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

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.

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."

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."

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."

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.

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."

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."

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."

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.

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.

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."

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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