#2685 Southern Hospitality S03E02 Part One: Post Traumatic Dress Misorder

Summary

Watch What Crappens: Episode #2685 Southern Hospitality S03E02 Part One: Post Traumatic Dress Misorder

Hosts: Ben Mandelker & Ronnie Karam
Release Date: January 13, 2025
Platform: Wondery

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Introduction

In episode #2685 of Watch What Crappens, hosts Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam delve into the latest happenings of Bravo's reality TV lineup, with a primary focus on the second part of Season 3 of Southern Hospitality. As always, the duo blends humor, sharp commentary, and insider insights to dissect the drama, relationships, and mishaps that unfold on-screen.

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Upcoming Shows and Tour Announcements

Ben Mandelker opens the episode by updating listeners on their upcoming tour, the "Mounting Hysteria Tour," set to kick off the following week in San Francisco and San Diego. He shares his excitement about their biggest show yet, the "2025 Golden Crappies," highlighting the inclusion of numerous performances and the anticipation surrounding ticket sales.

Ben Mandelker [01:59]: "And it's going to be a huge show, probably our biggest show we've ever had with a lot of song and I don't know if it's song and dance, but there's definitely song."

Ronnie Karam echoes the enthusiasm, emphasizing the swift arrival of the Golden Crappies and the extensive planning involved.

Ronnie Karam [02:55]: "We have so much work to do. We have so many things to plan. My heart is actually racing. I'm actually very nervous now."

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Skipping "Real Housewives of Potomac"

The hosts announce that they will be skipping the Real Housewives of Potomac recap for this episode due to what they describe as an "out of control" Bravo schedule and a particularly lackluster episode.

Ronnie Karam [03:01]: "We're not going to do Real Housewives of Potomac this week. The Bravo schedule is so out of control at the moment..."

Ben Mandelker agrees, critiquing the episode for its lack of engaging content and forced interactions.

Ben Mandelker [03:36]: "Nothing happened on the episode. It was one of those episodes where they didn't have anything to do with a girl."

They also mention sacrificing the character Karen's storyline this week to prioritize more compelling content.

Ronnie Karam [04:04]: "We're sacrificing Karen this week. So we'll be back with that next week."

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Deep Dive into Southern Hospitality Season 3 Episode 2

The core of the episode centers on a detailed recap and analysis of Southern Hospitality Season 3, Episode 2, titled "Post Traumatic Dress Misorder." Ben and Ronnie navigate through various scenes, highlighting character interactions, conflicts, and humorous moments.

Opening Scenes and Keurig Catastrophe

The episode begins with the protagonists arriving at Maddie's house, where Joe struggles comically with a Keurig machine.

Ronnie Karam [04:58]: "It's a Bravo moment. And, you know, we were talking about Brittany from Salt Lake City unable to work her Keurig this week."

Ben Mandelker jokes about the absurdity of Joe's incompetence with the coffee maker, likening it to a "supernatural power."

Ben Mandelker [05:14]: "You're waiter. You know what I mean?"

The hosts draw parallels between different Bravo shows dealing with similar mundane struggles, emphasizing the show's penchant for blending the trivial with the dramatic.

Ben Mandelker [05:34]: "I know you're gonna love the supernatural power. Joe can't work a fucking Keurig. Okay? Get a better supernatural power."

TJ and Taylor's Persona Clash

Transitioning to TJ's apartment, Ben and Ronnie explore the tension between TJ and Taylor, who display contrasting personalities amidst their interactions.

Ronnie Karam [06:00]: "She's like an eraser on a pencil. Nobody. Well, that's useful."

The conversation touches upon the dynamics of their household, highlighting Taylor's role as the calming force between the two.

Ben Mandelker [07:05]: "She's like an eraser on a Sharpie. Okay. It's like, why is it there. Yeah. Unnecessary."

Emmy and Michael's Relationship Strain

At Emmy's apartment, the hosts discuss the strained relationship between Emmy and Michael, particularly focusing on their communication issues and Michael's insecurities about his physique.

Ronnie Karam [07:42]: "Good lord. Can I just have some of what she's having? Because I do something for an hour and I need to go to bed."

Ben Mandelker points out Michael's insecurity and his desire to hit the gym despite feeling "fat and swollen."

Ben Mandelker [08:07]: "Let's go to the gym. You feel fat. Let's go to the gym."

The conversation then shifts to a flashback of Michael's birthday party, where alcohol leads to embarrassing moments and heightens the existing tensions.

Ronnie Karam [09:36]: "Need a lawyer from your fire entry? Call my husband."

TJ's Emotional Turmoil and Apology

The hosts analyze TJ's emotional state following the party, where his inability to communicate effectively with Michaels leads to unresolved tension.

Ben Mandelker [10:09]: "He doesn't really purse his lips. Like, a lot of people when they're salty, they, like, purse lips."

Ronnie Karam [12:03]: "So then, yeah, like, he's glad we talked, but, like, what I said clearly didn't get to your brain."

Ben Mandelker plays devil's advocate, questioning whether Michaels truly understands TJ's feelings post-kiss.

Ben Mandelker [13:35]: "I think he's trying to say, 'What was that?' Yeah, he's using, like, Gen Z, like, terminology of, like, we never really had a conversation about it, so we didn't."

The discussion reveals deeper layers of miscommunication and the challenges of expressing emotions within the framework of reality TV drama.

Ronnie Karam [13:56]: "So that's what I'll say. It's a pink flag. It's not a red flag. It's a pink flag warning."

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Character Dynamics and Relationship Complexities

Throughout the episode, Ben and Ronnie dissect the intricate relationships and character developments showcased in Southern Hospitality.

Maddie and Joe's Rocky Relationship

The hosts scrutinize the volatile relationship between Maddie and Joe, highlighting Joe's incompetence and Maddie's exasperation with his antics.

Ronnie Karam [22:12]: "For me and Maddie to be official right now, it literally feels like a dream come true. I feel like I can finally be myself with her."

Ben Mandelker [22:21]: "Yeah, I feel like you play this macho guy, Joe, but you cry all the time. You. I'm dating a lame ass girly man. I'm leaving you. Lol."

They note Joe's emotional vulnerability juxtaposed with his otherwise "macho" demeanor, creating a complex character that oscillates between strength and sensitivity.

Molly's Ambitious Persona

Molly emerges as a central figure with her dual roles as a bartender and event planner. The hosts admire her ambition and self-made success, contrasting her polished exterior with the underlying tensions.

Ben Mandelker [35:00]: "So Molly is like, not only am I a bartender at the hottest club in Charleston, I'm also an event planner at one of the hottest event planning firms in the city."

Ronnie Karam [35:14]: "It's Jennifer Messer. Sip some scotch with Jessica Trotch."

Ronnie Karam and Ben Mandelker praise Molly's dedication, referencing her as the epitome of hard work and resilience.

Brad and Austin's Interactions

Brad's interactions with Austin reveal workplace dynamics and underlying tensions, especially concerning grooming and professionalism.

Ronnie Karam [40:53]: "Fucking L. So then we go to Republic where everybody puts on their shirts outside, walking up to work."

Ben Mandelker [41:42]: "Being able to serve a martini with all three ingredients incorrect. To someone wearing a Bass Pro Shops hat, that's, like, the big leagues."

They critique the workplace environment at Republic, highlighting the pressure and high expectations placed on employees.

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Thematic Insights and Social Commentary

Beyond mere recaps, Ben and Ronnie offer insightful commentary on broader themes represented in Southern Hospitality, such as communication barriers, identity struggles, and the quest for authenticity.

Communication Breakdown

A recurring theme is the breakdown in communication between characters, particularly between TJ and Michaels. The hosts emphasize how miscommunication fuels misunderstandings and unresolved tensions.

