Coca]

I'm shocked he still went through it. So cute. He's like, you know what? We'll circle back in a couple months, see if I still want to do this.

[Jaden]

He's just like, you know what?

[Danny]

Fine.

[Jaden]

We'll wait for winter, I guess.

[Nick]

Yeah. Thank God he doesn't believe in signs, right? Yeah.

[Jaden]

And then I peed on my dress.

[Nick]

Oh, my girl.

[Michelle]

Some details you can leave out of pure happiness.

[Nick]

Guess or. No. No, no, no, no.

[Jaden]

I, like, we. I was like, fine, I'll go on this walk with you. Let me just go pee. And then I was wearing a skirt, and it got. You know, And I was like, you know, whatever. And then I went, no, no.

[Nick]

I'm missing the part where you just. Was it.

[Danny]

Was it.

[Aaron]

Was it dry by the point? You got, like, photos?

[Jaden]

No, but the first thought in my head was like, wow, I'm wearing a.

[Christina Coca]

Skirt that I have you like, not figured out how to use a toilet quite yet.

[Nick]

Yeah, like you're saying it as if, like, just sometimes you pee.

[Jaden]

I don't wear sk so often. And it got in the toilet.

[Christina Coca]

Like, I didn't know how to pull down a skirt. I don't wear them well.

[Jaden]

Do you pull down your skirt when you pee or do you lift it up?

[Christina Coca]

I probably pull it down because I'm already having to pull my panties down. So I would just pull both down. Pulling one down and pulling one up, it's like too much.

[Nick]

Maybe that's why I don't.

[Aaron]

It's been a minute since I've worn a skirt, but I think I was often lifting it up.

[Nick]

I lift.

[Jaden]

I lift it up.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah, you lift it up.

[Michelle]

Don't some people just free ball under the skirt?

[Jaden]

I didn't lift it up.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah, yeah.

[Aaron]

I mean, I guess you. You can freeball under the skirt. I think it depends on how.

[Nick]

Why. Why don't we pull down the world.

[Aaron]

You are or how short.

[Christina Coca]

I don't need. Like, you know, I was pulling it up.

[Jaden]

I don't know. Pulling it down is like such a. I think it's like, if you do.

[Aaron]

Let's say.

[Nick]

Let's like same motion, like.

[Aaron]

Yeah, but let's say it's a short skirt that's like a little tight. And then you're like, you're like.

[Christina Coca]

I don't know. Oh, yeah. If it's.

[Aaron]

So you just like hike it up.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. If it's tight, we're going up.

[Nick]

But if it's like this wasn't a short, tight skirt. This was something that drags, you know.

[Aaron]

Skirt like you're pulling it down.

[Jaden]

It was elastic, but like, it's. I do have a question though, while we're on the topic of peeing and things.

[Christina Coca]

For sure.

[Jaden]

When you're wearing a full piece bathing suit, do you take your whole bathing suit off or do you just pull it to the side?

[Christina Coca]

I don't think I am talented enough to pull it to the side and not pee on my hands and. Or the swimsuit itself, I feel like I'm getting. It's like when you wear a bodice.

[Nick]

I don't. I don't think Leia is either, but I think she still does it.

[Monica Garcia]

You should try it.

[Jaden]

It's so much easier. I saw somebody post about it.

[Aaron]

I just hope that you're going to the ocean.

[Nick]

Are you clumsy?

[Aaron]

Is what I say in that situation.

[Jaden]

Yeah, you. Can you not tell by knowing me?

[Christina Coca]

I thought you were gonna Say if you're wearing a one piece bathing suit, do you take it all the way off or pee through it? And I was gonna be very, very nervous for you.

[Jaden]

No, no, no.

[TJ]

I do.

[Jaden]

Somebody did just tell me actually that they pee in pools and that it's normal to pee in a pool. Like a private pool.

[Aaron]

You should not tell anyone about it.

[Christina Coca]

I mean, I'm not gonna say I've never. I mean, like, I never have. Like, I definitely have peed in a pool once or twice.

[Jaden]

Like somebody's private pool recently.

[Christina Coca]

Like a private. Like our own pool? Yes, in our backyard. Like no one else is in it besides me.

