#2880 Next Gen NYC S1Ep1 Part 2: I Believe The Children Are The Future

Summary

Detailed Summary of "Watch What Crappens" Podcast Episode #2880

Title: Next Gen NYC S1Ep1 Part 2: I Believe The Children Are The Future
Hosts: Ben Mandelker & Ronnie Karam
Release Date: June 5, 2025

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Welcome to episode #2880 of Watch What Crappens, hosted by Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam. In this episode, the duo delves into the intricacies of the reality show "Next Gen NYC", specifically exploring the dynamics and developments from the first season's initial episodes. This summary captures the essence of their engaging discussion, highlighting key moments, humorous exchanges, and insightful commentary.

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1. Introduction to the Episode Recap

The hosts kick off the episode by welcoming listeners and setting the stage for a deep dive into "Next Gen NYC." Ben reminds listeners that this is part two of the recap, encouraging newcomers to catch up by checking out part one. The enthusiasm is palpable as they prepare to dissect the latest happenings in the Bravo universe.

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2. Charlie and Chloe's Awkward Date

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Charlie and Chloe, two central figures navigating the tumultuous waters of modern dating.

• Charlie's Contradictory Behavior:
  Ben points out Charlie's confusing demeanor, noting, "The thing about Charlie that's so confusing is he talks a big game, but he actually doesn't sleep with that many people to my knowledge." ([02:05])

• Chloe's "Ick" List:
  Chloe expresses her pet peeves, or "icks," which include men removing their shoes at security checkpoints and struggling with umbrellas. Ronnie humorously captures this dialogue:
  “Chloe's like, you know what's ick to me? Like, when guys go through security at an airport and take your shoes off... Ew.” ([03:17])

• Charlie's Unconventional Conversations:
  The hosts dissect an awkward exchange where Charlie wishes he'd been bitten by a shark instead of having a skateboarding accident, showcasing his quirky attempt at impressing Chloe. Ben remarks, "He's like, that's the dumbest shit I've ever heard." ([02:39])

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3. Brooks' Concerns and Group Dynamics

Brooks emerges as a protective figure within the group, particularly regarding interactions between his sister and Charlie.

• Text Message Tensions:
  Brooks' discomfort with Charlie's suggestive text messages leads to a palpable tension. Ronnie highlights, "He's like, I personally find it offensive that he texted me something like, come meet us out later tonight if we're not already back at my place. Like, so gross." ([07:03])

• Group Support for Brooks:
  The conversation reveals Brooks' friends rallying around him, reinforcing his stance against disrespectful behavior towards his sister. Ben adds, "Everyone's, like, basically rallying around Brooks right now." ([29:05])

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4. Apartment Hunting Challenges

Ariana and Hudson's quest for the perfect NYC apartment showcases the high-stakes and often absurd nature of real estate in the city.

• Navigating Alphabet City:
  Ronnie captures the initial frustration:
  “Kevin, the real estate agent, he's like, welcome to Alphabet City. Based on Avenue A, Avenue B and Avenue C. Okay.” ([05:37])

• Financial Strains:
  The couple grapples with skyrocketing rents, with Bella expressing concerns over budgeting:
  “We want our moms to be able to have somewhere to stay. No, that doesn't work that way in New York City.” ([14:18])

• Zaxby's Conundrum:
  An amusing tangent arises regarding Hudson's family ties to Zaxby's chicken restaurant, leading to a playful mockery of the brand's prominence:
  “Zaxby's has arrived, everyone.” ([16:41])

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5. Rave and Party Scenes

The hosts explore the vibrant (and often chaotic) social events that define the characters' experiences in NYC.

• Cat's Deli Diplo Party:
  Ben nostalgically recounts, "The Cat's Deli Diplo party... we turned the most iconic New York restaurant into like a rave for the night." ([24:06])

• Manolo Blahnik Event:
  Ava's involvement in a high-fashion shoe designer's event adds another layer to the group's dynamic, emphasizing the blend of glamour and absurdity:
  “I was in an event for my friend, my favorite shoe designer, Manolo Blahnik.” ([25:34])

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6. Hygiene Conflicts and Group Tensions

A heated debate surfaces around personal hygiene, particularly Georgia's unconventional approach to germs.

• Georgia's Germ Obsession:
  Georgia's refusal to wash hands after touching others becomes a focal point of mockery and concern:
  “I touch worms. Like, touch your mouth, touch worms, touch your eye, touch poop. Like, who cares?” ([30:18])

• Contrasting Views:
  Ben offers a balanced perspective, stating, "Sometimes it's okay to have a few germs. And I do think, like, you don't want to be totally insane about it." ([31:02])

• Group Reactions:
  The group's reactions oscillate between disbelief and disgust, highlighting underlying tensions:
  “No, look, seriously, like, no allergies. I never get the flu.” ([32:08])

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7. Character Development and Relationships

The interplay between characters continues to evolve, with new relationships forming and old ones being tested.

• Riley and Gia's Interaction:
  Riley's skepticism about the group's dynamics surfaces during her interaction with Gia:
  “I have no words, like, don't touch me.” ([33:25])

• Brooks and Charlie's Miscommunication:
  The episode culminates in a misunderstanding between Brooks and Charlie, emphasizing the complexities of their friendship:
  “I don't think I did anything wrong. I mean, I would, Chloe, but, like, I wouldn't say it to him.” ([29:53])

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8. Conclusion and Hosts' Reflections

As the episode wraps up, Ben and Ronnie reflect on the unfolding drama and express anticipation for future developments.