Ben Mandelker [45:35]: "Now Michaels tells us it shouldn't take seeing me with someone else for you to realize you have feelings for me. But isn't that, like, every romance movie ever?"

Ronnie Karam [46:59]: "Like, I thought that was such a Listen, and maybe it's because I'm just as inept as TJ at this stuff, but I was like, that's a huge step for TJ. Good for you."

Identity and Acceptance

The struggle for self-identity and acceptance is another focal point, especially in the context of TJ's journey towards acknowledging his feelings for Michaels. The hosts discuss the generational shifts in expressing emotions and the challenges faced by younger LGBTQ+ individuals in navigating relationships.

Ben Mandelker [47:25]: "He [TJ] has his own baggage that he's dealing with of, like, being out the closet or something."

Ronnie Karam [48:25]: "The twink card has just been reversed on me. Like, what do I do to TJ?"

Workplace Hierarchies and Personal Growth

Molly's ascent in her career at Republic serves as a backdrop for discussions about workplace hierarchies, personal growth, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of success. The hosts commend her ability to balance multiple roles while maintaining authenticity.

Ben Mandelker [35:11]: "So Molly is like, not only am I a bartender at the hottest club in Charleston, I'm also an event planner at one of the hottest event planning firms in the city."

Ronnie Karam [36:57]: "So form your own conclusions. And guess who didn't tell me to say that. My dad."

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Humorous Interludes and Host Interactions

True to Watch What Crappens' signature style, Ben and Ronnie intersperse their analysis with humorous banter, personal anecdotes, and witty remarks that add levity to the discussion.

Ben Mandelker [15:52]: "I just looked over here to my right, and there is a whole fucking coffee on my desk. Like, I am going to lose my mind."

Ronnie Karam [16:01]: "Guys, I just got a call from my pants. There's shit in them right now."

Their playful exchanges often serve to highlight the absurdity of reality TV scenarios, making the content relatable and entertaining for listeners.

Ronnie Karam [22:35]: "By the way, crying doesn't make you less manly, but sandals do."

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Host Reflections on Representation

In a poignant moment, Ronnie reflects on the representation of LGBTQ+ relationships on Bravo, critiquing the lack of depth and authenticity in portraying gay characters.

Ronnie Karam [49:41]: "But we also never get to see this from our gay characters. We never ever see them. They're always sort of sidekicky and we never get to see them experience the highs and lows of like falling for someone or just dating someone."

Ben Mandelker concurs, emphasizing the need for more genuine and multidimensional portrayals of gay relationships in reality TV.

Ben Mandelker [49:32]: "I loved it. And it was nice to see TJ kind of going through all of that on camera, you know? It was weird and nice. I liked it."

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Conclusion and Teasers for Part Two

As the episode approaches its end, Ben and Ronnie hint at the continuation of their discussion in the upcoming second part. They express their appreciation for the evolving narrative arcs and the emotional depth added to characters like TJ and Michaels.

Ronnie Karam [50:19]: "Hello there. This is a two part recap. Okay this the end of part one so thank you so much for listening to this. Just come back a little later for part two."

With promises of deeper dives into character developments and upcoming plot twists, listeners are left eagerly anticipating the continuation of their detailed analysis.

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Key Takeaways

• Communication is Crucial: The episode underscores the importance of open and effective communication in relationships, as exemplified by the struggles between TJ and Michaels.

• Authenticity over Perfection: Characters like Molly demonstrate the value of striving for personal and professional authenticity amidst the pressures of reality TV.

• Representation Matters: The hosts highlight the need for more authentic and substantial representation of LGBTQ+ relationships in media, advocating for richer, more nuanced storytelling.

• Humor as a Coping Mechanism: Ben and Ronnie's humorous take on the drama serves as a reminder of the therapeutic role comedy plays in navigating and critiquing reality TV absurdities.

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Notable Quotes with Attribution

• Ben Mandelker [05:14]: "Maybe."

• Ronnie Karam [06:00]: "She's like an eraser on a pencil. Nobody."

• Ben Mandelker [14:30]: "She's like, right."

• Ronnie Karam [21:43]: "So then Maddie's like, yeah, I've never seen him like that. Just like a dream come true."

• Ben Mandelker [28:23]: "You know, I just love that Charleston still doesn't know they can't say fruity."

• Ronnie Karam [49:25]: "Shot dead. Shot dead."

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Final Thoughts

Watch What Crappens continues to deliver insightful, entertaining, and candid commentary on Bravo's reality TV offerings. In this episode, Ben and Ronnie successfully blend humor with critical analysis, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics at play in Southern Hospitality Season 3. Their commitment to highlighting both the absurdities and the emotional depths of reality TV ensures that fans remain engaged and informed.

Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for Part Two of this recap, which promises to unravel further complexities and provide even more nuanced perspectives on the unfolding drama.

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Transcript

[Ben Mandelker]

Wondry plus subscribers can listen to Watch what Crappens ad free right now. Join Wondry plus in the Wondry app or on Apple Podcasts. Watch what Crappins. Watch what Crappins. Guess what happens when there's so much that happens. Who cares what happens when there's so much that happens? Hello and welcome to Watch what Crap Ins, a podcast about all that crap on Bravo that we just love to talk about. I'm Ben Mandelker and joining me today is the wonderful and irrepressible Ronnie Caram. Hi, Ronnie, how are you?

[Ronnie Caram]

Well, hello, how are you?

[Ben Mandelker]

I am, I'm doing very well, thanks. Back back in the home home home studio here after, you know, a scare with the fires out here in Los Angeles. Very scary for everyone who is. Because of that, you know, our hearts are with you and we'll do what we can to help out. In the meantime, though, we are. What we will chiefly do is try to provide distraction for you right now, hopefully. And what a week of distraction we have coming up for you because today we're talking Southern hospitality, which is so fucking good. Right out the gate, only two episodes into the season. It is so good. I am laughing out loud. I'm just loving it. We got Salt Lake City season finale coming up later this week and we got lots of other good stuff and traders. We're going to recap after this episode three of the Traders for on our bonus episode that's on Patreon. Patreon.com Watch what crappens now. Of course, the thing that's really pressing for Ron and I right now in terms of like our work obligations is that we've got the crappies coming up. And our tour, our tour is going to start. Is this starting next week, Ronnie? Is that, is that possible? It's starting next week.

[Ronnie Caram]

It starts a week from Friday. Yeah. Or a week from Thursday. One of those.

[Ben Mandelker]

The first dates of our tour are next week, Friday and Saturday, San Francisco and San Diego. So you better come out see us to kick off the Mounting Hysteria tour. Because if anyone has Mounting hysteria, it's us two queens. And then February 1st, it is the 2025 golden crappies. And I cannot believe how soon those crappies are coming up. We have so much work to do. We have so many things to plan. My heart is actually racing. I'm actually very nervous now. And it's gonna. That's because it's going to be a huge show, probably our biggest show we've ever had with a lot of song and I don't know if it's song and dance, but there's definitely song. There's gonna be a lot of performances, and I think you guys will all be delighted. So go get your tickets for that because I don't think there's too many tickets left for the Golden Crappies. But we are also going to try to stream it as well, so we will have details about that up as soon as we have them as well. That's really all the news that I have to share. Ronnie, is there anything on your end?

[Ronnie Caram]

That's it. Oh, we're not record. We're not going to do Real Housewives of Potomac this week. The Bravo schedule is so out of control at the moment and that we are sacrificing that one this week, mostly because there's. It's just like a very, like, queer, baity, stupid episode. I'm not in the mood. I'm not even in the mood to yell about it. And if that tells you something, then that's kind of where the season of Potomac is going. We will be back with Potomac next week, though. But you know what? This week we're going to spare it and put it on a shel. And that does a favor to that show because, honestly, it was not a good. Nothing was going to come of this.

