By Order of the Faithfuls: The Persian Princess w/ MJ

Summary

Podcast Summary

Two Ts In A Pod with Teddi Mellencamp and Tamra Judge

Episode: By Order of the Faithfuls: The Persian Princess w/ MJ

Date: January 12, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode features reality TV star Mercedes “MJ” Javid, best known for Shahs of Sunset, as a guest with hosts Tamra Judge and Wells Adams. The conversation centers around MJ’s experience on The Traitors (Season 2), her upcoming Bravo show The Valley: Persian Style, and her personal and family life, particularly her recent divorce and journey as a mother. The episode offers a blend of reality TV insider talk, candid reflections on loyalty, gameplay, and the transition from Shahs of Sunset to its new chapter.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. MJ’s Experience on The Traitors (02:33–12:13)

• MJ’s Betrayal at the End of Season 2

  • MJ expresses that she felt blindsided when CT betrayed her at the finale.
  • She recognizes the “gamer” mentality some cast members had versus her own approach based on loyalty.
  • Quote: “I was like, there’s no way I’m going to be a traitor to my faithfuls. And I know that they knew that I was faithful...” (04:24, Mercedes Javid)
  • Trishelle’s gameplay and CT’s reputation are discussed, highlighting differences in reality TV competition strategy.

• Reflections on Game Play and Camaraderie

  • MJ affirms she has no regrets, played authentically, and wouldn’t change her style (“No, because I got so far by being... not to form any alliances where I felt like it was hard to be authentic.” – 10:40, MJ)
  • Tamra and Wells praise MJ’s emotional transparency and loyalty, contrasting her to more cutthroat “gamers.”

2. Behind the Scenes of The Traitors (09:32–12:13; 32:31–36:27)

• Funny Cast Stories

  • MJ and Tamra recount long-winded speeches by fellow contestant “Parliament John.”
  • Recollections of the infamous “rat tunnel” challenge and the harsh filming conditions.

• Production Secrets

  • Discussion about how secret traders are picked, production changes in later seasons, and the “smoker’s corner” as a hub for off-camera strategizing.

3. Evolution from Shahs of Sunset to The Valley: Persian Style (18:29–22:39)

• New Show’s Format and Cast

  • The Valley: Persian Style is described as more mature than Shahs, with the cast now focused on families, careers, and grown-up issues while maintaining signature Bravo drama.
  • “It’s kind of like the grown-up version of the Shahs... people are growing up...” (19:53, Tamra)
  • Introduction of new cast members, including another “Reza,” who is compared playfully to Jax Taylor but “not mean.”

• Transition and Personal Growth

  • MJ discusses leaving TV after Shahs’ end to focus on motherhood and her real estate career.
  • She distinguishes her needs and trajectory from castmates like Reza, for whom reality fame was more central.
  • Quote: “For me, it just wasn’t the same thing. I had so many things to focus on with a little one.” (22:40, MJ)

4. Vulnerability on TV – Grief, Family, and Divorce (23:41–41:58)

• Highlighting Vulnerability in Reality TV

  • MJ praises new cast member Amir for sharing the grief of losing his wife on camera (23:56).
  • This representation is noted as important for viewers experiencing similar struggles.

• MJ’s Family and Divorce

  • Tamra and Wells discuss with MJ the challenges of showing her divorce play out on TV.
  • MJ reflects on her patience and efforts in her marriage: “There wasn’t any approach that I didn’t try in order to get us to a place that I thought was like, where a healthy marriage should be.” (38:04)
  • Co-parenting in a healthy manner is a current focus: “We kind of took the pressure off of both of us... the expectations are brand new, it’s a reset.” (38:58)
  • Lighthearted exchange about their children’s cursing habits.

• MJ’s Mother

  • Tamra remarks on MJ’s tough-love mom, who is even “harder on MJ than she looks on camera.” MJ jokes: “She probably sugarcoats it for the cameras.” (25:59)

5. The Bravo Franchise & The Future (43:06–44:40)

• Franchising of The Valley

  • MJ and Tamra speculate about potential spin-offs with different cultural themes, akin to the Housewives franchise model.

• Praising Producer Alex Baskin

  • The hosts and MJ credit Alex for the show’s fast turnaround and successful launch after Beverly Hills.

6. Reality TV Predictions & Speculation (46:48–48:21)

• Upcoming Season of The Traitors
  • Discussion of new mechanics: the introduction of a “secret traitor” (32:31), Lisa Rinna and Candace as traitors, and how production tweaks are keeping the format fresh.
  • Predictions on who might win and how Housewives are being integrated differently.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Betrayal and Reality TV Ethics:

  • “I have no regrets... It’s just not who I am.” (06:55, Mercedes Javid)
  • “You just really did that to me.” (06:44, Tamra)

• On Bonding and Friendship:

  • “Years can go by or months or days, and I feel like I can reach out to you for anything, anytime.” (03:43, Mercedes Javid)
  • “Love you, girl.” (04:01, Tamra)

• On New Ventures and Resilience:

  • “I got to leave my mom bubble... I will never be able to relive anything like that again.” (11:11, Mercedes Javid)
  • “For Reza, he had attached his identity to being like this big celebrity... I’m really happy for him.” (22:13, MJ)

• On Parenting Humor:

  • “My son... only says bad words in front of mommy and daddy. And never have I gotten an email from the teacher.” (41:00, MJ)

• On The Bravo Ecosystem:

  • “Alex [Baskin] is a genius... whatever he wants, he gets.” (44:14, MJ)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Intro & Traitors Recap – 02:08–12:13
• Reality TV Strategies/Challenges – 06:44–12:13
• Family, Motherhood, and Leaving TV – 11:11–22:39
• Transition to The Valley: Persian Style – 18:42–22:39
• Vulnerability & New Cast Highlights – 23:41–26:48
• Secret Traitor Twist & Production Changes – 32:31–36:27
• Divorce and Co-Parenting Discussion – 37:18–40:57
• Bravo Franchise and Show Future – 43:06–44:40
• Predictions & Closing Banter – 46:48–48:21

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Conclusion

This episode gives listeners an inside look at Mercedes Javid’s reality TV journey, blending raw reflections on betrayal, personal pain, friendship, and career reinvention. The hosts’ rapport and MJ’s openness make it engaging for both long-time Bravo fans and newcomers. The episode closes with optimism for The Valley: Persian Style, playful speculation about The Traitors’ new season, and lots of warm reality TV camaraderie.

