Summary of "Can The Side Chick Grieve Yet?" - Unhinged & Immoral Podcast Episode
In the June 5, 2025 episode titled "Can The Side Chick Grieve Yet?" of Unhinged & Immoral, hosts Jamila Bell and Mecca Evans navigate the intricate and often controversial dynamics of side relationships within the realm of internet gossip and pop culture. The episode delves deep into the emotional and societal implications faced by side partners when dealing with loss, separation, and societal judgment.
Introduction to the Episode's Theme
The episode immediately sets a candid and unfiltered tone as the hosts transition from promotional segments to the core discussion. Mecca kicks off by sharing a personal experience related to attending a church anniversary in traditional African attire, which inadvertently drew negative comments online.
Mecca [02:12]: "I had to delete the video because they were trying to start a diaspora in my comments."
This incident serves as a springboard for exploring broader themes of authenticity, public perception, and the impact of online negativity.
Navigating Online Negativity and Personal Boundaries
Mecca and Jamila discuss the challenges of maintaining one's authenticity in the face of online criticism. Mecca emphasizes the importance of staying grounded amidst backlash, drawing inspiration from Beyoncé's early experiences with negativity and perseverance.
Mecca [06:10]: "I keep myself grounded. I pray every night for mental strength."
Jamila adds her perspective on the double standards prevalent in societal judgments, especially towards women who are often harsher critics of each other's choices.
Celebrity Relationships and Societal Expectations
The conversation shifts to high-profile relationships, using examples like Cardi B and Offset to highlight how society often scrutinizes and judges women for moving on swiftly after relationship breakdowns.
Jamila [23:05]: "You can move on way earlier than you think you should."
They contrast this with the differing societal expectations placed on men, noting that men often face less pressure to adhere to prolonged expressions of grief or loyalty in relationships.
Can Side Partners Grieve?
The central theme of the episode revolves around whether side partners (often derogatorily referred to as "side chicks") should have the space and acceptance to grieve after the loss or departure of their primary partner.
Mecca [29:07]: "She should respect his wishes in death."
The hosts argue that despite the unofficial and often stigmatized nature of these relationships, the emotional experiences of side partners are just as valid and deserving of respect as any other grieving process.
Personal Anecdotes and Trip to LA
Mecca recounts a memorable trip to Los Angeles, highlighting the emotional support they received from long-time friends and industry veterans. This trip underscored the importance of surrounding oneself with genuine support systems amidst public scrutiny.
Mecca [09:36]: "How Beyoncé handles conflict... don’t let the negativity get to you."
Listener Interaction and Practical Advice
Towards the end of the episode, the hosts address listener comments, providing practical advice on navigating complex friendship dynamics involving side relationships. A notable discussion centers on a listener named Andrea grappling with dancing with a friend's swinger partner, leading to tensions within her trio of friends.
Jamila [80:25]: "Just move on."
Mecca reinforces the importance of respecting boundaries and the potential consequences of blurring lines within friendships.
Mecca [74:52]: "At the least, how it looks."
Conclusion and Takeaways
The episode wraps up with Mecca and Jamila reiterating the need for empathy and understanding towards all forms of relationships, challenging listeners to rethink societal norms and biases. They advocate for setting clear boundaries and fostering open, honest dialogues to navigate the complexities of modern relationships.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Mecca [02:12]: "I had to delete the video because they were trying to start a diaspora in my comments."
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Jamila [23:05]: "You can move on way earlier than you think you should."
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Mecca [06:10]: "I keep myself grounded. I pray every night for mental strength."
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Mecca [29:07]: "She should respect his wishes in death."
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Jamila [80:25]: "Just move on."
Final Thoughts
"Can The Side Chick Grieve Yet?" offers a raw and insightful exploration of the often overlooked emotional landscapes of side relationships. Through personal anecdotes, celebrity analyses, and candid discussions, Jamila Bell and Mecca Evans encourage listeners to embrace a more compassionate and nuanced understanding of love, loss, and the myriad forms relationships can take in today's digital age.