[Ben Mandelker]

Literally nothing happened on the episode. It was one of those episodes where they didn't have anything to do with a girl. Yeah, it was definitely, like, also one of those episodes where Bravo's like, here's your girlfriends. Don't you want to hang out with your girlfriends and hear what they have to say about things like, oh, my God, isn't it great just being with your girlfriends? And, like. No, it was boring. Sorry. So your girlfriends are.

[Ronnie Caram]

Giselle.

[Ben Mandelker]

We have a very crowded schedule this week, and so something's got to give. And that gave.

[Ronnie Caram]

We're sacrificing. We're sacrificing Karen this week. So we'll be back with that next week. Really, we are sorry for that, but something's got to go. That's it. So today we're here with Southern Hospital.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. And we got. I mean, it's. It's so good. So good. We open up with a lot of intro music, and we're seeing all, like, Charleston, like. And we are. We land at Maddie's house, and Maddie, we're seeing Joe in the kitchen, and he's trying to figure out the Keurig machine, which really. I think the Keurig machine, you do three things with it. You put the. The thing. The little Keurig thing, the pod in the hole. You close the hole, you press the button and go. But somehow he's a mess, and there's pieces of plastic flying off the thing.

[Ronnie Caram]

It's a Bravo moment. And, you know, we were talking about Brittany from Salt Lake City unable to work her Keurig this week. So it's been a whole. You know, it's been a week of Keurig issues on Bravo. But at least Brittany, we were like, is it because she's Mormon? And that's basically like learning how to inject heroin for the first time?

[Ben Mandelker]

Maybe.

[Ronnie Caram]

I mean, I don't know. But for whatever it is, Keurig, I guess make it easier, you know what I mean? Like, take a note. The song leading us into this was. I know you're gonna love the supernatural power. Joe can't work a fucking Keurig. Okay? Get a better supernatural power. You're waiters. You know what I mean?

[Ben Mandelker]

Yes. That's actually not even a supernatural power. That's just a natural power. That's just a natural power of being able to open up the water reservoir in a. That's a push versus pull moment. And that's.

[Ronnie Caram]

Yeah, for this show, it would be what's her buns? Grace. Lily would be like, oh, my God. He can work a Keurig, but he can't open a doorknob.

[Ben Mandelker]

Wavy, wavy, baby. So Maddie comes downstairs, and Joe's like, I made you a coffee. She goes, no, you did not, Joe. He's like, yeah, yeah, we need it. But I may have broke your Keurig. Sorry about that.

[Ronnie Caram]

I'm sorry. I just don't like men that used your eggs, which we get late to later with her. I don't like men in sandals. Okay. Are you going to. I don't think you can start this. Look around at the men that are surrounding you and just consider yourself lucky at this point. Okay? Now's not the time to make a checklist.

[Ben Mandelker]

Then we go over to TJ's apartment, where there is a Persona battle going on between TJ and Taylor. I mean, personality exploding off of the exposed brick in that household.

[Ronnie Caram]

Tj, don't bring Taylor on. Like, really just. I feel like you're getting your way into everybody's good graces this year. Just leave Taylor at home. I mean, Taylor is like an eraser. She's like an eraser on a pencil. Nobody. Well, that's useful. That's useful.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah.

[Ronnie Caram]

She's like an eraser on a. On a Sharpie. Okay. It's like, why is it there.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. Unnecessary. So their dogs are playing and Taylor and TJ's like, so want some coffee? She's like, I'd love a coffee. Oh, your dog just threw up, by the way.

[Ronnie Caram]

So then we go to Emmy's apartment and so. Good morning, sunshine. I just got you egg and cheese. Best wife ever. Look at me. Basically pregnant. Oh my God. Cracked out Emmy. Good lord. Can I just have some of what she's having? Because I do something for an hour and I need to go to bed. Whatever crack she's cracking, send it on over.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, but she's actually not talking to Will in this case. She's talking to Michaels, who's like in her bed and he's like fire. And she's like, how did you sleep? How did you sleep? Because I've been awake for about six hours. Oh, actually I never really went to sleep in the first place. Oh, I've been slept about four weeks ago. I love the gym. And Michael's is like, I still feel like thought and swollen. She's like, okay, cool, well, let's go to the gym. Let's go to the gym. You feel fat. Let's go to the gym.

[Ronnie Caram]

Michaels, walk a day in these shoes.

[Ben Mandelker]

I know Michael's. Michael's saying he feels fat and swollen. Sir, have you seen yourself on television?

[Ronnie Caram]

Kidding. You 20 year old little fucker. I'm so fat and swallow die. Just please. How dare you? How dare you, sir? There are some of us who are trying to be proud of feeling fat and swollen. Okay, don't body shame and swole me. Swole shame me. So then we go, we get a flashback to his birthday party. Everybody's going crazy and you know, everyone's getting wasted. You know, there were only probably like 90% of the party that was like, this party doesn't have balloons.

[Ben Mandelker]

Wow. You know, this party, it'd be cool if there were balloons here because then we know it's actually a birthday party and not just a regular party, but. Oh, well, I guess it's just a failure of design planning. So we see him getting drunk and now Emmy is drinking a green juice. And Michaels has his hoodie like closed up over his face and everything. And Emmy's like, so Will just texted me and he goes, what happened last night? And he fights and he's still at work, you know, and I'll talk to him later because he's a lawyer now. I'm gonna marry a lawyer. He's a lawyer. It's his first year. He's been to he, he Won law prom. He was the king of law prom. Who invented law prom. Oh, by the way, we got some messages that law prom is a thing. So congratulations. Law prom. By the way, I took pictures of you. You look fire. You look fire. By the way, I took pictures of you. You look fire. Also, you were on fire. You were so drunk, you actually caught on fire. Sorry. It's awkward.

[Ronnie Caram]

Need a lawyer from your fire entry? Call my husband. So then accidentes. We see pictures of the night before and stuff. And then back to Emmy. She's like, you know, and TJ was. He was just salty. He was like, salty as, like, you know, like, because Michaels was making out with that dude at the party. And then we just see a shot of TJ being furious. And it's this. This is. This is TJ being salty as. He's like, oh, whatever.

[Ben Mandelker]

He doesn't. He doesn't really purse his lips. Like, a lot of people when they're salty, they, like, purse lips. He sort of, like, lets his lips sort of like, he makes us look like he's about to. He's like, sipping from an invisible glass. He's like, okay.

[Ronnie Caram]

He does a nose scrunch, eye, like, eye intensity thing.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. And then he does, like. He looks left and right, like, I feel like the cat clock. He's like, okay.

[Ronnie Caram]

And Michaels is like, yeah, he texted me last night. Did he say fire? Please said. He say fire? And he's like, no, he said, love you. Have a good night. I'll let you know how my meeting goes tomorrow. Glad we talked. Hand, heart emoji.

[Ben Mandelker]

And then we see a flashback to the party, and Michaels is talking to tj and he's like. Like, I was kind of upset because you kissed me. And then there was, like, never a conversation about it. And TJ's like. I was just like, okay, this is what it is. And Michael is like, yeah, but I just, like, I would have wanted you to be like, okay, I kissed you. This is how I feel. Straight up. That is like, something I would have wanted you to do. He's like, yeah.

[Ronnie Caram]

I mean, is this how gay people are now that you talk after you make out? I mean, listen, I don't think that that's a thing. I think that you're making that up.

[Ben Mandelker]

I mean, call me crazy. Isn't the kiss the statement? I don't know.