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Find Mercedes Javid:

• Podcast: “Till the Dirt”
• Social: @mercedesjavid

Tune In:

• The Valley: Persian Style on Bravo, Thursdays at 9 PM Eastern, streaming on Peacock the next day

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Transcript

[Mercedes Javid]

This is Special Agent Riegel, Special Agent Bradley Hall.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

In 2018, the FBI took down a ring of spies working for China's Ministry of State Security, one of the most mysterious intelligence agencies in the world.

The Sixth Bureau podcast is a story of the inner workings of the MSS and how one man's ambition and mistakes opened its vault of secrets.

Listen to the 6th Bureau on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Nancy Glass]

I'm Nancy Glass, host of the Burden of Guilt season two podcast. This is a story about a horrendous lie that destroyed two families. Late one night, Bobby Gumprite became the victim of a random crime. The perpetrator was sentenced to 99 years until a confession changed everything.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

I was a monster.

[Nancy Glass]

Listen to Burden of guilt season two on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Amanda Knox]

I'm Amanda Knox, and in the new podcast, the Case of Lucy Letby, we unpack the story of an unimaginable tragedy that gripped the UK in 2023. But what if we didn't get the whole story?

[Tamara]

Evidence has been made to fit.

[Wells Adams]

The moment you look at the whole

[Mercedes Javid]

picture, the case collapsed.

[Amanda Knox]

What if the truth was disguised by a story we chose to believe?

[Jill Winterstein]

Oh, my God.

[Tamara]

I think she might be innocent.

[Amanda Knox]

Listen to Doubt the Case of Lucy Letby on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Jill Winterstein]

Hi, it's Jill Winterstein, host of the Spirit Daughter podcast where we talk about astrology, natal charts, and how to step into your most vibrant life. And today I'm talking with my dear friend Krista Williams.

[Mercedes Javid]

It can change you in the best way possible. Dance with the change. Dance with the breakdowns.

[Jill Winterstein]

The embodiment of Pisces intuition with Capricorn power moves.

[Tamara]

So I'm, like, delusionally proud of my chart.

[Jill Winterstein]

Listen to the Spirit Daughter podcast starting on February 24, forth on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your podcast.

[Wells Adams]

All right, welcome back, all you faithfuls and traders. Another episode of By Order of the faithfuls. Happy 2026. I'm Wells Adams alongside Tamra Tamara. Where's Dolores?

[Tamara]

Dolores is, you know, she's booked and busy, so she's doing a commercial shoot today, so she is not with us. I. I know, I know. Make that money, girl. But we do have a great guest today.

[Wells Adams]

We do, mj, who you might have remembered for getting screwed over royally.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah.

[Wells Adams]

At the end of season two, reality TV personality, Best Known for appearance on shots of Sunset from 2012 to 2021. This year, Bravo took some of the OG cast members from Jaws and launched their new show, the Valley Persian Style, which is coming out very soon and look very fun, which of course MJ is a main cast member on. This is going to be a very, very fun episode. And don't forget everyone out there tune in to the Valley Persian Style. It premieres with back to back episodes on Thursday, January 8th at 9 Eastern on Bravo. Episodes are available to stream the next day on Peacock. Welcome to By Order of the Faithfuls. Mj, how are you?

[Mercedes Javid]

I'm doing great, you guys. Thanks for having me.

[Tamara]

You've definitely gone through a lot recently and if you comfortable talking about that, we'll talk about that later. But I just want you to know that I've been meaning to reach out to you. I want to give you a big hug. I know that that's a difficult thing to go through publicly.

[Mercedes Javid]

Thank you. I love you. And you know what? I love our bond. And honestly, like you can call me anytime and years can go by or months or days and I feel like I can reach out to you for anything, anytime. I mean that. And I, you know, same, same.

[Tamara]

Love you, girl.

[Wells Adams]

Oh, you guys are cute.

[Tamara]

I know. Well, we did, you know, we did traders together and I got to know MJ a little bit better as we do as we're in that castle. Obviously she was there a lot longer than I was, but you got the royal screws put to you at the end of the Traders, which I, I need to ask you, are you over that? Are you still pissed off?

[Mercedes Javid]

I have to say, I can't help but think I wouldn't have expected anything different from CT because that's what they do. They are competitive. That, that's what they, that's what they do. You let them out of their cage to fight a fight. And I understand that while the game was not to fuck me over personally, the pot was so small. These are all my thoughts, you guys. If it were a bigger payout, like let's say a million or 500, half a million, I would have done the same thing. But it was just we were so embedded in the camaraderie and the bond of getting that far that I was, I was like, there's no way I'm going to be a traitor to my faithfuls. And I know that they knew that I was faithful. And C. T likes to say that he wasn't sure. And in the same way I didn't Ever believe for sure that Sandra would have been unfaithful because she was a survivor and an ex military and her husband is military. So I expect her to be really good at being stealth and covert and fooling me. Someone who hasn't watched any of the Challenge or ever the Survivor show or Big Brother never watched any of it.

[Wells Adams]

I mean, so Heinz Hindsight's 20 20. Obviously them being, you know, challenge stars, they're kind of used to screwing people over, but in that moment, was there any. Did you think there was any chance they would do that to you?

[Tamara]

No.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

Yeah.

[Tamara]

No. You. You could tell on your face like you were blindsided.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah. Except Trishelle, because even though it was CT executing it, Trishell wanted me to oust, like, eliminate him. And I was like, I won't, because he's a faithful and we're not coming all the way to the end to screw somebody over. There's just no way. And so, no, I didn't. I didn't think there was a chance that anyone would do it, especially over such a. Like, low stakes.