[Michelle]

Private. Private pool is a wild term.

[Nick]

Yeah.

[Jaden]

Like, not a public.

[Aaron]

I think as a child or occasionally when I'm home, if I'm like in the pool with my family and we're.

[Christina Coca]

Like drinking a lot.

[Aaron]

No, no, I mean, like, if I'm like kind of drunk in a pool. If I'm drunk in a pool, like it's accidentally happened.

[Michelle]

Have you guys not seen.

[Nick]

But not good to know.

[Aaron]

I'm not trying to.

[Michelle]

No, I'm never swimming there.

[Nick]

Have you not seen the pool party?

[Michelle]

Have you never seen the grownup scene where the husband's pee in the pool and it turns blue?

[Aaron]

Oh, of course I've seen it grow up.

[Monica Garcia]

Oh, that.

[Christina Coca]

That was like a fear of mine. Someone told me that once that if you pee in the pool it changes colors. And so I didn't for a long time after that until I started using my brain same.

[Aaron]

Also, full disclosure, this is not something I do often.

[Nick]

This is like, he's in the pool only when you're drinking.

[Aaron]

Not even like often when I.

[Christina Coca]

Only when you're in the pool with your family.

[Aaron]

Once, drinking.

[Jaden]

It's okay, Mary.

[Danny]

It's not all the time.

[Nick]

It's not.

[Christina Coca]

It's okay, Mary.

[Jaden]

You just said it on a podcast.

[Nick]

Yeah, it's ok, cut.

[Christina Coca]

No one's listening. It's okay. No one's listening.

[Nick]

Well, before we get to the most recent dark episode of the Valley, I often wonder sometimes when it comes to these shows, like, was it worth it? Like, at this point, Janet and Jesse must be asking them, like, Jason even, you know, is it worth. I don't know, like, are they getting brand deals? Like, what are they making to record this show? Like, it's. Jan's got like 76,000 followers, which I don't know, in the grand schemes of the Internet. And like, being an influencer is. Is. Is not much.

[Jaden]

She may or may not have just fled the Country?

[Nick]

Yeah, well, the Internet.

[Christina Coca]

Did they flee the country or did they go on summer vacation?

[Nick]

I think she just went out of town, literally.

[Christina Coca]

Like, where did the country come from?

[Nick]

Trolls.

[Christina Coca]

I do feel like someone going on vacation and fleeing the country might be two different things.

[Aaron]

Two different things. I do think it's crazy that this is not me, like, necessarily saying Janet is a perfect person whatsoever, but she is definitely not the worst, worst or most toxic person on the Valley cast. When Jax Taylor is also there, it's crazy that she gets attacked more than Jax, it seems at times.

[Nick]

Are you talking about her from her peers or the fans? Because I do feel like the fans have really laid into Jax this year.

[Aaron]

I think Pierce specifically, Jesse, really seems.

[Nick]

To be getting a pass online. I mean, I honestly think Michelle gets more hate than Jesse.

[Jaden]

I have a take on that, though, with Jesse specifically. I think that, like, the reason that Schwartz came on here and said, like, you're gonna like Jesse by the end of the season, and, like, people kept being like, you're gonna like Jesse. You're gonna like Jesse. It's because he hasn't been on the show so much anymore.

[Christina Coca]

He stopped talking. Yeah.

[Jaden]

Like, I don't.

[Aaron]

It's like he shuts up, so he's not there.

[Jaden]

So, like, sure, I guess, like, he's just not in the drama or on the show really.

[Christina Coca]

I mean, him and Aaron made up, so I guess maybe that's.