• Hosts' Impressions:
  Ben shares his excitement about the show's potential:
  “I'm really looking forward to once it settles into its groove... it was so funny. I loved it.” ([34:05])

• Teasers for Upcoming Content:
  They hint at future discussions and invite listeners to engage with upcoming live shows and bonus content.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "The thing about Charlie that's so confusing is he talks a big game, but he actually doesn't sleep with that many people to my knowledge." — Ben Mandelker ([02:05])

• “Chloe's like, you know what's ick to me? Like, when guys go through security at an airport and take your shoes off... Ew.” — Ronnie Karam ([03:17])

• “Zaxby's has arrived, everyone.” — Ben Mandelker ([16:41])

• “I touch worms. Like, touch your mouth, touch worms, touch your eye, touch poop. Like, who cares?” — Georgia ([30:18])

• “I'm really looking forward to once it settles into its groove... it was so funny. I loved it.” — Ben Mandelker ([34:05])

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Final Thoughts:

Episode #2880 of Watch What Crappens offers a vibrant and humorous exploration of "Next Gen NYC," shedding light on the complexities of modern relationships, the absurdities of New York City living, and the intriguing personalities that drive reality television forward. Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam's sharp wit and insightful commentary provide listeners with both laughter and thoughtful analysis, making this episode a must-listen for Bravo enthusiasts and reality TV aficionados alike.

Transcript

[Ben Mandelker]

Wondry subscribers can listen to Watch what Crappens ad free right now. Join Wondri in the Wondry app or on Apple Podcasts.

[Misha Brown]

Every big moment starts with a big dream. But what happens when that big dream turns out to be a big flop? From Wondery and Ill Media, I'm Misha Brown and this is the Big Flop. Every week, comedians join me to chronicle the biggest flubs, fails and blunders of all time. Like Quib.

[Ronnie Karam]

It's kind of like when you give yourself your own nickname and you try to like get other people to do it.

[Misha Brown]

And the 2019 movie adaptation of Cats.

[Ben Mandelker]

Like, if I'm watching the dancing and I'm noticing the feet aren't touching the ground, there's something wrong with the movie.

[Misha Brown]

Find out what happens when massive hype turns into major fiasco. Enjoy the Big Flop on the Wondery app or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to the Big Flop early and ad free on Wondery. Plus get started with your free trial at wondery.com plus.

[Ben Mandelker]

Who cares what happens when there's so much that happens? Hello and welcome to Watch what Crappens, a podcast about all that crap on Bravo that we just love to talk about. This is part two of the recap. If you missed part one, go check out your podcast feed. It's right there. And without further ado, let's get right back into the recap.

[Ronnie Karam]

So Charlie is saying. Charlie, not stars guard is saying like, yeah, you know, not looking for love, but I do miss not being single because like if you're in a relationship you miss being single. But if you're in a, if you're single, you miss a relationship, you know. So like if I impregnated some chick tomorrow and that was love of my life, I'd be cool. Cuz life is short, like especially in crypto.

[Ben Mandelker]

So Brooks is like the thing about Charlie that's so confusing is he talks a big game, but he actually doesn't sleep with that many people to like my knowledge. And I really don't want them to sleep together. That would be like disgusting and horrible.

[Ronnie Karam]

So Chloe's on the date now and she's like so br. Is his mouth telling me escape it a lot? And he's like, yeah, I was like big into a skateboarding accident last year and like this dude was like, holy shit, were you bit by a shark? You look so bloody. And I was like, God, I wish I got bit by a shark. That would have been badass. That have been so crypto.

[Ben Mandelker]

We see Footage from his bike accident. You know, it's when people talk about that they have a life changing bike accident, it's usually like something that was like, near death or they broke bones and everything. And it's just like, him just bloodied. Like he fell off his bike. He just was, like, scuffed up. And he's like, it was crazy, this bike accident. Chloe's like, yeah. And then he's like. He's like, yeah, I wish I was, by the way, I went out, I was like, talking to a girl recently, and she was like, yo, if a guy got bit by a shark, that would be an ick to me because it's like, he should be able to fend off the shark. And I was like, that's the dumbest shit I've ever heard.

[Ronnie Karam]

Chloe's like, you know what's ick to me? Like, like when guys go through security at an airport and take your shoes off, like, and then they walk through the machine barefoot. Ew.

[Ben Mandelker]

Then she also has another ick. She goes, you know what's an ick for me? When a guy is, like, struggling to open an umbrella, it's like. And it's like flopping back and forth. That's such an ick. Like, if you can't open your umbrella the first time, then, like, why are you even talking to me?

[Ronnie Karam]

But then he's like, so wait, if it's the airport, is it the taking off the shoes thing or is it the barefoot thing? And she goes, both. Like, ick. Okay, so what do you want the guy to be put in terrorism jail? Like, they're gonna throw your boyfriend into Guantanamo Bay for refer refusing to take off his shoes. Chloe.

[Ben Mandelker]

Chloe's also revealing that she doesn't have, like, TSA pre check, by the way. Just like, ew, I hate that. That's actually, I think, her real ick. She's like, guys, with that clear.

[Ronnie Karam]

If.