[Tamara]

Well, yeah, you played with your heart, obviously. And they're gamers, they're cutthroat, they don't give a shit. And that's hard to, you know, that's hard to be like, wow, you just really did that to me.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah, they're gamers and if they don't do what they did, I guess they're supposed to do it. And, you know, Bananas. Johnny Bananas also said that he had to experience that with Banana. Excuse me. With ct, over season after season with Child with the Challenge. So I was like, I guess that's just what this game is. And by the way, like, if you think about people like, Rinna comes to mind, there are a lot of people that screw each other over on Bravo. We just don't. It's just. It's just not who I am, you know, and so I have no regrets. Yeah.

[Tamara]

Have you talked to either one of them since? I know we did the reunion, you were still kind of upset with them, CT and Trishell.

[Mercedes Javid]

I don't talk. No, I don't talk to them. I could, I would, you know, but I don't.

[Tamara]

Yeah, I've gotten to know Trishell outside of Traders, and she is really, really sweet, but she is. She's a gamer, she's a poker player, she's a gamer, She's. She's all the things and she's.

[Mercedes Javid]

They did a really good. They did a really good job on. They did a great job on the challenge where we had to go in with the rats and the mice and the frogs and God knows what else was in that tunnel. That was really, really difficult. And there was no light in that tunnel. We had to. The choice of having lights in the cabin or while we were getting, like, peed on and attacked with insects and stuff. And then that tunnel that they were in was so long, and it was, like, the longest 25 minutes of life. So I. I couldn't have done it. No. I got to give it up to them. Like, they did get the pot. So if in. In CT's mind he was earning that pot, maybe in his mind he earned it more because he, you know, earned us more money. And so did Trishell, and this is nothing personal. Like, I could probably go to lunch and have the best time or with those people and. And I'm, you know, that's why our season of Traders was the best season ever. Excuse me. Sorry. Wells.

[Wells Adams]

I don't think I was on my season, so. It's okay.

[Tamara]

You need a redo. Wells, you need a redo.

[Wells Adams]

I'm good.

[Mercedes Javid]

But, yeah, the bonds, the experiences, hanging out, like, all the things that we did to make that show and get those Emmys, I mean, that's. That's a standalone thing, you know, that was fun. I have respect for everybody, everybody. Remember Parliament? Remember Parliament. John Tamra.

[Amanda Knox]

Yes.

[Mercedes Javid]

Oh, my God, that man would talk for, like, 45 minutes.

[Tamara]

He was so annoying.

[Mercedes Javid]

It was so long.

[Tamara]

I mean, he was a nice guy. I shouldn't say that, but he would just talk and talk and talk, and he was such a politician that you're like, everything you're saying, and you're so full of shit right now.

[Mercedes Javid]

I could.

[Tamara]

I could just say, like, even at the roundtables, he would. So long winded.

[Mercedes Javid]

And we're, like, performative. Yeah, we were just like. I was just like, okay, so he's not a traitor then. He's not a traitor. So you're just examining people. But then Allen would have to come in and say, all right, time's up. The roundtable. And we're like, this man just spent the whole 45 minutes of our time. And, you know, I just ran into the day before yesterday Max.

[Tamara]

Oh, I love him.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yes. And his wife PETA. So that was awesome. We were. I have.

[Tamara]

I've seen him a few times since Traders, and he's just the greatest. He really is.

[Mercedes Javid]

They're like the most beautiful married couple.

[Tamara]

Oh, my God, they are, right? All their tiktoks and Stuff they do on social media. I'm like, exactly. So cute.

[Wells Adams]

Mj, if you could go back in time, would you change anything about how you played?

[Mercedes Javid]

Hmm. No. Because I got so far by being like. Like, trying not to form any alliances where I felt like it was hard to be authentic. It was a game. Like, I love that they would remind you throughout the process that this is a game. The. The purpose and the rules, and they would allow us to play the damn game, you know, So I felt really great about it, by the way, you guys. I got to leave my mom bubble. I got to leave.

[Tamara]

I was just going to ask you about that. Obviously, there was some friction going on at home. I would imagine it was happening way back then.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah.

[Tamara]

And for you to, like, be able to remove yourself, go to work in Scotland and be gone and just be able to. You probably didn't have much time to think about it, but just have some me time.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah. So he was four and a half. My son was, like, really the perfect age for me to be able to go and do what we did, which was like a summer camp in its own way where you wake up and do all this stuff. And so it was. It was really a brand new experience. And I will never be able to relive anything like that again. Would you go back? Okay, so right now, because I'm separated, I wouldn't be able to leave Champs because I'm so hypersensitive about my son. But in the future, if there was, like an All Stars, maybe it could be fun like that.

[Tamara]

You know, you should definitely go on the All Stars if there is one. I think that one day there probably will be.

[Mercedes Javid]

And I bet you this time I would be, like, way more different. Like, I would be completely different. I would probably take more risks like Janelle. Janelle took a lot of risks in that game, and she really played it well.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

China's Ministry of State Security is one of the most mysterious and powerful spy agencies in the world. But in 2017, the FBI got inside.

[Mercedes Javid]

This is Special Agent Riegel, Special Agent Bradley Hall.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

This MSS officer has no idea the US Government is onto him. But the FBI has his chats, texts, emails, even his personal diary. Hear how they got it on the Sixth Bureau podcast.

I now have several terabytes of an MSS officer. No doubt, no question of his life. And that's a unicorn.

No one had ever seen anything like that. It was unbelievable.

This is a story of the inner workings of the MSS and how one man's ambition and mistakes opened its vault of secrets.

Listen to the 6th Bureau on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Jill Winterstein]

Hi, this is Jo Winterstein, host of the Spirit Daughter podcast where we talk about astrology, natal charts and how to step into your most vibrant life. And I just sat down with a

[Mercedes Javid]

mini driver, the Irish traveler said when I was 16, you're gonna have a terrible time with men.

