Podcast Summary: Watch What Crappens #2865 – The Valley S2E07 Part One: The Ring Didn’t Mean a Thing

Host: Ben Mandelker & Ronnie Karam
Guest: Lars Shane Hals
Release Date: May 29, 2025

Introduction

In episode #2865 of "Watch What Crappens," hosts Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam delve into the latest happenings of Bravo's reality landscape, focusing primarily on "The Valley" Season 2 Episode 7, titled "The Ring Didn’t Mean a Thing." Joining them is Lars Shane Hals from the "Sexy Unique" podcast, bringing fresh perspectives and insightful commentary to the discussion.

Initial Banter and Show Highlights

The episode kicks off with Ronnie discussing Amazon Prime's perks, seamlessly transitioning into their excitement about the current state of "The Valley." Ben humorously mentions his absence due to being on a foodie tour in Norway, setting a lighthearted tone for the episode.

Notable Quote:

Ronnie Karam [02:05]: "Who cares what happens when there's so much that crappens?"

Guest Introduction and General Thoughts on The Valley

Lars Shane Hals is introduced as a longtime friend and a dedicated podcast host who brings enthusiasm and critical insight to the discussion. The hosts express their anticipation and appreciation for "The Valley," noting its humorous elements and character dynamics.

Notable Quote:

Lars Shane Hals [04:46]: "I am bullish on the Valley. It makes me laugh. There are certain characters that give me the chuckles and make me feel something."

Despite acknowledging that "The Valley" hasn't reached the heights of "Vanderpump Rules," Lars appreciates its unique contributions and remains open to its developments.

Character Analysis: Jax and Danny

A significant portion of the conversation centers around character behaviors, particularly focusing on Jax and Danny. The hosts critique Jax's return to television, expressing skepticism about his rehabilitation and sobriety, suggesting that his actions are more comedic than genuine.

Notable Quotes:

Lars Shane Hals [06:10]: "He's just such a liar, too, that it kind of is now pure comedy."

Ben Mandelker [06:41]: "I am obsessed with the grift that he thinks he's pulling off."

Danny's struggles with alcohol are also examined. The hosts discuss whether his move to Santa Clarita will aid his sobriety or exacerbate his drinking habits, ultimately doubting the effectiveness of such a relocation.

Notable Quote:

Lars Shane Hals [09:07]: "I think that what Danny did is disgusting. And I do think that he likely has a drinking problem."

Ethical Concerns: Children on Reality Shows

Ben and Lars express discomfort over the portrayal of children in reality TV, specifically referencing a segment where children are exposed to their parents' tumultuous relationships. They argue that exposing children to such environments on national television is ethically troubling and potentially traumatic.

Notable Quotes:

Lars Shane Hals [23:38]: "The kids on this show take me out of my joy watching it because I'm like, it's sad to me that these kids have to deal with parents who are acting the way that these people do."

Ben Mandelker [25:04]: "I don't like feeling like that. It hurts."

Plot Developments in "The Valley"

The hosts provide a detailed recap of the episode's main events, highlighting tensions between characters such as Melissa, Jasmine, and Zach. They delve into the complexities of Danny and Jasmine's relationship, discussions about Danny's potential drinking problem, and the dynamics of friendships within the show.

Notable Quotes:

Ben Mandelker [09:24]: "But then he's moving to Santa Clarita when he's sober. So, like, which do you think?"

Lars Shane Hals [12:27]: "We all fucking drink. Everyone has a bottle of wine in their hands at all times."

The conversation also touches upon Kristen's evolving role and her newfound appreciation from the public, contrasting her past struggles with her current status.

Notable Quotes:

Lars Shane Hals [14:23]: "I'm happy for her because she needs this. I don't think that Kristen Doute is to pivot to, like, real estate if everything falls apart."

Ben Mandelker [15:29]: "I have high hopes. Maybe this will do the same for Benji."

Themes of Manipulation and Relationship Turmoil

A recurring theme in the episode is the manipulation and toxic relationships portrayed in "The Valley." The hosts dissect the interactions between characters like Janet, Danny, and Jasmine, highlighting the psychological games and the impact on personal relationships.

Notable Quotes:

Lars Shane Hals [29:53]: "Jax...has been tested and certified by a mental health institution as a narcissist. He's a three-star narcissist."

Ben Mandelker [34:17]: "Women watch these shows and learn not to be with a man like that, or if they identify that they're in a relationship with a man."

Character Evolution and Future Predictions

The discussion anticipates future plotlines, predicting darker developments and potential conflicts that may arise in upcoming episodes. The hosts express a belief that the show will continue to escalate in intensity, possibly leading to more dramatic and potentially harmful outcomes for the characters involved.

Notable Quotes:

Ben Mandelker [32:47]: "I said on the first episode of this season, this is going to end up in a murderer. It's a dark show. This is not going to end well."

Lars Shane Hals [48:59]: "I need Janet to ramp it up, up. I need her to step more into the forefront with her machinations."

Closing Remarks and Teasers for Part Two

As the episode concludes, Ben and Lars summarize their frustrations with the characters' behaviors and set the stage for the next part of their recap. They hint at more intense discussions and deeper dives into character motivations and future plot twists in "The Valley."

Notable Quote:

Ben Mandelker [55:20]: "Danny and Jason ended a stalemate. They've both pissed now. It's time for a commercial. It's time for a crappin's commercial."

Conclusion

Episode #2865 of "Watch What Crappens" offers an in-depth and critical analysis of "The Valley" Season 2 Episode 7, blending humor with serious commentary on the ethical implications of reality TV portrayals. Hosts Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam, alongside guest Lars Shane Hals, provide listeners with a comprehensive and engaging recap, enriched with notable quotes and timely insights.

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, introductions, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the substantive discussions of the podcast episode.