[Nick]

I will say, I mean, like, this. You know, I will. This show is definitely, definitely, like, it really makes you count your blessings. I mean, it honestly does make me thankful for, like, how hard we work on our relationship. When we were visiting Tyler and Tate, we went out and got some lunch before we caught our flight home. And our waiter, lovely gentleman. And then, like, I was like, kind of following river around the restaurant, you know, as she kind of got tired of eating and he was, like, playing with her and making faces and interacting with river, and he was like, yeah, I got two of my own, but I'm going through a divorce right now and I don't get to see him that much. And it was. It's heartbreaking, you know, just. Even if you have a good, healthy co parenting situation, if. If, you know, if you're not able to make it work in a marriage and two people decide to separate, it's. It's. I mean, it's devastating. And then as much as I kind of hate. As much as I hate Jesse, like, it's. I. It is sad to see, you know, I. I don't know Like, I have no empathy for Jesse for how he treats people and specifically how he treats Michelle. But to see your ex partner date another guy and then have your child, you know, say I love you and express affection to him, and even to have that conversation about, like, how is a stranger gonna be around your daughter and just kind of like, ha. And you're at the mercy of, Of. Of your ex partner, like, choosing the right. It's just, I. My heart goes out to all the people who, you know, I'm just. It makes me thankful that we can make it work because it's sad. It's sad that you, you know, it's just sad.

[Jaden]

Yeah, it is. That that scene was definitely, like, hard to watch. And I think Aaron even was kind of like, yeah, I. I think I crossed the line specifically with Father's Day.

[Aaron]

And like, it's a complicated situation.

[Nick]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I mean, there's not. I mean, it's just. It's sad because. And you know, also. And there's some cases where it's true where you say, like, staying together for the sake of the kids isn't necessarily helping anyone out, but it's just. Yeah, it's a. It's a bummer.

[Christina Coca]

Janet's comments on the boat were. I mean, I guess we could get to that.

[Nick]

Just horrific.

[Christina Coca]

I mean, like, I think Nia said it best of just like, this not coming from the person or people that it actually happened to. And like, you, apparently, Janet, like, wasn't even there the night night that Danny allegedly put his hands on Jasmine. And so it's like the fact that she has continued to run with this narrative and even start saying, like, the definition of what happened being sexual assault is just absolutely mind blowing. Not, okay, so scary. And then, like, the fact that Kristen really was the only one who was that up upset also blows my mind. It's like, who. Where are these people's friends? Like, none of these people besides Kristen and Luke are Nia and Danny's friend.

[Jaden]

You have Jasmine and Melissa getting up and being like, stop. Like, stop talking about this. Like, the people that it happened to are telling you to stop. And you're throwing words, strong words around, and it's not about you. You cannot speak about somebody else's experience in public to other people, like, using words like that, let alone asking you to stop public.

[Christina Coca]

But on a national television show, that's a huge accusation to make about someone, someone with children, and you're just going to, like, flippantly throw it out on a national television show like that's a scary person to be friends with. Jasmine's storyline wasn't. Hey, Danny s a'd me. Her storyline was like, Danny got drunk and like, put his hand and like, not.

[Aaron]

It made me uncomfortable.

[Christina Coca]

Made me uncomfortable.

[Nick]

Yeah.

[Jaden]

But either way, it's theirs to deal. Like, their story to tell. Like, it's not Janet's.

[Christina Coca]

It also really made me sad that Kristen went to Jason being like, she, like, whispers it in his ear. She doesn't want to say it in front of Nia and Danny or like, again, loudly in front of people. She whispers it in Jason's ear and.

[Nick]

He was kind of like, technically, yeah, like, Jason's a weak man.

[Christina Coca]

I stand by my original comment. I think I caught him like a period.

[Nick]

Maybe it's a survival mechanism. Maybe, you know, in fairness to Jason, he's got to listen to Janet.

[Christina Coca]

Just, you know, that was a rough beat.

[Nick]

But like, I just don't. What I. I'm still. I'm really. I know what it's like to go on a reality TV show and be like, you know what? I don't know. I really don't want to be the villain and, and I'm, you know, and then become the villain. Just knowing that, like, sometimes, you know, you run your mouth and you get a bad edit and, you know, and then certainly in Bachelor world, they can make, you know, nothing turn into something like, this isn't editing. Like, whether it's her or Jesse, the fact that she risked this thinking that she was right, you know, or, you.

[Christina Coca]

Know, and then her saying, I had to use the definition or whatever. And he's like, you had to.

[Jaden]

Or you chose husband's lawyer.