[Jill Winterstein]

Actor, storyteller and unapologetic Aquarian visionary. Aquarius is all about freedom loving and different perspectives and I find a lot of people with strong placements in Aquarius like are Misunderstood A Sun and Venus in Aquarius in her seventh house spark her unconventional approach to partnership.

[Mercedes Javid]

He really has taught me to embrace people sleeping in different rooms, on different

[Tamara]

houses, in different places, but just an

[Mercedes Javid]

embracing of the isness of it all.

[Jill Winterstein]

If you're navigating your own transformation or just want a chart side view into how a leading artist integrates astrology, creativity and real life, this episode is a must. Listen Listen to the Spirit Daughter podcast starting on February 24th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcast.

[Amanda Knox]

In 2023, a story gripped the UK, evoking horror and disbelief.

[Wells Adams]

The nurse who should have been in charge of caring for tiny babies is

[Mercedes Javid]

now the most prolific child killer in modern British history.

[Amanda Knox]

Everyone thought they knew how it ended. A verdict. A villain, a nurse named Lucy Letby.

[Tamara]

Lucy Letby has been found guilty.

[Amanda Knox]

But what if we didn't get the whole story?

[Wells Adams]

The moment you look at the whole

[Mercedes Javid]

picture, the case collapses.

[Amanda Knox]

I'm Amanda Knox and in the new podcast Doubt the Case of Lucy Letby, we follow the evidence and hear from the people that lived it to ask what really happened when the world decided who Lucy Letby was.

[Jill Winterstein]

No voicing of any skepticism or doubt.

[Mercedes Javid]

It'll cause so much harm at every

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

single level of the British establishment of this is wrong.

[Amanda Knox]

Listen to Doubt the Case of Lucy Letby on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Nancy Glass]

I'm Nancy Glass, host of the Burden of Guilt Season two podcast. This is a story about a horrendous lie that destroyed two families. Late one night, Bobby Gumprite became the victim of a random crime.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

He pulls the gun, tells me to

[Wells Adams]

lie down on the ground.

[Nancy Glass]

He identified Jermaine Hudson as the perpetrator. Jermaine was sentenced to 99 years.

[Mercedes Javid]

I'm like, lord, this can't be real. I thought it was a mistaken identity.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

The best lie is partial truth.

[Nancy Glass]

For 22 years, only two people knew the truth. Until a confession changed everything.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

I was a monster.

[Nancy Glass]

Listen to Burden of guilt season two on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Wells Adams]

Let's talk about season four because it's very exciting that there is a new season coming out. Are you going to be watching it or is it. Is there too much scar tissue for you?

[Mercedes Javid]

Oh, no. No scar tissue at all. No, no, no. I, when I walked away from the castle, I had already moved on to saying, like, I get to see my kid in 12 hours. I get to go back to my routine because I love everything. And when it comes to a reunion, we're not there to make a snooze fest. So I had to let them know how I felt. That was the time. But I hop on a plane and I go back to all of the other blessings. I'm. I'm watching for Rinna. I'm watching for Michael Rappaport. I'm watching for Dorinda on her second round. Who else is there? You guys?

[Tamara]

There's five housewives, five gamers, five housewives. Five housewives. We have Carolyn from Dubai.

[Mercedes Javid]

She's gonna be amazing.

[Wells Adams]

Travis, Kelsey's mom.

[Tamara]

Travis, Kelsey's mom. She's not a housewife. Well, we have Candice.

[Wells Adams]

She was at one point.

[Tamara]

Lisa Rena. Yeah, she was at one point.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah, I'll guarantee you that she's starts out as a faithful and then maybe they'll recruit her to be a traitor. And that's going to be really fun to watch. Yeah.

[Wells Adams]

Listen, you, you don't raise to like NFL caliber amazing athletes without being able to like manipulate people into doing what you want. I think she actually would be a very.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah, she's, she's a genius point. That's a genius point. I love that. Actually, we should be just befriend her just for the tips. The mom life. Life tips.

[Tamara]

Well, for someone like Wells who doesn't normally watch Bravo shows, what would you say to him to get him to watch your new show? Because I do want to talk a little bit about that. The Valley Persian style.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yes. So it's really fun. It's a co ed cast. So you're going to be watching men and women interacting kind of like southern charms, like original Shaws but better. Kind of like Vanderpump. So like it's fun to see what we're up to and it's relatable and it's. Everyone is gorgeous. So what more could you ask?

[Tamara]

For what do you think the biggest differences between Shaws and the Valley, bro?

[Mercedes Javid]

I was so rough. We were so. Okay. There was in the hotel this morning, they had Bravo. And I was like, oh, my God, Shaw is on right now. And so I'm pouring this empty bottle of tequila into a shot glass going like, thank God, Thank God there's more tequila. And Tommy was like looking at it and he was like, there is barely any. I had drank the whole bottle while doing a painting my house scene with the whole cast. And I was yelling at Tommy for why he doesn't think that we should have a baby right now and get pregnant. And he was like, are you sure you're okay? And I was like, yeah. I mean, why? What's wrong with me? We were unhinged. You are.

[Tamara]

You guys, it's kind of like the grown up version of the Shahs. You guys have gotten married, some gotten divorced, you guys about kids. And now you're on, you know, the Valley. And it's much like Vanderpump rules, you know, they had to make that transition because people are growing up, they're still not bartenders.

[Mercedes Javid]

Right.

[Tamara]

So it's a great transition. I have seen season episode one. I think it's great. I'm a little annoyed that there's another Reza, because in my mind, there's only one fucking Reza in the world and that's him. And I will bow down to that guy because I love him so much.

[Mercedes Javid]

Absolutely. Yeah. Has he done two T's in a pod?

[Tamara]

Not yet. So I had reached out to him and he will.

[Mercedes Javid]

He said he would because he is very annoyed that there's another Reza, as he should. But we love the new Reza. There will never. They don't compete. They don't. You know what I mean?

[Tamara]

They're polar opposites. This new Reza reminds me of Persian Jax Taylor.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah, well, but he's not mean. He doesn't have a mean streak. He's like fuck Boy island meets Shaws.