[Ben Mandelker]

He doesn't have, like, global entry, I'm like, gross.

[Ronnie Karam]

Ew.

[Ben Mandelker]

Ew. Might as well just, like, try to open up an umbrella awkwardly.

[Ronnie Karam]

So Chloe orders a drink that's served in a little bathtub, which is hilarious. I'm sure her mom's like, attic. Marla approves.

[Ben Mandelker]

And Charlie's like, am I aching myself out if I drink this? I don't know. I don't know what's happening. Am I. Am I giving you the ick right now? She's like, no, you're not. He's like, so?

[Ronnie Karam]

He's like, yeah. So am I like your second ever first Date. And she's like, no, because. Because I was picturing, like, boyfriend and then me. And she's like, don't flatter yourself.

[Ben Mandelker]

Flatter myself? Yeah. So Chloe's like, Charlie's. She's like, charlie's great. Like, Brooks and I are friends, so, like, why would he not want. I'm sorry. Charlie says that Chloe's great and that Brooks. He's like, since Brooke and I are friends, like, why would he not want me to wake up with a sister?

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah. So she's like, what's your, like, vibe for the summer? Like, dating, seeing people. Any umbrella action coming up? And he's like, well, I'm like, open to seeing. And she goes, yeah, that's a good answer.

[Ben Mandelker]

It's like, not even an answer. It's like, I'm just opening to see what happens. Oh, my God. That was so insightful.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yes. So now we go apartment hunting with Ariana and Hudson and Kevin, the real estate agent, he's like, welcome to Alphabet City. Okay. Based on Avenue A, Avenue B and Avenue C. Okay.

[Ben Mandelker]

Oh, my God. Is this where the soup is made? No, this is not where Alphabet soup is made. Oh, that's too bad.

[Ronnie Karam]

So they're like, this is so hard. Shopping in New York. It's, like, so expensive. So they go. So then we go to Riley, and Riley's like, my mom is Candy Burris. People might remember me when I was a little girl, but I just. I just got out of NYU with a major in music business, so I'm going to work for the universe. I want to work for the industry, but I only have one year until I'm cut off. It's like, that is not fair that Todd is still not cut off and you are going to be cut off.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, exactly. Totally. Is Kayla cut off? Kayla's cut off, right?

[Ronnie Karam]

She was cut off. Yeah, I think they cut off Kayla a while ago.

[Ben Mandelker]

Oh, I wonder if. I wonder if Raleigh's gonna be able to meet someone who works in the music industry. Huh? So Brooks is, like, sitting next to Riley and he's. He goes, the pressure is on. And they're like, oh, my God. She's like me saying that in the most monotone voice. Like, that was iconic of me.

[Ronnie Karam]

The pressure is on.

[Ben Mandelker]

She's like, literally, I was thinking that, like, you said that, like, the pressure's on. It's definitely on. Like, that was so funny, Brooks.

[Ronnie Karam]

So Brooks talks to Chloe. She had a fun date. She's like, it was fun. It wasn't that deep. But now Brooks is getting Himself worked up into a tizzy because he's a Housewives fan and he knows that that's what he's supposed to do. So he's starting to get himself revved up. He's like, I personally find it offensive that he texted me something like, come meet us out later tonight if we're not already back at my place. Like, so gross. And I responded like this. Ew.

[Ben Mandelker]

Chloe goes, I'm gonna vomit.

[Ronnie Karam]

Like, he's texting me like I'm one of his boys.

[Ben Mandelker]

In what hemisphere, in what umbrella opening hemisphere does he think that I would go home with him on the first day? Like, grass?

[Ronnie Karam]

No, I have to see him at Amira's show and it's gonna be like, so awkward because he texted me about my sister.

[Ben Mandelker]

That's like, so gross. And I had to pretend like I didn't have the ick when he said that, like, people who get shark bites, they couldn't help it. One secret. I was like, gross.

[Ronnie Karam]

So he meets up with Riley to go see this fashion show. And he's like, hey, so is there a dress code for this? She's like, yeah, I thought it was like the theme of the show. And he goes, oh, let's look at the invitation. Liminal beings. I don't know what that is.

[Ben Mandelker]

I don't know what that means either. Great question. I don't know what that.

[Ronnie Karam]

The fuck is that.

[Ben Mandelker]

Liminal beings. Oh my God, I love these.

[Ronnie Karam]

Liminal. Occupying a position at or on both sides of a boundary or threshold relating to a transitional or initial stage of a process. So I guess they're taking that to mean B, dead. Or like you just died. Cuz this was like a horror show, right?

[Ben Mandelker]

Sort of, yeah. I mean, like subliminal, I think. Liminal, I always thought of as like a. A, Like a. Something to do with like where your. Where your mind is at or something. I don't know. So Charlie's.

[Ronnie Karam]

So they go from the dicks. So don't argue. If you want to argue with someone to call Miriam or Webster.

[Ben Mandelker]

Well, when you said it was a. Is it a thing about death? That's what I was trying to say. Like, in my mind, I always thought it was pertaining.

[Ronnie Karam]

Oh, okay. That was me. You were arguing with the right person.

[Ben Mandelker]

I have like the ick right now. You called the right department. Did you take more than one second to open up your umbrella? Because if you did, I have the ick.

[Ronnie Karam]

Your aura is icking me.