[Ronnie Caram]

I think you get peen before you even learn anybody's name. I mean. And listen, I'm glad you didn't get PE before.

[Ben Mandelker]

You know what it means.

[Ronnie Caram]

Yeah, I I've just never heard of this. And listen, I'm glad things are changing for a newer generation, but I've just never heard that before. And, you know, TJ's in a different generation. He's probably shocked that somebody's like, what? That's crazy.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. I mean, I hate to be like this, but it sounds very Gen Z. Like, we didn't talk. We didn't establish, like, the boundaries of this kiss relationship. And TJ's like, but you don't understand. I'm very repressed. So that was, like, a lot for me. So they're, like, not really communicating well right now.

[Ronnie Caram]

Yeah. So then, yeah, like, he's glad we talked, but, like, what I said clearly didn't get to your brain. And he's like, yeah, it seems like you're just really dumb at this point. Like, get your shit together. I like Michaels, and I hope it works out. With TJ and Michaels, I worry about somebody that I have to react the way they want me to in every situation. Like, I get saying, hey, we kissed, and it kind of hurt my feelings that you didn't want to talk after. Like, I thought that was kind of weird because I liked you. Which he did say, but now it's turning into, like, an apology. And then. But, yeah, you still didn't react the way I wanted. I'm never gonna react the way you want. Like, you're. You're just gonna make people. I would just make people like this crazy, you know?

[Ben Mandelker]

So I. I hear what you're saying. I will say devil's advocate. Like, they kiss in an Uber, and then TJ scampers out of the Uber and then never acknowledges that this happened. Michaels is like, what the was that? And so he's like, yeah, what was that? Like, you just, like, kissed me. And then it's like we're acting like that didn't happen. And, like, you know, like, what was that? I think that's kind of what he's trying to say. What was that? Yeah, he's using, like, Gen Z, like, terminology of, like, we never really had a conversation about it, so we didn't.

[Ronnie Caram]

Discuss my trauma and how it affected me that night in the Uber when you kissed me. And listen, I am saying that I do get that. I. I get him having the feeling. It's just, like, a long time later, and they've already talked about it. For him to still be, you know, upset about it is a little. I don't know. It's just a warning. It's just a warning sign. So that's what I'll say. It's a pink flag. It's not a red flag. It's a pink.

[Ben Mandelker]

It's a pink. It's a pink. It's a. It's a beautiful pink flag.

[Ronnie Caram]

It's a red flag warning. Like, I'm learning things for the fire from watching that fire app all day. It's not. It's not red. Okay, okay. It's not pink, but it's a red flag. Pink. Okay. It's a different color than a pink and a red.

[Ben Mandelker]

So now we go to. Back to TJ and Taylor, and TJ is like, yeah, I'm just, like, a little stressed out after Michael's party because I just, like, I just handled the situation poorly, and I. I should have talked to him directly and not just, like, ignore the fact that we did kiss until it goes right.

[Ronnie Caram]

Yeah, right.

[Ben Mandelker]

Penny pukes again in the corner.

[Ronnie Caram]

She's such a good sounding board. I really am glad she's here.

[Ben Mandelker]

It's just.

[Ronnie Caram]

I love when it comes to Taylor's face, and she's like, right.

[Ben Mandelker]

And then we go back another flashback to the party, and TJ is talking to Michaels, and he's like, the last thing I want to do is, like, give you the wrong impression that I'm actually, like, happy right now. Hold on. Let me scowl. Okay, that's better.

[Ronnie Caram]

Well, I just wish you were more. Oh, sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt you.

[Ben Mandelker]

No, no, Michaels, I want you to talk. I've talked too much. I'm tj.

[Ronnie Caram]

Okay? I just wish you were more transparent. At the end of the day, you get nothing for nothing, and that's the life of the poor. Because I'd like you, you know? And I had to distance myself from you because of the way I fe. Oh, for Christ's sake. You got a coffee. That's more than I get after a blow job. You know what I mean? Just thank your lucky stars and drink the goddamn thing. Just. Just tell him to apologize to keep the Starbucks up.

[Ben Mandelker]

Ronnie, I just realized something, and I'm, like, literally freaking out about this. Like, actually, my heart is actually, like, racing right now. This is crazy, but I just looked over here to my right, and there is a whole fucking coffee on my desk. Like, I am going to lose my mind. Like, there is a coffee here. There was, like, a coffee. Like, I literally don't even know what to do with myself. There's an iced coffee. Like, do I say something? Do I tell the barista? Like, why are you in love with me? Like, because I'm freaking out, Ronnie.

[Ronnie Caram]

Guys, I just got a call from my pants. There's shit in them right now. That is how myself. I was over this.

[Ben Mandelker]

I don't know if it's from the coffee or from the. Or the fact that I'm, like, literally myself from the coffee, the concept of the coffee, but either way, it's all coming out, and it's in the back of my pants.

[Ronnie Caram]

I went to a taco cabana one time with a dude I was dating, and I was like, you know, I'm not eating that much today, so I'll just have a soft taco. It's like $2. Okay? And he was like, okay, you go ahead and pay first while I'm deciding. I was like, really? A $2?00? And this was not only someone who knew my name, okay? I. This man had been inside of me. You got a coffee after a sloppy kiss and an Uber? Jesus, you're like a fucking beauty pageant winner. What are you complaining about?

[Ben Mandelker]

So TJ is telling us. I never meant to kiss and dis Michaels. I. It just was spontaneous and felt right in the moment, and I just went for it. And then what also felt right in the moment was to throw myself out of a moving Uber and roll myself down the hill, past Grace Lily, and into my bed. And I still have a broken arm because of it, but it felt right in the moment.

[Ronnie Caram]

I mean, it's not like we had sex after. I mean, I would know your name, for example. Vacuum. Wait a minute. Tj. Did you. What did you just admit to? And I like the term kiss and dess. Sorry that we had a kiss and diss.

[Ben Mandelker]

It's like a chip and dip, but kiss and dip instead.

[Ronnie Caram]

Kiss and dance. TJ is like, part of it is like, I have a hard time expressing how I feel. And Taylor's like, at least you can recognize it.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. And then, like, right after we had that conversation, there was, like, this guy there that likes him and just kind of, like, licked the cakes off Michael's face. He's like a manslaught. I really hate that guy. Is not allowed into Republic anymore. And then we see, like, the. The shorter guy that, like, Preston or whatever his name was, and Michael's making out by the pool. And pj, PJ staring, drinking from his invisible glass, going, ow. Ow.

[Ronnie Caram]

You guys, Taylor has something to say about all of this. Wow.

[Ben Mandelker]

Thanks, Taylor. I. I needed that. I was so taken aback with how it made me feel. And it was that moment that I was like, maybe there is something there. I'm like, oh, tj, you're the one who kissed him in the first place. What do you mean? Maybe there is something there. You kiss him in the first place and you've been talking about how there's no gay men for you in in Charleston, even though actually we've been seeing more gay men than ever on these Charleston shows. But still, the point. That's still a fair point. And you're the one who kissed, and now you're like, huh, maybe I do feel something for him. Yeah. Remember how you made out with him and jumped out of the Uber? I think you do like him.

[Ronnie Caram]

I think that was her first sign.

[Ben Mandelker]

Oh, wait.

[Ronnie Caram]

What?

[Ben Mandelker]

Does Taylor. Taylor actually does have something important to say about this.

[Ronnie Caram]

What?

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, thanks. And then we see the. That was literally all she said. And then the dogs are playing and she's like, well, I think that you should talk to him.

[Ronnie Caram]

I think it might be a bit of a disaster. Yeah, it's hard, but you need to be real. It's time for a commercial. It's time for a crappin's commercial.