[Tamara]

Yeah, I mean, he jacks. Yeah, yeah, yeah. He's definitely a fuck boy.

[Mercedes Javid]

How does it.

[Tamara]

How does it feel to be back on Bravo?

[Mercedes Javid]

It's fun. It's like. It was. It was a perfect time to tap out, focus on the baby. That show was toxic at the very end. And now that we're back, mj, they're all.

[Tamara]

They're all toxic. That's what makes them so good. Now, you were off TV for four or five years. Was it?

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah. Yes, yes. No, I was really focused on making my life and being at the agency with Mauricio being a mom, and between a full job and a full time mom being both, that's really a lot. That's a lot.

[Tamara]

I did like that. Reza says in the first episode that, you know, when Shah's was canceled, he went through kind of a mourning process. And as somebody that was fired four or five years ago for a couple years, I get that when you're on a show for a long time and it just ends. It's a very weird feeling.

[Mercedes Javid]

I know, because Reza didn't just have a baby, you know, and he wasn't really as interested in, like, revamping his real estate stuff, you know. So I think for Reza, he had attached his identity to being like this big celebrity, you know, rob a liberty. And I'm really happy for him that he's happy to be back and he belongs on tv. He's so funny and so smart.

[Tamara]

Yeah.

[Mercedes Javid]

And I love where we are in our friendship, being mended, fences and everything, so. But for me, it just wasn't the same thing. I had so many things to focus on with a little one.

[Tamara]

And, you know, I always say, like, even with housewives, how the hell are you filming with a newborn?

[Mercedes Javid]

Exactly. Like, I wouldn't. I mean, my son was born in 2019, so it was the perfect time the universe allowed me to be. You know, like I said before, we had COVID lockdown and I had to be off tv, so I got to do.

[Tamara]

Oh, so you. So you were let go the same time I was. Was it 2019?

[Mercedes Javid]

It ended on the, like 2021.

[Tamara]

Oh, okay.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah. Like, pretty much perfect timing. I think we were. We. You know what? It ended and the show aired. So. Yes. So pretty much the same time. 2020. I think I'm losing my mind. But yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Wells Adams]

When it comes to this upcoming season, what's something that you can tease for all those Bravo watchers out there and then who's. Who's like a standout character that people might not expect.

[Mercedes Javid]

Okay. I'm trying to think of one person that's new. I'm gonna give it to Amir. He's the one who shares that he lost his wife that heartbreaking while they were newlyweds. The way that. That he shares such a vulnerable story and dealing with grief on TV is really important because I was able to watch Married to Medicine and watch them grieve their. When their parents were sick, and it helped me when my dad was sick. So now this, with Amir on this show is so real and important for us to have someone to tie our sales to go through life, like, the hard things. And. Yeah, he's. And his wife. I mean, it's really intense.

[Tamara]

Your mom is such an icon, and I didn't remember how hard she is on you. And watching this new. This new show, you know, she's very involved in it. And she's tough on you. She's really tough on you. I mean, I know she comes from a loving place, but I think she's just really old school, and she's just so tough. And I go, oh, my God, Poor mj. She got her husband that just wants to talk about poop all the time. And then her mom that's like, shitting his pants.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah. Yeah, I. I almost. I think one therapist told me that I might have married my mom because they're both so tough with their words, and they don't. Neither of them see it sometimes. They just think it's normal. And that's the part where I'm like, this is a Twilight Zone. I don't want to be talking to someone who at least can't understand what they're doing. So it is extremely difficult to. To have a lack of nurturing, you know? You know, nothing replaces the mother in your life.

[Tamara]

And I'm assuming your mom's always been like that your whole life. Yes, absolutely. She's not like. She amps it up for the cameras or anything. She's.

[Mercedes Javid]

That's just who she is. Absolutely. Does not amp it up. She probably sugarcoats it for the cameras.

[Tamara]

Oh, God, that's hilarious.

[Wells Adams]

If anyone from. From the cast of the Valley Persian Style were to go on Traders, who would be the best and who would be the worst?

[Tamara]

That's a good question.

[Mercedes Javid]

Okay, I think Amir, again, because he is so strong. He's a lawyer. He's the father of three. He's overcome, you know, grief, like, being a widow in, like, the matter of a year or less. So what can't he do, honestly? And. And, yeah, you guys are gonna fall in love with the new people. They're not new to us, but they're new to you guys. And they're very, very smart, funny, entertaining, like, gorgeous.

[Wells Adams]

Who would. Who would be good traders?

[Mercedes Javid]

Oh, I thought he would be a good trader.

[Wells Adams]

Okay,

[Tamara]

what about Gigi?

[Mercedes Javid]

Well, she. She says that she wouldn't want to do it, but I. Well, I think Gold Nessa can do anything she wants. You know, she's got the gift of gab, and she's, like, really flawless at that. Maybe Reza should go back. What do you think.

[Tamara]

Oh, yeah, I think I'm shocked that they didn't. Did they ask him to go back the following season? Because a lot of times when somebody gets booted very quickly, they get asked back again.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah, but he said he didn't want to go back.

[Tamara]

Yeah, that's what I thought. I heard that, but I didn't know if that was accurate.

[Mercedes Javid]

I know. Well, you can ask him when he comes on. But no, I really think that Phaedra was a flawless traitor because nobody expected her. And you know, all those late nights, like having to stay up until 2:30 in the morning and then, you know, be awake when you have to take up all that glam and then start over again. And she really brought it in so many ways. So I, I really am excited to, like, make wagers about who is going to be a traitor. Like, I bet you Michael Rapaport wishes that he is a traitor, but maybe he's going to be a faithful. Like, this is so exciting, isn't it?

[Tamara]

It's very exciting.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

China's Ministry of State Security is one of the most mysterious and powerful spy agencies in the world. But in 2017, the FBI got inside. This is Special Agent Regal.

[Mercedes Javid]

Special Agent Bradley Hall.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

This MSS officer has no idea the US government is onto him. But the FBI has his chats, texts, emails, even his personal diary. Hear how they got it on the Sixth Bureau podcast?