[Ben Mandelker]

I have so much ick right now about your umbrella. So Charlie's playing basketball with his friends Dylan and Shai. They're smoking a joint because they're cool.

[Ronnie Karam]

And they're very like, One Tree Hill, these guys. They're like, yeah, smoking joints. Yeah, it's fucking amazing. You want another joint? That one is so hot. And then he. Everywhere he shows up, he's like, anybody want to hit my joint?

[Ben Mandelker]

I don't know.

[Ronnie Karam]

You're so cool.

[Ben Mandelker]

He just learned how to smoke weed. He is hot. And so what's so funny? One thing that we talked about on the trailer for this show is that we see all these characters, and then when you look at the key art for the show, there's this one person who's on the poster who's front and center that's not in the trailer and is like, not on this episode. But actually that person is Shy, who is in this scene. But they don't even highlight Shy in the scene. They just highlight the other guy who's not even on the poster. The hot guy with the joint, who I think is Dylan. It's just weird, this. It's just funny to me that there's this person named Shai who is all over the poster, and yet people like, he's like, not. They don't seem to pay attention to him on the show. It's.

[Ronnie Karam]

Well, maybe we'll get to him. We'll get to him later. You never know. They'll just bring in shy. They'll bring up backup. So they're like, having a set, a joint, a j sesh while they play some ball. And then Riley and Brooks are shopping, and so they're talking about who they're hanging out with. And he likes Ariana. He's like, she just moved here. Do you know her? She's like, I haven't spoken with her since I was, like, 10.

[Ben Mandelker]

So. And then we see this flashback of, like, baby Riley and baby Ariana. And Riley's like, do you have a boyfriend? And Ariana's like, yes. How did you know? And Riley goes, if I had a.

[Ronnie Karam]

Boyfriend, my mom would whip me as hard as she could. So Riley's like, yeah, once our parents fell out, it's like, who's gonna bring their child to hang out with someone's child who they don't really mess with? So what happened between your moms? And then we see the clip of Wait a minute, how much total was made off of tardy for the candy's like 80 to 100,000 at least. And all I've ever gotten was three or four thousand dollars. And you don't. And you think you should make.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. And Kim's like, I think so. Do you have any money, by the way? So then Riley's. Riley's like, ariana. So back at the present, Riley says, we're probably so different from how we were when we were younger. Yeah, because you guys were five years old, you might be a little different. Yeah.

[Ronnie Karam]

So then we go back to Charlie and the boys. It's like, yeah, I did it. Chloe, she's really fucking hot. I could see it happening. Like, we drank, you know, we talk. Like, we barely even ordered appetizers. Like, I would be like, you know, like, bathtub. And she'd be like, umbrella. And I'd be like, wall paint. She'd be like, oh, my God, it was crazy. You guys, they're like, yeah, yeah.

[Ben Mandelker]

We like touching arms.

[Ronnie Karam]

You guys are like, long term.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, man, you're doing great. And Shy's like, that's wonderful. Quiet, Shy. You're not on the show yet.

[Ronnie Karam]

Your name is Shy. You're not supposed to speak.

[Ben Mandelker]

This is Dylan's moment to make it big on Bravo. So see the floor, Shy.

[Ronnie Karam]

So back to Brooke starting to spin out. He's like, what's your opinion on friends dating? Friends, Siblings. I don't like it. He tells her the whole story, and she's like, what? I would be really upset. That's like, out of pocket to text somebody that.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. And. And br. Like, I feel like you're really good at articulating what I think, but I can't say it.

[Ronnie Karam]

He's like, yeah, I don't like people texting me like that. So then the other guys are like, you guys are going to get married? And he's like, I don't like it. Sending me disrespectful texts about my sisters crossing a line, and I'm not okay with it. Okay, Brooks. Okay, y' all get it out. So now we go back to Brianna and Hudson apartment hunting, and she's bouncing on a grate on the sidewalk, which is just so zolciac.

[Misha Brown]

It's like.

[Ben Mandelker]

It's like. It's like. Like the two metal doors that are, like, bound by, like, some deadbolts. So she's bouncing on it up and down. She's like, it's like a trampoline. And Hudson's like, yeah, but you don't know if you're gonna fall through or not. Yeah, whatever. I love the trampolines in New York. It's like, new York, I'm safe. Everyone knows New York City. A place for safety. Okay. I have wanted a clothing line forever, and Atlanta doesn't offer so much, like, no trampolines in the middle of the ground there. So when it comes to my career path, New York is really the place to be.

[Ronnie Karam]

So they go look at a little tiny place, and it's. It's a New York apartment, but it's been done, like, farmhouse modern, which I don't like that, like, you're in New York. Please don't fall into the Joanna Gaines of it all, you know? And also, it's too late.

[Ben Mandelker]

She's like, when it comes to apartments and, like, this clothing line, money is, like, always on my mind. And Hudson and I differ there because, like, I work in online jobs so I can have a paycheck and he doesn't have to worry about it. And then they see a dead pigeon outside their window and they're like, oh, my God, it's a dead pigeon. And says, like, rip, pigeon. But then it's like, the pigeon is like, I was just, like, taking a nap and just, like, flies off and it's like, oh, my God, it's alive.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah. So this is one of those New York scenes where people like, oh, my God, this costs $6,000. There's not even a closet. We need more. I need, like, bedrooms and a closet and three toilets.