[Ben Mandelker]

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[Ronnie Caram]

So then Charleston. Charleston. Charleston. And now we're back at Maddie's and they're talking and he's like, I'm going to hungover saying, I've seen Michael's Hammer twice and last night with number three.

[Ben Mandelker]

And we see a montage of him drinking and getting wasted. And then he's like, at the end of the night, he's like crying. He's like, thank you for coming. It feels nice.

[Ronnie Caram]

So then Maddie's like, yeah, I've never seen him like that. Just like, God, that's amazing. Yeah, because everybody cries on their birthday. I mean, I cried on my birthday. You cried on your birth. He's like, I did not cry, Joe Bradley, do not lie.

[Ben Mandelker]

L O fucking L. You cried. He's like, what? Cuz I. Cuz I threw a temper tantrum that you wouldn't make out with me.

[Ronnie Caram]

For me and Maddie to be official right now, it literally feels like a dream come true. I feel like I can finally be myself with her.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, I feel like you play this macho guy, Joe, but you cry all the time. You. I'm dating a lame ass girly man. I'm leaving you. Lol.

[Ronnie Caram]

By the way, crying doesn't make you less manly, but sandals do.

[Ben Mandelker]

I love it because I can fart in front of her. Like, which is such a relief because after you have Nanny's chicken parm, sometimes you need to let something out. And at night time, I'll just like, take out my contacts and out. And I'll just like, flush. Now that. The farting in front of your lover. I get it now. I don't have contacts. Is this a thing that's like, oh, I can't wait to get to the point in the relationship where I can take my contacts out and flick them at someone?

[Ronnie Caram]

Well, I don't know, because that's just wasting money. One thing was farting after you eat something. Nanny's chicken parm. But then the next thing is just wasting your money, you know?

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, yeah. There's like farting is a renewable resource. But, like, contacts, you have to buy new ones now. They disposable?

[Ronnie Caram]

Well, some of them are. Yeah. I used to wear disposable ones. I still have eye problems because I used to wear my disposable ones. And then I would sleep in them for days. You're not supposed to do that. And now my eyes are all messed up. I'm like, oh, I wonder what I did. So back at Maddie's. Maddie's like, yeah, but yesterday when you asked TJ to talk, you were kind of aggressive. I mean, we were all like, whoa. Like, I looked over, and then they were like, whoa. And then, like, the balloon guy was like, whoa. I was like, holy crap. Whoa, Joe.

[Ben Mandelker]

Whoa. Yeah, yeah, yeah. But, like, him being so concerned and saying, like, Joe is not a good guy for you. Like, that's like. It was also kind of pissing me off that you're being so, like, buddy, buddy with him, you know? She's like, oh, come on, Joe. It's so petty and stupid. You can be friends with someone and still have boundaries. Obviously, you can't trust him with your, like to the grave, but that doesn't mean you can't be your friend, Joe.

[Ronnie Caram]

Yeah, but he's, like, constantly talking shit around this town. And there was that one rumor. Remember that one rumor? And then we see a flashback to the boxing gym where Joe's with Austin. And Austin's, you know, Joe's got some weights in his hands, and Austin's got a log. And Joe's like, like, three or four years ago, TJ spread a bunch of rumors you were gay. And Austin's like, yeah, he used to tell me. Cause I used to kick it with him around that time. And he was straight up telling me that you were gay. I was like, bo, bro, can we stop talking about a guy's weenie and be literally cooking weenie and beans over a trash can? Fire in a can.

[Ben Mandelker]

Wait, I'm confused. He was straight up telling you that I was gay? So he was saying he was straight and I was gay. No, bro, hold on. Let the log explain it to you. Okay, here's the log. The log says straight up is a. Is actually an expression. It's also a song by Paula Abdul. Oh, yeah, I slept with her last month. Okay, now who's gay?

[Ronnie Caram]

Wait a minute. So just, like, after I heard these rumors, I went to his house, and I was like, why the fuck would you say that, people? And he said, I would never say that. I would never tell anybody that I Promise you, I didn't do that. And you know, I'm a very trusting person, but now I'm paying for it.

[Ben Mandelker]

He's just a cold hearted snack. That's what I've discovered. And Maddie's like, oh, three years ago, everyone was talking about the rumor. So of course I kind of believed TJ when he told me that Joe was like, flirty or what's the word? Gay.

[Ronnie Caram]

Well, she actually said fruity.

[Ben Mandelker]

Oh.

[Ronnie Caram]

So I believed him. I believed him when Joe said he was fruity. I mean, but wasn't this. Am I still allowed to say fruity? Is that like something that, like, in the past two weeks we've had to stop saying the rules are always changing? Like, I love that Charleston still doesn't know they can't say fruity. Like, it's just coming to them. It's just getting over there. Snail mail news.

[Ben Mandelker]

But, like, was this. Are they referring to, like, when Southern hospitality first came out, like, three years ago? Two or three years ago. And like, I think a lot of people on the Internet were like, Joe's. Like, people were speculating about Joe's sexuality back then.

[Ronnie Caram]

I.

[Ben Mandelker]

If I remember correctly, so like, to pin it all on tj. I mean, I believe it. Yeah.

[Ronnie Caram]

I mean, I believe messy ass TJ was doing.

[Ben Mandelker]

He's messy. But I'm saying, like, like when he says when Joe's like, oh, you know, that. That one rumor, as if, like it was something specific. Like the time that Joe took a goat and threw it off a cliff and then burned down a. Like, like a, like a tree or something like that. Which I really shouldn't be referencing that. I guess it must be top of mind that that's what the reference I decided to make right now. But that's. But the room is just like that one rumor that you were gay. I don't know, I just love. It's such a. Like a. It's like he makes it sound like it's this, like, very specific, like, awful thing to be said about him. And it's just like, oh, that people thought you might be gay.

[Ronnie Caram]

Okay, well, listen, it was very destructive because Maddie thought he was fruity, and so she became a fruit fly instead of being his wife, which she tells us now. That is the reason that I, like, didn't hook up with Joe for a very long time.

[Ben Mandelker]

I am very homophobic and I was concerned that I'd be hooking up with a gay man. It was not cool.

[Ronnie Caram]

So Joe's like, yeah, it makes you feel like you could trust Him. And then he, like, just rolls out of Ubers, like when I told him about the Luann thing. And then we see a flashback where TJ's like, I am 99% sure that you slept with Luann. He's like, whoa, bro, what happened to Brokaw? So he's like, that's when it hit me. TJ's the one that's telling people that I'm gay. He's like, the mouth of the south. Which, you know, would fit me better if I was gay. God, kind of wish I was gay.

[Ben Mandelker]

Just like, given that I am the mouth of the south, what does it take to get some dick in the mouth of the South? Come on now, guys, help me out.

[Ronnie Caram]

No kidding. So then Maddie's like, yeah, but obviously I slept with Joe, and I sleep with Joe and he likes pussy. So. Yes.

[Ben Mandelker]

You know, you just aren't addressing the elephant in the room. Wait, where's the elephant? It's an expression, Joe. Hello.

[Ronnie Caram]

Fucking L. So then we go to Republic where everybody puts on their shirts outside, walking up to work. I don't really. Yeah, can you put your clothes. I mean, listen, you all work out somewhat, so that's good. But why do you only put on your clothes outside as you're walking in the door? It's weird.

[Ben Mandelker]

It's a strange. It's like they're. They just must hate those uniforms. They have to wear like a lot of white polo shirts and white button down shirts this today. So maybe they just didn't want to wear that. They're like, we want our. Our colors and our florals. So they're all showing up and saying hi to each other, and Molly is there, and TJ tells us Michaels is allowed to feel how he feels. But I don't want to avoid each other at all costs. I only do that with Joe. That.