[Nick]

Yeah, it's just like, I just don't understand her thought process of like, did you think this. Did you think you were gonna be liked by this behavior? Like, did you. This is what you want to be known by. You're in like, I. Again, this isn't like some. A group of messy 22 year olds who don't have a care in the world. They have a. Well, they like, what they like to say is like a healthy family unit. Like, how. How is bringing this end energy into your life something you want to do? I mean, at least get Jesse and Michelle. It's like, you know, what our. Our lives are. Let's just blow it all the up. But like, Janet seemingly has something to like, protect. Why is she like, I don't get the thought process.

[Jaden]

Well, that's what it is. It's like, what do you have to gain with all this drama because you're just kind. She seems to just be kind of, like, inserting herself into the problem, you know, like, inserting herself into the drama. And it goes back to the original point of, like, what's it worth? Kristen calls her out for, like, being a fan. It's like, is this what Janet wants?

[Aaron]

When I started watching the Valley, I wanted to kind of as a bit. Wanted to defend Janet because I thought it was funny. But it's just like, it gets so hard when she just keeps doing stuff like this.

[Christina Coca]

I mean, she just has no.

[Nick]

Yeah.

[Christina Coca]

Like, storyline for herself. You know, like, we know nothing about Janet or her marriage or her child.

[Nick]

Other than that she thinks it's perfect.

[Christina Coca]

Other than she thinks it's perfect. Every. Everything that comes out of her mouth is about someone else.

[Nick]

Has she said anything recently about her behavior other than, like, turning off her Instagram for a minute?

[Jaden]

She was on Watch what Happens Live, like, kind of recently.

[Nick]

Yeah.

[Jaden]

And she was calling out threats and slurs being sent her way amid all.

[Nick]

The back, which is definitely not okay. And I, I, I think she said that people are doing that. I wish she would address her behavior that's causing fans to be upset. Upset.

[Christina Coca]

Yeah.

[Aaron]

I just wish that, like, people could react to things normally.

[Jaden]

Yeah. She said that she, she had to close her Instagram page for receiving an outpouring pouring of hate. It's sad to me that people go this far. It's definitely the worst part about this job. I'm learning how to put boundaries on social media in place and learning as I go. I support healthy dialogue around reality TV and think some of the best conversations about modern culture stem from shows like ours.

[Nick]

She really believes in what she's doing.

[Christina Coca]

I guess I feel like if after, after every single episode, we had a public statement from Janet being like, you know, watching this back, this isn't how I, you know, thought I was portraying my feelings. I wish I wouldn't have said abc, E, F, and G. And, like, moving forward. Yeah, it's. I feel like we need an apology from Janet after every single episode. And it seems like she just acts like she did nothing. And she's like, why are y' all so mad at me?

[Nick]

I mean, like, she really is the epitome of. I mean, at least she presents as, like, the definition of what everyone thinks a Karen is. I mean, it just, it in its truest form.

[Christina Coca]

I mean, she said that she, she admitted to her that she was a Karen. She's like, I looked at the definition, and I definitely am a Little bit of that.

[Nick]

Yeah, like nosy, you know, self righteous.

[Aaron]

Like Lee almost like lean into that and make it a character. Then, you know, like, I feel like there would be a way for like Janet to be Janet in a way that's way less like toxic than.

[Christina Coca]

But she can't do anything. She can have fun with it, like selflessly. Is that the right word? Like, everything that she does is about other people. Other people. Like, she can't.

[Nick]

Like, what's, what's Janet's vulnerable side? Like, what is our. What are her insecurities?

[Christina Coca]

That's what I'm saying. We know nothing about Janet and her background, her family, her life, her marriage. We know nothing because every time she speaks, she's spewing some rumor, some saying something mean about someone else.

[Jaden]

I think the Valley in general, they just need to like, have more fun. Like, it was so refreshing. Refreshing on Love island the other night where they had the baby challenge.

[Danny]

Because it was like fun.

[Jaden]

Just look, watching people have fun and it being light hearted, it was just a breath of fresh air. Like a Mega Stallion episode. Like, yeah, you just gotta sprinkle some of those in.

[Aaron]

Yeah. The Valley needs to get like vpr, even at its worst, was still fun, you know, and the Valley just.

[Christina Coca]

Or were we all just like in a different headspace?

[Nick]

Well, that all the stakes were different. Right. When you're 22 and you're being to each other, it's like, okay, well, you know, yeah.

