Watch What Crappens – Episode #2683: RHOSLCS5E15 + Sold on SLC Part Two: For The Record
Release Date: January 9, 2025
Hosts: Ben Mandelker & Ronnie Karam | Wondery
Introduction
In episode #2683 of "Watch What Crappens," hosts Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam delve into the dramatic happenings of "The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City" Season 5 Episode 15 and the second part of "Sold on SLC." True to their promise, Ben and Ronnie navigate through the chaos with a blend of humor, critique, and insightful commentary, offering listeners a comprehensive recap of the latest Bravo reality TV storms.
Recap of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City (RHOSLC) Season 5 Episode 15
Angie and Mary's Tense Relationship
The episode picks up with a tension-filled interaction between Angie and Mary. Initially, the two share a warm moment where Angie assists Mary with her hair, displaying what appears to be a supportive friendship. However, underlying issues surface as Ronnie recounts:
Ronnie Karam [01:48]: "Mary says, 'I'm only telling you,' and Angie responds, 'It will not leave here.'"
This sets the stage for escalating conflicts, leading to a heartbreaking exchange where Mary accuses Angie of betrayal, leaving listeners worried about the future of their relationship.
Meredith's Suspicion and the Recording Device Incident
A significant subplot involves Meredith suspecting that someone is recording them without consent. Ronnie narrates the unfolding drama:
Ronnie Karam [02:30]: "Meredith is convinced someone has been spying on them, leading Angie and Mary to investigate by searching Meredith's room for any hidden devices."
Their search leads to a humorous yet tense discovery when Meredith realizes she has unwittingly recorded herself:
Ben Mandelker [04:07]: "So she's using my disability against me."
This incident not only adds another layer of conflict but also showcases the distrust brewing within the group.
Dinner Gone Awry and Workplace Tensions
The hosts discuss a dinner scene orchestrated by Lisa to bring some harmony, which instead ignites further disputes. Angie and Bronwyn find themselves in a heated debate about past accusations and alliances:
Ronnie Karam [07:15]: "We were going to throw you under the bus, but you threw us under the bus."
This confrontation underscores the fragile alliances and the constant power struggles among the housewives, leaving viewers and listeners alike anticipating more fallout in upcoming episodes.
Recap of Sold on Salt Lake City – Part Two: For The Record
Matt's Controversial Actions and Marital Strife
Transitioning to "Sold on Salt Lake City," Ben and Ronnie focus on the tumultuous storyline surrounding Matt, a high-earning realtor. Matt's frequent visits to strip clubs and his emotional entanglements with strippers spark significant drama:
Ben Mandelker [20:04]: "This is why the Utah market is exploding."
Ronnie adds his take on Matt's actions, highlighting his manipulation and deceit:
Ronnie Karam [32:24]: "I did not feel bad about falling for it. This is a manipulating man who's now manipulating everybody."
Workplace Ethics and Gender Dynamics
The fallout from Matt's indiscretions leads to a company-wide meeting addressing misconduct:
Ben Mandelker [39:58]: "They cannot be bringing stuff up that's going to make the firm look bad."
This scenario exposes the underlying sexism and double standards within the workplace, with female employees feeling marginalized while Matt, the primary offender, continues to receive protection and support from management. Ronnie emphasizes the frustration with ongoing gender biases:
Ronnie Karam [43:02]: "You can't blame other people's reaction to his sin. Get mad at the sinner."
Leadership's Role and Company Reputation
The episode highlights the company's attempt to salvage its reputation by upholding a strict code of ethics, which ironically seems to protect Matt more than penalize him. Ben critiques the leadership's approach:
Ben Mandelker [43:48]: "He's smirking. Whatever."
Ronnie agrees, pointing out the inconsiderate measures taken by the management to shield Matt from the repercussions of his actions, further alienating the female staff:
Ronnie Karam [43:13]: "When it comes to Matt, she's like, Jen is in complete protection mode."
Insights and Conclusions
Throughout the episode, Ben and Ronnie provide sharp observations on the duplicity and manipulation central to both shows. They criticize the lack of accountability for male characters like Matt, while spotlighting the emotional and professional struggles faced by the female cast members. The hosts underscore the pervasive issues of sexism and favoritism, making a case for greater transparency and fairness in reality TV narratives.
Ben reflects on the complexity of Matt's character, acknowledging his personal struggles but ultimately condemning his actions:
Ben Mandelker [35:05]: "We all suffer in our lives. It doesn't give us an excuse to do the kind of stuff he just did."
Ronnie echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of confronting and addressing toxic behaviors rather than excusing them due to personal hardships.
Notable Quotes
- Ronnie Karam [01:48]: "Mary says, 'I'm only telling you,' and Angie responds, 'It will not leave here.'"
- Ben Mandelker [04:07]: "So she's using my disability against me."
- Ronnie Karam [07:15]: "We were going to throw you under the bus, but you threw us under the bus."
- Ben Mandelker [20:04]: "This is why the Utah market is exploding."
- Ronnie Karam [32:24]: "This is a manipulating man who's now manipulating everybody."
- Ronnie Karam [43:02]: "You can't blame other people's reaction to his sin. Get mad at the sinner."
- Ben Mandelker [35:05]: "We all suffer in our lives. It doesn't give us an excuse to do the kind of stuff he just did."
Conclusion
Episode #2683 offers a thorough and engaging recap of the latest developments in "The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City" and "Sold on Salt Lake City." Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam expertly dissect the layers of drama, providing listeners with both entertainment and thoughtful critique. Their ability to highlight key moments and underlying themes ensures that even those unfamiliar with the shows gain a clear understanding of the ongoing narratives and conflicts.
For more exclusive content, bonus episodes, and video recaps, listeners are encouraged to support the podcast at www.patreon.com/watchwhatcrappens.
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