[Mercedes Javid]

I now have several terabytes of an

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

MSS officer, no doubt, no question of his life. And that's a unicorn.

No one had ever seen anything like that. It was unbelievable.

This is a story of the inner workings of the MSS and how one man's ambition and mistakes opened its vault of secrets.

Listen to the 6th Bureau on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Amanda Knox]

In 2023, a story gripped the UK, evoking horror and disbelief.

[Wells Adams]

The nurse who should have been in charge of caring for tiny babies is

[Mercedes Javid]

now the most prolific child killer in modern British history.

[Amanda Knox]

Everyone thought they knew how it ended. A verdict. A villain. A nurse named Lucy Letby.

[Tamara]

Lucy Letby has been found guilty.

[Amanda Knox]

But what if we didn't get the whole story?

[Wells Adams]

The moment you look at the whole

[Mercedes Javid]

picture, the case collapses.

[Amanda Knox]

I'm Amanda Knox, and in the new podcast, the Case of Lucy Letby, we follow the evidence and hear from the people that lived it to ask what really happened when the world decided who Lucy Letby was.

[Jill Winterstein]

No voicing of any skepticism or doubt.

[Mercedes Javid]

It'll cause so much harm at every

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

single level of The British establishment of this is wrong.

[Amanda Knox]

Listen to Doubt the Case of Lucy Letby on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Jill Winterstein]

Hi, this is Joe Winter, host of the Spirit Daughter podcast where we talk about astrology, natal charts and how to step into your most vibrant life. And I just sat down with a mini driver.

[Mercedes Javid]

The Irish traveler said when I was 16, you're going to have a terrible time with men.

[Jill Winterstein]

Actor, storyteller and unapologetic Aquarian visionary. Aquarius is all about freedom loving and different perspectives and I find a lot of people with strong placements in Aquarius like are Misunderstood A Sun and Venus in Aquarius in her seventh house Spark her unconventional approach to partnership.

[Mercedes Javid]

He really has taught me to embrace people sleeping in different rooms, on different

[Tamara]

houses, in different places, but just an

[Mercedes Javid]

embracing of the isness of it all.

[Jill Winterstein]

If you're navigating your own transformation or just want a chart side view into how a leading artist integrates a astrology, creativity and real life, this episode is a must. Listen. Listen to the Spirit Daughter podcast starting on February 24th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcast.

[Nancy Glass]

I'm Nancy Glass, host of the Burden of Guilt Season two podcast. This is a story about a horrendous lie that destroyed two families. Late one night, Bobby Gumpright became the victim of a random crime.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

He pulls the gun, tells me to

[Wells Adams]

lie down on the ground.

[Nancy Glass]

He identified Jermaine Hudson as the perpetrator. Jermaine was sentenced to 99 years.

[Mercedes Javid]

I'm like, lord, this can't be real. I thought it was a mistaken identity.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

The best lie is partial truth.

[Nancy Glass]

For 22 years, only two people knew the truth. Until a confession changed everything.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

I was a monster.

[Nancy Glass]

Listen to Burden of guilt Season 2 on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Tamara]

Okay, in this new season, they do something different, something that me and Wells and Dolores have been talking about for the last year. And they have a secret trait. So if you haven't watched yet, there is a secret trader. And I don't want to spoil it for those people, but even, even the traders don't know who the secret trader is.

[Mercedes Javid]

How do we? The audience is the only one who knows.

[Tamara]

No, nobody knows.

[Wells Adams]

No one knows.

[Tamara]

No one knows.

[Mercedes Javid]

So then the only person that knows are the producers and the trader and the camera guy? Yep. So they are like deciding they're not voting. They're not in the turret, they're not in the turret.

[Tamara]

But they have control over who the traitors in the turret can murder.

[Mercedes Javid]

No way.

[Tamara]

Yes. It makes it very. Like even, you know. Yeah. Like Lisa. Rinna and Lisa. Rena is a traitor. So you haven't seen the new season yet? It just came out.

[Mercedes Javid]

No, no, I haven't, but.

[Tamara]

You want me to tell you who the traitors are?

[Mercedes Javid]

Do it. Can I guess? Can I guess?

[Jill Winterstein]

Okay.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

Yeah.

[Mercedes Javid]

Rinna. Rinna.

[Tamara]

Nope. Rena. Yes.

[Mercedes Javid]

Oh, my God. Caroline Stanberry.

[Tamara]

No, but it is another housewife. They have two housewives in the turret.

[Mercedes Javid]

The one from Potomac.

[Tamara]

Yep. Candace.

[Mercedes Javid]

Candace.

[Tamara]

Yes.

[Mercedes Javid]

No.

[Tamara]

And then there's a game. I think there's a gamer, too. I think his name's Rob. I can't remember. I don't know him. But he's good at it. But it is so good. And then they do like in the very beginning, the first episode, you know, when we're out by the. The SUVs and we just get there for the very first time, everybody's saying hi. Alan takes everybody to the stairs where we got our drinks, and then he's at the bottom of the stairs out on the lawn, and he basically says, I'm picking a trader right now. It's a secret trader. Nobody's going to know who it is. I'm going to pick each one of you to come down individually. I'm going to open up a box, and if the box opens and there's something in it, you're the trader. So then you have to. I know. They just. They really. Every year, though, they kind of change things around to make it good. It's not repetitive. So it's. You have to watch it. You have to. I will.

[Mercedes Javid]

So it's shout out to Mike Cotton, who is so smart. And they just. They say throughout the game, like, they can change the rules whenever they want. So they really keep things interesting. It's fascinating how smart these guys are with make and Ricky. I think that was the name of another producer. Do they ever upgrade those Land Rover discoveries or are they keeping those discoveries?

[Tamara]

I think they're the same, to be honest with you. I think they're the same. I think there's a. Been a little upgrade to the castle. A little bit like things look a little fresher. The missions are always different. They are doing some different stuff and they got some strong players in there. Very strong.

[Mercedes Javid]

Do you remember how the. The cars would break down?