[Ronnie Caram]

Then Maddie and Joe come in and she's like, oh, my God, Joe, please don't wear flip flops. I can't with men and women. Flip flops. I call those fruit flops.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, but what about men with mismatched socks? Joe. So then. Then everyone's sort of like gathering in the back room and everything. And Joe is helping Maddie curl her hair, which I don't know what Maddie is thinking because he immediately burns it. She's like, you burn my hair?

[Ronnie Caram]

Start with baby steps, like work the keurig, then graduate to curling iron. Well, like there's another step before curling irons. You know, curling irons are rushing.

[Ben Mandelker]

Maybe just like clothing irons. Classic irons let's see if you can do that before we get to the curling iron.

[Ronnie Caram]

Yeah. So he's like, we can redo it. You can't redo curls, Joe.

[Ben Mandelker]

It's literally burned. So then they're like. They're like, hey, Joe, where did you learn how to curl hair? I guess YouTube. They didn't tell me how long to hold a curling iron, though. Huh? I'm like, I guarantee they did. I guarantee. That was part of the tutorial.

[Ronnie Caram]

Add this to the list of things Joe can't do for me. No more holding balloons. Wounds. No more curling. My hair.

[Ben Mandelker]

Hey, hey, hey. CEO entering. Hey, party people. What's going on? Leah CEO season two for the Leah Meister. My hair is higher. I'm hip now. I saw what I was on tv. And now you got a fresh new CEO. It's Leah, everyone. Okay? If you got time to lean, you got time to be a cool person like Leah CEO. What's going on, everyone?

[Ronnie Caram]

You got time to lean. You got time to strengthen your spleen. People. It's Leah. See CEO in here. You want to make fun of me for wearing polyester?

[Ben Mandelker]

You.

[Ronnie Caram]

I'm in rayon now.

[Ben Mandelker]

You all thought I was fired. I went back to Vegas. Guess what? That's wrong. I got locked out of my. My house last week. And I spent a long time dealing with the locksmith. But now I'm ready to shoot this show. Leah CEO is back.

[Ronnie Caram]

Michaels. How's everyone doing, buddy? How's everyone doing? Let's talk turkey. Let's talk the game. How's everybody doing? Who's on fifth? Who's on fifth? How's Austin behind the bar? Log guy. Tell me about it. Go. People want to fuck him. Do they Want to drink what he pours into a cup? Don't fucking lie to me, Michaels. I'm looking you right in the eye. Look at me and tell me.

[Ben Mandelker]

He's like. He's pretty rough. So good.

[Ronnie Caram]

Good answer. Fuck that guy. Burn that guy in the fucking stake. We don't need any more. Listen, we've got enough mediocre people in a fucking mustache. Let me guess. He has a fucking Harry Styles tattoo on his goddamn chest. Get rid of the fucking loser.

[Ben Mandelker]

Okay, but. Well, I. I kind of want to have him trained on VIP service tonight and have Brad come and join him a little bit.

[Ronnie Caram]

You know what I'd like for the economy not to be in the tanker, Michaels. That's what I'd like. But guess what? Cheese sticks weren't built on fucking dreams. Okay?

[Ben Mandelker]

You know what? When a new employee starts at Republic, we always want to see what they're capable of. And guess what? You all are capable of nothing without me. You are not thing. Always remember that, okay? Because if I'm not here, you're not anywhere. So it's always fun and always nice to try out people in different positions. So get into your position, people.

[Ronnie Caram]

When I walk out of the room, do you just turn into a bunch of fucking pods? Because I'm fucking life bringing in here people. You're welcome. Now marry some goddamn ketchups.

[Ben Mandelker]

And do me a favor, Emmy. Get these girls a whole bunch of new dresses. You all look like erasers. Did you mention make an eraser reference earlier today? Because it's in my brain.

[Ronnie Caram]

So basically from all that, we learned that she is going to move Brad to VIP service where he doesn't have to, you know, do as much things as, like, put vodka in a cup and shake it with an olive. Because that was like, the big complaint that they showed when he's like, yeah, he's not great. And then they showed the clip of the girl being like, oh, my God, this dirty martini. Never gonna order it again. He's like, it's vodka with a tiny bit of vermouth and an olive, bro.

[Ben Mandelker]

I know. Seriously, how do you not know, like, just the basics before you start your fake bartending job? So then Brad, now Leah has left, and Brad and Emmy are discussing how their 40s aren't that far away. And then Brad's pointing to TJ like, Hahaha, you're old. And Brad's like, I know. It's not that far away. And he just like, relax, okay? Would you please? And then he's like, wait, we're. We're. Were we all born in the 90s? Brad's like, Michaels wasn't. And Michaels was born in 2002, which is really disturbing. He was born after I graduated from college. I. I don't like that.

[Ronnie Caram]

That man doesn't even know what it's like to go through an airport security without having to take off his shoes. Like, he doesn't even know that, you know?

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, he doesn't even know that that was. That was what life was like. He doesn't. He doesn't understand that there was a life before Friendster.

[Ronnie Caram]

Actually, he doesn't remember a time when you could bring toothpaste onto a plane. That's crazy.

[Ben Mandelker]

Emmy's like, well, Will was born in 1994. Because in 1994, the gods looked down and said, a new has been born. To this world. And here he is.

[Ronnie Caram]

Yeah. That's also the year that Justin Bieber was born. When he got engaged, I was hysterical.

[Ben Mandelker]

Molly's like, Me, too. And TJ's like, would you have planned my. My. His wedding? And Molly's like, I would have sabotaged it. And Molly tells us not not only.

[Ronnie Caram]

I love Molly, is it too love Molly? I also love that other missy, like Siobhan or whatever her roommate is.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, Siobhan. She came out of nowhere. So she's like, the Lacy. Not Lacy. She's like, the. Doesn't matter. I can't think of a girl last.

[Ronnie Caram]

Year who said that she made out with what's his buns.

[Ben Mandelker]

That's Sammy, Maddie's boyfriend. Different. Different.

[Ronnie Caram]

Different.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. Same. Same manner. Same category of person, for sure.

[Ronnie Caram]

Yeah.

[Ben Mandelker]

So Molly is like, not only am I a bartender at the hottest club in Charleston, I'm also an event planner at one of the hottest event planning firms in the city. And I come from a successful family, but I honestly make it a priority of mine to never come off that way. Everything that I've built for myself is completely Molly Moore. And not even my father, Benjamin and his pink dynasty can take that away from me.

[Ronnie Caram]

You want to get my color? Just try to match this.

[Ben Mandelker]

Not even my Uncle Michael and his crazy liberal documentaries can take away from my success.

[Ronnie Caram]

So we see pictures of her family on the screen, and they're like, we have a private jet, so. And then we see pictures of her on tropical vacations and wearing, like, lots of flower dresses and stuff.

[Ben Mandelker]

And she's like her Aunt Mandy on tv.

[Ronnie Caram]

And here I am, building a new Persona for Molly, bustier by bustier. It's like, you go, girl. You go. So then back to Republic. EMI's like, so is that what you do in your free time? Like, stalking Justin Bieber? Is that why you're so tired? Am I right? Guys, did you hear that? It was a good one. It was a good one. And she's like, mommy's like, I've been at Republic for almost a year. From the minute I started, Emmy's made me feel pretty uncomfortable.

[Ben Mandelker]

Three weeks earlier, Molly's trying to have a conversation at a restaurant with Emmy to be like, hey, I'm just, like, feeling like I just don't connect with you. I can hear what everyone else but you. And Emmy's phone starts ring. She's like, hold on one second. Okay? I just got a. I just got a text alert. Yes, they fixed the squat machine at the gym. Sorry, I'm Just like, I'm subscribed to Gym alerts dot com.