[Ben Mandelker]

She literally says, I think we need to have a two bedroom because we want our moms to be able to have somewhere to stay. No, that doesn't work that way in New York City. Anywhere else. Sure you want to have a spare bedroom for when your parents visit. But you're in New York City. You. There's no such thing as a spare bedroom.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah, no, no, no. So she tells us that Hudson comes from a blessed family and it's because he started Zaxby's chicken restaurant. It's been around for, like, 40 plus years.

[Ben Mandelker]

So I haven't heard of Zaxby's, but I just trust that it's like a big deal somewhere.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah, I guess. I mean, he's loaded. He's like, why don't we double the budget, babe? Because the realtor is like, yeah, if you want all that stuff, it's going to cost you $9 million a month. And he's like, got it. She's like, no, because I. I want to contribute rent, and I can't physically wrap my head around six grand a month. Okay.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. I'm just looking up to Zaxby's. Of course, because I need to know about this. I don't I was trying to see what the locations are. Can't find it. All I know is there's none in Los Angeles, so whatever. Dead to me. So now I think so. Really?

[Ronnie Karam]

Let me see Zaxby's location and hours. Oh, they just give you a map but then you have to like put in your address. Wait, hold on. Put my zippy in there. Let's see where there's. There's no results by me, but that doesn't mean anything. I mean, I think it's probably a thing.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, it looks like it's a fast food spot, so it's, I guess, close to raising canes. There's an article that says I'm a food reporter who went to Zaxby's for the first town and I found it to be ever so slightly less flavorful.

[Ronnie Karam]

Okay, so now has an article that says Zaxby's just launched an all new menu we never saw coming. Zaxby's targets New Mexico for expansion. Seeks franchise partner Zaxby's late night menu offers $9.99 mix and math. I think it's a big deal.

[Ben Mandelker]

I want to go to Zaxby's so badly right now. I'm so hungry. Zaxby's is coming to New Jersey and Pennsylvania, so that's exciting.

[Ronnie Karam]

There you go. They're huge.

[Ben Mandelker]

Zaxby's has arrived, everyone.

[Ronnie Karam]

It's time for a commercial. It's time for a Crappin's commercial.

[Misha Brown]

Every successful business starts with an idea. And on the best idea yet, we're obsessed with those light bulb moments. Like how a bored barist then to the Frappuccino during his downtime and then it got acquired by Starbucks. Or how Patagonia's iconic fleece was inspired.

[Ben Mandelker]

By a toilet seat cover.

[Misha Brown]

On the best idea yet, we dive into the untold origin stories behind the products you're obsessed with. And the bold risk takers made them go viral. These are the wild ideas and insights that made Birkenstock the best selling sandals since Jesus and made Super Mario the most played video game in the history of attention span. Yeah, Nintendo almost became a ramen company until Super Mario saved it. New episodes drop every Tuesday. Follow the best idea yet on the Wondery app or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen early and ad free right now by joining Wondery Plus. And if this podcast lasts longer than 45 minutes, call your doctor. Every big moment starts with a big dream. But what happens when that big dream turns out to be a big flop from Wondery? And ill media. I'm Misha Brown and this is the Big Flop. Every week, comedians join me to chronicle the biggest flubs, fails and blunders of all time. Like Quibi.

[Ronnie Karam]

It's kind of like when you give yourself your own nickname and you try to, like, get other people to do it.

[Misha Brown]

And the 2019 movie adaptation of Cats.

[Ben Mandelker]

Like, if I'm watching the dancing and I'm noticing the feet aren't touching the ground, there's something wrong with the movie.

[Misha Brown]

Find out what happens when massive hype turns into major fiasco. Enjoy the Big Flop on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to the Big Flop early and ad free on Wondery Plus. Get started with your free trial at.

[Monica Lewinsky]

Wondery.Com/@24, I lost my narrative. Or rather it was stolen from me. And the Monica Lewinsky that my friends and family knew was usurped by false narratives, callous jokes, and politics. I would define reclaiming as to take back what was yours. Something you possess is lost or stolen, and ultimately you triumph in finding it again. So I think listeners can expect me to be chatting with folks both recognizable and unrecognizable names about the way that people have navigated roads to triumph. My hope is that people will finish an episode of Reclaiming and feel like they filled their tank up, they connected with the people that I'm talking to, and leave with maybe some nuggets that help them feel a little more hopeful. Follow Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to Reclaiming early and ad free right now by joining Wondery plus in the Wondery app or on Apple Podcasts.

[Ben Mandelker]

Now it's time to go to New Jersey with Gia, a lifestyle and beauty influencer and former immigration law school lawyer. To be so we hear Gia being like, I honestly get so fucking drained constantly driving into the city. My mom is Teresa Giudice from the Real Housewives of New Jersey. Here she is. Okay. I met Brooks at BravoCon. Bravo Con happened and Brooks and I were hanging around the city one day and we just really hung out. We had a great time together.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah. So like now we're friends and like we hit it off right away. And so she's talking to we see the flashback to the dinner and she's like, yeah, well first I'm gonna go to the south of France and then I'm going to be in Mallorca and then I'm going to Ibiza.

[Ben Mandelker]

They're all, like, gross. The girl from New Jersey is talking to us.