[Tamara]

Yeah, we broke down when we were driving. Somebody's car broke down. I can't remember.

[Mercedes Javid]

A couple times. Yeah.

[Jill Winterstein]

Yeah.

[Tamara]

It Was Lar. Wasn't it Lars's car that broke down?

[Mercedes Javid]

I just remember we all had to stop and wait. So it was like, if one person breaks down, the whole cast is waiting. And, you know, people would hop out and smoke a cigarette or something.

[Tamara]

I'm sure so many things are different from when we were on second season. The way they operate and all the thing, you know, I'm sure it's so different.

[Mercedes Javid]

Stronger. Stronger smoking laws.

[Wells Adams]

Well, hopefully the drinking laws are much stronger, I can tell you that.

[Tamara]

They should be.

[Mercedes Javid]

That's good, allowing people to drink, because.

[Wells Adams]

No, they let us drink really, at all.

[Mercedes Javid]

No, we weren't either. And you know what's funny? When Sandra did her press after the show, she would tell people that the smokers were the ones where it all went down. She's like, that's where it all goes down. If you weren't a smoker, then you weren't getting all this insider information. I was like, absolutely. No, because I supervised. We would. They would follow us to wherever we would go. It was like me, Pete, the pilot.

[Tamara]

Oh, you mean off camera. So off camera, because. That's right. They didn't film them, like, smoking outside,

[Mercedes Javid]

but you're right, exactly. So we would go to that inside courtyard thing just for something to do. Even if you weren't smoking, you would just do it that month because it was somewhere to go. But they would stand there and supervise you and make sure you were only shooting the shit.

[Tamara]

Yeah. Let's talk a little bit about the season on the Valley. We're seeing your divorce pretty much play out in real time. You see the kind of. The demise of your relationship. And, I mean, I have to give it to you, mj. I don't know if you're like this just for the cameras, but you are so patient with him and the things he would say and do to you. It was like you were just. You kept a smile, you know? And the best line ever was, I'm gonna drink more now, that you said that. Because he. Because her husband had said to her, wells, he dropped her off at a party, he wouldn't go to the party. And he's like, don't drink too much. And she's like, I'm gonna drink. I want to drink more. Just because you said that, or something like that. And I'm like, yes.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah. Well, you know, being married to him for seven and a half years, together 10, I feel like I went through every phase of trying really hard, fighting really hard, being coy, following his cues. There wasn't any approach that I didn't try in order to get us to a place that I thought was like, where a healthy marriage should be. So by the end, I was like, okay. Because there would be private moments with Tommy that throughout the years where I was like, pretty heartbroken about something. And then I would stand there and he'd be like, well, you know, you married it. And I was like, yeah, this is not real. Come on.

[Wells Adams]

You know, is it hard to watch it back?

[Mercedes Javid]

It is. It's very surreal.

[Tamara]

How are you guys now?

[Mercedes Javid]

We're good because we're focusing on Shams and it's like we kind of took the pressure off of both of us because we're not. The expectations are brand new. It's a reset and we don't discuss, you know, anything. We just focus on our day to day stuff with schedule and hanging out. And we've just come out of Halloween, holiday, Christmas, Thanksgiving and school and sports and all the things. So it's like in some ways our relationship has improved a lot by.

[Tamara]

Well, that's good that you guys are able to do that because this somebody that had gone through a public divorce and I, I didn't have that with my ex. And that really hurts the children more than anybody. So it's good that you guys can co parent. There's not a lot of toxic, you know, or screaming and yelling that your son can witness. So that, that's good. That's a good step forward because now you are a newly single mom, which, by the way, I applaud every single mom out there because it is a tough job, a really tough job. What do you look in for the future? Like, what does that look like for you?

[Mercedes Javid]

Well, if we keep it going like we have, we're just. It's very smooth. And I think if we're both just focusing on making ourselves the best version of ourselves, then there won't be any room for petty crap. And Shams does not see us really butt heads, you know, and as long as he, you know, you see on the show that Tommy kind of makes fun of me a lot and I feel like it's harsh and if he does that stuff in front of Shams, like, that stings a little bit because I want to raise a gentleman and I want to make sure that we can have that. Queens, New York, be that all day. Right. And. But also, like, I just want to make sure that he's a great example for Shams. Yeah.

[Tamara]

How's your son's cussing? Because I love it.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah. Yeah, My son, he. It's odd. He. He only says bad words in front of mommy and daddy. And never have I gotten an email from the teacher that he used a

[Tamara]

bad word because he's smart. He knows better.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah, he knows the difference. Yeah. And then we laugh. And then so obviously we've encouraged it inadvertently.

[Tamara]

So my kids, two of my kids, when they were really little, they were. Simon's mom, would watch them while I worked. And she cussed like a sailor. Cussed like a. I mean, rest in peace. She just passed away, but she would cuss like a sailor. And one time we went to Disneyland and I think it was Sydney stood up on the chair and she's like, fuck you, Grandma. And I just went. And people were looking at me like, you are the worst mother in the world. And I was so embarrassed. I'm like, sit down.

[Mercedes Javid]

And how old was she at the time? Like five?

[Tamara]

Four or five.

[Mercedes Javid]

I don't know. She was little. Cute. It's so cute.

[Tamara]

It is cute. But I mean, some people would be like, it's not cute. That's horrible. But whatever happens, right, when they hear it, they mimic it.

[Mercedes Javid]

Should they hear it?

[Tamara]

Probably not, but whatever. Well, I loved. I very much loved the first episode. You know, we're recapping it on two T's. I was concerned because it's, you know, new faces on the show and it's hard to get to know people, but it's really good. And I don't know if it's because you and Gigi and Reza are on it. So there is some, you know, familiar faces on there, but even the new cast members are going to great. Yeah, we're really good. So you guys are. I think you're great success for. With this.

[Mercedes Javid]

Thank you. I really appreciate it. It is really fun. And I will be tuning in for the recaps because I'm really curious about your take on everything.

[Tamara]

I'm into it so far. It's a thumbs up. Do you think they're going to franchise this because they have the Valley?