[Ronnie Caram]

So, I mean, it's like, well, you know I was a party planner for.

[Ben Mandelker]

A year, don't you?

[Ronnie Caram]

She goes, oh, were you? And then Brad goes, yeah, but she didn't pay you. Oh, dun, dun, dun, dun, dun, dun, dun. And she's like, I would literally. She was an intern, right?

[Ben Mandelker]

I don't know. It sounds like she was an intern or she's just doing free work. Work. But she's like, I would literally run here after working 12 hours. I would run here and, like, work all night. And Molly's like, yeah, that's what I do, but I get paid for it.

[Ronnie Caram]

And Emmy's like, yeah, I'm always an insecure. I don't like being in competition with women. Like, that's a below me. I mean, let me just tell you, I won this one, is all I'm saying.

[Ben Mandelker]

Molly's like, yeah, so I did work behind the bar with Will, and I just think Emmy is threatened because we had a working relationship. Relationship. And I'll let you form your own conclusion. Like, I. Is there a conclusion to be formed? She's jealous because you're friendly with Will. That's it.

[Ronnie Caram]

I poured wine one time next to. Well, so form your own conclusions. And guess who didn't tell me to say that. My dad.

[Ben Mandelker]

So now it's time to be at the club. And everyone is like, the music is like. And Brad is doing his usual flirting with Lake. I just feel like they're not giving Lake, like, the proper treatment that everyone else has had. She just sort of has. She's been inserted onto the show without. There's. I don't seem to remember. There's been a moment of. All she does. All she seems to do is be there, so that way Brad can flirt with her. So he's like, hey, you work on Friday. She's like, you work on Saturday. Would you want to meet up at some point?

[Ronnie Caram]

That's it.

[Ben Mandelker]

That's it.

[Ronnie Caram]

I think that she's just a slow build. Maybe, like. Maybe they're just, like, letting her warm up. I can tell you this. That girl does not give a. Like, I feel like most people get onto TV and they're like, oh, my God, who can I get a fight with? You know? Or, like. Like, look at Molly. Molly's, like, flirting with Emmy's boyfriend, throwing her under the bus, trying to ruin her life all in one episode. You know? She's like, yeah, my dad's not giving me a show, so this is the only time I. This is Molly's show now, but Lake is. They're like, lake, let's shoot a scene at your house. She's like, like, okay, like, just be you. And she lies in bed and eats. Now, that's my kind of girl, first of all. So I'm an auto fan of fucking Lake, but I love that Lake's just like, I'm gonna give you nothing. I'm going to lay in bed in my pajamas and eat and, like, text.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. So Brad tells us I have to appreciate a girl that makes you work for it. Lake is absolutely gorgeous, and she has eyes and a smile that suck you in. And I would literally walk blindfolded through a room of Legos just to talk to her. Wow. I mean, is this guy romantic or what? He would walk blindfolded. Well, I hope he also. I guess the implication is also barefoot, because to walk blindfolded. Blindfolded with shoes on through removable Legos is really. Actually not much of a sacrifice.

[Ronnie Caram]

He's like, yeah, I actually know what it's like walking blindfolded through a room full of Legos because of what's her face's room. What's her face's house from last year. Lucia's.

[Ben Mandelker]

Lucia. Yeah.

[Ronnie Caram]

So he's like, yeah, I have to work for. Oh, please. So then also, I'm protective of Lake. I want him to leave her alone because he's a douchebag. He's like a no douchebag. We saw how he was Lucia last year. I did not like that. And now he's coming on, and this girl's like, 20, so please go away. You know?

[Ben Mandelker]

And Brad is also just, like, not interesting.

[Ronnie Caram]

I know when he first said, I walked through, I'd walk through a room full of Legos, I was like, that's like a family reunion for you. Leave this girl alone, sir.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. So now everyone's, like, trying. It's a. Now it's time for the like, like, come on, come on, come on. Every, like, two for one. Cheese sticks in Republic. Come on in. Come on in. And Brad is training Austin, and Austin's telling us hospitality is great because it's high energy, but I never would have pictured this life for myself. I joined the army out of high school, and he talks about how he was going to go to Afghanistan in the army, but then he was diagnosed with general epilepsy. And so now he's at Republic. So welcome. I don't know. So I'm not. I really am not trying to be like, callous or dismissive or crass about this, but is that, like, okay if you have epilepsy to be in, like, a club where there's, like, strobe lights going off all the time? Like, I'm not trying to be, like.

[Ronnie Caram]

I don't think about it.

[Ben Mandelker]

Like, is that. Is this, like, the best environment? But I could be totally wrong, you know, to maybe, like, it's fine, but.

[Ronnie Caram]

I think maybe it only bothers some people. Yeah, I would hope, because that's really putting yourself into the. I'm like, the lion's den there. It's like, oh, my God, why is that guy twerking all the time? What is he doing? So then we go to Austin in the confessional, and he's like, yeah, I love helping people and giving to others. So that's why I, like, serve alcoholics. It really, really, really gets to that part where I can just help people. You know what I mean? So, like, Republic is, like, the big league. So this is, like, the start of a beautiful chapter for me.

[Ben Mandelker]

Being able to serve a martini with all three ingredients incorrect. To someone wearing a Bass Pro Shops hat, that. That's, like, the big leagues.

[Ronnie Caram]

So then we go back. I love all this working in the restaurant stuff, by the way, because half the shows, I'm actually working in the restaurant and being like, oh, my God, table five is like, I'm over it. I'm over it. And, you know, and we get people gossiping at the bus. The bus station, which I really like. So then Michael checks in on TJ at the bar, and TJ's like, so, did you recover from your. Your birthday? And by that, I mean face swapping with that random. I'm just kidding. I don't. I don't really care. How was it?

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, it was. It was fun. It was fun.

[Ronnie Caram]

I'm sorry. I'm still looking around the room, so just stand there awkwardly while I do.

[Ben Mandelker]

Can you focus on me? Eyes. Eyes on the prize over here. Okay. I know you're the mouth of the south, but you're the eyes of the left and the right. Come on, focus on me here. And so then TJ's like, so, do you want to go on a walk or get dinner or. And, like, talk? He's like, yeah. I was like, what if someone said that to me, I'd be like, ew, no, sorry, I'm busy.

[Ronnie Caram]

Really? I thought that was such a Listen, and maybe it's because I'm just as inept as TJ at this stuff, but I was like, that's a huge step for tj. Good for you.

[Ben Mandelker]

I know, but I feel like they've now had this conversation three times, and so it's like, okay, so he's. TJ's like, I'd like that. And he's like, like Michael tells us, as frustrated as I am with tj, I really want to hear what he has to say because I'm tired of the awkwardness and the tension at work. So. So he's gonna do it. I mean, that's. That's cute. So then now we are. It's the next day, and we are now going to a nail spa where Michaels and TJ arrive and their date.

[Ronnie Caram]

Yes. Supporting gay culture. I love that.

[Ben Mandelker]

If TJ had said, could we go into mani pedi? I'd be like, yes, absolutely. But not a walk.

[Ronnie Caram]

Yeah, but I just love that. I love this for gay culture. That they're like, let's show the first gay date at the petty place. So TJ's like, so, how are you feeling? He's, like, tired. You want some wine? No, because, like, I don't think I should be drinking for, like, two weeks. Did you have fun? Your birthday? And by birthday, I mean where you're making up with that slut. I mean. I'm just kidding. I'm just kidding. I wouldn't say that.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, it was fun. Okay. Yeah. I feel like it was a good time. Except for the part where you made out with someone else, and I sat in the corner and I looked around. Yeah. Yeah, it was fun. I feel like, by the way, after our talk, like, I look up and a guy is, like, licking cake off your face, and I'm like, disgusting. That's rude. Like, who would do that?