[Ronnie Karam]

No, she just keeps listing all these places. So they're all planning to meet up at the Runway show. Okay, so now Mira's getting glam. It's like, guys, I'm so nervous to get, like, glam from a makeup show. I'm basically, like, the last one. So, like, I have to give, like, a mega drama.

[Ben Mandelker]

And then his. Her girlfriend is. Her boyfriend is like. Like, you're nervous in the moment. You'll be good. So then everyone's, like, cheering her on. Like, amira, don't worry. You can do it. And Gia's like, hey, guys, just left New Jersey. Be there in, like, eight years. It's, like, so hard to get across there. It's, like, so hard.

[Ronnie Karam]

So when you live in New Jersey, there's, like, one way to get in and one way to get out, unless you're deported. But, like, then you have to go through the Holland Tunnel, and there's, like, water that could come in and you could, like, die. So, like, if there's traffic, that's it. You're done. Stick a fork in me.

[Ben Mandelker]

What about the path train? Why don't you just take the path train in?

[Ronnie Karam]

That's what I was thinking. It's actually easier to take publication in and out of Jersey.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah, I feel like the path train. You'd be in and out of there in 25 minutes. And she's like, krista would die.

[Ronnie Karam]

She might. Oh, my God. Not my daughter. Not my daughter. I'm not sending her down no path. You saw what happened to Red Riding Hood.

[Ben Mandelker]

So Gia's just driving in, and. Which sounds awful. And then now they're at the show, and everyone's showing up, and Brooks has a bouquet of flowers, and he's like, oh, my God. I have, like, a hideously, hilariously small bouquet. I hope this doesn't give anyone the ick. Chloe, do you have the ick for my bouquet? She's like, yeah, I do.

[Ronnie Karam]

So he goes with the chart. He's, like, still doing this Charlie thing. He's like, oh, my God. Like, Charlie, I get steamrolled in our friendship. And, like, it's funny, but, like, don't do. Don't make me stick up for myself, like, right now, because I'm, like, getting steamrolled by Charlie. And meanwhile, Charlie's like, hey, how's it going? He's like, oh, steamrolled.

[Ben Mandelker]

And so Riley's just gonna stay out of this because she doesn't want to deal with it. So now the show happens and Amira comes out and they are like, oh.

[Ronnie Karam]

That'S like, they're dead people. I did not know what the show is supposed to be, but they were like zombies or freshly murdered dead people with blood and gore all over them doing the Runway. And they're like, wow, that was a little lillable. That was. What was the word?

[Ben Mandelker]

Liminal. That was.

[Ronnie Karam]

That was so liminal. That was liminal.

[Ben Mandelker]

I am like, post liminal now because it was so amazing. Oh, my God, there's Charlie. I had a hate confrontation.

[Ronnie Karam]

And Charlie's like, yeah. I mean, Amira did gray, like for a fashion show. I mean, she walked. So, I mean, I guess if you could walk, you did a good job.

[Ben Mandelker]

So they all go. All the kids go out to like a restaurant afterwards or a bar or something. They're all sitting around. And so Georgia sits down and she meets Riley for the first time. And George is like, wait, Riley, are you in the city? She's like, yeah, I'm in Brooklyn. She's like, wait, where were you before? She's like, I lived on top of Cats Deli. Oh, my God. I did like a birthday party thing like two years ago. It was like the Cats Deli Diplo party. You know, Riley was like, like, yeah, the thing that kept me up for until like, four in the morning. Stupid losers downstairs going to a deli.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah.

[Ben Mandelker]

George is like, I. The parties I throw are, like, really, really unique. Like, I worked on the Cat's Deli Diplo party, which, by the way, I could just end the show there. The Cat's Deli Diplo Party. Yeah. Yeah. We turned the most iconic New York restaurant into like a rave for the night. With the Diplo DJing, there was like a 3,000 people on the street. Also, Anna Delvey's clubhouse arrest party. She, like, got released from prison and then she like, threw like this. We threw like a hot nightclub in her house arrest apartment. And it was actually like the hottest party in New York City. So I was like, really proud of that.

[Ronnie Karam]

She says, you guys, cut. Stelli got famous because of When Harry Met Sally. You remember that, right? Like, no, you know, it's the famous scene where she, like, fakes an orgasm and Riley's like, I don't even know that show.

[Ben Mandelker]

Say, okay, okay. Random girl sitting here. Have you heard of How I Met Sally? And the girl's like, no, she's okay. Useless. You're all useless. Not getting invited to the next Cat's Deli Diplo DJ party.

[Ronnie Karam]

And then in her confessional she's like, yeah, something's not hitting with these people. Like, it's not aligning. Like, am I an alien? I've never felt like that in New York. And is it like, maybe because Riley and Gia are, like, from here? I mean, G is from Jersey, but, like, I mean, that doesn't count.

[Ben Mandelker]

So all I know is that when I throw a rave at Lonnie Anderson's guest bedroom, they're not gonna be there. So then Ava is. She's joins them and they're like, oh, my God, Ava.

[Ronnie Karam]

She's like, yeah. I was in an event for my friend, my favorite shoe designer, Manola Blahnik. And everyone's like, oh, my God, your shoes. Yeah, you guys, fun fact. Manola knows what Harry Met Sally is.