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah, that's why we got such a weird title, because Alex Baskin wants to do a housewife. You know how he has. Yeah, the Housewives franchise. So now it's like the Valley Persian style. Then the Valley, maybe. I don't know. What's the next city?

[Tamara]

What's next? I don't know.

[Mercedes Javid]

Right, right. Who knows?

[Tamara]

Because you are in the Valley City.

[Mercedes Javid]

Where are they gonna, like, keep us in the Valley and just go to different areas.

[Wells Adams]

Like, is that the Valley? Is it where I'm at in Studio City right now. So I'm wondering if that's.

[Mercedes Javid]

Oh, you are?

[Wells Adams]

Yeah.

[Mercedes Javid]

Oh, okay. So some of us. Reza lives in Toluca Lake. I live in Calabasas. Tanning lives in Encino. And then there's, you know, Woodland Hills. So we are all over. But it's like when they did the Valley. The Valley with Jackson and Brittany, we were like, why would we be called that? And we're like, oh, franchise.

[Tamara]

Franchise. Yeah. So is it like the Valley Italian style, the Valley? Is that what's going to happen?

[Mercedes Javid]

Exactly. It's going to be just. Just more and more iterations. But, you know, Alex.

[Jill Winterstein]

It works.

[Tamara]

It works. Alex is a genius.

[Mercedes Javid]

We do love working with Alex. There is no comparison to anything else. So whatever he wants, he gets.

[Tamara]

Yeah, yeah.

[Mercedes Javid]

Including, by the way, you guys, including the fastest turnaround time where we just finished shooting this in June. We're on the air and just like less than six months later, and here we are. So, like, that's also great. We have a great time slot right after bh. I mean, it's great real estate.

[Tamara]

It really is. So you're right after Beverly Hills. If you guys. If you're tuning into the Real House of the Beverly Hills, right after that is the Valley Persian style. And you need to tune in. It is so good.

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

Yep.

[Wells Adams]

Premiering back to back episodes Thursday, January eight at 9pm Eastern on Bravo. MJ, thank you so much for coming on. By order of the Faithfuls, before we let you go, I know you got to do a bunch of more press. Where can people find more about you? Where can they follow you? And what are some projects that you might want to promote before we let you go?

[Mercedes Javid]

Thank you. So I have a podcast called Tilda Dirt. You can find me there. And every platform is Mercedes Javid.

[Wells Adams]

Very nice.

[Tamara]

Thank you, Mercedes, so much for taking the time to come on.

[Mercedes Javid]

Thank you guys too.

[Tamara]

We really appreciate it.

[Wells Adams]

I hope you get to go to an All Star Traders one day. And I hope that CT and Trishell are there just for the tv.

[Tamara]

Could you imagine?

[Mercedes Javid]

That would actually be really, really good tv. You're right.

[Wells Adams]

Yes, it would be. Thank you so much. Have an amazing day and congratulations on all this success with the new show.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yes, thank you, guys. Thanks for having me. Talk to you soon. Thank you.

[Tamara]

And I can't wait for watch what happens live.

[Wells Adams]

Oh, she's so sweet. Now I feel really bad about what happened to her.

[Tamara]

I know, I know. It's. It was. I mean, it's A game. So you can't take it personal. But her heart is so big, honestly, that she's like, how could somebody do that to me?

[Wells Adams]

Yeah.

[Tamara]

But like, if you start watching her new show, you'll see like, her mom is hard on her.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah. Hard.

[Tamara]

And her husband is just dismissive and he jokes all the time and makes fun of her and it. So you get to know her a little bit better.

[Wells Adams]

Yeah. Well, definitely gonna be tuning into the Valley Persian style. It's gonna be on Bravo, 9 O', clock, starring on January 8th. This has been very fun off the bat prognostications. Who do you think is gonna win this thing?

[Tamara]

Oh, my God. I think Candace has a good chance of winning. I. I predict Michael will be off the show soon.

[Wells Adams]

Yeah.

[Tamara]

His mouth is just too big. Did you notice that Dorinda's not even talking?

[Narrator (6th Bureau Podcast)]

Yeah.

[Wells Adams]

Smart.

[Mercedes Javid]

Yeah.

[Tamara]

Three episodes in and she's not even talking.

[Wells Adams]

Well, I remember, you know, after she's ptsd. Well, when we finished, when we both got kicked off, right. She was first and I was second. We had to do like that press thing afterwards. Or you, like, you sit around and you've. They reveal who the traitors are and everything. And she was like, you know, the problem was, is that I spoke too much. I need to shut the hell up. And I was, yeah. And I'm like, if you come back, you should employ that. And apparently she's doing that. I think she's gonna go very far.

[Tamara]

I think she's gonna go far. I think that she could potentially win Candace. I feel like Candace is running the show so far. Like most of it is about Candace.

[Wells Adams]

Well, what's interesting is, is that in previous seasons, the housewives have been picked off because people assume that they're going to be traders, but they hadn't really been traders. And then this season that's been turned on its heel. But I imagine a lot of the housewives are like, you guys can't keep on going after us. This is ridiculous.

[Tamara]

So maybe that's why they put two. Two housewives in the Traders 100.

[Wells Adams]

Yeah, I was producing the show.

[Tamara]

That's what I time I would just put three, put them all. Nobody's gonna think that, you know, all of them are gonna be housewives.

[Wells Adams]

What are the odds? I know all do this.

[Mercedes Javid]

Nope.

[Wells Adams]

Very, very fun episode. If you're not following us on social media, please do at by order of the faithfuls on Instagram. DM us questions or videos for us to answer and make sure you are tuning in as we recap Season four of Traders. We'll be back very soon. I believe that Dolores will be returning as well. Tamara, it's always good to see you.

[Tamara]

Good to see you. I hope you had a happy New Year to you too. I hope you had a great holiday season in 2026 is going to be amazing.

[Wells Adams]

Yeah, I'm excited.

[Tamara]

Me too.

[Wells Adams]

All right, See you guys.

[Mercedes Javid]

By.