[Ronnie Caram]

That.

[Ben Mandelker]

By the way, if you. I brought some cake. If you want to put on your face, I can lick it off your face.

[Ronnie Caram]

And then we see at the party that he told Molly. I guess I deserve that. So he's like, yeah. I was, like, just in complete shock. And that's when I realized there were feelings there, like, emotionally. So. Okay. I can only look around the room so much. I feel like, okay, 10 minutes has passed. Okay. Literally a week has passed. So are you gonna say something or.

[Ben Mandelker]

I have something to say. Okay, what are you gonna say? I don't really know what to say. Oh, well, that was a misleading thing to say.

[Ronnie Caram]

Now Michaels tells us it shouldn't take seeing me with someone else for you to realize you have feelings for me. But isn't that, like, every romance movie ever? It's Literally, the love of the TJ is. I think that's where TJ's kind of off here. I think everything's different kind of dating, generally, generationally. I do think it's different because I think this is, like, a romantic thing to say. Like, I took you for granted, but then I saw someone else with you. I think it's been in, like, Night Finding movies. And I'm not saying it's right or that it's emotionally mature of tj, because I get. I just want to say I understand that he's not being emotionally mature necessarily, so far in the situation, but I think part of it is things that Michaels just can't understand yet. And maybe TJ doesn't even know how to express. I don't even know if I know how to express it. But there's a certain thing when you're, like, younger and gay. Well, younger. I just know being gay, but younger and attractive. And the way that people approach you, like, you don't really have to do anything. But then there's this turn when you start getting older where you become the one that has to make the moves. Like, you have to be like, I like you. What do you want to do? What are your feelings? Where. When I. Like, when I was younger, I never had to do shit. And then when I was older, I was like, oh, God, I'm the one who has to have the talks. Like, oh, I hate that. And I think maybe TJ's kind of adjusting to that. That new thing in life, because to us, he's very young, but to them, he's like old Methuselah, you know? Yeah.

[Ben Mandelker]

I think it's also just funny that, like, TJ had to see this guy making out with Michaels to realize that he liked Michaels. I'm like, did you not realize you liked Michaels when you brought him the coffee and the margarita and, like, the five other acts of service you did for him? Like, clearly, that's TJ's love language, is like, bring someone, like, a gift or.

[Ronnie Caram]

Whatever, you know, I'm getting that he did like him, but he's thinking that this is a romantic way to say it while sweeping all of that under the rug. You know what I mean?

[Ben Mandelker]

Well, I think he realized, step up his game. He had to step up his. I think he's like, well, he has liked him all along, but he realized, like, oh, okay, I can't just, like, sit on the sidelines and do these small gestures, hoping that Michaels picks up on what I'm True. Because Michaels picks up on it, but it's also, like. It's so small, and it's like, I'm gonna give you a. Like, it's. There's so many mixed messages that TJ gives because he is in. He. He has his own baggage that he's dealing with of, like, pro. He wants to make a gesture to show that he likes him. And then he also gets, like, paranoid that he acted super gay in that moment because of probably the damage of, like, being out the closet or something. I don't know. Like, whatever it is, you can sort of see him, like, ebbing and flowing, like. Like, the ocean of, like. Of, like, trying to show that he likes him. And then I think he realizes in that moment that, like, oh, I have to just really stand in it and say, like, oh, I like you. Yeah.

[Ronnie Caram]

And I don't think he really knows how to do it. I mean, I think what I'm witnessing is twink reversal, where you're like, oh.

[Ben Mandelker]

My God, Twink reversed.

[Ronnie Caram]

The twink card has just been reversed on me. Like, what do I do to tj? That was, like, a huge proclamation of love. And I was like, wow, that took a lot of guts for him to say that, you know? And then Michaels is like, I don't really know what to say. I mean, thanks for telling me. Sorry. And he goes, no, I mean, it's fine. You're allowed to feel that way. Why did we book a date at a place that I can't run away? This bitch has no doubt.

[Ben Mandelker]

I go, so my feet are literally stuck in some sort of blue water right now. And teacher's like, no, I mean, it's fine. You're allowed to feel that way. And he is just turning red on camera. And I feel so embarrassed for him. Not. I don't feel embarrassed for him. I feel bad for him that he's embarrassed. And so Michael's like, you were, like, my first gay friend. He's like, oh, does that mean that I have a shot? He's like, and it's just, like, disappointing. Oh, I thought that was going in a nice direction.

[Ronnie Caram]

Shot dead. Shot dead. So this was kind of a touching scene. It was weird.

[Ben Mandelker]

I loved it.

[Ronnie Caram]

I've really loved it, too. And it was nice to see it. And it was nice to see TJ kind of going through all of that on camera, you know? It was weird and nice. I liked it.

[Ben Mandelker]

But we also never get to see this from. We never get to see this from our gay characters. We never ever see them. They're always sort of sidekicky and we never get to see them experience the highs and lows of like falling for someone or just dating someone. Like every now and then they may have like a love interest who sort of like pops up as like a side thing like TJ's like date that he the guy he was seeing last season. But at most we may get like talk about like how hard it is to be gay and you know like what we saw from Mel the first season of this show like and he talked with his dad so you might see that. But we never actually see gay people on Bravo or gay men I should say having like three dimensional real relationships.

[Ronnie Caram]

Yeah. Hello there. This is a two part recap. Okay this the end of part one so thank you so much for listening to this. Just come back a little later for part two.

[Ben Mandelker]

Watch what crap INS would like to thank its premium sponsors. Ain't no thing like Alison King Our.

[Ronnie Caram]

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Peacock, Kristen the Piston Anderson get a bee in your bonnet with Lacey B.

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Gets a name from us It's Lindsey D let's give a kissarino to Lisalino fresh as a daisy It's Maisie McHenry we love her on the rocks It's Melissa Cox Megan Berg you can't have a burger without the berg this is.

[Ben Mandelker]

Living with Michelle Vivian I love a.

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Time with Rebecca she sure is swell.

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Cast a spell with Shannon Spellman the Bay area betches betches and our super.

[Ronnie Caram]

Premium sponsors she's VVIP it's Amanda V.

[Ben Mandelker]

Somebody get us 10 cc's of Betsy MD she's got a leg up. It's Bethany we're taking the gold with.

[Ronnie Caram]

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[Ben Mandelker]

Emily sides Nobody holds a candle to Jamie Kendall we got our wish It's Jen Plish she's not harsh, she's jealous Hirsch She's a little bit loony Junie my Favorite Murdo Karen McMurdo we love him madly It's Kyle Pod Shadley let's.

[Ronnie Caram]

Go on a bender With Lauren Fender.

[Ben Mandelker]

We'Re ride or die for Lisa Rider Baron She's a whiz It's Liz Sarthy always killing it It's Lola Al Kalani.

[Ronnie Caram]

The incredible edible Matthew sisters She eases our woes It's Melissa St. Rose Give.

[Ben Mandelker]

Him hell, Ms. Noel But I'm a kettle for Rebecca Weddle she's the queen bee It's Sarah Lemke Shannon out of a can and Anthony let's take off with Tamla Plain she ain't no shrinking.

[Ronnie Caram]

Violet Coutar we love you guys. If you like, watch what crappens. You can listen ad free right now by joining Wondery plus in the Wondery app or on Apple Podcasts. Prime members can listen ad free on Amazon music. Before you go, tell us about yourself by filling out a short [e-mail] survey.