[Ben Mandelker]

I also love the bookends of shoes on this show where we started off with Ariana with her mangled up Christian Louboutins that were probably fake because her mom gave them to her, I'm assuming. And then we have, like, Manolo Blahniks. So then, like, oh, my God, Manolo Blahnik. So Georgia is like, wow. And she goes and she touches the Manolo block. She touches the bottom of the shoe. She doesn't just, like, graze it. She actually, like, pets the bottom of the sole. Like, she touches it and, like, she likes, like, she sort of strokes the bottom of the shoe. And everyone's grossed out.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah. She's like, wow. So she is grossed out. And Riley's grossed out. And Riley's like, oh, my God, she just touched her eye after she touched that shoe. And she's like, yeah, you just never voluntarily touched the bottom of someone's shoe in New York. Like, people piss everywhere. That's disgusting.

[Ben Mandelker]

And we see footage of Jordan doing it again. It's like slow motion. And then truly touching her eye afterwards. It's foul.

[Ronnie Karam]

Like, rubbing her eye. And scene was gonna get you going.

[Ben Mandelker]

It was hilarious. And Riley was like, I have no words, like, don't touch me. And George is like, George is like, touching everyone with her, like, her hands and everything. And she's like, wait, Charlie, do you have a good time with Chloe? Do you want to invite her to the Orville Redenbacher pop up, literal pop up popcorn pop up that I'm going to be doing at the Ed Koch grave memorial. Do you? Charlie's like, yeah, I did.

[Ronnie Karam]

She would say, I'm a perfect gentleman, I'm sure. And Riley's like, I don't think anyone's ever said that about you. And she was like, well, Brexit's too nice. Like, don't say that. It'll give him anxiety. Okay.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. And so Brooks is like. Like, he texted me after the date and was like, come meet us out tonight. And if Chloe and I aren't already back in my place, like, it's just like, nacho.

[Ronnie Karam]

She was like, oh, my God, how didn't you freak? He's like, I mean, is that, like, a joke about my sister? Like, oh, my God. So Charlie hears this because he's doing it right in front of Charlie. So he's like, what are you guys talking about, Brooks? I mean, I can hear. I can't hear you speaking to me. And Gia says, well, I think, like, he wouldn't be comfortable dating your sister right now. With, like. I guess, like, with the way you.

[Ben Mandelker]

Act, it's like, well, why are you telling. Why are. Why are you telling me this? And, like, why is not Brooks not telling me this? Like, why are you. Why are you. The voice box, Brooks? Like, I just don't think it's appropriate. Like, it's appropriate setting. Getting into it. This is, like, the Post Amira fashion show setting. Like, not cool, bro.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah. But, like, I like this. She's speaking for him and, like, his mouthpiece for him. She's like, I'm not his mouthpiece. I'm just a nice friend. Also, Melissa Korga's a.

[Ben Mandelker]

I care about you, and you're, like, a really good friend, and I have, like, a lot of love for you, and I just, like, don't want this conversation to go the wrong way. And Riley's like, well, you know how respectful Brooks is. And he doesn't want to say anything that, like, pushes it.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah. So Riley's like, I used to be called Captain Saho, but I'm not doing that anymore. And so clearly, G is, like, clearly is not, like, telling you a million times on his end that he's, like, getting defensive. Like, that's just what's happening. I'm sorry. Okay.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. Everyone's, like, basically rallying around Brooks right now. And Brooks is like, I texted you, and I said, don't be disrespectful to my sister. Like, and you said, like, meet us out unless she's home with me. Like, that's, like, gross. And Charlie's like. He's like, no, I never said that. I'll show you the chat. But then, of course, it's right there in the chat. He's like, okay, fine. It was, like, one thing I said out of everything else, he's like, sorry.

[Ronnie Karam]

It was one inappropriate joke. Sorry. Is that what you want? Sorry, ladies. And he's like, I'm not okay with him disrespecting my sister. Okay, wrap it up. Wrap it up.

[Ben Mandelker]

He's like, I don't think I did anything wrong. I mean, I would, Chloe, but, like, I wouldn't say it to him. It was just to piss him off, you know? So he's like, should I call Chloe right now? Brooks, I'm sorry, but for what? What are you sorry for? I don't know.

[Ronnie Karam]

He's like, I don't even know. You know what? I'm sorry for the joke about Chloe. There, I said it. You want to go smoke? So the boys go smoke, and the girls go to the bathroom. So now we just hear the girls in the bathroom, and we hear, Riley, go, girl, you don't wash your hands. And George is like, I don't really believe in that. I'm pro germ.

[Ben Mandelker]

So Riley's like, I don't know if you're serious or not. She goes, I'm dead ass.

[Ronnie Karam]

She goes, wait, so you really don't wash your hands? She goes, no, I was like the kid in New York City eating candy off the sidewalk. I don't wash my hands. When Harry licked Sally on a subway train.

[Ben Mandelker]

Okay, that's not something to brag about. Riley's like, I think Georgia's interesting is like, I would. I would hold your hand, but you didn't wash them.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah, because they're talking about manicures. And she's like, yeah, I'm not taking your hand. Okay. She's. No, look, seriously, like, no allergies. I never get the flu. Like, maybe it's crazy, but I think as a kid growing up, like, I had no sense of germs. Like, I touch worms. Like, touch your mouth, touch worms, touch your eye, touch poop. Like, who cares? And Riley's like, yeah, I guess your body's definitely had time to adjust to stuff.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. No, this girl's crazy. Like, yeah, yesterday on Below Deck, we were talking about the guy who was scanning everything with a black light, and I was like, you know, too much is too much. Like, you know, sometimes it's okay to have a few germs. And I do think, like, you don't want to be totally. You don't want to be totally insane about it. And then, like, you know, it's good to have some germs, but, like, the. The going to the bathroom and then, like, not washing your hands, the touching the bottom of the shoes. That's a bit too much for me, I think.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah. And then just like making your stance that I never wash my hands. It's just my thing. Like, I love germs, so get me as dirty as possible. She goes crazy. How polar opposite these days have been on Bravo with that.

