Podcast Summary: Two Hot Takes | Episode 208: "Take the Trash Out"
Release Date: March 20, 2025
Host: Morgan Absher
Introduction
In Episode 208 of Two Hot Takes, host Morgan Absher and her co-host Mikayla dive into a series of compelling and often controversial stories sourced from Reddit's AITA subreddit. Titled "Take the Trash Out," this episode focuses on relationship dilemmas, personal conflicts, and ethical quandaries that listeners bring to the table. The duo provides their insightful analyses, peppered with humor and empathy, making the episode both engaging and thought-provoking.
Story 1: "Am I Overreacting?" – Social Media and Joint Purchases
Timestamp: [04:44]
Summary:
A 29-year-old woman feels hurt after her 27-year-old boyfriend posts about their joint house purchase on social media without mentioning her or including her in the photos. She worries that he’s trying to portray the house as his sole accomplishment, especially since she personally contributed a $13,000 deposit.
Notable Quotes:
- Morgan: “She paid the down payment, which is why you get the house. It’s not just on him.” ([07:20])
- Mikayla: “You guys bought a house together. That's something to be proud of.” ([05:58])
Discussion:
Morgan and Mikayla explore themes of recognition, partnership, and the impact of social media on relationships. They highlight the importance of acknowledging both partners' contributions and how neglecting to do so can lead to feelings of undervaluation and resentment.
Story 2: "Secret Visits to Abusive Parents" – Navigating Abusive Family Dynamics
Timestamp: [30:56]
Summary:
A 22-year-old woman discovers that her 23-year-old girlfriend has been secretly bringing their 3-year-old son to visit the girlfriend’s abusive parents. Despite knowing the partner's traumatic past and the restrictions placed on contact with her parents, the girlfriend proceeded without consent, leading to a major fallout.
Notable Quotes:
- Morgan: “You have to say you're at my parents, and with... When instructing him to do that, how does she not realize, Wait, like, I might be wrong if I'm having to do something like this?” ([35:19])
- Mikayla: “This is insane. This lady is straight garbage to not talk with your partner.” ([32:37])
Discussion:
The hosts delve into issues of trust, consent, and the importance of respecting boundaries in relationships, especially when past trauma is involved. They emphasize the significance of open communication and the dangers of unilateral decisions in a partnership.
Story 3: "Cancer Diagnosis and Household Responsibilities" – Balancing Illness and Domestic Roles
Timestamp: [54:20]
Summary:
A 41-year-old woman diagnosed with stage two breast cancer seeks advice on whether she’s in the wrong for expecting her 48-year-old husband to take on more household chores during her treatment. Despite her efforts to manage a full-time job, part-time work, and caring for three children with autism, she faces resistance from her husband, who dismisses her needs.
Notable Quotes:
- Mikayla: “He’s expecting you to do everything while you get better from cancer? Oh, hell fucking no.” ([60:02])
- Morgan: “This is insane. He wasn't pulling his weight before the diagnosis. And now he's expecting you to do everything.” ([58:26])
Discussion:
Morgan and Mikayla discuss the challenges of maintaining household responsibilities during serious illness. They critique the husband's lack of support and highlight the importance of equitable partnership, especially during times of vulnerability.
Story 4: "Jokes About Lack of Intimacy" – Sensitivity in Relationships
Timestamp: [73:58]
Summary:
A 23-year-old woman is distressed after her 22-year-old boyfriend makes derogatory jokes about their lack of sexual intimacy. Following her surgeries and hormonal changes, her libido has decreased, leading to tension as her boyfriend's high libido remains unmet.
Notable Quotes:
- Morgan: “You are not entitled to sex. If you're prioritizing sex over this person, they just don't care.” ([75:28])
- Mikayla: “It's a very cruel thing to say.” ([75:35])
Discussion:
The hosts examine the impact of insensitive comments on emotional intimacy and trust within a relationship. They advocate for compassion and mutual understanding, especially when one partner is dealing with medical and emotional challenges.
Story 5: "Refusing to Spot a Dollar" – Reciprocity in Friendships
Timestamp: [80:21]
Summary:
A woman questions whether she's in the wrong for refusing to stop giving her coworker free rides after he declined to lend her a single dollar when she was short at a vending machine. After providing rides for two years without reciprocation, she decides to sever the gesture.
Notable Quotes:
- Morgan: “You’re lucky other things aren’t happening with these hands.” ([81:53])
- Mikayla: “Losing free rides over $1. That's karma.” ([81:59])
Discussion:
Morgan and Mikayla discuss the importance of reciprocity in friendships and professional relationships. They emphasize setting boundaries and not feeling obligated to continue favors unreciprocated, highlighting healthy relationship dynamics.
Story 6: "Canceled Romantic Dinner" – Prioritizing Relationships Over Family Obligations
Timestamp: [90:00]
Summary:
A 24-year-old woman is upset when her 26-year-old boyfriend cancels a planned romantic dinner to spend the evening with his mother and sister instead. The sudden shift leaves her feeling sidelined and questioning her importance in his life.
Notable Quotes:
- Morgan: “You have every right to be upset. This wasn't a small change. It was a complete disregard for your plans together.” ([88:52])
- Mikayla: “You have the right to be upset. It’s up to you to set boundaries.” ([89:12])
Discussion:
The conversation centers on the balance between family time and romantic relationships. The hosts critique the boyfriend's lack of consideration and suggest that prioritizing family over established plans can strain and harm romantic partnerships.
Conclusion
Throughout Episode 208, Morgan Absher and Mikayla navigate a series of intricate and emotionally charged stories from Reddit, offering candid opinions and actionable advice. They highlight the importance of communication, mutual respect, and balanced responsibilities in maintaining healthy relationships. Whether dealing with past traumas, medical challenges, or everyday interpersonal conflicts, the hosts encourage listeners to advocate for themselves, set clear boundaries, and seek equitable partnerships.
Final Thoughts: Morgan and Mikayla reiterate the significance of standing up for one's needs and not settling for unhealthy dynamics. They conclude by reminding listeners to "put your trash out," metaphorically encouraging them to address and remove negative aspects from their lives.
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