[Aaron]

Now it's like, yeah, like next gen is fun.

[Nick]

Yeah. When there's kids involved and there's family dynamics and we're just having like this icky conversation with a man we hate like Jesse. And you still like, are forced to kind of have some kind of empathy for him. Because even the people you hate, you're kind of sad that their family get. Gets ripped apart. And then you have like, you know, this one family man, Danny, who's like got four kids under four. And again, I'm sure Danny has his flaws and maybe he drink thinks a little too much and like, but he certainly is constantly apologizing. Take. Is willing to take more accountability than anyone on this cast. And then you have Janet, who again also has a seemingly a nice family dynamic, is constantly trying to just tear others down and this, the stakes are just different. And it's this kind of yuckier, you know, and then, you know, and then you have Jackson, Brittany, and we fuck. That's a whole nother. Did I hear it right? Did Swartz say if you, if you try if you guys stay together, you'll probably end up in jail.

[Jaden]

Yes, I rewinded it because I was like, did I hear that right? And then I rewinded it and that is exactly what he said.

[Nick]

And it's like, well, thanks for your honesty, Schwartz.

[Christina Coca]

But like, that's alarming. In jail for what?

[Aaron]

Yeah, yeah.

[Jaden]

And you're standing in the kitchen with this man being buddy, buddy friends with it.

[Nick]

Oh. Huh.

[Christina Coca]

Honestly, I first the last week's episode, I was like, oh, this is, you know, Kristen's engaged. It's like not super dark. Maybe we're turning a corner. And then this episode, it was like, like, oh. And then it was like, Jax isn't on the trip. Maybe we're in. We're in. Good clear view sight. Nope.

[Nick]

Yeah, this show. This show needs a serious reboot. Like again, we've already talked about this. Give me Lala. I want to see Lala date. I want to hear the struggles of being a single mom with some inspirational moments of her crushing life and being an amazing mother.

[Christina Coca]

Give me Stassi.

[Nick]

Stassi is not going to do it. But yes, we would love Stassi, but like, you know, Stasi is not going to do it.

[Christina Coca]

Here we go.

[Nick]

Yeah, but you need some aspirational moments here. Like give me some real life story lines. You know, like.

[Aaron]

Yeah, I mean, Schwartz wearing flipflops as an adult man.

[Nick]

Yeah.

[Jaden]

Some of the people that we threw out for the new cast. Julianne Huff Jul.

[Nick]

I. I think Stasi bring in Julian.

[Christina Coca]

It's a dream cast for a reason.

[Jaden]

Yeah.

[Nick]

Honestly, Tom, Tom Sandoval and his girlfriend Victoria would be more aspirational than the we're seeing right now. At least they're going to therapy every day.

[Christina Coca]

Are they?

[Nick]

I don't know. Last that said, they said they were Nick's therapist. No, I'm calling n. No, Honestly, at.

[Aaron]

This point and this, it would take a lot for me to say that I would rather see Tom Sandoval on my television than the current cast of.

[Jaden]

The dream storyline for Tom. Him launching his only fans career.

[Nick]

Yes, yes. And Victoria's taking photos.

[Aaron]

Sandoval just like with his band. Like wait, this would. The Valley would be amazing if it was like Tom Sandoval as an adult man still thinking he's going to make.

[Jaden]

It as following him. Today is America's Got Talent audition.

[Christina Coca]

Exactly. Imagine we were backstage at America's Got Talent. We were watching him like practice in his garage with his band for America's Got Talent. That's better than whatever the hell we're saying right now.

[Nick]

Well, that'll wrap it up for us today. Thank you to our guests, Monica Garcia and Christina Coca, as well as our Love island stars, TJ and Jaden. We appreciate them all and appreciate you guys listening. If you haven't checked out the Going Deeper episode with Kaya, obviously a very different type of episode for Going deeper, but an important one nonetheless and very empowering. Kaya is a victim of Harvey Weinstein and she tells a very heroic story about how she dealt with that whole ordeal. That is our Going Deeper episode this week. It's out. Be sure to check it out if you haven't already. We will see you back on Monday, finale of Love Island. It's going to be a crazy week. We'll see you then. Stay with us. Bye.