[Ben Mandelker]

I know. She's like, germs kind of grow your microbiome. This is not me making this up. I read about it in Liminal Science magazine. It's scientifically proven germs are good.

[Ronnie Karam]

But it's interesting how both of the people on those shows used it to define their personality. Right? Like the guy on Below Deck is like, better than everybody. So everybody's filthy. And this girl's like, I am so New York. Like, I love New York germs. That's how New York I am. Like, I don't even get sick cuz I'm from New York.

[Ben Mandelker]

Yeah. So Riley tells Brooke. She's like, I was like, you didn't wash your hands? And she was like, oh, I don't really believe in that. No, she didn't. No, she didn't.

[Ronnie Karam]

And Ava just goes, I hope she doesn't get pink eye. And so now George is getting defensive because they're like all mean girling her. Like, they're all like laughing at her and looking at her like up and down. And she's like, I mean me if I'm wrong, but I was raised not to wash your hands. Okay. Like cats himself didn't wash them probably, I think maybe. And Charlie's like, yeah, I give a less if Georgia washes her hands. Like, I don't wash my hands after I touch my dick in the bathroom. Like, my dick's clean. I don't need to go scrub my.

[Ben Mandelker]

Like, yeah, but you're probably getting. Well, first of all, your dick is probably not as clean as you think. It's probably got swampy in there. Let's be honest. It probably got a little swampy. So you're getting your dick swamp onto your fingers. And let's. Let's be honest, there probably was some splashback from the urinal. So wash those hands.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah, wash them up.

[Ben Mandelker]

Just give it a rinse at least.

[Ronnie Karam]

Or at least just lie. You know what I mean? Like, you don't need to make your stance like, I'm not washing my hands because now, like it's going to be the whole season. So she's saying bye. She's like, okay, bye everybody. I'm just gonna leave. Okay, bye. So she goes to hug Riley and Riley pulls away. And she's like, no, I don't want you to touch me. Sorry.

[Ben Mandelker]

And mirror's like, that's crazy. She's like, bye. And you're like, so Georgia is like, girl, I literally just met you tonight and you're telling me what to do with my body? That has nothing to do with you. Like, what happened to my body, my choice? Honestly, I was like, oh, God, I love this show.

[Ronnie Karam]

Elevating you and you're just looking after. And she is like, that will touch everything. Like she doesn't care.

[Ben Mandelker]

Oh, God, I love this Looney Tune. Making it a stance about this is what I do with my body. I'm like, yeah, but you're doing it. But you're touching my body with your body choices. So stop it. Oh, my God.

[Ronnie Karam]

So silly. What a fun show.

[Ben Mandelker]

Really fun. And I'm looking for. It was obviously the show is kind of like. Because it was the first show, it was sort of all over the place in a way, like introducing all these people. So I'm really looking forward to once it settles into its groove. Not a criticism, but I'm just looking even more forward to it going forward as it, as it comes together. It was so funny. I loved it.

[Ronnie Karam]

Yeah. Good times, guys. Good times. Well, we'll be back tomorrow with a little Summerhausen and later this week with Dwell. Hello. Don't forget to get tickets for our final live shows. Seattle on the 12th for Real Housewives of Miami and LA on the 19th for the Valley. Everybody, we will talk to you next time. Bye.

[Ben Mandelker]

Bye. Watch what Crappens would like to thank its premium sponsors. Ain't no thing like Allison King it's always a party on Alice in Block.

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She's our favorite streamer.

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Ringing the funk. It's Leslie Plunkett.

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She gets an A from us. It's Lindsey D. Let's give a Kisserino 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 burgundy.

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This is living with Michelle Vivian I.

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She sure is swell.

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Cast a spell with Shannon Spellman. Let's share with Sharon Eldridge the Bay.

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Area and our super premium sponsors. She's VVIP It's Amanda V. Can't lose when you're with Amy Baldwin.

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Know your worth with Jason Kurt.

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Hail the cork master Master the master of the cork Jennifer Corcoran. We got our wish. It's Jen Plish she's not harsh She's Jill Hirsch She's a little bit loony Juni, my Favorite Murdo Karen McMurdo she.

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Gets an A It's Kelly B.

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We love him madly It's Kyle Pod Shadley we're ride or die for Lisa Ryder Baron She's a whiz It's Liz Sarthi, always killing it It's Lola Al.

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Kalani the incredible edible Matthew sister She eases our woes it's Melissa St. Rose we're on the floor with Molly Dorsett There's a chance of meatballs It's Rebecca.

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Cloud, she's the queen bee. It's Sarah Lemke. Shannon out of a can and Anthony. Let's take off with Tamla Plain.

[Ronnie Karam]

It's always a good time when you're wasting time with Bravo. She ain't no shrinking 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 survey at wondery. Com. Survey.